In the backyard of the Serangoon Gardens area, sits a stunning 3,788 sq ft house with a modern facade built from 100-year-old Chinese bricks. These old stones were given a new life when design studio Upstairs_ carefully merged traditions with the contemporary to create an impressive house for a family of seven.

The designers chanced upon a sample of an antique clay brick which was reclaimed from demolished Chinese villages. This laid the foundations for their design of a modern-looking lattice shell that makes for a ventilated, wall-less living space which also shields its inhabitants from the elements.

Cloistered within are living spaces for both young and old, with versatile timber panels moulded to fit the users need – be it a platform, bed head or work table.

Utilising a muted palette, the wooden interiors on the upper floors is skilfully paired to complement the brickwork exterior in a haunting, almost poignant manner, to produce a marriage that is deeply embodies the cultural nuances while appearing timeless and relevant.

On the ground floor, the space opens up and seamlessly merges with the outside world behind the brick walls that envelop the house.

Sliding glass doors and timber screens allow for a transformation of the ground level from a naturally-illuminated pavilion to a private, cosy affair at the owner’s discretion – perfect for socials gatherings and intimate dinners.

Throughout the house, the architects skilfully capture the owner’s preoccupation with Chinese heritage, by including bespoke pieces of Chinese-inspired furniture in various living spaces throughout the house.