Irrawaddy House: A Modern Twist on Luxury Living

Transforming a Run-Down Terrace House into a European-Inspired Private Residence

Luxury is no longer associated with just the traditional palatial gold and opulent marble found conventionally in manors or mansions. Instead, the Irrawaddy House manages to combine both old-school opulence and contemporary coziness under one roof, beholden to everyone. Superior air ventilation incorporated into the interior allows it to feel larger and more spacious, a stark contrast to the dark and cramped image of a pre-war house.

The elongated living room is seamlessly connected with the kitchen, dining area, and an open bar, creating a harmonious flow throughout the space. The design team, led by Creative Director Chuah Say Yang, Design Director Chong Su Min, and Managing Director Chuah Say Win, started by studying the existing structure before implementing the open-plan concept for the old pre-war house. They carefully crafted the best possible layout to accommodate three bedrooms and respective ensuite bathrooms within the narrow footprint of the house.

The transformation of the Irrawaddy House was not without its challenges. The team had to find a way to create an open-plan layout without compromising the existing reinforced concrete first-floor structure. They came up with an innovative solution using I-beam steel reinforcement, allowing them to proceed with the necessary hacking and repositioning of structural columns. Another challenge was the installation of a pyramid frame to support the laminated glass for the skylight feature, which provides natural light and a unique focal point.

The designers of the Irrawaddy House painted the modest home with luxurious materials, using ebonized wood, gilded accents, and stretches of majestic marble stone as prized pigments against a white canvas. Against the monochromatic background of the open layout, a shimmering altar to libations is formed with a bar surface of dramatically veined marble at the entryway. Beyond the floating flight of minimalist stairs in black, the remainder of the layout takes the shape of a wide hallway that hosts a simplistically furnished seating lounge before leading to a centrally-aligned dining space under the sky.

The Irrawaddy House, designed by Nevermore, is a testament to the power of transformation and innovation. It showcases how a narrow pre-war house can be revitalized into a luxurious and modern living space. With its unique blend of European design elements and contemporary comforts, this private residence offers a truly exceptional lifestyle experience.

Image Credit: Jordan Lye Photography

Awards and Accolades: The Irrawaddy House was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2019 for its well-designed, practical, and innovative creation. This prestigious award recognizes designs that meet professional and industrial requirements while contributing to a better world.