House of Mdm SC: A Modern ‘Urban Kampong’ in Singapore by JL Architects, LST Architects & Spatial Anatomy

House of Mdm SC in Singapore, designed by JL Architects, LST Architects, and Spatial Anatomy, spans 836 m² and was completed in 2022. Photographed by Fabian Ong, the home blends refined spatial planning with crafted detailing, supported by Portwood & Associates and construction by Shanghai Chong Kee, with landscaping by Greendot Creation.

Vision: Redefining Landed Living in Singapore

The House of Mdm SC is a masterful blend of modern design, sustainability, and functionality, creating a home that reinterprets the concept of the traditional Singaporean kampong for contemporary urban living. The client, who grew up in the 1960s amidst lush attap-roofed kampongs, wanted a house that reimagines the intimacy and connection with nature from her childhood while fully embracing the advantages of landed property—a rarity in Singapore, where only about 10% of residences are landed.

Situated near Singapore’s central nature reserve, the house reflects the national vision of a “city in nature”, seamlessly integrating greenery, natural light, and airflow into every aspect of the design. This four-story home achieves maximized spatial value on a compact, trapezoidal plot, overcoming unique challenges with creativity and precision.

Site & Design Strategy

Nestled in a quiet, dense neighborhood between two nature reserves, the irregularly shaped and sloping plot inspired the architects to implement a semi-basement and elevated first floor, using mezzanine levels to choreograph spaces with variable natural-light exposures according to privacy needs.

Privacy is a critical concern in Singapore’s landed homes, where side setbacks between houses are minimal. To address this, custom perforated screens wrap around private areas, allowing residents to enjoy views of the surrounding landscape without compromising seclusion. During the day, the screens function like delicate veils; at night, they transform the home into a glowing lantern, unifying the façade while letting air and sunlight permeate interiors.

A pioneering system of windowless insect screens and automated blinds ensures comfort by keeping out rain and pests while maintaining an open, sculptural form.

Integrating Nature with Living Spaces

Nature is the central design motif of the House of Mdm SC. The home features a labyrinth of greenery threading through all floors—indoor and outdoor gardens, mini-Zen gardens, fruit trees, ferns, and lush planters punctuate every room. Transparent boundary fences allow the exterior gardens to cascade from the top floor to the street, creating an oasis of greenery for passersby and residents alike.

Natural light floods the interiors through strategically positioned skylights, clerestory windows, and full-height glass panels, while spaces remain visually connected rather than compartmentalized. This fluid spatial layout produces a dynamic series of experiences, transitioning seamlessly from public to private zones and day to night.

Interior Layout & Functionality

The trapezoidal site guided a rectilinear zoning strategy arranged around a triangular circulation core. Every floor integrates interior and exterior spaces, offering constant views of lush greenery and natural light. A multi-tiered vertical garden frames the circulation core, serving as a backdrop for the family’s extensive collection of emerging Southeast Asian artworks.

Upon entering the basement, residents and visitors are greeted by a linear garden that rises with the slope of the land, culminating in a mini-Zen open-air space. Adjacent is a versatile workspace-studio-library complex that doubles as a home office or startup environment, exemplifying adaptability during work-from-home periods.

The first floor features a living and dining area flowing seamlessly into front and rear gardens, while music corners enhance the cultural dimension of the home. Upper floors include family quarters, a gym, a barbecue pit, a jacuzzi, and a rooftop herb garden supplying fresh ingredients to the kitchen.

Zen-Inspired Bathrooms & Smart Systems

Every ensuite bathroom is conceived as a mini-Zen garden, with greenery, artwork, and functional shelving integrated into the design. Semi-automatic irrigation systems, smartphone-controlled lighting, and grow lights ensure plants thrive on every level. The open stairwell connecting all floors allows natural light to permeate and provides uninterrupted views of interior and exterior gardens.

A Collaborative, Thoughtful Build

The House of Mdm SC is a result of collaborative design involving the client, architects, interior designers, engineers, and contractors. Every element—from greenery integration to spatial planning and façade design—reflects a deep commitment to sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic excellence, creating a home that is both a sanctuary and a statement of contemporary landed living in Singapore.

All photographs are works of Fabian Ong