Welcome to a Scandinavian modern 2-room flexi BTO for a retired executive
A lifelong love for Toa Payoh: Aunty D's retirement retreat
After more than 50 years in Toa Payoh, Aunty D has witnessed the neighbourhood’s transformation from kampong days to modern HDB living. Recently, she collected the keys to her new 2-room Flexi BTO, where she worked with our Home Design Specialist, Shikin, to co-design a retirement home that honours her past while embracing a calm, comfortable future.
Read on to find out more about the design approach and project value at the end!
Designed for life: where style meets safety
Aunty D envisioned a home that celebrates her independence while offering peace of mind. The goal was a comfortable, multi-functional space designed with elder safety, ease of use, and timeless style in mind.
How we transformed this brand new BTO space
Guided by a focus on mobility and elder safety, Shikin designed an open, easy-to-navigate home tailored to Aunty D’s daily routines
For example, open-plan layouts and wide walkways were prioritised to ensure she can navigate her home with confidence. By understanding her lifestyle, we created a home that is practical as it is beautiful.
Featured colour palettes
A flexible living room space
For an active senior like Aunty D, the living room is a cosy sanctuary to rest after busy days with church, friends, and family. This versatile layout shows how a compact BTO space can shift easily from a place to unwind into a welcoming guest room.
The living area features a soothing palette of blue, white, and pine with multifunctional furniture to maximise space. A TORNSBORG sofa bed offers daytime comfort and converts easily for overnight guests or relatives. To complete the look, a SANDARED pouffe serves as both a footrest and extra seating while a BESTÅ TV bench keeps the space organised and clutter-free.
A streamlined Scandinavian kitchen for the avid baker
Modern 2-room flexi BTO flats' layout often require a clever approach, and here we show how smart planning can create a baker’s dream. A clean, handleless design keeps the space airy, while accessible storage and generous counters support her love for baking without restricting movement.
The METOD kitchen system with VOXTORP oak‑effect handleless fronts creates a warm, Scandinavian look that’s easy to maintain. Paired with an EKBACKEN marble‑effect worktop, the space feels stylish yet clean and clutter‑free.
Shikin maximised counter space by integrating a MATÄLSKARE oven and a compact 30 cm induction hob. This smart setup keeps the kitchen open and airy while giving Aunty D a well‑scaled, professional feel for her baking.
An organised side pantry for dining and food preparation
The side pantry is smartly integrated into a multi-purpose space, featuring an EKBACKEN marble-effect worktop paired with a matching LYSEKIL backsplash. The coordinated finish adds elegance while staying easy to clean after baking sessions.
The bar counter serves as both a dining space and a prep station for packing Aunty D’s famous cookies. Integrated cabinets beneath ensure her baking essentials are neatly stored and always within her reach.
A cosy bedroom retreat
The compact bedroom comfortably accommodates a queen-size MALM bed with space for easy movement. Also in white stained oak, a full-height PAX wardrobe brings calm to the room while maximising storage space. Textiles like a duvet cover set play an important role in bringing character to the space as well.
Why Aunty D chose IKEA
Reflecting on her IKEA design journey, Aunty D shared that furnishing her BTO was simple and hassle‑free. With help from her niece, the design was finalised in just two visits, and installation was completed within a week—allowing her to move in quickly after key collection.
Keen to see more? Take a video tour of Aunty D's home here!
Total project value: S$9,000 ≈ incl. furnishings (& zero design fees!)
What is included:
- Kitchen: Complete METOD cabinets with a 25-year guarantee, electrical appliances (oven and microwave), faucet and sink
- Pantry: METOD storage cabinets, worktop, backsplash, wall shelves
- Living room: Sofa, BESTÅ TV console, sofa-bed, footstool, rug
- Master Bedrooms: PAX wardrobe system with a 10-year guarantee, bed and mattress, and accessories
- Bathroom: Shower screen, washstand, faucet, sink, and toilet accessories
- Lightings in all areas
A word from our designer
"It was really meaningful to work on this project. Together with the customer, we managed to create an inspiring retirement home while keeping the overall budget low. And that means more money left in the pocket of the customer."
— Shikin, Kitchen Specialist
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