






A LIGHT-FILLED SANCTUARY WHERE MEMORIES MEET MODERN LIVING
Brazilian-Inspired Townhouse Renovation in Singapore
When a Brazilian family of four traded the vibrant energy of Rio de Janeiro for Singapore's dynamic urban landscape, they dreamed of a home that would honor their heritage while embracing contemporary Asian living. The result is a masterfully reimagined townhouse that blends Brazilian warmth with sleek modernity through thoughtful architectural interventions and deeply personal design choices.
A Design Journey Across Continents
The moment you step inside, the home reveals its dual soul. The ground floor makes a striking first impression with luminous marble flooring—a practical yet luxurious choice that stays refreshingly cool in Singapore's tropical climate while providing durability. Ascending to the private quarters, Burmese teak flooring brings warmth and acoustic comfort.
The showstopping double-height mural of Rio's landscapes isn't just décor—it's the home's emotional anchor. "We wanted our children to grow up surrounded by the beauty of our homeland," the homeowners share. The panoramic vista of Sugarloaf Mountain and Copacabana Beach is visible from multiple levels.
Smart Solutions for Structural Changes
The renovation journey wasn't without its obstacles. As part of a strata complex, structural beams couldn't be modified, requiring creative solutions to achieve open, light-filled spaces.
"Our biggest challenge was working within the strata's strict guidelines," the architect explains. "We couldn't alter structural elements, so all our interventions had to be internal." The result: reconfigured walls and sleek glass partitions that preserve flow and light. A once-enclosed staircase was transformed into a sculptural centerpiece with glass balustrades.
Designed for Real Family Life
• Durable yet luxurious materials like marble and teak stand up to children's play while maintaining elegance
• Open sightlines allow parents to supervise kids playing in the living areas from the kitchen
• Converted TV lounge on the first floor creates a cozy media space that's visually connected to the main living area below
• Smart storage solutions are seamlessly integrated throughout to contain toys, books, and sports equipment
• Kid-friendly zones feature rounded edges and soft finishes for safety
Where Brazilian Warmth Meets Tropical Modernism
• Brazilian-inspired color pops in textiles and art against a neutral backdrop
• Tropical modern elements like expansive glass sliding doors that blur indoor/outdoor boundaries
• Natural ventilation strategies that reduce reliance on air conditioning
• Locally crafted teak joinery that honors Singapore's design heritage
The kitchen exemplifies this fusion—its quartz waterfall island provides durable workspace while handpainted Brazilian tiles add a personal touch. "We wanted our meals to taste like home," the family explains, "so we made sure the kitchen had both Brazilian soul and Singaporean practicality."
Why This Renovation Stands Out
• Respecting the building's original structure while completely reimagining interior spaces
• Selecting materials that are both luxurious and family-practical
• Creating visual connections that foster family togetherness
• Infusing personal heritage into contemporary design
Ready to transform your Australia or Singapore property into a home that tells your unique story? Explore our portfolio of bespoke residential transformations that blend innovative design with real-life functionality.
Designing your future
where innovation meets style, and every space tells your unique story. We blend modern aesthetics with functional design to create spaces that inspire and elevate everyday living.
KENURO architects
KENURO PTY LTD
ABN 22 687 742 132
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Cammeraygal Land
Suite 55 (Level5), 106 High Street, North Sydney, NSW 2060
(T) (02) 8880 0448
KENURO architects acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.