Transforming Spaces: Dominic Leong’s Journey from Non-Profit to Interior Design
Introduction
Many interior designers draw inspiration from their own homes, but for Dominic Leong, director of Homely Matters, his journey into interior design began with a unique project—his own Housing Board resale flat. Situated on Haig Road, this renovation sparked not only a transformation of a living space but also a new career path for Leong.
The Start of a New Venture
While still employed at a non-profit organization, Leong decided to undertake the renovation of his 1,238 sq ft flat. Working directly with subcontractors, he completed the project over a span of 3½ months at a cost of just over $70,000. In March 2023, Leong and his family, including his wife Tay Wei Ling and their four-year-old son, moved into their newly designed home.
His innovative approach resulted in such impressive outcomes that friends began asking him to design their spaces, effectively kickstarting his new venture as an interior designer. With the aid of SkillsFuture credits, Leong honed his skills in 3D drawing and learned the intricate details of running an interior design firm from London-based designer Ula Burgiel. “I completed my first project in December 2023 and have finished 15 projects to date,” he reveals.
A Thoughtful Redesign
Leong’s renovation journey involved extensive modifications. He reconfigured the flat’s layout by removing existing walls, replacing flooring, windows, doors, and custom carpentry—essentially retaining nothing from the previous interior. “We set ourselves a budget of $70,000 and aimed for a timeless design that avoids fleeting trends,” states Leong.
Creating Open Spaces
The former owner had purchased the corridor area outside the main door, allowing Leong to establish a mini foyer. By removing kitchen walls and leveling the balcony floor, he crafted a rectilinear open space that includes the foyer along with living and dining areas.
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Living Area: Designed without a wall-mounted television, Leong prioritizes family interactions over screen time. They opted for an LG StanbyME television unit, which is versatile enough to be used throughout the home.
- Dining Space: Surrounded by white fixtures and furnishings, the dining area features a 2.6m-long wooden sideboard from Soul & Tables in Singapore, complementing a wooden dining table and chairs. “I learned about the ‘Rule of One’ from Burgiel, which emphasizes coherence in material choice, and I aimed to maintain an oak tone throughout the home,” explains Leong.
Functional Kitchen Design
While the kitchen was downsized due to the overall redesign, it remains practical for their family of three. Moving the refrigerator and pantry closer to the dining area has freed up crucial space within the wet kitchen, enhancing its functionality.
Innovative Storage Solutions
A new storeroom has been created where the old dining area once stood, effectively acting as a “mini garage.” This space, comparable to a standard bedroom, accommodates strollers, car seats, toys, and clothing—significantly increasing the organization of the home.
A Relaxing Oasis
The area outside the bedrooms has been transformed into a serene retreat featuring a reading nook with a sofa and bookshelf. Additionally, high tables with stools provide an inviting workspace or coffee-drinking spot, ensuring versatility in home usage.
Emphasizing Home Importance
Leong named his design practice Homely Matters as a tribute to the intrinsic value of every home. “Our goal was not just to create a visually appealing space but also to ensure it functions effectively for our family’s lifestyle,” he adds.
Conclusion
Dominic Leong’s inspiring journey from a non-profit career to a flourishing career in interior design demonstrates how functional, thoughtful design can transform a home into a cherished sanctuary. For more insights into home design and innovation, visit our blog at ChatbiHouse.
Explore our recommendations for achieving timeless home design that blends functionality with aesthetic appeal. For additional inspiration, check out our articles on Smart Apartment Design Tips and Creating a Cozy Home Office.
