L Architects has completed In A Park, a renovation of a three-bedroom apartment in the north-east of Singapore. The project was designed for a horticulturist whose growing plant collection no longer fitted the existing layout. The intervention focuses on spatial reorganisation and the reuse of a locally discontinued brick typology. 

Integrating Plant Life Into The Layout

During the pandemic, interest in home gardening increased. However, many apartments were not originally designed to accommodate substantial indoor planting. In this case, the existing configuration limited both plant placement and daylight access. The client indicated that, despite living with many plants, they were not part of his immediate daily experience.

In response, L Architects reorganised the interior to increase visual and physical proximity to greenery. Rather than treating plants as decorative additions, the design integrates them into the spatial structure of the home. As a result, circulation routes, sightlines and functional zones now relate more directly to planted areas.

Reusing A Discontinued Brick Typology

A central material element in the renovation is the double-bullnose brick. This brick type, characterised by its rounded edges, was historically used in Singapore’s public parks for benches, planter edges and walkways.

During material sourcing, the architects learned that a local manufacturer had discontinued production due to limited demand. Only 571 bricks remained in stock. The project uses this remaining batch in its entirety. By specifying existing surplus inventory instead of commissioning new production, the architects extended the functional life of an available material resource.

This decision aligns with circular design principles that prioritise reuse and the reduction of unnecessary manufacturing.

Curved Brick Elements As Spatial Dividers

The rounded geometry of the double-bullnose brick allows for curved architectural elements. The design incorporates the bricks into a freestanding wall that separates the study from the living area without fully enclosing either space. In addition, a curved brick bench forms a transition between the study and dining area.

These interventions create partial divisions while maintaining openness. At the same time, the brick surfaces reference outdoor park infrastructure within a residential interior context.

Material Continuity In Residential Renovation

In A Park demonstrates how a discontinued, locally specific material can be reintroduced through adaptive reuse. The project does not rely on new material technologies. Instead, it focuses on spatial planning, material continuity and the reinterpretation of existing building elements.

The renovation illustrates how surplus materials and regional typologies can inform contemporary residential design while supporting principles of material efficiency and lifecycle extension.

Source: L Architects via V2com
Photos: Jovian Lim