In an era where luxury often equates to excess, a Singapore couple has redefined opulence through the Japanese concept of yohaku - the art of embracing negative space. Singaporean hedge fund manager Ron Choy and his wife Kairi, a Japanese wellness instructor, have created a sanctuary of calm at Orchard Residences that perfectly embodies quiet luxury through thoughtful design and cultural sensitivity.
Working with interior design studio EightyTwo, the couple transformed their apartment into a masterpiece of restraint and elegance. The home reflects their shared philosophy that true luxury isn't about extravagance, but about feeling unburdened and creating a space that mirrors the fluid, free rhythm of their lives. "Luxury is having the freedom and the abundance to do - or not do - whatever you want, whenever you want," explains Ron Choy.
The couple's lifestyle is deeply influenced by travel, fine cuisine, appreciation for craftsmanship, and a profound connection to Japan. "Kairi is Japanese and I've spent many years there, both personally and professionally," shared Mr. Choy. This cultural background became the foundation for their design vision, guiding them toward a philosophy of balance and restraint where small rituals can be savored and calm found in everyday moments.
At the heart of their design approach lies yohaku, a Japanese concept that celebrates negative space not as emptiness, but as room for light and openness to unfold. This understated quality perfectly mirrors The EightyTwo Experience, where design focuses less on ornament and more on cultivating well-being. "Influenced by Kairi's Japanese heritage, we avoid clutter and prefer elegance in simplicity," Mr. Choy noted, explaining how this sensibility aligned with EightyTwo's refined approach.
The home's sensory journey unfolds through carefully layered elements designed to transform daily routines into mindful rituals. Light moves gracefully through the rooms, casting warm glows across stone and wood details while shifting with the natural rhythm of the day. A palette of neutral hues creates a restful atmosphere that frames stunning views of the city beyond. In the corridor, a Culti Milano diffuser releases fragrance that centers the entire home, while the kitchen's natural textures and clean lines create an uncluttered space where balance is found in light, space, and proportion.
EightyTwo's curatorial expertise shines through their selection of signature pieces from Italy's premier design houses, bringing sophisticated presence to every interior space. The living area features the sculptural Leslie Armchair by Minotti, which perfectly balances form with comfort. The bedroom serves as a sanctuary anchored by the elegant Alys Bed from B&B Italia and the sleek Onda Bedside Table by Poliform, complemented by a Louis Poulsen x Fendi Casa floor lamp that casts ambient lighting throughout the space.
The walk-in wardrobe exemplifies the home's design philosophy with floor-to-ceiling mirrors and abundant natural light creating openness while maintaining simple yet elegant aesthetics. The space includes the Regis Stool by MolteniC, which adds a subtle touch of both craft and utility. These carefully curated selections demonstrate EightyTwo's instinct for choosing pieces that are simultaneously timeless and functional.
The bedroom, clad in warm wood tones, extends the home's calming aesthetic and feels completely removed from the city's bustling energy. Designed specifically for rest and renewal, this space embodies EightyTwo's core belief that design and well-being are inseparable, creating environments that directly influence mood, energy, and the overall cadence of life.
EightyTwo brought the couple's vision to life not only through stunning aesthetics but also through a collaborative process built on attentiveness and trust, where each design decision reflected the couple's personal priorities. This philosophy extends to The EightyTwo Homekit, an exclusive lifestyle collection that complements the interiors through partnerships with premium brands like Culti Milano and Bang & Olufsen, layering in scent and sound to complete the sensory journey as a natural extension of The EightyTwo Experience.
The transformation represents more than just interior design - it embodies a way of life where freedom is expressed through how the home supports effortless living without clutter or distraction. At Orchard Residences, Ron and Kairi have discovered the luxury of slowing down and moving through each day with clear intention, proving that true sophistication lies in the art of restraint rather than excess.
