Bona Yoo and SangWook Lee were prepared for the 19-hour journey from New York City to Singapore, a route that, at the time of their relocation in 2021, held the distinction of being the world’s longest nonstop commercial flight. Their move was driven by a desire to be closer to Lee’s parents and their family business, a significant geographical shift that prompted a profound reevaluation of their living space. However, abandoning their ingrained New York identity was not part of the plan. "We weren’t looking to re-create our life but to carry forward what we loved most about it," Yoo explained. This sentiment guided the couple, both of Korean heritage (Lee born in Tokyo), in their endeavor to create a home for themselves and their young children that would artfully blend their new Singaporean locale with their cherished Big Apple sensibilities. The result is a refined mash-up of diverse craft traditions and cultural attitudes, a testament to their enduring connection to New York’s vibrant design ethos.
The Genesis of a Transatlantic Design Philosophy
The decision to relocate was not merely a change of address; it was a strategic pivot for the Yoo-Lee family. In 2021, as global travel began to normalize following the initial phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, the allure of proximity to family and an established business opportunity in Singapore presented a compelling case. The sheer length of the flight, a modern marvel of aviation engineering, underscored the significant distance they were bridging. Yet, for Yoo and Lee, the journey was as much about psychological and aesthetic continuity as it was about physical relocation. They sought to infuse their new environment with the spirit and character that defined their life in Manhattan, particularly their loft in Tribeca, which had served as the backdrop for raising their two elder sons, Connor and Jude.
"We were looking for ceiling height, character, and natural light," stated Lee, whose architectural background, including studies at Columbia University and a stint at Rogers Partners, provided a keen understanding of spatial transformation. He recognized the potential within a duplex apartment, located in a central building with captivating views of the surrounding greenery. The apartment’s expansive great room and mezzanine, both featuring elegantly curved ceilings, evoked the very essence of their former Tribeca loft, a space they had meticulously cultivated. This architectural resonance was a crucial factor in their decision, ensuring a sense of familiarity and comfort amidst the considerable change. The impending arrival of their daughter, Emilia, further underscored the need for a home that was not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and adaptable for a growing family.
Collaborating Across Continents: Studio Valle de Valle’s Vision
To translate their vision into reality, Yoo and Lee enlisted the expertise of the AD100 firm Studio Valle de Valle, helmed by Giancarlo Valle and Jane Keltner de Valle. Their introduction through a mutual acquaintance proved serendipitous, initiating a collaborative process that would transcend geographical boundaries. "What I like about their work is that it never feels derivative," Lee commented, highlighting his appreciation for the firm’s original approach. "Everything is something they interpreted on their own." This sentiment was echoed by Jane Keltner de Valle, who remarked on the natural synergy that developed between the two couples.
The initial stages of this transatlantic collaboration were marked by a series of intensive meetings and shared meals, including a pivotal lunch at Le Mercerie, conveniently located near Studio Valle de Valle’s headquarters in New York City. These interactions fostered a deep understanding of the family’s aspirations and the design team’s creative philosophy. "Each meeting became an exchange of ideas, references, and possibilities," Yoo observed, underscoring the dynamic nature of their planning sessions. Jane Keltner de Valle added, "They have become our friends themselves," a testament to the strong personal connection forged during the project.
The global pandemic presented a unique set of challenges, transforming what would typically be an on-site design process into a largely remote endeavor. Lee, however, remained closely involved on the ground, working in tandem with local project manager Iris Yeo, who meticulously oversaw the construction phase. Studio Valle de Valle’s proficiency in virtual design tools, including mock-ups and 3D renderings, facilitated seamless communication and decision-making between New York and Singapore. "The process was great because we were speaking to a peer," Giancarlo Valle remarked. "He was already fluent in space-making." This shared language and mutual respect were instrumental in navigating the complexities of remote collaboration.
A Tapestry of Influences: Curating the Singaporean Residence
The Yoo-Lee residence in Singapore is a meticulously curated blend of historical significance, artistic expression, and contemporary design. The collection of furniture and art reflects a discerning eye for pieces that not only possess aesthetic merit but also carry historical and cultural weight. The couple’s passion for vintage furnishings, a shared interest that blossomed during their time in New York, is evident throughout the home. Yoo, an art adviser with extensive experience in the gallery world, brought a wealth of knowledge and a prized collection of artworks and objects that enrich the living spaces.
The Living and Family Areas: A Nexus of Comfort and Style
The heart of the home is the expansive great room and mezzanine, which evoke the grandeur of their former loft. The curved ceiling, a distinctive architectural feature, sets a tone of organic fluidity that is echoed in the interior design. Dominating the living area is a striking Giancarlo Valle "Kevin" sofa, upholstered in a rich mohair, providing a luxurious and comfortable seating arrangement. Above it, a 17th-century Belgian tapestry, sourced from Studio Valle de Valle, serves as a magnificent focal point, its historical gravitas lending an air of timeless elegance. Complementing the tapestry are candleholders by the renowned designer Josef Frank, known for his vibrant and distinctive textile patterns and decorative objects.
The family area, a more intimate space, features a Vladimir Kagan sofa, an iconic piece celebrated for its sculptural form and comfort. This area is further enhanced by sconces designed by Giancarlo Valle, adding a contemporary artistic touch. Artwork by Alex Foxton, placed on a side table, introduces a splash of contemporary art into the familial setting. The children’s comfort and engagement are clearly prioritized, as evidenced by their presence in these spaces, suggesting a home designed for both quiet contemplation and lively family interaction.
The Library and Dining Areas: A Haven for Intellectual and Culinary Pursuits
The library is anchored by a vintage M&ärta M&ä;s-Fjettersträm rug, its intricate design and artisanal quality speaking to a deep appreciation for Scandinavian craft. This space is likely a sanctuary for both reading and quiet reflection, embodying a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere.
The dining area seamlessly transitions into the kitchen, a design choice that fosters a sense of open connectivity. The breakfast area, which also serves as a homework zone for the children, is illuminated by a 1965 Paavo Tynell pendant light, a piece celebrated for its delicate craftsmanship and warm glow. This area showcases a thoughtful selection of furniture, including 1932 chairs by Axel Einar Hjorth, known for their robust, natural aesthetic, and 1960s wall lights by architectural legends Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret, adding historical depth. A mirror by Mithé Espelt, known for her distinctive glazed earthenware, adds a touch of artistic flair and reflects the natural light, making the space feel even more expansive.
Bedrooms and Bathrooms: Personal Sanctuaries with Playful Touches
The children’s rooms are designed with both imagination and practicality in mind. In the boys’ room, curtains of Décors Barbares fabric adorn the bunk beds, introducing a vibrant pattern and a sense of playful luxury. The children’s bathroom features a tiled tub, a deliberate homage to the renowned furniture designer George Nakashima, whose organic approach to woodworking often incorporated natural forms and artisanal techniques. This design choice not only adds a unique artistic element but also reflects the parents’ desire to expose their children to influential design figures.
The primary bathroom is a study in refined elegance, with marble cladding the shower and a freestanding tub. The basins and fittings are by Lefroy Brooks, a brand synonymous with classic, high-quality bathroom fixtures. The powder room, accented with a Giancarlo Valle mirror and sconces, features a striking onyx basin and zinc paneling, creating a sophisticated and intimate space. The choice of materials, such as the honey onyx and zinc, demonstrates a thoughtful consideration for both aesthetics and the challenges posed by Singapore’s tropical climate.
Challenges and Adaptations: Embracing Imperfection
The transition to Singapore’s climate and its prevailing design sensibilities presented unique challenges, prompting a nuanced approach to material selection and finishing. Yoo and Lee, along with Studio Valle de Valle, actively sought to imbue the space with a sense of character and lived-in warmth, moving away from the typically pristine and minimalist aesthetic often found in Singaporean homes.
One notable challenge was convincing local artisans to embrace a less uniform finish for surfaces. The team specifically requested a plaster finish that avoided a perfectly flat sheen, aiming for a more nuanced texture that suggested age and character. This required careful rehearsal and collaboration to achieve the desired patina.
Material sourcing also proved to be a hurdle. The unavailability of aged oak necessitated an alternative approach: fresh planks were acid-etched to simulate the appearance of aged wood. Similarly, the originally specified green marble for the powder room was substituted with honey onyx, a change that, in retrospect, proved fortuitous, harmonizing beautifully with the zinc walls.
The high humidity of Singapore’s tropical climate was another significant consideration. This environmental factor influenced the material choices and the overall approach to the home’s finish. "It’s not some immaculate white space," Yoo observed, highlighting their deliberate embrace of surfaces that show signs of wear and time. "There’s a patina on many surfaces, which we love." This acceptance of imperfection and the embrace of natural aging processes contribute to the home’s unique character and warmth.
A Lingering New York Spirit
The successful integration of New York’s design ethos into their Singaporean residence is a testament to the Yoo-Lee family’s enduring connection to their former home. The curated selection of iconic mid-century and vintage pieces, juxtaposed with contemporary artworks and custom designs by Studio Valle de Valle, creates a dialogue between eras and cultures. The inclusion of works by titans like Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret, Jean Prouvé, Oscar Niemeyer, and Serge Mouille speaks to a deep appreciation for modernist design principles, while Scandinavian marvels add a layer of warmth and craftsmanship.
The presence of Giancarlo Valle’s own designs, such as the "Kevin" sofa and "Paloma" mirror, alongside a freestanding cedar cabinet that artfully divides the dining and living areas, demonstrates a cohesive vision that seamlessly blends the couple’s personal style with the designer’s signature aesthetic. The custom carpet in the living area, featuring a graphic pattern reminiscent of organic tilework, further exemplifies this integration, even incorporating the family members’ names, minus the yet-to-arrive Emilia.
The home’s playful elements, such as the whimsical curves found in the children’s bathroom millwork and bunk beds, underscore the family’s commitment to creating a space that is both sophisticated and welcoming for their young children. The arching ceiling, a defining feature of the apartment, provided an opportunity to explore a language of curves, softening the edges and creating a more fluid and inviting atmosphere.
"We love having objects that spark ideas," Yoo stated, emphasizing their intention to create an environment that fosters creativity and learning for their children. "We wanted to embrace living with art and design and expose the kids to it." This philosophy is evident in every corner of the home, from the historical tapestries to the contemporary artworks.
The challenges encountered during the renovation process, from material sourcing to adapting to the local climate, ultimately contributed to the home’s unique character. The embrace of patina and the deliberate avoidance of overly pristine finishes have resulted in a space that feels authentic and lived-in, a true reflection of the family’s journey.
Ultimately, the Yoo-Lee residence in Singapore is more than just a beautifully designed space; it is a tangible representation of their ability to carry their identity and values across continents. As Yoo aptly put it, "You can leave New York but New York will never leave you. Being in a home that feels comfortable, surrounded by what inspires us, helped that transition. We brought who we are with us." This sentiment encapsulates the success of their endeavor, creating a haven that honors their past while embracing their present and future in Singapore.
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