Freelance editor and art director Aaron De Silva bought his resale three-room Housing Board flat in Everton Park the instant he turned 35.

He was drawn to the neighbourhood's "mix of old and new, convenience and vibrancy", even though he knew he had to renovate the flat extensively to suit his lifestyle.

The bachelor ended up splashing $64,000 on the renovation and another $56,000 on furnishings, appliances and art.

Working in the media industry, he wanted "a home that would inspire him". A proper study - one that is open and connected to the other spaces - was especially important as he works from home.

He says: "I needed it to be spacious as I have lots of reference books and 1,001 press kits and materials."

So the design team from Artistroom removed the walls of the second bedroom to make way for an open-concept study.

The designers also custom-made wall-to-wall display shelving with slim, linear aluminium frames in the study.

Mr De Silva's extensive collection of curios, antiques, art pieces and books - amassed over the years - have all found a place on these shelves, infusing the cosy home with his personality and letting him show off his treasures.

The footprint of the master bedroom was reduced. Its walls were removed and rebuilt to make way for a walk-in wardrobe and additional circulation space around the main living area.

Downsizing the kitchen also contributed to the bigger open- concept living and dining area.

Another key structural alteration is the new doorway from the master bedroom to the only bathroom in the flat, located near the kitchen.

As for aesthetics, the design team gave Mr De Silva's home a clean, sleek look inspired by Italian design - a masculine palette of black, grey, white and dark wood tones.

The walls were kept white to best exhibit his paintings, photos and prints - adding to the gallery-like feel of his stylishly curated home.

• This article first appeared in this month's issue of Home & Decor, which is published by SPH Magazines. Get the issue now at all newsstands and download the digital edition of Home & Decor from the App Store, Magzter and Google Play. Also, see more inspiring homes on www.homeanddecor.com.sg

• If you have a Housing Board flat or condominium apartment you would like featured, e-mail your pictures, with the header The Chic Apartment, to stlife@ sph.com.sg