Celebrity chef Wu Si Han and actress Tay Ying found their dream apartment after just one viewing, drawn by expansive floor-to-cerling windows and unobstructed views. The property met every requirement on their list: a practical, boxy layout, potential for an open kitchen, and generous living space where family and friends could gather. Today, the couple has transformed the space into a calm, light-filled sanctuary defined by timeless minimalism, thoughtful technology, and a kitchen built around the way they truly live.
Si Han approached the all-white palette with practicality in mind despite the challenges of pet ownership. Scratch-resistant upholstery, robot cleaning systems, and carefully selected finishes allow them to enjoy a clean, timeless aesthetic without sacrificing everyday functionality. “Having the common space painted all white gave it a blank-canvas feel,” he shares. “With careful lighting, we can completely change the mood throughout the day.”
Lighting became one of the home’s defining features. Fabric ceiling lights diffuse a soft glow throughout the apartment, creating a warm atmosphere that changes how the space feels. The design choices reflect a broader trend among urban professionals who prioritize flexible, minimalist interiors that can adapt to their busy schedules while maintaining a sense of calm.
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As head chef of Italian bistro Supply & Demand, the kitchen naturally became the heart of the renovation. Rather than recreating a commercial kitchen, Si Han focused on designing one that supports daily life. A powerful induction cooktop with integrated ventilation, efficient workflow, durable surfaces, and generous preparation areas make cooking both practical and enjoyable. “At home, cooking is less about perfection and more about connection,” he says.
The philosophy reflects how the couple now entertains, trading restaurant-style plating for communal meals shared with family and close friends. The design prioritizes function over form, ensuring that the appliances and surfaces are easy to maintain while still looking sleek and modern. This approach proves that a home kitchen can be both a place of culinary creation and a gathering spot for loved ones.
Technology quietly supports many aspects of daily life throughout the apartment. Automated honeycomb blinds open with the sunrise and close at bedtime, while smart switches allow lighting to be controlled remotely. Yet despite using smart home features, Si Han intentionally selected traditional-appearing switches to preserve the home’s timeless aesthetic. “I still prefer controlling things by hand rather than by voice,” he laughs. “Maybe I’ll ease into it slowly.”
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Having completed his own renovation journey, Si Han believes one decision matters above all others. “Choose the right interior designer. Pick someone whose portfolio already aligns with your vision.” He also encourages first-time homeowners to build a clear mood board before starting renovations, research extensively, and purchase appliances early to take advantage of better pricing.
The apartment represents a new chapter for the couple. Between balancing Si Han’s growing media presence, his role at Supply & Demand, and their appearances together on Chef vs Wife, the home has become a place to slow down, cook together, and build lasting memories. They are most excited about learning family recipes from their parents and continuing to gather loved ones around the dining table — proving that sometimes, the best-designed homes are the ones built around the people who fill them.