Colonial Charm

A TOTE BAG succinctly sums up the identity and design philosophy of the owners of a two-story corner terrace house in Siglap. Hanging discreetly on a coat stand, the personalised tote has the words 'Singapore', 'Switzerland' and 'Africa' printed on it - to signify the Singaporean wife, Swiss expatriate banker husband and their joint love for Africa. Hence the many safari and wildlife elements weaved into the black-and-white colonial-inspired house.

While they now have their dream home, it's hard to believe that they got it almost by accident.

"We were living in a rented apartment, and our lease wasn't up," says the homemaker. "But I chanced upon this house. It ticked several boxes for her, including being i…