The Jefin Residence renovation reimagines an existing 1,850 sq.ft two-storey house into a contemporary urban home through careful architectural intervention rather than extensive reconstruction. The project demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform the character of an existing structure while working within its original footprint.

The most defining intervention is the introduction of a cantilevered steel box frame that forms the new front elevation. Projecting outward from the building, the frame creates depth and a strong architectural presence along the street. Within this structure, a wooden screen adds warmth and texture, softening the industrial character of the steel. The combination of steel and wood creates a layered façade that balances structural clarity with visual comfort.

The wooden screen also serves a practical function. On the first floor, it provides privacy from the neighbouring commercial building while allowing filtered daylight and natural ventilation into the bedrooms. This transforms the façade into a functional climatic layer rather than a purely visual element.

An existing sloped bridge that connected the house to the adjacent commercial building was removed and replaced with a new steel-frame bridge. The redesigned bridge aligns with the new façade system, creating a more cohesive and visually integrated frontage.

A key principle of the project was to minimise demolition and structural alteration. By retaining the existing structural framework and avoiding extensive internal breaking, the renovation reduced construction waste while allowing the house to evolve into a more efficient living environment.

The internal layout was reorganised to suit contemporary living requirements. All four bedrooms were redesigned with attached bathrooms to improve comfort and privacy. Two bedrooms are located on the ground floor and two on the first floor, ensuring balanced spatial distribution within the home. Two smaller rooms were merged to create a larger kitchen that now functions as the social heart of the house, supporting everyday family life.

The Jefin Residence renovation shows how strategic architectural interventions can redefine the identity of an existing home. Through the interplay of steel and wood, the redesigned façade introduces a contemporary character while maintaining functional responsiveness to the urban context. At just 1,850 square feet, the project demonstrates that meaningful architectural transformation lies in precision, thoughtful material use, and careful spatial reorganisation.