Tell us a little about yourself!
I’m originally from the UK, but moved to Sydney with my husband Jim, in 1997. We had 11 happy years there, became citizens and moved to Singapore in early 2009. We have three children: Harry (21) at Sydney University, Grace (19) at Manchester University, and our Singapore baby Evie (13), along with Scruff, a Labradoodle, who turns 12 this month!
I’m an art historian by training but fell into home and interiors and set up Layard Interiors in 2019, combining my love of travel, art and design.
Where did you first live when you came to Singapore and why?
When we arrived, we moved into One Chatsworth, off Grange Road. We loved the proximity to Orchard, the size, the fact that it was an older building, and the split-level apartment that allowed us to still go upstairs to bed! As an art lover I also enjoyed having lots of wall space to display our growing collection of Asian art.
After three years, we moved to the townhouses at Ridgewood Condominium. It was a lovely community with great facilities on site and a playground outside for our then 18-month-old. It gave the kids great freedom, and we created lifelong friendships. Sadly, that house was sold, and we moved around the corner to Holland Grove View.
Whilst we loved the location and being close to UWCSEA Dover, a friend, Louise Hill, was moving to Medway Park and let us know that quite a few houses were up for rent. We saw 16 Maidstone Road and instantly fell in love. The kids loved it too. Not only was it a short walk to school, but, at that stage, it had a zip-line from one end of the garden to the other!
This story is from the May 2024 edition of Expat Living Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the May 2024 edition of Expat Living Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Save your Spine at Work!
Sitting in an air-conditioned office has its benefits in steamy Singapore. But, long, sedentary days can play havoc on our necks and backs. Here, orthopaedic surgeon DR YILUN HUANG talks about spinal issues faced by office workers, and how to treat and prevent them.
Curry, Spice & Everything Nice
Craving a curry? Whether you're dreaming of a creamy korma or a biryani, the EL team went all in, indulging in everything from buttery parathas to tangy papdi chaat. We explored the best of Singapore's Indian dining scene, and trust us-these spots will spice up your life!
Is It Really Backed Up in the Cloud?
SARAH and BO PINEL of Tekkie Help break it to us that cloud storage is not a data backup. Here's why that's the case and how we can rectify the problem.
Finding Eco-Luxury In Fiji
Here's a destination that's often a little bit off the travel radar for people in our region - but definitely shouldn't be!
Perfect Pearly Whites!
Knowing you have white, sparkling teeth beneath your lips is a sure-fire way to make you smile with confidence. If you've noticed your teeth looking more yellow than \"hello\" lately, perhaps it's time for a visit to a dental clinic for a teeth-whitening session.
Festive Fashion Show!
As the year draws to a close, now's a good time to stock up on festive fashion. White Ginger has released a fab new line just in time for party season. Plus, it's hosting a fun multilabel fashion soiree so you can view the looks with tasty bites and a glass of vino in hand!
48 Hours in Patong
CHERRY LAI checks into the sparkling new M Social Hotel Phuket for a weekender full of food, fun and relaxation.
Ticket to Thailand
Are you physically here but mentally on a beach in Thailand? We've found destinations for two types of holiday-goers: one for someone looking for a place to chill, and another where you can also let loose!
Laying Out Memories Through Food
YASMIN, JESSICA and PEARL are the local co-founders of The Plattering Co. They share their favourite parts of doing business with each other and a few of their hobbies outside work hours.
A Musical Community
The new Pops Chorus and Orchestra at Marlborough College Malaysia (MCM) has students, parents, staff and even the Master involved. SIMON BURBURY tells us more - including where you can catch their performances.
