Nestled in the heart of Singapore’s lush greenery

is the residence of acclaimed chef Rishi Naleendra, who has made waves with his two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Cloudstreet. Originally hailing from Sri Lanka and shaped by his studies and experiences in Australia, Naleendra has called Singapore home for the past decade. Yet, it's only recently that he discovered a space he cherishes above all others.

A Sanctuary Layered with Local History

His current abode, a two-bedroom apartment perched on the second floor of a historic black-and-white property in the Henderson area, is not merely a living space but a sanctuary layered with local history. He lives there with his wife, Manuela Toniolo, and their adorable golden retriever, Hendrix. The property, originally constructed to accommodate British army officers, harmoniously blends a serene environment with proximity to bustling city life, being just a short drive away from his restaurants.

A Serendipitous Journey to His Dream Apartment

Interestingly, Naleendra’s journey to this apartment was serendipitous. He stumbled upon it during a visit to a friend who once resided there. After the friend moved out, the apartment went up for bidding, and he jumped at the chance to make it his own, fulfilling a long-standing aspiration deeply rooted in his affinity for architectural elegance, particularly that of the renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa.

An Oasis of Simplicity and Tranquility

While Cloudstreet boasts opulent decor indicative of its historical context, Naleendra's home is an oasis of simplicity and tranquility, characterized by pristine white walls and open windows that invite nature inside. “I’m drawn to things with history and a story,” he notes, reflecting his inclination for vintage and second-hand furnishings. Many of his finds, including a four-poster bed and a unique coffee table, have intriguing backstories that often intertwine with his culinary journey. One delightful anecdote involves a Facebook Marketplace purchase, where a charming dinner invitation led to Naleendra acquiring a vintage coffee table for free!

An Enchanting Jungle Landscape

Surrounding Naleendra’s home is an enchanting jungle landscape that echoes the natural beauty of Sri Lanka, providing solace and inspiration. Exotic wildlife, such as laughing thrushes and occasional monkeys, often graces his balcony, where he enjoys morning rituals over freshly brewed Chinese tea.

A Creative Flare Beyond the Kitchen

Naleendra’s creative flare extends beyond the kitchen; he is also an artist, finding solace in painting during the late hours after work. His works often reflect Buddhist themes and personal encounters, with many pieces gracing his walls, enhancing the home’s eclectic aesthetic.

The Parallels Between Culinary and Artistic Pursuits

In exploring the parallels between his culinary and artistic pursuits, Naleendra highlights the essence of perseverance. “Just like in art, it takes many attempts to create a single dish that resonates,” he muses, emphasizing that both endeavors require a blend of passion and resilience.

Creating Joyful Culinary Experiences

With a passion for creating joyful culinary experiences, Naleendra ensures that his restaurant reflects a similar ethos to his home—inviting and warm, but distinctively vibrant. Cloudstreet serves as both a workshop and a canvas for his vision, where each dish tells a story, much like the eclectic decor that complements the dining experience.

A Fortunate Pursuit of Culinary Passions

Ultimately, Naleendra feels immensely fortunate to pursue his culinary passions in a home that fosters creativity. “Being content is the most important thing,” he reflects, cherishing the harmonious balance between the energy of his restaurant life and the calming retreat his home provides. Each tea-filled morning and restful night plays a crucial role in his ongoing narrative as a chef, painter, and dedicated husband. Indeed, Naleendra’s life is adorned with layered stories, each rich with tradition, history, and the love of heritage.