8 HDB Renovation Rules for BTO and Resale Flats.

HDB have strict guidelines for renovation

Congratulations, you are about to get your keys to your new BTO flat or you have purchased an HDB resale flat and are now planning your home renovation. 

As tempting as it would be to dive straight into planning paint colours and choosing appliances and furniture for your new apartment, first you need to be familiar with and adhere to the rules and regulations set out by HDB. 

Remember, failing to follow any of the rules set out by HDB is not an option. The rules and regulations are set out to ensure the safety of your home and your block. If in doubt, always ask prior to commencement of work, it always pays to check twice and do it once.

1. Submit all plans to HDB for approval before hacking or erecting walls.

You may have a vision of an open plan home, with plenty of light streaming through and the easiest way to do this is to hack or knock down walls. A good example of this is to remove a wall between the kitchen and living room to create an open plan kitchen/ living space with an island in the middle. Be warned, any hacking of walls requires approval from HDB.

Which walls can be hacked?

Some walls, columns, beams and slabs are load-bearing walls and cannot be removed, moved or altered in any way. But why are load-bearing walls important? Simply put, load-bearing walls are structural elements in the home that help to transfer weight from the roof, through the floors, and down to the foundation. 

On your floor plan, load-bearing walls are usually shaded in solid black or grey. Other walls, which are normally shown with double lines in your floor plan, though not load-bearing, hide important wiring and piping and cannot be tampered with. Therefore it is essential that you get permission from HDB before you hack or take down any walls within your home. 

What about building new walls?

Similarly, you also need permission from HDB to erect any walls. Whilst splitting a room in two may seem to solve challenges such as creating enough private sleeping areas for each family member, there are rules and regulations such as adequate ventilation, access to fire escapes etc which HDB will take into account before granting any permits required.

Remember, get any permits or permissions from HDB in writing. Your contractor will need to apply for these, but as the homeowner, you should ask for and keep a copy of these from your contractor.

2. Exposed pipes cannot be permanently concealed.

Yes, we understand that some homeowners want to cover up exposed pipes in their bathrooms or kitchens as they may detract from the overall appearance and style you are going for. This is, however, simply not possible as pipes cannot be permanently concealed. In the case of any clogs or issues with the piping, HDB must be able to access the pipes to carry out their investigations or repair works. 

That doesn't mean you can't be creative, work with your Interior Designer or Contractor to explore options that may work within your space. 

3. Renovation Timings.

Renovation timings must be strictly adhered to

Typically, homeowners must occupy the flat for at least 5 years before applying for the Request for Confirmation of Eligibility to Sell Your HDB Flat and putting it up on the market. Why is this important? Well, let's face it, you are going to be living beside your neighbours for at least the next few years. Start the relationship off right by bearing in mind that renovation works are noisy and disruptive, not just for you, but for those living within your block. 

Arguably, sticking to the timings set out by HDB isn't only a renovation requirement but also your social responsibility as a homeowner to minimise disruption for your neighbours.

So what are the specific rules? 

• General renovation work can be done from 9 am to 6 pm on weekdays and Saturdays 

• No renovation works at all, no matter how quiet they are can be carried out on Sundays and Public holidays

• Noisy works like demolishing of walls, cutting of tiles or excessive drilling can only be done from 9 am to 5 pm on weekdays 

•  Renovation contractors are allowed to use not more than 2 HDB Approved Hand-held Power Tools or their equivalent at any one time to demolish walls and/or remove of wall/ floor finishes. 

• Such work must be completed within 3 consecutive days.

• No noisy renovation works can be carried out on weekends, public holidays and eve of major public holidays

Other important rules:

• Once you get your permit, you’ve got 3 months to complete your renovation in the case of a new BTO flat, or 1 month if it’s a resale HDB flat.

• You have to inform at least 2 neighbours of your renovation, at least 3 days in advance.

With so many of your neighbours working from home, be considerate and work with your Interior Designers and Contractors to keep disruption to a minimum. A little bit of courtesy goes a long way. 

4. Front door needs to be fire-rated.

Ensure you install a fire rated front door to your HDB

Whilst you can replace the internal doors within your HDB with few restrictions, there are separate rules when it comes to replacing your front door. All front doors must be suitably fire rated. The replacement door and/ or frame must be half-hour fire-rated and the frame must have a self-closing device. Most HDB front doors are designed to contain smoke and fire within the unit so they don’t spread to staircases or lift lobbies. Given the risk of fire, making sure that your new front door meets HDB’s guidelines is essential to protect you, your family and your neighbours in the event of a fire. 

5. Electrical works.

Electric jobs include the electrical wiring of lights, air-con units, switches and more in a house interior decoration in Singapore. If you're looking for a brand-new electricity supply, the HDB standards regarding electrical jobs tell you the process of what you require to do. They also tell you what you need to do in order to get an upgrade on your already existing electrical power supply. The standards provide a detailed situation of all the important things you should provide for either of these situations.

6. False Ceiling.

You don’t need an HDB permit to install a false ceiling, but you’ll need a minimum floor-to-ceiling height of 2.4 metres. The standard HDB floor-to-ceiling height is 2.6 metres, which gives you a 20-centimetre leeway to make it fancy schmancy. As counter-intuitive as it may sound, installing a false ceiling can actually add perceived height to your home – the gap between the original and the lowered ceiling creates a sense of depth and space.

Also, false ceilings are strictly not allowed in bathrooms; in the kitchen, they should not cover the gas pipes.

HDB Flooring needs to adhere to strict guidelines

7. Flooring.

There are 2 means to revamp your floor: overlay laminate tiles on top of your existing tiles, or hack out the existing tiles completely and replace them with new ones.

Only the latter needs an HDB license. Due to the fact that overlaying floor covering is much more budget-friendly than redesigning your entire apartment, a lot of homeowners prefer overlays instead.

Keep in mind, no matter which option you choose, the total thickness of your flooring surface can not surpass 50mm.

8. Changing windows and grilles. 

Firstly, a renovation permit from HDB is required for all windows replacement work. A BCA Approved Window Contractor (AWC) who is listed in HDB’s Directory of Renovation Contractors needs to apply for a renovation permit from HDB before carrying out the window replacement works. If you want to replace Grilles, similar restrictions apply. If you are not sure if the window works you want to carry out will be in violation of any HDB rules, it is important to check with your BCA AWC or the HDB website at the planning stage. 

To Read More, Visit HDB’s Website.

What Drives Up (Or Down) Your Renovation Costs?

When the excitement of the prospect of getting your keys wears off, you start to realise that now is the time to start planning and budgeting for your home renovation. There are a number of factors that influence how much your home renovation will cost, our guide will help you to set out your budget and look at ways that you can cut down on costs. 

Size.

The scope of the renovation in terms of size is going to play a big role in determining how much your renovation will cost. If you are updating the entire interior or exterior of your home, the cost of the renovation is going to be much higher than that of a renovation that only involves a single room. If budget is the only thing that is holding you back from pursuing a larger renovation, you can try re-purposing items or skipping minor points of the renovation in order to reduce the costs.

Type.

The type of home you have whether it’s an HDB flat, condo, or landed house will impact your costs. The renovation work for an old resale flat varies greatly compared to a brand new HDB BTO apartment, due to the costs of demolishing, repairing and refurbishing the old items the previous owner has left behind.

New condominium units will generally cost less to renovate than HDB flats because they already come with kitchen and bathroom fittings. On the other hand, a newly built HDB flat will need things like new floorings, walls, and built-in cupboards, in addition to kitchen and bathroom fittings. 

However, a new BTO flat is less expensive to renovate than a resale flat. Due to outdated design features and fittings, older houses might not match your aesthetic. In the event that it has not been renovated in the past 20 years, you may want to do a major renovation. The plumbing and wiring might also need to be redone, as they might have worn out over the years.

Contractor Versus Interior Designer. 

It may seem obvious but different companies charge different prices. Each also offers different services that will mean you need to choose between investing more of your time or more of your budget.  Need help deciding between them? Check out our handy guide on how to choose between a Contractor or Interior Designer.

How Much Work You Want To Do.

Are you more or less satisfied with the way things are going? What if you wanted to knock down walls and build your dream house (almost) from scratch, with custom carpentry? 

The amount of work you want to be done forms the backbone of your costs after the size of your home. You will spend a large portion of your renovation budget on:

Hacking means tearing down walls, rebuilding walls, or touching up walls. The labour costs will depend on the wall size, thickness, and the amount of hacking that needs to be done. 

In masonry, new walls are built or old walls are repaired. The cost of more complex renovations masonry work is determined by the area size and the amount of labour. It also includes flooring, tiling, and wet works.

Carpentry: Do you want built-in wardrobes, kitchen cabinets, or desks? Then you’ll need to set aside a budget for carpentry. The cost for these customised solutions depends on the area size and amount of workmanship you’ll require. 

Confused with renovation jargon? Check out 3 Key Renovation Terms You Need to Know.

Type of Materials You Want To Use. 

What kind of materials would you like to use for your new flooring, cabinets, and countertops? The costs of renovations will be impacted by these options as well. Below we go into some of the cost differences between typical quotes and what you end up choosing. 

Unforeseen Costs. 

Electrical Works.

Once you start to get quotes from Interior Design firms, you may see that electrical works are missing from their quote. The costs of electrical works depend on the size of your home and the scope of work needed. Most electricians won’t be able to give you a quote without a site visit. Factor this in when you are budgeting for your reno. You may need a few electrical quotes to compare so set aside time for this. The cost of electrical works can add up if you add in additional power points, concealed wiring or if you decide to rewire your entire home. 

Plumbing Works.

It is more common for ID firms to include plumbing work in their quotations, but some don't when they don't have contracted plumbers. As with electrical work, you'll need to get a plumber to visit the site before you can get an accurate quote. 

Bathroom Accessories.

For installation of your toilet fixtures and pipes in your bathrooms, you may need to hire a plumber. Having your pipes concealed or moving the location of sinks and showers will also drive up the cost of your renovation. 

Lighting and Fixtures.

You can't guess how much you'll spend on these since prices depend on factors like the size of fixtures you need, brands, functions, and materials. You will need to research and budget for the types of lighting and fixtures you want within your home. These include everything from Pendant Lights to  Bathroom Sinks. 

Materials for flooring and walls.

You're most likely to get a quote tailored to your budget when you request it from an ID or a contractor. If you have a strict budget, you can expect quotes for materials like tiles and vinyl to reflect the lowest possible price. Several options are available for $3/sqft vinyl and tiles, but note that the selection is limited at this price point. It becomes evident when you select your preferred materials - aesthetic and high-quality materials tend to have higher prices. Even after you've signed a payment contract, you'll likely be billed for additional costs incurred if you change your mind and opt for higher-priced materials. 

Hinges and handles for carpentry and doors.

The question you might ask is why a cupboard would not come with hinges? The world operates this way. Some of the reasons for this are designed to reduce your costs, as hinges are more expensive from 3rd party sources. It’s best to clarify at the quote stage whether your carpentry quote includes hinges or not so that you don’t get a surprise later on. 

Ceiling.

Detailed false ceilings tend to cost more when compared to normal ceilings. If you want features like rounded details, L-box or U-box shapes or cove lighting for your ceiling, expect the final price to shoot up. 

Platform Beds.

Platform beds are extremely popular in Singapore, especially for compact bedrooms. This kind of bed does away with the necessity of having a wardrobe in the bedroom. However, the carpentry charges for this type of integrated and multi-functional furniture is higher than usual.

Shelving and Partitions. 

Open shelves and niches (mostly with profile lighting) are an expensive design feature to have in your home. Moreover, installing partitions too tends to raise the final cost of renovations to a large extent. 

Custom Furniture.

Furniture in unusual shapes is more expensive. Rounded furniture or furniture that has oblique/unusual shapes (like hexagonal, abstract etc.) costs more than furniture in common forms. The prior has more novelty and stands out as a statement. If that is your intention, the extra cost is a matter of choice.

Length Of Time To Do Your Renovation. 

The longer your renovation takes to complete, the more it will cost. Renovations that are more complex often require more workers working for longer hours. If you want to save money, scaling back your renovation could help to keep labour costs down and also help you to finish more quickly. It is also a good idea to keep in mind that renovations can not go on for a variable period of time and must have a set start and end date.

Post-renovation cleaning.

Your renovation quote most likely includes protection for floors, general chemical cleaning and the cleaning of debris. This can add an additional $1,00 dollars to your quote. Ve warned though, it can take time for dust and debris to settle. You may need to budget for a professional cleaning firm to do a final clean before you move in. The other cost-saving option is for you (and your family and friends perhaps!) to have the time to clean every nook and cranny in your home yourself. 

Final Advice - Always get an itemised breakdown of your renovation costs.

Obtaining multiple quotes is a good rule of thumb before signing on with a particular company, so you can sort out the details. Compare each quote right down to the unit price so that you can easily identify if you need to top up more cash for items and services that aren't always included, such as fixtures and installation. 

Being a homeowner and renovating your home into your dream home is an exciting and monumental step in life. The hidden costs of renovation can make your plans seem futile, especially if you are not willing to pay for essentials like electrical works and home fixtures. It’s best to always have a budget set aside for unforeseen costs. 

What Qualities To Look For In An Interior Design Company.

Meeting with Interior Designers can take a lot of your valuable time. You are making a large investment into your home renovation, we have 5 tips on what to look for when you are narrowing down and selecting Interior Design firms to work with in Singapore.

1. Affordability. 

Regardless of what size budget you have set aside for your home renovation, it is always best to look for an Interior Design company that offers services at reasonable prices. Your Interior Design company may have discounts they can offer based on bulk purchasing they may do or contracts they have in place with reputable suppliers. They may also be able to offer you more favourable repayment instalment terms based on your own budget and cash flow. Some Interior Designers can even put you in touch with banks that offer financing options. Remember if you don’t ask, you won’t get it.

2. Reliability.

You are about to undergo a major renovation project with your Interior Designer. If you haven’t sourced a reliable Interior Designer firm to partner with, you risk running into issues along your journey. At the quotation stage, there are a few red flags to look out for. 

Is your Interior Designer on Time? Yes of course with life being so busy in Singapore, there are occasions when we are all late. If your potential Interior Designer is consistently late to meetups or calls, you have to ask yourself if this person is organised enough to undertake your home renovation project?

Does your Interior Designer make promises they don’t keep? If you find yourself in a situation where you are doing all the chasing, despite the ID saying something will be done, then why would you think that this situation will change or improve once you have signed on the dotted line and have parted with your hard-earned money? 

3. Professionalism.

An Interior Design company that displays professionalism goes far beyond a well laid out website and an eye-catching logo. The  Designer you are working with should be able to communicate effectively with you, in language and terms that you understand.  Always beware of the Designer who will use jargon and cannot explain to you what that jargon means. If this happens at the quotation stage, this will continue during the works. You need to be aware that there may be delays and changes during your project. Make sure you trust that your Interior Designer will be able to clearly communicate what these are, why they are happening and what are the solutions. 

On top of this, your chosen Interior Designer should be able to offer great follow up support, including rectification of any errors at the end of the project. Having guarantees and warranties written into the contract should offer you peace of mind that both you and the Interior Designer are on the same page. 

4. Originality.

As you start to look at Interior Design firms websites and portfolios, you will start to notice that many will have a few styles that they are comfortable with and tend to focus on. While most Interior Designers are flexible and have a sound understanding of different design concepts or themes, make sure to choose one that suits what you have in mind. Remember, this is your home, you don’t have to stick to one theme. Like Sandavanian clean lines? Don’t be afraid to mix in some Industrial elements if that is what you want. Working with a designer who is excited to work with you and bring your vision to life, who has ideas that complement yours and who is enthusiastic to share their own experience is always a good sign. Many homeowners are concerned they will end up with a cookie-cutter design proposal! Don’t sign with an Interior Design where you feel that is on offer. After all,  you don’t want your home to look exactly like your neighbours? 

An  Interior Designer who is experienced with differing homeowners’ needs and styles may help to provide practical ideas such as installing heavy-duty Blum Soft-closing Systems and waterproof boards for cabinets around the kitchen sink. 

5. Additional Benefits.

We all like a good deal. It’s a nice bonus to have an Interior Design company that has additional perks that are appealing to you. This can of course include discounts but also can be free upgrades on accessories, faster delivery on the project or who can assist you when you are choosing your furnishings.

A Guide To Scandinavian Interior Design Style.

Interior design in the Scandinavian style is simple, minimalist, and functional. Scandinavian design isn't a new phenomenon, but it continues to be a popular trend in interior design today, particularly in Singapore. Scandinavian design is a design movement characterized by a focus on functionalism and simplicity. It also includes the use of natural materials, such as leather and wood. Furthermore, Scandinavian interiors are often characterized by a connection to nature, which combines natural shapes, abstracted elements, and natural elements.  

Scandinavian interiors have a certain magic. This chic home has a cosy vibe with a neutral colour palette and minimal adornments. When it comes to creating a Scandinavian interior design for your space, but you aren't sure how to go about it, here are tips and tricks to make it a success.

What is Scandinavian Style? 

Scandinavian decor style captures the balance between comfort and minimalism found in Scandinavian design. It is one of the interior design styles that influenced (and grew with) modern interior design in the 20th century. Clean lines, minimal decoration, and the importance of artwork are a few examples. 

Below are our top tips to bring a Scandinavian theme into your home.

Accessorize With Warm Textiles.

Scandinavian countries are characterized by climates that are extremely cold. Therefore, warm textiles are frequently used in Scandinavian home décor. Whilst Singapore doesn’t have the weather of these Scandanavian countries, we can still bring in the warm textiles to create the Scandanavian styles in BTO’s, HDB’s, Condos or Landed Properties. There are a variety of textiles you can choose from, including throws and rugs made from wool, sheepskins, or mohair. Or choose options that look like they come from these materials. 

Choose Simple Decorative Pieces.

Scandinavian interior design is known for its simplicity. As a result, when it comes to decorating a Scandinavian themed home, always choose those decorative accents that have a simple design. Decorative ceramic vases may be the perfect addition to the living room table. Using throws and pillows that have simple geometric prints will bring texture and colour to your Scandinavian interior.

Combine Both Wood And Metal Finishings.

In a Scandinavian design, wooden elements are used not only in the flooring but also in the furniture and fixtures. Scandinavian houses are usually furnished with wood for their furniture, such as coffee tables and chairs. Recent trends in Scandinavian decorating, however, combine metallic details with wooden elements. Brass pendants and copper sconces are suspended from the ceiling to bring light and shine into the room.

Look At Plants And Fresh Flowers To Decorate.

To add a living element of colour and beauty to your Scandinavian interior design, consider adding natural elements. Plants and fresh flowers can be put to good use when decorating your Scandinavian theme. In order to achieve Scandinavian design, it must include floral elements and fresh flowers.

Neutral Colours.

The Scandinavian style decor includes a particular colour palette of grey, white, brown, and black. When decorating a Scandinavian living room, focus on the use of these neutral colours in order to create a clean and soothing atmosphere. You are not limited to these colours though, you can also add pops of colours, such as fuchsia and sea greens. In typical Scandinavian home decor, walls are often painted in white in order for the furniture and decorative pieces to stand out.

Hygge Colours.

Hygge, however, is what sets Scandinavian home decor apart from other styles. Specifically, to create an environment that fosters feelings of warmth, contentment, and cosiness. The term is derived from Denmark, but many Nordic homes share the same comforting essence without too much ornamentation.

The perfect amount of furniture and decor is used in Scandinavian interiors - neither too much nor too little. Scandi colour schemes are no different. Colours in this style are typically calming and neutral, with white, gray, black, and blue accents. 

White Scandinavian Decor.

The Scandinavian design style emphasizes simplicity and naturalness as much as possible. Scandinavian design is functional but also pleasing to the touch. Fabrics and handmade items are certainly earthy in their textures that give Scandi home decor a Scandinavian feel. A cool colour scheme is complemented by wood, leather, and rugs.

Keep Your Interior Clutter-Free.

The Scandinavian interior design style puts a strong emphasis on keeping the space clutter-free. Organizing storage spaces smartly should therefore be a priority to avoid unnecessary clutter. Scandinavian decor is characterized by the "less is more" philosophy in order to keep the space looking less cluttered and more visually relaxing.

Choose Light-Coloured Flooring.

Scandanavian themes usually use light hardwood flooring either in its natural light colour or painted white. A Scandinavian design is perfect for laminated flooring. Your home will appear brighter and more spacious with the addition of new flooring that oozes an air of warmth and welcome.

Light Window Treatments.

Adding plenty of light to a Scandinavian theme can make the space more inviting. The Scandinavian design maintains a very minimal use of window treatments to allow the light to enter the room. If window coverings are necessary for your Scandinavian decor, choose light fabrics such as sheer curtains. 

Lighting Is Crucial.

Scandinavian interior design emphasizes the importance of lighting. In Scandinavian décor, light is considered a life source, and there should be different types of lighting to ensure adequate illumination. In a Scandinavian home design, lighting also sets the mood. Modern lighting can be incorporated into an industrial design by using wall sconces and pendant lights. 

Form Combined With Function.

In Scandinavian design, furniture should have clean lines. Tables, chairs, and sofas should have rounded and smooth edges to complement the Scandinavian decor. It is also common for Scandinavian design to incorporate a multi-tiered wall shelf in a Scandinavian living room due to its innovative and functional use of space. Innovative and space-efficient storage spaces add visual interest to space.

5 Easy Ways to Get Started WIth This Style

1. Nature-Inspired Artwork

The Scandinavian wall decor is often influenced by nature or human form, whether it is an abstract watercolor or a line drawing. If you like monochrome artwork, you can exhibit it by itself, in series or as a larger grouping. 

2. Fluffy Textiles

In addition to adding warmth, throws and rugs also soften the sometimes-stark look of a Scandinavian interior. As well as adding a stylish element to the design, these fluffy additions provide functionality.

3. Statement Lighting

The decoration is limited, so functional elements also take on an ornamental quality. Lighting is an example of this. Lighting fixtures with lantern-like shapes are popular. Nonetheless, the latest Scandinavian house decor trends also feature whimsical and colourful lighting designs.

4. Simple Patterns

Scandinavian home decor keeps its patterns and motifs simple. Those homes are filled with sweet cross motifs, straight lines, and mini chevrons. Soft furnishings with patterns can add a bit of fun to a Nordic-inspired interior.

5. Natural Materials

The Scandinavian style is characterized by the use of natural materials like wood and leather. It is the combination of rustic elements from the earth with soft and cosy textiles that makes this style so appealing.

6 Renovation Hacks to Save You Money.

Make your budget work for you.

Singapore Home Renovation Hacks

Interior Designer or Contractor?

When it comes to making the most of your budget, a key decision is whether to go for an Interior Designer (ID) or a Contractor. An ID firm will usually be more expensive, however, what you might save in money, you will have to invest a lot more time into sourcing, selecting, briefing and managing your Contractors. There are some Qualities To Look For In An Interior Design Company if you do choose to go down that route. Undecided, we have a handy guide, Should You Pick A Contractor or Interior Designer For Your Home Renovation In Singapore?

Follow a cost-saving design theme.

A good example of where you can save money by choosing a budget-friendly theme is minimalism. A minimalist design is not only stunning and devoid of clutter, but it’s also not as costly as other design aesthetics. As a bonus, a minimalist theme will give the illusion of a bigger space which is great in Singapore where home sizes are shrinking. Another great budget-friendly theme is Scandinavian which incorporates clean lines and again goes for the illusion of space. That being said, if you have your heart set on a theme, that’s where you work with your Interior Designer or your Contractor to find budget-friendly solutions that work for your space. 

Moveable versus built-in furniture.

Build-ins like TV accent walls and platform beds may look stunning, but they easily burn a hole in your wallet. When the time comes to upgrade, you'll be stuck with yesterday's trend and will also be looking at extra costs to take them down. As time passes, not only will you have to live with built-in furniture, but if you decide to upgrade, you'll have to pay extra to have them removed. Other than being built-in, permanent fixtures like platform beds can quickly go out of style, meaning you will need to spend again in the future. 

Forgo The Feature Wall.

You can also save on home renovation costs by painting your walls instead of getting them wallpapered, or by painting an accent wall instead of building a feature wall.  

Paint is not only less expensive than wallpaper or feature wall materials, it is also a practical choice if you wish to change the look of your home every few years. Let’s not forget, if you wish to remove and replace walls and stone, you will need to do another set of renovation work. Also, if you are going to sell your apartment in the future, will your feature wall be outdated, therefore bringing down your sale price?

Consider Vinyl or Laminate Flooring.

Flooring materials will consume a substantial portion of your budget, especially if you choose options like hardwood, tiling or marble. Vinyl or laminate flooring can give you the look of wood or marble for less. Their cost is just a fraction of their more expensive counterparts, and they're just as durable and easy to clean. 

Styling To Bring It All Together. 

Think you need to do everything all at once? Check out our styling tips to make your home look like it comes straight from a home interior magazine without busting your budget. 

3 Key Renovation Terms You Need to Know.

Before you begin your renovation journey, there is a lot of jargon and common terms to understand. This will not only help you to communicate better with your Interior Designer or Contractor but also put you in a better position to understand any issues that crop up along the way. 

It’s important to understand that hacking, masonry and carpentry are the 3 biggest parts of your renovation project that will constitute the bulk of not only the cost but also the work. This is why we explain what exactly each entail and if there are any cost-saving or budget-friendly alternatives. 

Hacking: Simply put, this refers to the removal of any existing built-in furniture, flooring, wall finishes such as tiles, as well as actual walls or other structures that might already be within the home when you get your keys.

The more you break down with the original features of the home, the more work it entails and the more it will cost you. Sounds pretty straightforward right? It’s worth bearing in mind that both demolition and disposal are both a lot of work. This goes a long way to explain why renovations on resale flats can actually cost more than new flats which have a blank canvas so to speak. 

Hacking isn’t always required, there are sometimes workarounds which minimise the amount of hacking needed. A good example is to overlay existing floor tiles with vinyl or laminate flooring instead of hacking out the existing floor tiles. It is sometimes possible to overlay a bathroom rather than hacking the original bathroom. 

Masonry: To explain it simply, masonry is anything involving cement. This can range from cabinet bases to shower kerbs to tiling your walls and floors. 

It stands to reason that the more hacking and reconfiguration of your layout you do, the more masonry needs to be done. Its also worth mentioning that the more square meter surface area you need to cover, the more raw materials and labour you will need.  This will of course increase the price paid by the homeowners. 

Carpentry: To put it in simple terms, carpentry is anything involving wood, such as custom-building bookcases, TV consoles, bed platforms, wardrobes, kitchen cabinets, etc. Worth noting is that whilst custom-built furniture may suit your theme, it may not suit your budget. You can opt to use moveable furniture instead or opt to install some carpentry works at a later stage such as a  build-in shoe cabinet. 

10 Tips to Choose Your Interior Designer.

Let’s face it, there are few things in life that you will spend as much on as your home renovation. Whether you have a BTO, HDB, Condo or Landed Property, there is no escaping the simple fact that home reno can be costly as well as take a lot of your time and energy. Many homeowners often leave choosing an Interior Designer to the last minute. By doing this you place a lot of stress on both yourselves and your designer and builder to get your renovation done in time. 

With hundreds of Interior Designer firms in Singapore to choose from, sifting through them to make your shortlist and then narrowing that down to your chosen ID can be time-consuming. There is no “right” or “wrong” way to approach this, but to help you, we have put together 10 tips to help you to choose the right Interior Designer for your project. 

1. Recommendations. 

Do your homework! Apart from getting recommendations from your relatives and friends, attend online and offline exhibitions in order to experience the work of a wide range of Interior Design firms. When it comes to finding recommendations for Interior Designers, there is no shortage of options online. There is an overwhelming number of “Best Interior Designers in Singapore”, “Top Interior Designers for 2021”, “Get Quotes from Multiple Top Rated Interior Designers” lists. Whilst these lists are great to get ideas and inspiration, you need to keep in mind the criteria used to select these “top”, “best” or “top-rated”. Are these pages showcasing Interior Designers who have paid to feature? Do the Interior Designers mentioned match the style or aesthetic that you envision for your home? 

Friends and family are great sources of information also. You may visit a friend’s HDB and really love their style and they may be able to recommend the ID that they used. One tip, rather than ask “would you recommend your ID?”, it can be more helpful to ask “what did you like about your ID?” and “What were some of the challenges?”. You are more likely to get detailed information from these questions which will ultimately help you to make a better-informed decision. 

2. Accreditation & Licensing.

You should also check if your shortlisted firm is CaseTrust or RCMA certified accredited. CaseTrust-accredited companies regularly go through workmanship sites assessments by the BCA in accordance with CONQUAS standards. In addition to these regular checks, the company would have a proper redress system including mediation by the CASE Mediation Centre.

RCMA-listed businesses can safeguard customer deposits from closure or liquidation of the company through deposit performance bonds. An ISO Certificate, on the other hand, signifies an assurance in the quality and consistency of work.

Being CaseTrust certified signifies that the company practices good sales practices, standards, and ethics. This means clearly articulated, transparent, documented renovation fees with full accountability for the listed deliverables in projects, fee refund policies, and a well-trained staff force.

3. Experience of the Designer.

In every Interior Design company, there are many designers one can pick from. They can range from having decades of experience to absolutely none at all. In Singapore, many designers do not have any prior formal education on design concepts. A lot of designers in a sales role usually acquire their knowledge and skills in Interior Design through mentorships or internships as they go along, their main aim is to close sales rather than generating good quality design ideas. After all, they are only paid a commission for each project. 

If you are uncomfortable working with a designer who does not have any formal design qualifications, it is good to ask for a more experienced designer. 

There are also what is commonly referred to as “In-house designers” who are usually in charge of doing up the 3D proposals and drafting of the designs. Most have a formal education of space concepts, texture and colour coordination.

4. Designers Style. 

Different Interior Designers have different strengths and design tastes. In Singapore, Interior Design companies often focus on one particular type of design. For example, some like to do Farmhouse, Scandinavian or Rustic design with a touch of the Industrial. Always take a look at the designer’s past work. If they tend to do mostly Scandinavian styles, try not to ask the same designer to do something vastly different like a Victorian concept, unless you don’t mind the risk of getting a result of something that’s neither here nor there.

That is not to say that just because a Designer is not experienced in the particular style that you have in mind, that they will not be able to do a really good job. This will all come down to your own personal comfort level to decide if you want to go ahead with them or not. 

5. What Contractors will be used?

Some Interior Design companies have their own factories while others get elements of the project subcontracted out. A lot of homeowners feel that they prefer to go with a company that uses its own Contractors and factory as opposed to having the work subcontracted out. Having Subcontractors work on your project can sometimes lead to a shift in blame and in responsibilities when anything goes wrong. With that in mind, it should be the responsibility of the Interior Designer to ensure that the work is of acceptable quality, after all, they have sourced these SubContractors. 

For homeowners, if you want to bring your own Subcontractors to do certain aspects of the project, it’s very difficult for design firms to guarantee clients the quality of the handiwork when they are not in charge of the hiring of qualified workers. 

6. Warranty & Insurance.

It is not uncommon that Interior Design companies offer clients a warranty on workmanship. It may sound assuring at first, but be sure to check the details of these warranties as they may be nothing more than a marketing tool. 

Check in-depth terms and conditions towards these guarantees, the agency that audits them, and what they cover. And ensure that all things promised to you (the fine print) are written down in black and white when you sign that dotted line of your contract. 

7. Communication. 

The Interior Design firm can promise you the world, however, if the designer you are working with cannot understand what you want in your design and therefore how to bring it to life, you will struggle. In the process of chasing sales,  some designers will be more concerned with closing the sale quickly and have you sign on the dotted line, rather than really understand what you are looking for. 

If you do not feel at heard or understood at the consultation, and the designer just keeps pushing things that you do not need, you need to ask yourself if this is the right designer for your home. Will the next few months be the same, with you being frustrated at every turn? 

A good designer will tell you, no if your design will not work.  If they do this, then you need to listen and understand why. They should be able to propose alternatives that work for your space because as a  professional, that is their job. Your  Interior Designer is ultimately offering quality service and work so that you won’t get a nasty shock at the end. Product availability, Contractor scheduling, and custom work are just a few aspects that can cause unavoidable delays in your project so be accommodating.

8. Payment terms. 

Before your choose your Interior Designer, you need to understand the payment terms of the contract. Do you need to pay the entire sum upfront? Perhaps you need to put a deposit down and then pay the rest in instalments. While some companies include a line item for everything in the bill, others use a flat fee system. Make sure that the payment schedule works for your cash flow and be upfront in discussing this with your shortlisted Interior Designers.

9. Timeline & Schedule. 

From the beginning, find out what the timeline for your project might be. Of course, there may be unexpected issues and delays; but in general, an Interior Design firm will try to stick as close to a reasonable timeline as possible. If problems and delays arise, the company should contact you with a full update so you’re aware of the change in schedule.

10. Working within your budget.

When considering your budget and choosing your Interior Designer, do not automatically pick the lowest quote. Be sure to compare at least 3 quotes so you can understand what is included and where potential additional costs may crop up. Understand the materials that are included within the proposal, do they match what you had briefed the Designer? You may end up locked into contracts that only use cheaper or less attractive materials, or you may not be able to make any changes to the designs.

Top Renovation Tips 2023

If you are a homeowner undertaking renovation works in 2023, we have some top tips to help keep your stresses down this year.

Plan: Before starting any renovation work, it's essential to have a clear plan that includes a budget, a timeline, and a detailed design. This will help ensure that the project stays on track and within budget.

1. Get the right permits: In Singapore, you need to obtain the necessary permits from the relevant government agencies before starting any renovation work. Failure to do so can result in fines or even legal action.

2. Choose the right contractor: Selecting a reputable and experienced contractor is crucial to the success of your renovation project. Be sure to check their references, read reviews, and ask for a detailed contract that spells out the scope of work and the cost.

3. Prioritize safety: Safety should be a top priority during any renovation project. Make sure that the contractor follows all safety regulations and that the work site is kept clean and organized to minimize hazards.

4. Focus on functionality: When planning your renovation, think about how the space will be used and what features are most important to you. This will help you make the most of your space and ensure that your renovation is functional and comfortable.

5. Consider energy efficiency: Renovations are a great opportunity to improve the energy efficiency of your home. This can help you save money on your utility bills and make your home more comfortable to live in.

6. Don't neglect the details: Attention to detail is crucial in any renovation project. Be sure to choose high-quality materials and finishes, and pay attention to the details, such as lighting, hardware, and paint colors.

7. Hire Professional Interior Designer: This can be a great help if you do not have a clear idea about how your renovation should be. They will help you to plan and design your space and can also manage your renovation project effectively.

Should You Pick A Contractor or Interior Designer For Your Home Renovation In Singapore?

When you begin your home renovation journey the choice can be. overwhelming. At this stage, you don’t know what you don’t know. This guide is intended to help you on your journey and whether an Interior Designer (ID) or a Contractor best fits your needs, budget and can bring your vision to life. There are many elements that drive up or down the cost of renovation, hiring the right skills for your vision, is critical to ensure that you don’t go over your budget.

Home renovation is not cheap.

Let’s be clear, renovating your home is a time-intensive and costly undertaking. According to renovation portal Qanvast, the average 4-room HDB BTO flat renovation is estimated to cost about $43,000 to $45,000 in 2020. Making over a resale flat is more extensive (and therefore expensive), and is expected to cost $45,000 to $52,000.

Here is where things get interesting. The typical Singaporean makes around $4,563 a month. After CPF, this comes to about $3,650. Assuming you save 20% of this (an average savings amount), you would stash away $730 a month. Let’s further assume that your significant other does the same so you are putting away almost $1500 dollars a month towards your renovation.

Breaking this down, if the average 4-room HDB BTO flat renovation is estimated to be $43,000, you would need to save for a whopping 28.6 months or put it another way over 2 years (2 years and 4 months to be exact). And this is if you come in on the average side of the estimates, you never know when your renovation costs will be higher due to unforeseen circumstances.

Some people believe that hiring contractors rather than an ID will save them some money when doing the renovation. Let’s investigate further.

Interior Designer or Contractor, what’s the difference?

Simply put, when we say Interior Designer in Singapore it is someone who coordinates and manages your renovation project. They conceptualise design ideas specific to your lifestyle, oversee the entire project (including sourcing for and liaising with contractors), and go furniture and material shopping with you to ensure a harmonious theme throughout the house.

A contractor, by contrast, is only responsible for executing the renovation work you request (e.g. demolishing, hacking, tiling). They do not offer design advice – and typically only give their input or advice in on matters relating to the structural integrity of your home.

Depending on your requirements and. what you want them to. do, your contractor may need to outsource the work to subcontractors (e.g. electricians, plumbers, and painters). Bear in mind you will typically l need to liaise with these subcontractors also.

There is no one size fits all approach.

First things first, not every homeowner is suitable to go down the DIY Contractor route. Whilst it can save money to hire Contractors, Interior Designers bring a lot of benefits to a project, so don’t dismiss this out of hand. There are no hard and fast rules, you need to do what makes the most sense for your project. Having said that, there are some tips on how to find the right Interior Designer that may help you to narrow down your options.

If you prioritise design and convenience, consider an interior designer.

If your priorities are design and service, then you would be better off considering using an Interior Designer, commonly referred to as an ID. Typically Interior Designers provide a design plan before any works start. These can include floor plans and 3D rendering. This makes. it easier for you to visualise the finished state of your home. It also means that you can make. changes whilst the design is still on paper (as it were) rather than being midway through the project and deciding to move a feature wall.

Interior Designers also take on the task of liaising with Contractors and any Subcontractors. This saves you time and also the hassle of overseeing every Contractor. The other major advantage of an ID is that they know the sequence or order that the works come in handing over this project and timeline management can be a relief for homeowners to save their own time and stress levels. You will of course need to pay more for the services of an Interior Designer, however, one question to ask yourself, would the money saved by not engaging an interior designer to be worth my own time saved?

The good news is that not all Interior Design firms charge the same, some will work on a percentage basis, some will work on a per hour basis and some will charge a flat fee. Its up to you, as the homeowner, to work out how much of your budget you can spend to engage with an Interior Design firm. There are always certain qualities that you should prioritise when looking for your Interior Designers such as reliability, experience and dedication.

If you prioritise cost savings and know what you want, consider hiring Contractors.

Have you sat down and looked at your budget and can’t justify any additional expenditure on Interior Design? Or perhaps you already know what your vision is and how you want your home to function and look like?

Outsourcing to Contractors is an option to consider. Contractors, in general, don’t offer additional services such as 3D rendering which allows you to visualise the end product, however, more and more are offering this to compete with ID”s and win over homeowners. There are also multiple apps and websites available now FOR EXAMPLE which will allow you as a homeowner to plan out your space, add your furniture and even change the textiles with the plan so you can visualise what your home will look like like when completed.

Going without an Interior Designer may seem daunting, however, if you know what you already want, then hiring Contractors to execute can be a great option. One consideration to keep in mind is that coordinating Contractors and Subcontractors can take. up a lot of your time. You may need to visit the site more often or have to spend time. coordinating between Contractors.

So what to choose?

In the end, only you can make that decision. There are pros and cons to both approaches. The budget will factor heavily but also, whether you want to undertake the project yourself. Be mindful that no matter which approach you take, project costs can creep up, unforeseen circumstances will happen and ultimately what you have in your mind or on paper, may not be the same as the finished product.

It is ultimately not “just a BTO, resale flat or condo”, this is your home and your money.

What you need to do before getting your BTO keys.

Waiting for your BTO keys? Imagining the view from your new home is just one thing to do whilst waiting

Your BTO timeline and checklist.

You have gone through all the stress of choosing your BTO, what type of flat, what location you want, how many rooms, layout, financing and now all you have to do is wait to get your keys right? 

Well not quite. One of the common questions asked by BTO owners is when they should start to engage with potential Interior Designers or Contractors, what are the renovation process and the timeline they need to follow? Fret not, we are here to help. 

As soon as you decide on your BTO. 

Think you don't need to do anything once you have gone through the purchasing process? We would suggest otherwise. Now is the best time for you to start researching, this is one common area where homeowners wish they had spent more time.

Design and Style.

Let’s face it, this is your home, you are investing a large amount of your hard-earned cash into it. You want it to be uniquely yours, work for your family’s needs and also be able to accommodate if your family grows in the future. The options available to you in terms of style and design are seemingly endless. Should you keep that wall or knock it and create an open plan living/ kitchen space? Is your dream to have a walk-in wardrobe but you're not sure if it's practical? 

By this point, you should have your floor plan and dimensions, this is the best time to start researching. Whether you use an online platform like Pinterest to gather together some of your favourite styles or prefer to read magazines and keep pages for inspiration, you should prioritise this time to do your research. Too often, people assume that their interior designer will do all the heavy lifting and present to them a design immediately that works for them. That is rarely the case. 

Start to pull together images of what you like. You can sort these by room such as master bedroom, home office, kitchen, dining space etc. You could also sort these by themes such as Industrial, Scandinavian, Art Deco, Bohemian etc. 

Pinterest Boards are a great way to save images that inspire you

Whilst this process can seem daunting at first, you should start to see patterns emerge by what you are drawn to. You may start and really focus on Scandinavian style but as you research further, you may realise that that style doesn't work for what functionality you want your space to have.

Let’s not forget about your partner in this process, as you go through this process you will realise that there are things that you are simply not on the same page about. You may want a decadent escape from the world master bathroom, whereas your partner prefers a more minimalist approach. 

Budgeting.

So how large should your BTO renovation budget actually be? Well, that depends on how much you have to hand in and what your overall vision is. For new 4-room flats, renovation costs now range from $43,000 - $45,000 as compared to an average price of $42,600 in 2019. Meanwhile, the cost of renovating a new 5-room flat now starts from $45,000. This should give you a guide on where to start. With the effects of the pandemic, renovation costs can continue to rise so now is the right time to ensure that you are saving enough to complete your renovation when the time comes.

Keep in mind that even if you decide to do the minimum before you move into your BTo, you’ll need to install lights, paint the walls, do your flooring, toilets, kitchen and window grilles/blinds/curtains. On top of this, you will need to purchase furniture, appliances and other necessities for your home. Still, sounds like a lot? The silver lining is that for BTO’s, they are cheaper to renovate than resale HDB as there is less hacking. 

Financing.

There are many options to finance your BTO renovation, pick the one or combination that works for you

Most people finance these huge renovation packages with a renovation loan which is sometimes called a reno loan for short. A reno loan is different to a personal loan, the interest rates tend to be somewhat lower. As the name suggests, is a loan facility available solely to refresh your home, be it for new furniture or fixtures, fresh lighting, a major remodelling or perhaps even extensive repairs. All of this costs money – and sometimes, a lot of it! You should note that renovation loads are capped at $30,000, or 6 months of your income (whichever is lower). You can also consider a personal loan to finance your renovation, allowing you to borrow a larger amount. 

Another option is to start saving now. This can reduce the amount of the loan that you need to take out or allow you to do more. 

3-4 months before collecting your keys.

Shortlisting. 

Meeting potential partners will narrow down who you work with

By this stage, if you have been doing your homework, you should have a better idea of what you actually need in your home and what are the additional wants for your home. It's important to distinguish between what is a Need and what is a Want. This will differ for each home. For some, having a large functional kitchen that can accommodate a lot of heavy cooking is a need. It is non-negotiable and necessary. For others having a bathtub in the master bathroom is nice to have, it would be great if it could work within the space and budget, therefore making this a want. 

Now is the time to start to meet with potential Interior Designers, commonly called ID’s or Contractors. There are many differences and pros and cons when deciding between an Interior Designer or a Contractor so do your research carefully.

Meeting potential ID’s or Contractors.

Use this time to meet up with those IDs and/ or Contractors on your shortlist. Have your questions ready, be prepared for these meetings. This will make it far more productive for you. 

1 -2 months before collecting your keys. 
Selecting your ID or Contractor.

You should now be in the position of being able to sign on the dotted line with your ID or Contractor(s). This is now the time to focus on confirming the design details, payment terms and renovation timelines. 

Keys collection day.

The big day is finally here, you can relax, right? Sadly not, this is just another step (albeit a really happy one) on a long journey. 

Check for Defects.

When you go to the site, make sure to bring along the defects list provided by HDB and a lock to secure your home. If you have an ID or a Contractor, it's worth inviting them to come along with you to help you to check everything and also they can take measurements. 

Spend time going through your home and note any defects or issues. Make sure that there are no hollow tiles by tapping on them using a coin. Check that electrical sockets are working properly (you can plug in your phone charger). Use a spirit level to check that all windows and doors are aligned correctly. It's also a great idea to take photographs on your phone to document any issues you may have. 

3 Rules To Help You Choose Your Kitchen Floor Tiles.

When it comes to kitchen flooring, there are many alternatives. If you're in the procedure of remodelling your kitchen, at some point you've most likely been overwhelmed by the amount of selection available. The style of the tiling, as well as the style of your kitchen area, is essential. So it's simple to really feel overwhelmed in a sea of colour swatches, examples and also structure choices.

What floor you select, is naturally, really vital, as a result of its ability to tie a space with each other. Together with your choice of the wall colour, floorings will have the single greatest effect on the overall feel and look of your space. Without direction, you can finish off with a kitchen area that really feels disjointed. Never ever fear, we help you cut through the mess as well as streamline the process.

1. Choose easy-to clean-tiles

Many people pick floor tile floor covering because it's easy to tidy. This is a super essential factor to consider. As the space where you prepare, cook and also enjoy your dishes-- sanitation is ought to always be leading of mind. Talk with your neighbourhood ceramic tile specialist concerning their selection of easy-to-clean ceramic tiles. You'll want to select something that won't stain or fracture easily. Clay, as well as sedimentary rock, are wonderful options, and they're fired to appear like all-natural stones. Quarry floor tile is much more costly than even more standard ceramic, but it's fairly striking in the appropriate setting. Keep in mind that some tiles will certainly call for special cleansing options to clean, so read up regarding cleansing practises before making a decision.

2. Suit your cabinets

Among the main features in your kitchen area is the kitchen cabinetry. Your cabinets typically identify the general 'look' of your room. The cupboard surface you pick can help establish your cooking area ceramic tile selection, as they will need to reside in harmony to produce the natural design. Think about colour and also contrast when deciding. Do you want to make use of the same colour throughout, or go with opposite ends of the spectrum? Both can have an influence when done correctly. Bring a sample of your closet coating to the store when selecting your ceramic tile. You won't regret planning ahead.

Go for durability

Kitchen area remodellings allow financial investments, so durability is key when picking your kitchen floor tile. Kitchen areas are typically the most-used areas in your home, so pay cautious consideration to exactly how you utilize your space. Although most kitchen area floor tile is resistant, it still calls for love and also attention, as well as the long life of each material, varies. See to it you purchase flooring ceramic tile that is really intended for usage as 'floor tile'. If you choose a wall floor tile for flooring, typically the coefficient of friction will be too low, causing floor tile that is too unsafe for walking. Choose a floor tile that has actually a minor elevated pattern, or appearance to it to permit a much safer cooking area flooring. These floor tiles likewise tend to be extra durable options. In the long run, you need something that can deal with everyday wear and tear as well as still look excellent.

Purchasing kitchen area tile doesn't need to be a drag. In fact, you don't even require to leave the convenience of your house. You can locate all your details online, include evaluations and also mock-up images. You can even take into consideration getting samples, as well as have them supplied at your home to contrast your choices.

How To Make Your Small Singapore Bathroom Feel Bigger.

Make your small bathroom feel more spacious with an all white scheme.

Most of us would like to make our small bathrooms look more spacious. After all, bathrooms are often the smallest rooms in the house. Yet they must function well, and because we go there to relax, we want them to look great, too. So, it’s worth learning key interior design tips and tricks. If you're wondering how to make a small bathroom look bigger, there are lots of clever design tricks you can use. Whether with decor, mirrors, or layout, you can instantly make your space feel larger and brighter. Below, we take you through all the tricks you can employ to make a small bathroom look bigger. You can also use these bathroom ideas in more spacious areas to max out the square footage.

Top Tips To Make Your Bathroom Seem More Spacious.

Install Sliding Doors.

If you find yourself doing acrobatics to dodge the door while entering and exiting your tiny toilet, you’ll probably want to consider replacing the door with a sliding or bi-fold one. This way, you won’t have to factor in the area taken up by the door as it swings, giving you extra room.

When choosing a sliding door, using lighter materials such as wood makes it easier to slide open while putting less strain on the track mechanism supporting it. You may even opt for a door that slides into a wall for a minimalist aesthetic. One key point to note is that not all sliding doors or bi-fold doors come with a lock, so make sure you ask your supplier before you sign up for new bathroom doors.

Install Wall-mounted Or Compact Fixtures.

Wall mounted vanities can make your bathroom appear bigger.

Floor space comes at a premium when it comes to tiny bathrooms, which is why it’s prudent to keep as many fixtures off the floor and opt for compact versions. Where possible, install a wall-mounted basin, toilet bowl and cabinets. It’ll give you more floor space to work with and a less cluttered look. The best part: keeping the floor obstruction-free will make cleaning a breeze, and it also provides less opportunity for grime and mould to accumulate. A compact corner basin and faucet take up almost no space at all and will do wonders in keeping your toilet a clutter-free area.

Build Shelves Into Toilet Walls For Storage.

Maximising space doesn’t just stop at using smaller appliances; you can exploit every nook and cranny by building shelves into non-structural walls. Doing so adds storage space for your toiletries and a little more depth to your bathroom as it makes your walls look a little farther away than they are.

Replace Windows To Let In More Natural Light.

If a room is poorly lit, it can make even the most spacious room feel claustrophobic. By allowing more natural light into the bathroom, the space is opened up visually and make it seem more spacious than it actually is. The default louvre windows most homeowners get with their HDBs can sometimes be rather dim. For an easy fix, upgrade these panes to frosted glass options that allow more light in, or even swap the bulky frame of louvre windows for the cleaner design of top-hung windows. HDB has several rules regarding window type and materials depending on the unit, so be sure to check with your contractor.

Place Mirrors To Reflect Light.

Combine mirrors and lighting to give the illusion of space.

Clever placement of mirrors can make bathrooms appear double in size and enhance aesthetics, especially when installed in neat and minimalist toilets. When it comes to size, we suggest going BIG with your bathroom mirror. Pick longer or more expansive mirrors to accentuate vertical and horizontal lines to add height and width, respectively. As a bonus, opt for frameless mirrors to further give the illusion of space as there is less visual clutter. If you’re feeling fancy, you may also choose to install mirrors with backlighting, making your bathroom look extra-posh while introducing more ambient light.

Use Glossy Materials Such As Marble For Walls And Flooring.

To amplify the maximum amount of natural light, use glossy, light-reflecting materials such as marble for our walls and flooring. Not only does it make your bathroom feel more extensive, it also gives it an opulent, five-star hotel-worthy touch.

Use A Bright And Consistent Palette.

Colours can affect our perception of space, so we should choose carefully. Warmer tones make for cosy vibes, but cooler palettes help rooms feel cleaner and more open – while also reflecting the most amount of light. In addition to selecting the right colour for the various surfaces, picking bathroom light fixtures with a suitable colour temperature is also essential. Pick bright bulbs that lean toward a cooler tone to enhance the effect of visual spaciousness.

Use Similar Tile Designs For Your Floor And Walls.

When it comes to tile designs, going with a lighter theme while maintaining consistency with similar shades helps avoid breaking up space visually, resulting in a seamless and spacious bathroom design. To accentuate this, line your walls with long tiles to emphasise the height of your bathroom and match it with similar floor tiles to complete the illusion.

A similar wall and floor tile can make your bathroom seem more spacious.

Use Glass Shower Screens.

By opting for clear glass dividers or translucent shower curtains, you’ll allow more light to invigorate the space while keeping the area unobstructed. If shower curtains or dividers do not match your aesthetic, you can also consider doing away with them altogether.

Top And Tail The Bathroom With White.

If your space is narrow, one top interior design tip is to paint the ceiling white and have the floor tiles in a light colour also. Pick up the white again with the basin unit. It prevents the ‘middle’ of the scheme from looking too heavy. Use white paint around the window instead of tiles to highlight it and reflect the light back in.  

Try Tone on Tone.

Not a fan of stark white? You can still get a huge and breezy effect with a tone-on-tone palette in warm beige, soft greys coloured faint hues such as powder blue. Choose a neutral tile and find a paint colour for the remaining walls that picks up one of its hues. The overall effect is still serene and spa-like, without the jarring visual breaks to shrink your perception of the space.

Use a Floating Vanity.

A floating vanity is great within a small bathroom. It gives you lots of room to store daily essentials, but the peek of flooring underneath makes the area feel more open. In a tiny space, having a little bit more room to plant your feet can make a big difference.

Use Bright Lighting.

Good lighting is essential to making any space look big and open, but in bathrooms, which often don’t have much natural light available, it’s imperative. Plus, in a bathroom, you need good lighting to do things such as shave or apply makeup effectively. For these reasons, it’s vital to have a rich lighting scheme, preferably with multiple light sources at different locations. A grid of ceiling lights, as well as sconces or a contemporary edge-lighted mirror, will help you avoid shadowing and make the space feel bright and open. In a small bathroom, or where you can’t add new electrical for lights, try changing your ceiling light to one with multiple bulbs, so you have light coming from several directions from one fixture.

Opt For A Corner Tub Or Shower Tub Combo To Save Space.

Instead of having just a standalone shower in your HDB bathroom, try installing a shower-tub combo that takes up the same space as a regular shower. If a shower-tub combo is not for you and you’d instead separate your bath and shower, you could opt for a corner tub. These types of bathtubs take up much lesser space while still affording you the luxury of having a warm and relaxing bath after a tiring day at work.

Your Guide to Industrial Design Style.

A few design trends are flexible, easy to implement, and a lot of fun to look at. And one of those is industrial style interior design. The industrial design aesthetic manages to give a sleek looking modern space; yet also manages to incorporate an organic and old industrial charm. When you say industrial style, many people think about stainless steel and sharp edges. However, there can be much more to it.

Industrial Living Room With Wood Tones

There are no true principles that urban industrial style was built from. Instead, it slowly morphed into today's Open-plan spaces with high ceilings, huge windows, and lofted bedroom space. The key element for any urban-industrial space is flexibility. Thoughtfully arranging furniture turns your Singapore HDB or Condo into whatever you need it to be — everything from a nursery to an office, while still being a place to call home.

What Is Industrial Design & Where Did It Originate?

Industrial Design Dining Space

The industrial look has been around for centuries, but initially, it was never a “style” at all. Or at least, it didn’t set out to be. In the 1700s, the industrial revolution hit, and the world was changed forever. Factories sprung up all over major cities in Europe and America. These large buildings were simple, functional, and utilitarian. They had huge windows to let in natural light and an open plan floor space. To save money and minimise fire risk, most were kept plain – no paint, and with bricks, pipe, and ductwork left completely exposed.

Two hundred years later, advancements in the construction industry allowed us to make bigger, better, and more efficient structures. The old factories closed down, giving way to modern manufacturing plants on the outskirts of the city. But the factories wouldn’t stay abandoned for long. In the mid-20th century, many of these spaces were revived. Not as factories, but as housing.

Thus, the “industrial chic” look was born. Interior designers worked with the exposed brick and metal to create spaces that were bold, edgy and could blend with any style.

Industrial really refers to the fact that this style is very much fuss-free. It is a no-nonsense type of interior design and pulls a lot of inspiration from warehouses, industrial structures, and factories. But that does not mean that it needs to be a cold environment.
Urban Industrial design is unique in comparison to other home styles. Instead of manifesting from an architectural movement, this gritty look came from a lifestyle choice of artists and musicians. Forgoing traditional housing for makeshift live-work spaces inside of abandoned warehouses and factories, artists created this thrown-together look of street finds, thrift store purchases, and pieces made out of whatever happened to be laying around.

You can have a nod to the industrial style interior design simply by having some bare bricks and some salvaged materials; exposed brickwork, industrial pipe, and more to pull this look together.

Why industrial style interior design might be for you. 

Industrial bedroom with metal light fixture

There are some styles of interior design that are hard to keep up with. For example, if you love minimalism, but you have a family, minimalism can be hard to keep control of. More people usually means more stuff. You have to be very smart with storage, and that can take its toll. However, interior design that is based on industrial styling is super flexible.

While most people try to conceal the building materials of their home, the industrial interior design distinctly displays these materials. This results in the kind of raw, unfinished look that has recently become an incredibly popular design style. The industrial design mixes the old with the new by blending wood and metal elements in a unique and upscale way.

This style of home interior design is perfect for those living in an urban environment, so if you’re moving into or thinking of redoing your Singapore HDB apartment, renovating your BTO or your Condo, the industrial interior design may be the style for you. It’s all about showcasing neutral tones, an open layout, and mixing wood and metal furniture to achieve that signature industrial look. 

Styling tips to bring Industrial Design into your home. 

Bring industrial style into your bathroom with unique fixtures

The Key Features Of Industrial Decor.

• Industrial home design features exposed pipes, air ducts, wire, beams, and brick.

• Industrial homes are usually open concept.

• Industrial furniture and decor is often blocky in shape and made of metal, wood, leather, and even salvaged parts.

Here’s how you can achieve the modern industrial style throughout the entire home.

Layout.

All industrial spaces tend to follow the “converted warehouse” look even if the building is new construction and was never truly a warehouse, to begin with. This means brick walls, high ceilings (or the illusion of these), natural light, exposed piping, and small-plank wood or poured concrete floors. Carefully placed furniture and area rugs define each space as a living area, dining area, and office. 

An open plan layout is a core element of industrial design.

True industrial lofts that have been converted from warehouses typically don’t have walls, but if they do, the walls are not full height, allowing natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows to penetrate every corner.

If you have a loft to work with, the only clearly defined rooms are the kitchen and the bathroom. Often, lofts feature a one-wall kitchen with a cabinet, fridge, sink, and stove all along a single wall. Using a kitchen island is a great way to further define the kitchen and it can often double as a dining table. This keeps the kitchen open to the rest of the space and sticks with the flexibility rule that defines industrial design.

Industrial Style Flooring.

Flooring is similar to all other architectural elements of industrial design, in that it is usually made from natural materials such as wood and concrete. Concrete can be left a plain grey and polished or stained to give it a more old-fashioned look, which can bring in an interesting textural element. A concrete floor would feel unfinished in many other spaces, but it adds some real visual impact within industrial style homes. 

Concrete floors can feel cold and impersonal to some people, so an alternative to consider is another natural flooring material like hardwood. If you’re doing a traditional take on industrial design, you would select distressed floors made from reclaimed wood. For a modern spin, you might choose polished wide planks of wood instead.

Area rugs to help delineate and define separate spaces. You can position these rugs carefully to create spaces like a living room and a dining nook. Proper rug placement is one of the easiest ways to help an open concept floor plan flow more naturally.

Concrete Or Brick Walls.

One of the easiest ways to achieve the industrial vibe is by leaving your concrete or brick walls just as they are. No paint or plaster is necessary.

Concrete is a blank slate – literally. You can match it with neutrals like grey or brown, or you can experiment with contrasting colours. What works best in an industrial styled home that has exposed brick walls and uncovered windows to let in the lightest, is a blend of deep colours, soft fabrics, and lots of patterns. 

Colours. 

Generally speaking, industrial design features neutral colours. Black and white both feature prominently, along with various shades of grey and brown. Using neutral tones throughout the home helps it feel more spacious and lends a sense of continuity. Using neutral tones can also help the industrial details in a room pop out even more.

You can bring in your own personality with bright pops of colour in the form of art, rugs, and some other decor that will be in direct opposition to your industrial style.

Exposed Piping.

In most homes, exposed pipes and structural beams would be plastered over, covered up, and painted before you even move in. But with industrial house design, you can skip that last step and save on money and stress. Exposed piping is a staple of the industrial style. This makes it perfect for HDB’s where piping cannot be permanently concealed. And contrary to what some people believe, it isn’t messy at all. It’s authentic, raw, and captivating.

Use Metal And Wood Furniture.

A key feature of industrial design is the use of metal and wood in the space. Selecting furniture pieces made from either metal or wood blends the old with the new and gives your home an interesting contrast. Wooden pieces should be weathered rather than new looking, so find unfinished furniture.

For metal furniture, you can choose an antique brushed or oiled finish to give your home a vintage feel. If you prefer a more modern look, you can opt for polished chrome. And metal furniture doesn’t have to be uncomfortable; you can find plenty of comfortable metal bar stools or tables that will accentuate your home's style without sacrificing comfort. After all, this style is meant to be inviting, not severe.

Leather has a prominent place in industrial-style spaces, as (you guessed it) furniture upholstery. Leather embodies the essence of industrial style, which is all about taking something old and giving it new life and purpose. It's equal parts rugged and refined. Think about furnishing your industrial living space with a cosy leather club chair or leather side chairs with metal legs. If you don't want to go too crazy with leather, think about furnishing your space with a leather ottoman or pouffe instead.

Soft Textiles.

Without any softness, an industrial space can feel a bit cold and uninviting. This is where faux fur and thick wool textiles come in. Soften the hard lines and cold metal of industrial furniture by throwing thick wool throw blankets over your sofa and side chairs. It might seem glamorously out of place in concept, but a faux sheepskin or hide rug can be one of the best additions to an industrial space, as it can add softness and texture to bare floors.

As far as patterns, once again the flexibility of industrial lofts comes into play. It can be any pattern you like and can even be a combination of boho, geometric, and stripes. This is a chance to experiment and discover your own personal look.

Industrial Shelving.

What do you get when you combine wooden planks and metal pipes? Chic industrial storage solutions for your home.

Open shelves are a great way to display your knick-knacks and show off your personality. These are also perfect for defining space within your home. 

Edison Lights

Get it right, down to the details. Industrial-style lighting can come in many forms, most of which are old vintage lamps making a comeback. But the most popular style by far is the Edison light. These filament bulbs from the 20th century give off a warm yellow-orange glow.

You don’t have to swap out your energy-efficient lights for century-old bulbs, however; there are many LED versions in the same vintage style. Hang it loosely via its wires or frame it in metal to get the look you’re going for.

Exposed walls bring an industrial style together

Antique-Looking Wall Art.

When it comes to wall art, industrial style favours prints of old designs over new and modern art. Blueprints, diagrams, maps, and vintage posters all work really well in industrial spaces where abstract paintings, colour-blocked posters, and overly colourful photos might not. If you're looking for more texture, metal wall sculptures, well-travelled license plates, and old store signs can all be dynamic additions to your walls.

Accessories. 

Much like minimalism, an interior design based around industrial style has a limit to the number of accessories that should be in the room. You’re looking to keep your services clutter-free and always clean, so try to go for items of furniture that have extra storage. Industrial interior design is often described as very masculine, simply because it is dark and robust. But don’t be afraid to add in some unique touches, like metal structures and sculptures, or stone ones.

Plants.

Though accessories and decor aren't necessary for perfecting the industrial look, they can really tie a space together and give it some personality that its rigid foundation might be lacking. Plants are especially important in ensuring that an industrial space doesn't look too dreary – they can literally breathe life into a room. Struggle to care for live plants? Go with artificial instead. You can get creative with planters – think about repurposing old cans or other vessels instead of buying new pots. If you do go with new pots, opt for matte cement pots and situate them on metal plant stands.

Industrial Design doesn’t have to be cold or uninviting.

In Summary.

An advantage of industrial spaces is that they can be decked out in just about any style. This means anything you want goes and often results in an eclectic blend of styles with leather seating, boho rugs, and mid-century coffee tables. Flexibility is the only true principle of urban industrial design. Fill the space with antique pieces or keep it open and minimalist — the beauty of the industrial design is that the gritty architectural elements make an intriguing backdrop for every kind of look.

8 Ways To Maximise Storage In Your Bedroom.

If you have little to no space in your bedroom, you really have no choice but to get creative with how you store your belongings. Thankfully, there are a ton of ways you can make your limited space work for you. Here are our top 8 tips to help you maximise storage in your bedroom.

Choose a bed frame that allows you to have storage underneath the bed.

1. Maximize Under The Bed Storage.

Simply put, this is one of the smartest and easiest ways to add a whole area of storage to your sleep space. If you don’t currently have any storage, you’ve got several options: Buy a new storage bed, DIY an under-the-bed storage solution, or raise your current bed and add storage containers.  The trick is to keep these storage solutions out of sight, which removes the visual clutter in your bedroom. 

2. Organize Drawers To Free Up Space.

Think folding like Marie Kondo and using drawer dividers. If you have a chest of drawers, take some time first to declutter anything that’s not being used, then refold all of your items, and you will be surprised at how much more space you have. If you have out of season clothes such as that winter jacket you used pre-Covidd when heading in colder climates, consider vacuum packing these bulky items to save you precious drawer space. 

3. Optimise Space In Your Wardrobe. 

While you are looking at your drawers, don't forget to take a peek inside your wardrobe. How well organised is this precious space? If you can buy hangers that allow you to hang multiple pairs of trousers, for example, would that free up space within your wardrobe? Would adding more hanging bars or a couple of shelves make your wardrobe work harder for you? Before you invest in new furniture, consider how well the pieces have been working for you. 

4. Consider Double Duty Furniture. 

If possible, make each piece of furniture within your bedroom serve more than one function. You can use a chest as your night table; could your desk also serve as a vanity? You may need to get creative with what function your furniture serves within your bedroom.

Consider building in a wall of wardrobes to add in additional storage to your space.

5. Consider A Built In Wardrobe. 

Carpentry can be expensive, so this may not be an option for everyone. However, if you have the space to install an even shallow or thin wardrobe along your walls, this will free up floor space. Choosing a light colour can help the wardrobe blend into the background rather than dominating the entire space. If your budget is tight, consider modular solutions such as the IKEA Pax system for your space or even head to second-hand marketplace Carousell for a pre-loved wardrobe that will fit into your space. 

6. Store Only The Essentials In Your Bedroom. 

This one may seem obvious; however, when you start to declutter your current drawers or wardrobe, you may find yourself asking, “does this item really belong in here?” You may, for example, be storing kids clothes in your master bedroom as they are too big for your child at the moment. Is this the best use of your space, or is there another place within the nursery to keep these? If you occasionally use your bedroom as a gym, does all the equipment need to live there, or would your dusty yoga mat be better stored in your bomb shelter?

Critically assess your clothing to see what is worth keeping and taking up storage space.

7. The Back Of The Door Is Useful Space. 

The back of the door is often overlooked as a storage space, but nowadays, you can add so much storage there with a little creativity. Think shelving, shoe storage, baskets. When the door is open, you won’t even see them. Another great solution is rather than have a stand-alone full-length mirror, use a mirror that hangs over the back of the door. 

8. Declutter Regularly. 

Whilst decluttering can be cumbersome and time-consuming, doing it regularly, maybe every 6 months, will be more beneficial in the long run than simply adding new furniture to store new items. Donate or sell items you no longer need or use. Throw away or recycle broken items regularly so that you are consistently freeing up space within your home. If you haven’t used an item of clothing for 6 months, ask yourself, do you really want to keep it, or would you rather free up space for that new item you just purchased? 

What Is The Most Relaxing Colour To Paint A Bedroom?

What are the best room shades for sleep? Sleep is not just rest, it is likewise just how our body repairs services, revitalizes and re-energizes for the next day. This is why having an excellent area to rest as well as recover in is so important for a healthy life. Our bedrooms are our safe space made to make us feel as in your home and comfortable as possible.

Even, the colours in your room can impact the high quality as well as the amount you sleep. It might seem surprising, but the shades in your bedroom can influence your mood, which consequently impacts your sleep. So prior to you pick a colour to paint your entire room, or buying a brand-new bedding collection, we suggest you take a look at which colours are the most effective for promoting relaxation and also healthy resting behaviours.

What is the Science?

Why is selecting the best colour so essential? Every marketing master recognizes that shades resemble magic. The very same chooses to sleep. Shades can influence your emotions and also your state of mind. For example, some research studies have revealed that checking out the shade red rises the heart rate as well as adrenaline flow. If that happens before bed, you can only imagine exactly how it may make you sleep.

Right here's just how shades influence your habits. Various colours affect your mood, which makes you act in a different way. Remember the colour red? There's a reason bull competitors make use of a red cape. And targets are red. They enhance enthusiasm, also anger, as well as excitement. Various other influences that shades may have are the taste of food, and exactly how warm or cool something really feels. This makes good sense; we even classify them cosy and also awesome shades. If you can comprehend the way shades affect you, you can decorate much more functionally, specifically for rest.

Especially, this is exactly how colours affect sleep. Softened or low-key tones advertise better sleep than even more lively primary ones. Additionally, this isn't simply an old wives tale. These suggestions are data-driven. Showing that the best bedroom colours for rest exceed just viewpoint. A research study of over 2,000 Travelodge hotels aided establish which colours assist and harm rest. It is additionally suggested to use a level finish over shiny. This assists colours appear softer, as well as softer methods sleepier.

Based upon shade psychology, research study, and also the referrals of sleep professionals, below are the very best bedroom colours for rest, in addition to the worst colours to paint your bedroom:

Blue Brings Calm.

Blue is the best colour for sleep. Blue is calming. Calming is sleep. The eyes even have special receptors in the retinas called ganglion cells, which makes the brain specifically responsive to blue. If there is one point you can do right, it's painting your bedroom blue. Without a doubt, this holds the location at the top of our listing for the very best room’s colours for sleep.

Not A Fan of Blue? Here are other great choices:

Yellow Brings Happiness.

Yellow is the second-best colour to choose for sleep. Wake up happy with yellow, sunshine walls.

Green Brings Outdoors Indoors.

Green is an organic colour that reminds us of nature. People sleeping in green bedrooms reported waking up feeling upbeat and positive.

Orange Brings Warmth.

Orange is a good colour because it is warm and happy. It is also said that orange helps with indigestion, which could be keeping you awake at night as well. Variations of orange to consider include terracotta or clay if a bright orange is not for you.

Pink Brings Softness.

This is a great choice for a bedroom, especially if you pick a soft muted pink colour that is more natural and close to a skin tone than a pretty pony. A soft natural pink tone is comforting and typically has soft orange undertones. Feng Shui often suggests using gentle colours that are similar to skin tones because they give us a calm zen-like feeling. We suggest against choosing a hot pink colour as it gets too close to the red family which is aggressive, energetic, and difficult to sleep around.

How to Maximise Space In A Small Bedroom.

In Singapore, space is at a premium; our homes are getting smaller. Based on 2018 resale transactions, the average area size of a 4-room flat across HDB estates across the island is around 1,027 sq ft. Meanwhile, 4-room flats in new Built-To-Order (BTO) projects offered in 2018 were roughly 1,001 sq ft. Bedrooms are getting smaller, but thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, many homes need to do double or triple duty as not only a space for sleeping but also a home office or home gym. 

If you have a small bedroom, it’s more important than ever to get clever in making your space whilst catering for your home’s needs. To ensure a tight space fits all your needs, you'll have to get creative with your small bedroom layout, furnishings, storage solutions, and design choices. With the right pieces in the right places, the elements can come together to create a comfortable, organised retreat.

Whether you're looking for small master bedroom ideas or decorating advice for a little guest room, these tips on how to decorate a small bedroom will help you maximise whatever space you have available and make it feel much larger than it actually is.

Consider How the Room Functions.

To make the most of a small bedroom, you first need to decide how you plan to use the space. Sleeping is a given, of course, but you might also want to use the room as a home office area or a place to get dressed in the morning. You'll likely need to get creative with bedroom furniture arrangements to accommodate various functions. For instance, you could push the desk next to the wall by your bed so it can pull double-duty as a bedside table as well as your home office. Once you are clear on the room's functionality, you then know what is essential and what is nice to have. 

Build storage around the bed.

Bespoke wardrobes are the most effective way to get the most out of your bedroom storage. Building wardrobes on either side of the bed help to create a frame that holds the gaze on that one wall. This allows the remaining walls to be free of any obstructions, which will take up valuable space. Use the other walls for artwork or mirrors instead. You could use the space further by creating storage above the bed too, be mindful not to make the decor feel dated – or claustrophobic with too much going on. If in doubt, keep the shelving above the bed to a simple floating shelf, one on which to keep an alarm clock and display trinkets.

Bulk Up Your Bedside.

Storage space is one of the essentials in our bedroom checklist. But if you don’t have a lot of room, maximise the space next to your bed. Instead of a bedside table, opt for a small dresser or a compact chest of drawers instead. These function just like a bedside table but offer more storage for clothes, sheets, and other essentials. You can even pull in a set of baskets underneath for storing small items, such as books or pillows.

Opt for Double-Duty Pieces.

Smaller spaces mean less room for more furniture. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice storage! One of the easiest (and cost-efficient) small space hacks to maximise storage in a small bedroom is choosing pieces with multiple functions. Think of a bookcase that doubles as a room divider. Furniture with hidden storage. A dresser that doubles as a TV stand. A console table that doubles as a desk. Basically, make sure your furniture pulls its weight by giving you multiple functions!

Float Some Shelves.

If a small bedside table, chest, or bookshelf are all still taking up too much floor space, opt for a floating shelf or two (or three!), which leaves zero footprints and won’t clutter up a small bedroom that’s already tight on space. The best part is that these can go anywhere and double as display surfaces for cool art, personal objects, and plants.

Consider adding storage to your headboard.

Free Up Desk Space By Opting For Wall Lights.

These are one the best ideas for small bedrooms because they will practically give you more free space. Instead of heavy table lamps, consider mounting your lights on the wall. This is especially useful for anyone who has a teeny-tiny bedside table or none at all. You can use vertical space and keep other things on the side table instead.

Full-length Curtains Create An Illusion Of Height.

Another great idea for small bedrooms is to hang your curtains and drapery as close to the ceiling as possible. This trick works in adding visual length and tricks your eye into believing that your room is bigger than it actually is. Also, pick light fabrics for curtains—sheer cloth works best. This will keep the light coming in and not make your room look heavy.

This dresser doubles as a TV console whilst the iron bed and plant makes the room feel brighter and more spacious.

Plants Bring Life Into A Small Room.

Why should plants always stay outside the bedroom? Especially for plant lovers, you can bring greenery to your bedroom as well. When it comes to decorating with plants, choose a corner and place your favourite planter right there. Not only will this give a fresh feel to your interiors, but it also helps uplift your mood if ever the size of your room starts bothering you. 

Go For Hidden Storage With Fitted Furniture.

Having a small bedroom doesn’t necessarily mean lesser clothes or accessories. It simply means that you need to use every inch of space at your disposal. One of the best ideas for small bedrooms is to have concealed storage in fixed furniture. You can have an elevated platform and have drawers that come out of it. This is a clever way to add storage without making it too obvious.

Add Texture With Rugs.

Instead of doing up your walls, look down. Your floor can have some texture in the form of a rug. A little bit of texture goes a long way in adding some depth to a room. Choose something that merges with the rest of your decor, or go all out with a bold colour. You will not regret either.

Consider A Platform Bed.

Another great way to add more storage is to have it underneath your bed. And platform beds are one of the most popular ways of squeezing in storage in Singapore homes. For this, you can go for a regular bed with hydraulic storage or opt for a platform bed. You can also look for a bed that has an option or shelves for storage. A platform bed serves a dual purpose of being a bed at night and a makeshift daybed during the rest of the day.

What You Need To Know About Kitchen Renovation Costs 2021.

What is a kitchen renovation going to cost you? Do I need to reno my kitchen? Why is there such a difference between renovating a resale HDB kitchen compared to a BTO? These are very common concerns among homeowners in Singapore. Whether you want to redo your entire kitchen or renovate it in parts, you must know the details of what you are going to be spending on. Our guide is here to help you navigate.

Before you begin, do you need to renovate your kitchen? 

Let’s look at this objectively, whilst you might like an upgrade to your kitchen, it will cost you your hard-earned money and time to do it. Most kitchens will last at least 10 years before starting to look worn or are in need of a refresh. Having said that, a well-maintained kitchen can last 20 years. If a kitchen is only used for light cooking, for example, you may not actually need to renovate it right away. 

You should also look at other factors such as whether the kitchen needs to be refurbished.

• Are the tiles in good condition or are they chipped or worse hollow?

• Are any of the cabinet door hinges rusting or hanging loose and beyond repair?

• Is the grout in good condition or is it discoloured or missing or cracked? 

• What is the condition of the countertop? Are they stained or cracked from use?

• Is the piping in good condition or are there leaks? Remember leaks from piping can seep into your cabinets causing them to literally rot off the wall.

So maybe you have identified that there are some structural issues that renovating your kitchen would solve. The next question to ask, is are you going to do a full renovation, i.e. rip everything out and start again? Or would a partial renovation be sufficient e.g. just replacing the cabinet doors? 

In order to decide what best meets your needs, it’s a good idea to sit down and look at what works and what doesn’t about your current kitchen. This is a great time to decide if the layout that you have suits your lifestyle or whether it’s better to start from scratch and layout the kitchen in a different way. 

If you do decide to do a full kitchen revamp, obviously the costs will be higher to do this. Hacking out the old kitchen, replacing all the cabinetry and potentially changing the layout is a big undertaking which of course has costs attached to it. 

What factors determine the ultimate cost of your kitchen renovation? 

1. Space to be renovated.

The space to be renovated will determine the cost. Since the factors differentiate depending on the type of space to be renovated, the cost of renovation will also vary as well. 

2. Home Type.

The kitchen renovation costs of condo units, HDB units and landed properties can differ wildly. The layouts of private homes can vary wildly, therefore the costs can go up. 

3. Material used.

The type of material used in renovation hugely affects the cost of renovation. For instance, if you want to use unique, rare and expensive materials to renovate your kitchen, you should be well prepared to pay for this. Shop around to find materials that suit your style and your budget.

4. Where you buy from. 

We live in a free economic market, meaning that it’s up to the seller to determine the price. Whilst some companies will offer packages (more on that later), others will offer the same materials at a higher price. Always try to negotiate if you find the materials that you want but it’s outside of the budget you had set aside and needless to say, it pays to spend some time shopping around to compare pricing. 

5. The company you work with.

The contractor you choose to do your kitchen renovation will largely impact your renovation cost. If you choose a well experienced and established contractor, you will definitely pay him/her more for the service. Likewise, if you select a contractor who is not well experienced and established chances are that you will pay him/her less for his/her services. The contractor will be the one to tell you how much material you need to buy for renovation purposes.

6. How hands-on you are.

If you are planning to do a minor kitchen renovation, you can actually save more money if you do some of the work by yourself. Some simple work like replacing countertops or painting kitchen cabinets can actually be done on a weekend do–it–yourself. This of course all depends on whether you have the skills and can source the materials. 

So, how much does a kitchen renovation cost?

The total cost and estimated budget of a kitchen renovation in Singapore are usually around $ 10,000 – $ 15,000. depending on the process. If you want to find a cheaper one, you can choose a carpentry renovation project. It usually only costs about $ 5,000.

Tips to bring down the cost of kitchen renovation

While there are many ways to save money on kitchen renovation, here are some quick pointers:

• Save up on materials: Of course, opting for budgeted materials for the countertop and backsplash will go a long way in reducing the overall cost of renovation.

• Carpentry designs: Choosing a relatively simpler design for carpentry is a great way to skimp on the budget. It does not need to look boring but just needs to be less complex.

• Tile work: Save up on a huge cost by simply overlaying tiles instead of completely hacking and installing new ones.

• Reconfigure current kitchen cabinets: In some cases, you can update your kitchen cabinets yourself:

• Repair damaged parts by laminating them.

• Replaced more modern hinges, pulls, and knobs.

• Add lighting under the cabinet or over the cabinet.

• Install slide racks on the inside of cabinets and other storage systems.

• Repainting and changing the outer appearance of the cabinet.

Finally: Beware the Kitchen Package.

Many contractors and even interior design companies offer renovation packages that bundle accessories, materials, design and labour costs. These deals might be attractive if the items included are brand name fittings and accessories like Blum. On their own, branded items can be quite costly.

It’s worth noting that packages have a very specific scope of work and materials. Some renovation companies might put a limit on for example the size of countertops that is included or not be clear on the materials that they plan to use. Generally, if you deviate from what’s included in the package, you most likely have to top up to do so. Be sure to get a comprehensive itemised quote if you are considering a kitchen renovation package to avoid disappointment.

Consider taking up a package deal if the terms of the contract make the most sense for your budget and for your needs. Spend the time to determine your exact needs, shop around and get multiple quotes before you decide.

Pros & Cons Of A Walk In Wardrobe In Your HDB.

Walk-in wardrobes are popular choices for many homeowners in Singapore. They provide more space and can help you to stay organized too. This type of wardrobe is made of shelves, hanging space and sometimes drawers which are all used to store clothes as well as accessories. There are a number of pros and cons associated with the inclusion of a walk-in wardrobe – but the same can be said for all of the options available to you. To ensure that you’ve made the right choice for your home and needs, you will be required to weigh up each of the pros and cons. Some of these things you will be able to live with, others will be deal-breakers.

If you’re considering a walk-in wardrobe, you should know that there are various advantages and disadvantages to having one. Here’s what you need to know:

Pros

Organisation.

The upside to a walk-in wardrobe is organisation. For someone with a lot of shoes, dresses, etc., a regular wardrobe might be impractical. Walk-in wardrobes remove the need to play Tetris with clothes; no worrying that the whole wardrobe will spill out when you tug at a skirt. A walk-in also spreads out its inventory, so it’s easy to browse. No messing up the room while deciding which shoes/jeans / shirt to wear.

Privacy.

Another advantage to walk-ins is privacy. Some homeowners may choose to store jewellery in walk-ins, where it’s considerably safer than in a wardrobe. A walk-in is big enough for safe boxes if required; at the very least, it’s easier to conceal valuables in a large room than in a wardrobe. And if you’ve had anyone insist on using a room while you’re dressing, you’ll notice that a walk-in can actually help to ease congestion. Consider: a slow dresser can monopolise the bedroom for hours.

Maximise Possible Space.

Walk-ins also maximise the use of possible space. If you have a room with an odd shape, the little niches can be put to better use as a walk-in. You can use a walk-in to “square off “the niches, or even create triangular walk-ins. Both are more efficient than just hiding the spaces with more décor.

Cons

You need to be REALLY organized to have one.

If you're a naturally organized and put-together person, a walk-in wardrobe could work well for you. But if you are prone to bouts of messiness, you might want to steer clear, as this will be one more room that needs regular cleaning and sorting out! This is before we talk about the dust that gathers!

Pay More For Lighting & Carpentry

Since most walk-in wardrobes are dark, lighting is an issue. Be prepared to spend a bit extra on appropriate lighting. Task and accent lighting are a must, which translates to extra wiring and a higher power bill. Also, walk-ins involve a significant amount of carpentry. The furnishings of a walk-in are specific to its shape, so many of the shelves, cupboards, etc. cannot be purchased off-the-rack. This is especially true for smaller walk-in wardrobes, which cannot accommodate the inclusion of full-sized dressers or cupboards. That means custom carpentry work, which results in significant costs.

Sacrifice Space Elsewhere.

If you are renovating, you’ll find that the only way to add one of these wardrobes is to sacrifice space from elsewhere within the home. Often, it means that the other bedrooms get a little smaller, that your ensuite isn’t as luxurious as it could be or that your living space is left with awkward niches. If you can live with this, go for it!

Empty shelves will encourage extra spending.

If you don't have enough clothing to fill all of the shelves in your walk-in wardrobe, you might find yourself giving in to bad shopping habits, in a bid to justify the room! 

Walk-in wardrobe Tips.

Still, have your heart set on a luxurious walk-in space? Here are a few tips to make space for a walk-in wardrobe in your compact home.

1. Look At The Corners.

Corners are often dead spaces that go to waste in a room, but looking at them in the context of building a walk-in wardrobe might mean you’ve found the perfect role for the corner. Consider developing your wardrobe plan around the corner, making use of a customisable layout and clever partition ideas to ward off future organisational woes.

2. Use Vertical Space.

Vertical space allows you to store more no matter how small a space you’re dealing with. Applying this trick while designing a wardrobe allows homeowners to make use of available space. Hangers, open shelves and sliding door wardrobes leave extra square footage to actually be able to walk in. Loft storage can serve as hideaways for seasonal or bulky items– this way, your wardrobe remains largely clutter-free.

3. Skip the Doors on Your Regular wardrobe instead.

Here’s a clever way to make a regular wardrobe seem like a walk-in. Skip the doors and make the compartments deep enough to stand in. This trick magics a walk-in wardrobe out of what was once a regular wardrobe, just by skipping the doors and leaving the shelves open.

12 Tips To Set Up Your Home Office.

With the world in the midst of a global pandemic, and working from home being part of our collective new normal, many organisations are open to a more permanent shift to remote working even after the dangers of COVID-19 fade. For instance, Twitter has given the go-ahead for its employees to work from home “forever” if they wish and Shopify’s CEO said, “office centricity is over”.

There will be an ongoing need for homes in Singapore to be able to accommodate work from home in the near to medium term. With demand for larger homes increasing steadily throughout the pandemic, the option of simply shifting to a larger space to add in a home office is not always a practical solution. We have put together 12 key considerations when planning your home office within your HDB, Condo or Landed Property.

1. Create A Dedicated Workspace.

With space at a premium in Singapore, it can be difficult to have an actual room dedicated as your workspace but it's still essential to have a dedicated space within your home that you work from. With WFH being the norm in 2021 and even as Singapore or other countries across the region reopen, you need to future proof your home.  This cannot mean having your “home office” on your bed or sofa. Firstly this is not productive for you which will cause additional stress, but most importantly mixing work with your personal space will make it more difficult for your brain to adapt to “work mode”. Your couch and your bed are made for relaxation. You need to create a space within your home which you will associate with productive work. 

You may need to get creative with where to place your home office. It could be set up in a spare bedroom. It may mean carving out a dedicated space within your living room from where you will work. You can look at solutions such as glass or partition walls to split a room so you have a space for working. A great solution, if you are using a room as a sleeping space and a workspace, is to look at loft beds or murphy beds. Your key goal is to separate your work and personal life and create a dedicated zone from where you will work. 

2. Don't Sacrifice Form for Function.

Furniture can be multi functional

One of the biggest benefits of having your own home working space is that you are not limited to a soulless office cubicle. Solutions and options are endless as you can now get storage furniture that will match your theme. A desk doesn't have to be a large office table that looks out of place in your space. You should look to choose furniture which matches your space and most importantly that you like. The furniture in your work from home space should be functional yet work within your theme.  If your home has Scandanavian decor, warm wood and soft, comfy chairs or a loveseat are ideal if you have the space. A contemporary home office can feature artistic pieces or modern metal furniture.

3. Add Proper Storage.

This of course spends on your job and how much paperwork you may need to keep, but most home offices need to have some storage. If your room is being used for multiple functions, having dedicated storage can be used to store your work equipment such as your laptop at the end of the workday.

Your work from home office should have dedicated storage space for all your documents, to keep your supplies such as printer paper (or even the printer itself), out of sight. This shouldn’t mean that you have to spend hours searching for what you need daily. The storage you select needs to be functional and work for what your particular needs are. 

4. Choose A Desk That Suits Your Needs.

Choose a desk that suits your needs

Your desk height should be such that when you type on the keyboard, your arms and hands are parallel to the floor. Your feet should be flat on the floor, and your legs should fit comfortably under the desk. Many desks now come with height-adjustable legs. If you already have a table and cannot invest in a new one that supports this posture, get yourself a height-adjustable keyboard tray or a footrest to correct your alignment. If you have a large home office space, you could get a large table with lots of shelving. If you have to fit a table into a nook, consider a corner desk that will fit compactly in a corner under which you can tuck in your chair as well.

Another important factor is the access area to your home office. Can your large table be dismantled to move through the door? Or will it fit through the access passage? What desk you choose will also depend on your working style Do you just need a laptop and a water bottle, or do you need to surround yourself with pin-ups, photos, plants and the like around your laptop? A final consideration is how to hide unsightly cables. Holes or channels for cords are an excellent way to keep those pesky wires hidden. You could even have a hidden storage box mounted just under your table to store the unsightly wires and cables.

5. Consider Adding A Standing Desk.

A standing desk can help you be more productive

There is so much buzz around standing desks! There are so many great standing desks available on the market that will suit your personal style. Studies suggest sitting for long periods of time can cause serious health issues and weaken the overall strength and endurance of people who lead sedentary lifestyles.

Working at a standing desk means that you are keeping your back and overall posture at the best levels and actually burning calories while simply standing and working. Experts recommend using a standing desk for at least 3 – 4 hours a day.

6. Invest in a Great Chair.

Investing in a comfortable & ergonomic office chair is also an important design choice for your home office that will affect your productivity. A great desk chair will not only make you feel like you’re sitting on a cloud all day, but it will also provide lumbar support & help avoid back problems in the future.

A good office chair can boost productivity by allowing you to stay comfortable and focused for longer periods of time. The back is usually the first part of the body to suffer from sitting down all day. So look for a chair with back or lumbar support, which usually comes in the form of extra cushioning on the backrest. Not all office chairs come with armrests, but these are good to have as they give you extra support if you need to lean on something.

Also, consider material. Leather tends to be more expensive and feel more luxurious, but unless you’re prepared to sit in air conditioning all day, breathable material like mesh would be more appropriate in Singapore’s climate.

Another thing to look out for is adjustability. The best office chair in the world is pointless if it’s too high or low. Armrests and tilt may also be adjustable.

Bring plants into your home office

7. Bring The Outside Inside With Plants.

You should also consider decorating your home office with a few indoor plants. Indoor plants are a breath of fresh air to any space that they occupy, including your home office. Plus, they’re the type of decoration that won’t distract you from your work. They can also help filter out the air inside your home office design, while simultaneously improving your psychological well-being.

If you are not green-fingered, you can always opt for beautiful fake plants which will still add greenery to your home and make you feel like you have brought the outside inside. 

8. Forget “Office Beige”.

One of the biggest advantages of working from your own space is that you have the freedom to paint or wallpaper your walls to your taste. You need a colour that gets your work motor humming. For some people, that's a bright, cheery colour like orange or lime green. Others need a calming shade like botanical green or seafoam blue to perform. 

9. Your View Can Inspire You. 

Position the desk where you can stare at something more interesting than a blank wall (even if you do love the colour) when you glance up from the computer. Feng Shui experts suggest positioning your desk in the power position where you can see the door and your back is to the wall. Make the most of your windows' natural light by positioning your desk where the window is to the side. Investing in blinds or curtains means you can also control the amount of light coming into your room, essential with Singapore’s weather. 

10. Choose Accessories That You Love. 

Make your home office your own with unique accessories

Unless you're going for a contemporary look, choose extras that enhance the comfortable feeling of your home office. These can be simple such as a mug you love to have your Kopi from in the morning or a quirky pen holder. Hang inspirational prints on the walls, whether that's simply your kids' framed artwork or a classic painting. Remember, you can always have a virtual background for your daily zoom calls, giving you the freedom to accessorise your space.

11. Control the Noise Level.

If you’re the type of person that gets easily distracted by noise, you can invest in items that will help control the noise level that you hear from the outside world. It could be as simple as curtains to minimise the noise coming from your neighbours or a rug on your floors to cushion the sounds of your kids playing in the next room. A simple solution is to invest in some noise-cancelling headphones or a speaker for your desk.  

12. Invest in Suitable Lighting.

A desk lamp brings better light to your work from home setup

If you rely on natural light to brighten your home office, this can affect your productivity in ways that you might not be conscious of before. Since natural light changes as the day continue, you need to be mindful of the changing lighting situation in your home office. You must have noticed this situation in your office building – there are bright lights on throughout the day to add to the natural lighting. This helps employees stay in a fresh state of mind for longer.

Using desk lamps can help you zone out from your surroundings and just focus on the work in front of you. It may seem underrated, but good lighting can enable the best home office experience you need. You don’t want your home office design to be too bright that it makes it hard for you to see the screen and cause eye strain. You also don’t want it to be so dark that you struggle to make out what you’re trying to look at for work.

9 Tips To Maximise Space In A Small Apartment.

With space at a premium in Singapore, every centimetre counts

According to URA data, from Q2 2020 (remember Circuit Breaker was in place) to Q1 2021, the percentage of non-landed private property (including Executive Condominiums) transactions involving properties measuring 90 to less than 100 sqm fell from 11.27% to 10.54%. Meanwhile, the percentage of transactions involving properties measuring from 100 to under 120 sqm rose from 13.01% to 17.29%. The average 4- to 5-room apartment measures about 90 to 120 square metres.

With homes now having to perform more functions than ever before, think work from home, accommodating multi-generational families, our elderly living longer, maximising what you can do with your space is a key consideration for many Singaporeans. Buying a larger home, is for many, simply not an option. With that in mind, we have put together top tips to maximise your space. 

1. Declutter before choosing storage options. 

Decluttering will free up space for the things you really need within your home

It’s human nature to hoard things, we don’t want to let go and “you never know when you might need that again”. Clutter isn’t a specific challenge only to smaller homes, larger homes also can have storage issues.

The best advice is to declutter your space to only install storage space for those items that you truly want to keep.

A guiding principle you can use is that each item must meet two of the following three criteria: its beautiful, functional or sentimental. With this in mind, you can start to clear out one cupboard at a time and see how much space you get back to your home. 

Don’t know what you do with the items you no longer need? You can of course sell them using platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Carousell or there are also many charities and free Facebook groups where you can donate your items to someone who needs them. This means saving the planet by saving items that can still be used from landfills and giving your items a second lease of life. 

2. Make the most of your wall space.

Save space with wall mounted over the bed lighting

One rule to rule them all, “think tall when small”. With floor space becoming even more limited, you need to make your wall space work even harder to accommodate your needs. If you can, get storage options that go up to the ceiling, or at the very least that you can place items on top of to maximise storage space. Another option is to install shelving that you can place baskets or boxes onto to not take up precious floor space.

3. Wall mounting is not just for storage.

Similar to storage solutions that take up the wall rather than floor space, look at what in your home you can mount on your walls to give you back precious square footage. A great example of this is mounting your television to the wall, there are now many solutions available to hide the cables so you get a clean seamless look but save on space. Another option is to look beyond table lamps which again take up real estate in your home. A slim floor lamp or even wall sconces can save you space whilst still giving your home soft lighting options. The underlying principle to remember is that if you want your space to feel larger, then it has to look brighter. So don’t skimp on the lighting, explore different options to bring light into your space whilst maximising the space available to you.

4. Add built-in furniture.

Whilst this option is more expensive than freestanding furniture, it is worth considering what built-in furniture makes sense in your home, will give you additional storage and give the illusion of a bigger space. 

Do you have a recessed wall in your bedroom? Look at how you could get a custom-built wardrobe that makes the most of this odd shape but also adds storage for clothes. Platform beds are a great example of smart home design which takes up the same amount of space as a freestanding bed but has built-in storage. 

Look at your dining area, can you build in benches that will not only maximise the amount of seating you have but also can have storage built-in. 

5. Multi-purpose furniture

Nesting coffee tables can be put away when not in use

Make your space work harder for you by selecting multipurpose furniture. If you want multiple coffee tables that you can use when guests come over, consider getting nesting coffee tables that save space when not in use. Need a dining table that can accommodate you and your partner but you will need to replace it when your family expands or you have guests over? Why not look at an extendable dining table and have folding chairs that can seat additional guests. A dual-purpose ottoman is a great example that can double as storage space, additional seating or if you pop a tray on top, it can even work as a coffee table. 

6. Trick the eye with your window treatments.

Well hung curtains can change the feel of your room.

Swapping out the materials you use in your curtains can instantly change the look and feel of your space. The end goal, make your room seem larger than it actually is. To do this? Maximise the height of your room as well as the available natural light. That doesn't mean of course raising your ceiling, it's all a trick of the eye. 

If you want your ceiling to appear higher, hang curtains above your window frame. A good rule of thumb is to hang about two-thirds of the distance between the top of the window and the ceiling. Next, you want to maximise the amount of light that comes into your room. If you extend the curtain pole out approximately 15-30 cm to the side of your windows, when the curtains are open, you can push them all the way back from the window to let in the most amount of light.

Let’s face it, custom made curtains can be expensive. To save you money, consider buying store-bought curtains and using multiple panels. For example, IKEA may have the curtains you want but not the right width, you can use one pair of curtains i.e. both panels on one side of the window and one pair of curtains on the other side. 

7. Use mirrors to bring in light.

Mirrors reflect the light within your space.

Mirrors are a great addition to a smaller space as they double the visual space of an area whilst reflecting light around your home.  They also can break up a wall visually giving the illusion that you have more space than you have. 

8. Unify your colour palette.

Moving from room to room in a smaller space, whether it’s open plan living or a series of smaller rooms, is easier on the eye and opens up space if you have a neutral unifying colour palette. It can be quite jarring moving room to room full of bold colours when the space is quite small. That said, we are not advising you to abandon colour and go all white, you have plenty of options to bring colour into your space. 

Well placed art can bring personality to your home.

Pro-tip - you can look for paint that has a slight sheen to it, this helps to reflect the light and therefore give the illusion of a more spacious home. 

9. Artwork adds colour.

Yes, we spoke about having a unified neutral colour scheme, however, that doesn’t mean that your home needs to be devoid of colour or personality. Add bold splashes of colour with art. You can bring in personality but avoid the cluttered look by choosing one key piece per room that draws the eye.