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 Due to outdated design features and fittings, older houses might not match your aesthetic.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.

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. 

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.

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.