Top Tips For Selecting Your Contractor

When renovating a property in Singapore, selecting the right contractor is vital for ensuring a successful outcome. However, with so many contractors, it can be challenging to know where to start. To help you make an informed decision, here are some detailed steps and tips to follow:

1. Define Your Project Scope: Before searching for a contractor, you must be clear on what you want to achieve with your renovation. Define the project's scope, including specific requirements, budget, and timeline, to communicate your needs effectively to potential contractors. This will help you narrow down the list of contractors and find those who are best suited to your project.

2. Ask for Recommendations: Seek personal recommendations from friends, family, neighbours, or colleagues who have recently undertaken renovation projects in Singapore. This can be invaluable in finding reliable contractors with a proven track record of delivering quality work.

3. Research Online: Look for reputable contractors and check their websites, portfolios, and customer reviews. Websites like Houzz, Qanvast, and Renopedia can help you find contractors, see their previous work, and read reviews from their previous clients.

4. Verify Credentials: Ensure that the contractor you choose is registered and licensed with the relevant authorities in Singapore. You can check their status on the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) website. Knowing that your contractor meets the necessary standards and regulations will give you peace of mind.

5. Check for Experience and Expertise: Look for contractors with experience in similar projects, as they will be better equipped to handle any challenges that may arise during the renovation. Ask for examples of their previous work, and check if they have relevant certifications or awards.

6. Ask for References: Request the contractor to provide references from past clients, and contact these clients to inquire about their experience with the contractor, work quality, and professionalism. This will give you a better idea of what to expect from the contractor and how they handle their projects.

7. Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain detailed quotes from at least three contractors, and compare the prices, services offered, and the scope of work in each quote. Be cautious of significantly low quotes, which may indicate poor quality or hidden costs. Review each quote carefully and ask for clarifications if needed.

8. Insurance and Warranty: Ensure the contractor has adequate insurance coverage to protect against potential damages or accidents during the renovation. Additionally, inquire about the warranty they provide for their workmanship. A good contractor will provide a warranty on their work to give you peace of mind knowing that they stand behind their work.

9. Communication and Compatibility: Choose a contractor with whom you feel comfortable discussing your ideas and concerns. Effective communication is crucial for a successful outcome. A good contractor will listen to your needs and provide solutions that meet your requirements.

10. Contract Agreement: Sign a detailed contract that includes the scope of work, timeline, payment schedule, materials to be used, and any other relevant terms before starting the project. Review the agreement carefully and clarify any doubts before signing. Make sure to keep a copy of the contract for your records.

11. Visit Previous Projects: Visit some of the contractor's completed projects to assess the quality of their work in person. This will give you a better idea of their workmanship and attention to detail.

12. Read Payment Terms Carefully: Avoid contractors who insist on cash payments or demand a high upfront cost. Reputable contractors typically follow standard payment practices, such as paying a deposit upfront and making progress payments as the work is completed.

13. Green Credentials: If eco-friendliness is important, inquire about the contractor's approach to sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. Many contractors today offer eco-friendly options and can help you achieve your sustainability goals.

14. Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, trust your instincts and choose a contractor you feel most confident in based on your research and interactions. A good contractor will be professional, reliable, and committed to delivering quality work that meets your needs.

By following these steps and tips, you can find the right contractor for your renovation project and achieve desired results.

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.

The Ultimate Guide To Picking A Rug For Your Living Space.

There are few pieces within your home that tie your living room together as effortlessly as a rug. In the living space, a rug can help to define zones and it can bring warmth to any areas that can feel cold underfoot such as your tiled floor. A rug can be a finishing touch to a room but finding the perfect rug for your living room can be challenging. 

For example, if your rug is too small, it can instantly make the room feel off. If the rug is too large, it can overwhelm your living room. The right rug can pull your room together to make it feel finished. The wrong rug will remind you of the money you wasted, not to mention the money you will have to spend to change it out.

To help get you started, we have put together a guide to help you on your journey of picking a rug for your living room in Singapore. 

Size.

A too-small rug creates an unfinished, unsightly floating effect that detracts from the design. In contrast, a rug that’s too large for your space will make the room appear tight and overstuffed.

Still not sure if you're on the right track? Your area rug should fit entirely or partially beneath all major furniture in the room. If you're working with a smaller area rug, position it at least halfway beneath all your key furnishings (think: sofa, bed, armchairs) to create a cozy and secure floorplan.

It is important to work around a room’s obstructions when planning a rug purchase.

If your sofa is against a wall, ensure that at least its front legs and the front legs of the neighboring armchairs are on the rug. In a large living room with a floating seating area, the rug should contain all furniture, front and back legs, with space around.

What about small rugs that float in the center of a room, untethered by sofa and chair legs? Many experts advise against them as small rugs tend to look a little bit lost and the room unfinished.
In all areas, a bigger rug can be the difference between pulling your space together - or not. Go bigger every time; it will be worth any extra expense. Let the room orientation be your guide when deciding which way to have the rug running. In a long room, it is best to place a rug lengthways. 

Pro Tip: Using masking tape to mark where your rug will help to visualise the final look and is a pro tip that ensures the rug is in the right spot from every angle.

Colour and Pattern. 

When it comes to choosing an area rug, think long and hard about the color and pattern. 

Choosing a patterned rug can be a great way to add color and interest to a room with neutral furniture and walls. Likewise, a solid rug in a neutral color can be a nice way to soothe an eclectic room. Keep in mind also that a patterned rug will be better for hiding dirt and spills while a solid rug is more likely to show stains. A boldly patterned rug can serve as the defining feature of a living area, but because it has so much impact, it’s a choice that requires courage. Deciding whether to go with a graphic statement rug or something more understated comes down to personal preference, as well as your overall design vision and where your home is.

If you have a colourful room and still want a colourful rug, try to find something that will connect and pull all the colours together. The idea is to make sure they don't fight each other; otherwise, you'll end up with a visually cluttered space.

Remember that the flooring has a huge impact on the overall look of the room, so choose something you can live with and won't tire of quickly.

 Pro Tip: Black or white? Don't choose black or too white rugs for living room spaces. Of course, choosing a rug colour is completely a personal preference. However, consider avoiding a purely black or white rug for high traffic areas, particularly if you have a young family or a pet. Include upkeep as part of your selection criteria so you can spend more time enjoying your rug, and less time vacuuming it. These rugs can look super glam in other, quieter areas though.

Materials.

Rugs come in many materials, including plant-based fibres like cotton, linen, sisal, jute and allo; downy, natural fibres like wool, silk and mohair; and synthetic materials like nylon and solution-dyed acrylic. There are also non-woven rugs made from stitched-together materials like cowhide.

Each offers a different look and feel, with varying characteristics related to how well the materials wear and how easy they are to clean. They also range widely in price.

Rugs made from plant-based materials are often among the most affordable and offer an easy, casual look. But different fibres have different durability: Cotton and linen, for instance, age fairly quickly, while sisal and allo can take more abuse.

There is a seemingly endless list of descriptors that encompass the aesthetic classification of a rug. But more often than not, the material it’s made from is what informs the style of a piece. 

Natural fibres: Wool, cotton, silk, jute, sisal

Pros: Durable and long-lasting; wool rugs, specifically, are amazing at hiding soil.

Cons: Often pricier and require professional cleaning; dyed silk rugs can run if exposed to water spills.

Synthetic fibres: Acrylic, polyester, polypropylene

Pros: Affordable, easy to clean, usually stain-resistant.

Cons: Can become contaminated with mildew and bacteria from repeated spills or pet accidents; may need replacing sooner than wool or natural fiber rugs.

Artificial silk: Viscose, bamboo silk, banana silk 

Pros: Very affordable; busy patterns can conceal dirt.

Cons: Viscose is like an absorbent sponge—it not only attracts moisture and oil but even a plain water spill can ruin fibers.

Pick a Material

Think about how you want the rug to feel before you make a purchase. Wool rugs can add warmth and softness while natural materials such as sisal and jute are a bit rough. Silk is soft and beautiful but also expensive and tough to clean. Take these things into consideration when shopping.

Pile.

The “pile” of a rug is a point of reference for the density, or thickness, of a piece. Rugs that are coarser will always have more pile to them than fine and intricately designed pieces.. Rug pile generally falls into two categories:

• Low-pile rugs: These rugs have shorter fibres and loops (think flatweaves), making them best for high-traffic areas such as the kitchen.

• High-pile rugs: These rugs have taller, looser fibres (think shag or Moroccan rugs), making them more plush and ideal for the bedroom or living room.

Care and Cleaning.

It’s inevitable that, at some point, you’ll find yourself with a soiled rug, so you’ll want to think about care and maintenance before you buy. Ironically, older or vintage pieces tend to be more durable versus newer, budget ones that may not have the same structural integrity. Here’s how to care for and clean different materials:

• Synthetics: Spot-clean, steam-clean, or vacuum. They may appear dirtier since they absorb dirt and oil, though most (such as acrylics) will be stain-resistant.

• Wool: Natural oils (lanolin) keep spills from penetrating the fibres. For hand-knotted rugs, you can blot the stain to soak up any excess, then use a toothbrush with dish soap and water to tease it out. Resist the urge to scrub, which can damage the fibres.

• Cotton and silk: Enlist the help of a professional to prevent making stains worse by trapping them deeper within the fibres

If spills and stains from children and pets are a concern, it may be a good idea to choose an indoor-outdoor rug made from a synthetic material like solution-dyed acrylic, polypropylene or PET (polyethylene terephthalate), which are now often so soft and appealing that they can be hard to distinguish from indoor-only materials.

Homes with muddy pawed pups and sticky-fingered children should choose a rug that can withstand the chaos of everyday life without falling apart after 6 months. Machine washable and performance fabric area rugs are ideal for busy households and indoor-outdoor designs are wonderful, too. Natural rugs (think: jute, sisal, seagrass) are also great options for bustling areas and we especially love that natural rugs are readily available at budget-friendly prices.

High-end area rugs with high-piles or woven from silk viscose make enviable additions to homes with lower foot traffic, calm pets and households with older children that are less prone to mess.

Multiple Rugs.

To add a little more interest or define your space a little more, try layering area rugs on top of each other. It can add a little more colour and pattern and it's a particularly great trick for seasonal decorating. In the colder months layering rugs can add cosiness, then in the summer you can edit them and create a lighter look.

There is no rule that says you have to limit yourself to a single rug in the living room. Designers often use multiple rugs in larger rooms to define different areas. So how do you know whether one or a few is best?

A boldly patterned rug can serve as the defining feature of a living area. Smaller spaces, and living rooms enclosed by walls and doorways, usually benefit from a single large rug.

Sprawling, open-concept spaces, are more likely to benefit from multiple rugs, which help ground disparate groupings of furniture and can be used to separate a living area from a dining or media area, in the absence of walls.

Consider your flooring.

Do consider your flooring. It is the base your rug will be placed on and some colours just work well together. Warmer toned timbers work much better with warmer rug shades, whereas modern, light timbers look great with grey, navy and white rugs. Have tiles in your living room? Look at rugs that complement your tiles.

Getting a Rug Pad.

Once you’ve secured your dream piece, it’s all about ensuring that the rug can withstand the test of time. That means getting a rug pad. Not only do they protect you from slipping on a bunched crease, but they also prevent dents by cushioning heavy furniture and damage to the floor.. 

Finally.

Do consider your neighbours. If you live in an apartment complex, rugs can be a great sound insulator, particularly for busy areas like a living room. A strategically placed rug will absorb sound and stop your neighbours from hearing every move you make and will soak up some of their noise too.​

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.

How Much Does a Bathroom Renovation Cost in Singapore in 2022?

What is the state of your bathroom? Is it boring and poorly designed? Get started immediately! Bathrooms are one of the most important areas of a house. While every room is important, there is no denying the fact that life is impossible without a bathroom. This is why having an organized, well-designed bathroom is essential. This begs the most important question for homeowners, how much does it cost to renovation your bathroom in 2022?

How much do you need to invest in toilet renovation in Singapore?

Singapore offers a variety of toilet renovation ideas. You should, however, lower your expectations. With a small budget, you might be disappointed when you find out the actual price. However, you can put together a complete set of furniture for your bathroom with many functions for a fraction of the cost.

Below is a breakdown of the costs associated with the renovation of a Singapore bathroom. In general, you'll spend about S$4,000 to S$7,000 on a toilet renovation. Here's a basic estimate of the cost:

• Hacking a bathroom S$1,200–S$1,500

• Plumbing S$1,200–S$1,500

• Tilling S$3,000–S$4,000

• Shower screen S$600–S$850

• Vanity (depending on the size) S$850–S$1200

Obviously, these are indicative and relative costs. Material choice and finish will be important factors to consider. Are you looking for ceramic tiles, or fancy, designer tiles? Does your bathroom require a large or a small vanity unit? Every decision will affect your budget in some way.

How can the cost of toilet renovations be altered?

Your bathroom accessories and fixtures are the answer. Your budget can really be altered by these. Choosing a smart shower with WiFi and voice control will not come at the same price as a regular shower, for example. The cost of toilet renovations can also be raised by heated floors and non-slip finishes.

The cost of certain fixtures is slightly higher than the cost of regular fixtures. For example, a bathtub or a concealed rain shower is definitely going to increase your budget. Similarly, a WC and taps that hang on the wall will increase your budget since the construction process is different.

What are the benefits of renovating your toilet?

Except for purchasing a brand-new condo in Singapore, the majority of Singaporean housing purchases are resale HDBs or condos. It is therefore wise to redo your toilet. Typically, in older bathrooms, water pipes are concealed behind the walls, so installing new water pipes is the first step in preventing leaks. Another very important step is waterproofing tiles.

Water seeping through the ceiling and leaks in the walls are the two most common issues in toilets. If you plan on renovating your toilet, it is advisable to consult an architect, a designer, or a reliable contractor during the planning stage.

What does a bathroom renovation package include?

If you speak with a toilet renovation expert, they will provide you with a list of things that you should change based on the condition of your bathroom. In order to save money on toilet renovation, you should be able to pick out the most important elements of your bathroom.

Usually, when you opt for a complete bathroom renovation package, it includes some basic things like:

• Hacking

• Plumbing work for new piping

• New tile finish

• Waterproofing works

• Shower screen

• New bath fixtures

It is possible to plan where to spend, save, and reduce the cost of your bathroom renovation.

When getting a toilet renovated, what questions should you ask?

Designers, when interacting with homeowners, ask a lot of questions about their use, needs, preferences, lifestyle, etc. Your toilet renovation should be handled the same way.

Which features do you want in your bathroom?

• Do you just want the basics?

• Are you looking for a designer touch?

• Do you need a design that is child-friendly or elder-friendly?

• What is the expected number of people using this bathroom?

Here are more factors that determine the cost of your bathroom renovation:

Easy to maintain

Once you have answered the above questions, you will realize that no matter what your reasons are for renovating your toilet, it should be maintained regularly. Who likes to clean everything all the time or stare at stains? You should consider your chosen materials when deciding how much your toilet renovation will cost. You should choose tiles and quartz as surface materials because they are nonporous and easy to clean.

Tip

Choose large-sized wall tiles with no grout lines and anti-slip floor tiles with grout lines for better traction. If you want to minimise the appearance of water stains in your shower, you can use frosted-glass partitions.

Storage

The amount of storage you need can significantly affect the cost of your toilet renovation. You should always consider the available space as well as your needs before choosing a vanity unit. The type of vanity you choose should have enough drawers and cabinets if you have a lot to store here.

Tip

You may want to consider something simpler, like floor-to-ceiling shelves, instead of a full-fledged vanity if you aren't sure about it or don't have adequate space for it. For bathroom storage, they are a great and cheaper alternative.

Design/Aesthetics

A bathroom is an extremely important space to some of us, and we like to customize it. You should allocate at least some money for designer elements in your bathroom from the intended toilet renovation cost if you are inclined to do so.

Essentials to keep in mind

When it comes to renovating toilets, certain points cannot be compromised. Be sure to budget for the following:

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential for your bathroom, since it can trap moisture and produce an unpleasant odor. You might create an opening in your wall if there are no windows. These areas can be made more private with the use of venetian blinds and frosted-glass windows.

Space

Do you have a compact bathroom? A good layout utilises the entire space. There is no need to sacrifice design or utility just because you have a smaller space. You can get a functional bathroom for a reasonable price by working with an experienced designer.

Lighting

Finally, if you have a small bathroom, it is important to add the right type of lighting. For the ceiling, you should invest in LEDs and recessed lights since they last longer. A vanity and sink area that is well-lit should have lights that are moisture-resistant.

What does 2022 hold for the property market in Singapore?

Throughout 2021, the Singapore property market boomed following a trend that started last year with the Covid-19 pandemic. Minister for National Development Desmond Lee says that private housing prices have risen by 9% since Q1 2020, while HDB resale flat prices increased by 15% during the same period. It's still not clear when COVID-19 will end, but that's an impressive showing nonetheless.

Several factors drove property prices upwards in 2021.

• Millennial couples are looking to buy their first homes, creating a strong local housing market. In the meantime, HDB resale prices are rising due to BTO flats being delayed due to border closures.

• HDB dwellers are taking advantage of surging resale prices for HDB flats and upgrading to larger flats or condos in better locations at a profit. Foreign investors flooded Singapore's property market at the same time, driving demand for luxury properties up.

• Mortgage interest rates are low, which makes buying property more appealing than before.

Market Cooling Measures

Cooling measures began in October when HDB announced a new Prime Location Housing Model to discourage house flippers from buying BTO flats in the central district.

To keep housing affordable for Singaporeans, the Ministry of National Development announced a slew of property cooling measures in December 2021:

• There is a higher Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) across the board, except for Singaporeans and PRs buying their first home.

• Reduction of the Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) threshold from 60% to 55%, including refinancing existing mortgages.

• HDB loans now require a 15% downpayment instead of the previous 10%.

So looking ahead at 2022, what can we expect to see in Singapore’s property market?

Increased housing options for owner-occupiers.

As a result of these cooling measures, Singapore's average homeowner - the genuine homeowner who seeks to live in a low-cost apartment - will benefit. Singaporeans are not only exempt from most of the cooling measures but also stand to benefit from them.

By reducing demand for HDB resale flats, the cooling measures should make them more affordable for first-time homebuyers and upgraders. In addition, MND has increased the supply of BTO flats by 35%, from 17,000 in 2021 to 23,000 in 2022.

That should result in more public housing options for regular people in 2022 because HDB resale flats are more affordable and there are more BTO flats to ballot for. It is important to note that first-time homebuyers should be aware that HDB housing loans now require a 15% downpayment. It may take more time or discipline to save up for your first home if you don't have much cash or CPF savings.

High demand for HDB resales.

The resale market is likely to remain buoyant despite the increase in BTO supply, as many Singaporeans are still opting for HDB resale flats. This is because construction delays are likely to persist in 2022. Considering Covid-19 has yet to depart, construction's manpower shortage and resulting delays could last well into next year.

In conclusion, HDB resale flats will remain popular among first-time buyers and families looking for bigger flats after completing their Minimum Occupation Period. In light of the recent buzz surrounding Prime Location Housing, it is likely that city-fringe HDB resale flats that are close to the 'prime zones' but avoid MOP requirements will be in high demand, for example, Toa Payoh and Bishan.

Renewed interest in rental housing.

Furthermore, investors will no doubt weigh the added costs against Singapore's rental market's potential revival in 2022. The rental market in Singapore is expected to thrive in 2022 as Singapore's borders slowly reopen and more ex-pats and students are likely to move to the city.

Rents were buoyant even when the market was confined to domestic demand in 2021. A rising number of millennials in need of their own space amid WFH restrictions, couples unwilling to wait a long time for a BTO, and HDB upgraders in between homes are among the tenants seen here by local landlords. Rent rates may rise 8% to 11% in 2022 due to the opening of borders and a spike in demand.

Private condominiums could have had a quieter year.

The private property market had a strong 2021 with 31 new launches and condo units selling quickly. Several were purchased by HDB upgraders who had newly acquired cash, while others were bought by buyers looking to lock in before property prices appreciated further.

Condo launches are expected to slow down somewhat in 2022, however. In light of the limited number of government land sales (GLS) parcels, new condo launches will be limited. There has been talk about en bloc sales reviving prior to the cooling measures - en bloc helps land-strapped condo developers - however, that possibility has been doomed by the ABSD, which is now 40%.

Analysts predict a slowdown in condo sales in 2022 due to the cooling measures targeted mainly at investors and foreign buyers. Rather than the previously projected 9% increase in private property prices in 2022, only 3% is predicted. Conversely, 2022 is also an ideal year for those looking for their first home to shop for one due to a lull in demand and a slowdown in prices.

Rethinking property as an investment.

A major chunk of the cooling measures for 2021 will hit property investors, whether they are local or foreign. A whopping 30% ABSD on foreigners purchasing property could cause foreign demand to drop. Meanwhile, the ABSD has been increased to 17% for locals who are looking to purchase a second property as an investment. This extra 17%  increases upfront costs, reducing potential capital gains.

The TDSR has also been tightened from 60% to 55%, resulting in additional restrictions. The maximum amount of income that can be used to pay off debt, such as mortgages, car loans, and so on, is referred to as the debt threshold. By imposing the new TDSR, investors will have an even harder time servicing two loans.

11 Tips To Keep Costs Low When Renovating a Resale Home.

Due to the current climate of Covid-19, buyers are choosing to purchase resale properties to move in quicker. While this eliminates the possibility of construction delays, renovations still need to take place. Contractors are suffering from the same labour and supply shortages that affect builders - and resale home renovation costs are on the rise. Read our top tips how you can try to keep costs under control.

Is the cost of renovations going up during Covid-19?

During this time, renovation costs typically increase by 10 to 20%. A shortage of labour is the main cause: many subcontractors are not local (most are Malaysians). Often, the choice is to postpone renovations for long periods or use more expensive local labour while Covid-19 rages.

As with materials, such as countertop materials and floor tiles, there is a wide range of options. Manufacturers have been forced to close factories or suspend operations due to pandemic issues; this has caused contractors to switch suppliers and raised costs.

As prices rise, the market could adjust. For carpentry or electrical work, for instance, it is rare that the price drops again after a certain benchmark is set. Therefore, even after Covid, the price increase could persist. Even if Covid-19 subsides, the backlog of demand could still take some time to clear up, as prices are always determined by demand and supply.

Here are 11 ways to lower your costs when renovating your resale flat.

1. Repair or DIY.

In some cases, the previous homeowner or tenant may have left behind furniture when selling a resale home. You can actually consider refurbishing the furniture instead of getting rid of it because the colours or condition look shabby (disposal of bulky furniture may be more expensive than you think).

In Singapore, you can, for example, get furniture refinishing services, such as sanding and polishing. For those who like the hands-on approach and are up to the task, you may even want to consider attempting to refurbish some pieces yourself. Almost anyone can do a very simple fix on a creative weekend via sanding (with low-grit and high-grit sandpaper) or painting!

Outside of that, below are some ideas to get your DIY juices flowing:

• Wrapping stickers around existing cabinets in the kitchen, living room, bathroom and bedroom can save you money on hacking or fabrication of new cabinets

• Using tile overlays for the bathroom will save you from hacking or redoing the waterproofing

• Consider using a pebble/flake wash spray in bathrooms so you don't have to hack up the waterproofing

• DIY furniture could also be an option for you. You can customize Ikea furniture by changing various items such as pegs, cabinets, and knobs and handles.

2. Reduce the amount of built-in furniture.

When it comes to renovations, built-in cabinetry is usually one of the most expensive parts. Obviously, this can be customised according to your needs, especially if you have a peculiarly shaped house, which requires a more personalized approach. With storage areas, this is especially true, as you can gain extra useful space by installing a few built-ins here and there. Bench seats, platforms in the living room and bedroom, and cabinets under the stairs are examples.

However, as with any made-to-order item, the cost will be higher (like an off-the-rack suit compared to a bespoke tailored suit). Therefore, depending on your budget, you have the option of buying built-in furniture for a few rooms, and loose furniture for the rest of the house. In the future, when your budget allows, you can replace the loose furniture for a more tailored look, especially if you aren't planning on staying for too long.

In addition to cost savings, loose furniture also provides a degree of flexibility. You can change up the look if you get tired of it after a few years. Alternately, you may want to move pieces around to give your living room a new look. If your storage needs grow over the years (unlike built-in furniture), you can get bigger pieces of storage furniture.

Last but not least, built-in furniture will also last for decades to come. Even if it looks modern today, that same look may look dated in the future - and this could harm your chances of selling your house in the future. In addition, loose furniture will not have that issue - just get rid of it and stage it all over again if necessary!

3. Contractors can be cheaper than Interior Designers.

Theoretically, Interior Designers should charge more. Designers are supposed to create the plans, while contractors are only responsible for implementing them. A designer is responsible for all the 3D projections, sketches, suggestions on fittings and furnishings, etc. This adds to the cost.

As such, you might be able to lower costs by going straight to the contractor, and explaining what you need. However, this requires you to have a detailed idea of what you want, as it’s not the contractor’s job to conceptualise.

4. Make changes to the materials.

Materials are naturally one of the most expensive parts of any home renovation project. Several factors (labour shortages, delayed shipping, etc) have caused lumber, steel, and copper prices to rise, so if you are on a tighter budget, you might want to consider switching out to other more affordable materials.

An engineered stone countertop would be a more affordable alternative to granite, and laminate flooring would be a more reasonable alternative to hardwood. You may want to be selective about which materials you do change up, depending on your budget. You could still save on the bedroom flooring if you cook a lot and want a statement piece in the kitchen. Granite is one of the most heat-resistant materials.

Alternatively, we can think about big impact changes - that is, the ones that capture our attention first. It may make more sense to splurge on the feature wall in the living room while keeping the majority of its old look in the bathroom. Keep in mind that although saving on costs is important, it's equally important to think long term and to invest in materials that can save you further maintenance headaches down the road.

5. Determine whether the contractor has experts on staff.

Subcontractors are not used by every contractor or Interior Design firm. Companies employ their own carpenters, electricians, and other professionals. Consequently, labour shortages may not be as severe in these companies.

Many companies in Singapore have their own workshops for manufacturing a variety of products, from custom furniture to floorboards. It may be easier for them to maintain prices (or at least give you a firmer timeline) since they are less reliant on imported materials. When renting a home as a stop-gap measure, moving in earlier could save you some money, even if construction costs are high.

There is no guarantee, however. Contractors and designers might raise their prices anyway, even if they are unaffected (because everyone is). As well as having staff and facilities in-house, more established firms may charge higher prices, even if they didn't raise prices. Even so, finding out wouldn't hurt!

6. Use renovation loans before other types of loans.

Don't start with a personal loan if you have to borrow money for renovations. In case you exceed the renovation loan amount, you should use other loans instead.

The maximum loan amount for renovations is $30,000 from all banks, or six months of your income, whichever amount is lower. If your renovation costs $50,000 and you use loans, the first $30,000 should come from the renovation loan, and the remaining $20,000 can come from whatever the cheapest options are. Renovation loans average 4.18%, while personal loans, including personal lines of credit, average 6 to 9% per annum.

7. Compare renovation loans to find the best rates.

The cheapest renovation loan is only available from one or two banks every month. It's important to keep in mind that not all loan comparison sites work with all banks, so it's best to compare multiple sites to get the best deal. Note that your bank might also offer a cheaper renovation loan if you're just getting a home loan now. When you speak to the mortgage banker, there's no harm in asking for it.

As a promotional offer, some banks offer interest-free renovation loans. If you pay off the renovation loan during the interest-free period, you can also save money. Generally, this period lasts six months. A loan that cannot be repaid within the interest-free period will go back to the normal interest rate, which may not be the cheapest on the market.

8. Consider green loans.

In an effort to promote sustainability, some banks now offer lower interest rates for eco-friendly homes and renovations. Renovation loans in 2021 are typically around 4.18% per year. In contrast, green loans can cut this down to as low as 2.68%, depending on the bank.

A few criteria must be met, such as using energy-efficient appliances (five ticks on The Energy Label), using LEDs or other energy-efficient lights, using low volatile organic compound (VOC) paint, and so on. Generally, green loans don't represent any real restrictions because most homeowners do these common-sense things anyway. However, the green loan is currently nothing more than a marketing gimmick. They will grant you the lowered interest rates without any form of verification if you just tick "yes" for all items on the questionnaire for green loans.

In addition, when you buy a new launch unit, you can expect that any appliances included are already energy-efficient to five ticks. Many developers are also seeking sustainability awards.

9. Don't take out any loans.

Although it is tough, saving up for the renovation is a good idea if you can. It isn't necessary to save up the entire amount, but try to save about half.

Renovation loans have a high-interest rate, which reduces your returns and increases your recurring costs. Ironic that home buyers are unwilling to accept an extra 0.3% on their mortgage interest rate, yet take on a renovation loan at a rate above 4% in order to undo all the savings they've made.

10. Renovate in parts.

Remind yourself that it is possible to renovate in parts if you can't cover the entire cost at once. You can, for instance, ignore the living room and just renovate the bathrooms and bedrooms. In most cases, this will mitigate the need for credit, so the savings are often worth it.

11. Ask for basic maintenance upon purchasing.

Last but not least, remember that you can ask for basic maintenance during the buying process. Perhaps, as a condition of the sale, you would like the seller to replace all the worn and sagging doors. Your purchase price can be adjusted to include a portion of future renovation costs, thus saving you money. Your realtor should be able to handle this sort of negotiation, so make sure you work with one who is up to the job.

9 Tips for Maximizing Space in a Small Apartment in Singapore in 2022

In the United States as well as other developed countries like New Zealand and the United Kingdom, living in small homes is *a thing*. In times of recession and rising property prices, small apartments can be a much more affordable option than larger ones (and they're also much easier to clean), especially for singles and families without kids.

There are many definitions of what constitutes a 'small house,' which range from less than 37 sq m to a maximum of 93 sq m, but Singapore homes seem to fit the bill. HDB flats typically range in floor area from 36 sq m (2-room flexi, type 1) to 90 sq m (4-room flat). It's 50 sq m to 70 sq m for shoebox or 1-bedroom condo units.

Especially if you live in a small home and have lots of stuff or want to minimize clutter, space efficiency is vital. It may be that you just want more space for guests or that you want to make your living quarters seem more spacious.

It is always a good thing to have more space for your home, no matter what the reason.

1. Do away with the false ceiling

A false ceiling is a good option if you want to conceal messy electrical wiring, or if you want to install sound-proofing or aesthetically pleasing cove lights. Many people who install false ceilings claim they help with thermal insulation (keeping the house warm/cool) or even prevent damage to the actual ceiling.

In Singapore, the ceilings aren't that high, so a false ceiling could make your apartment seem even smaller and cramped. Plus, that pocket of space could harbor dirt and creepy crawlies if not kept clean.

2. Brighten the room with simple colors

Colours should be kept to a minimum. While a multi-hued interior would be ideal for quirky personality types, it might make your space look smaller if you add patterned wallpaper or textural effects to the walls.

Your space will appear more spacious and airy if you use a light, simple colour scheme. Generally, lighter shades reflect light to make a home appear brighter, whilst darker shades absorb light. A Scandinavian-style home will have a light color palette. The designs usually feature a lot of wood-like surfaces and even touches of turquoise, black, or green for a bit of interest.

3. It is important to compartmentalize

Separating different areas and creating a multifunctional space with defined boundaries helps to minimize clutter as well as give a feeling of more space.

Living areas can function as a dining area, a work/activity/relaxation area, and even contain storage, making every inch count. Creating a sense of separation between the kitchen and living areas is also made possible by changing the colors and textures in the space.

4. Make use of glass walls

The unique quality of glass is that it can physically separate a room while still letting in light, all while giving the impression that the room is open and accessible.

Add geometric interest to your home by installing glass walls with colored frames, especially in the living room. In addition, they maintain a semblance of privacy for the person inside, while providing a sense of openness. Having glass walls in a room with darker tones helps to balance out the dark colours, creating an interesting light interplay and visually opening up the room.

5. Make a room larger by cutting it down

Sometimes it can be worth removing walls in an already-small house to make the area look bigger and more spacious. In addition to providing a fantastic social area or a fun play area for your active children, an open concept home can compromise privacy and wall space for cabinets and hanging decor.

It's important to keep in mind that hacking walls can increase your renovation bill significantly. Furthermore, it may make your house less valuable.

6. Use a platform bed to maximize storage

The right amount of storage not only helps you keep your belongings in order, but also keeps clutter out of sight and ensures your home looks neat and tidy to visitors. Flush-mount storage does take up some valuable space, but the clean lines and minimal clutter make any home feel bigger and cleaner.

You can also maximize your storage areas in "hidden" areas such as under your bay window bench and seat, inside your coffee table, or even inside your platform bed. You will have plenty of storage space while looking sleek.

7. Keep the kitchen open

In addition to hacking walls to open up living spaces, you can also make your kitchen appear bigger by turning it into an open-concept one. The dining table can be used as a kitchen island or a "tasting table" for the chef of the house via a simple hack such as using similar colors in your living room and kitchen.

One (small) downside, however - if you usually cook with oil or fried foods, an open-concept kitchen may cause the cooking fumes to seep into your living space.

8. Create a sense of space by strategically using mirrors

Reflecting light makes a room appear brighter, and they give the illusion that your home is larger than it actually is. A mirror can also add a touch of class and sophistication, add privacy to a room, or even use it as an intriguing feature wall.

9. Opt for furniture with exposed legs

In small apartments, bulky furniture will only add to the cramped feeling. If you choose furniture pieces with exposed legs that are smaller and slender, you give the illusion that they are floating since the legs allow visual breathing room and provide a way for light to enter the room. Besides being easier to clean under them, it's also easier to retrieve lost objects.

Styling Tips For First-Time Homeowners.

Firstly buying your own home, whether it's a BTO, Resale HDB or Condo is an exciting time.

Finally, you are in your space, what could go wrong? One of the best things about owning your own home is this is your opportunity to put your unique and personal stamp on it.

Styling your home will add personality to your home

From buying furniture to selecting appliances to decide on soft furnishings, there's a lot to do. Well, if experience has taught us anything, the design and styling process can be overwhelming, to say the least. Fear not, we have the top tips and tricks to style your first home.

Which room to start with?

Well much as you may be tempted to say, ALL the rooms, your budget may not allow for that. In that case, pick the one or two rooms you will be spending the most time in to focus on first. In a typical Singaporean home is the living space and the bedroom.

There is no rush. 

Many times when people move into their new home, they find that they move things around and completely change their design as the months go on. Don’t feel like you need to rush to get everything completed all at once. When you move in, take some time to get a feel for the place before you make any final decisions. Your interior design choices don’t have to be made overnight. Remember home design is expensive, the last thing you want is to spend money on a statement piece that you decide you don’t like after 6 months.

Lighting Matters.

Lighting can change the entire feel of your space

Many people underestimate the power of good lighting in a home until they move in and find out that it is inefficiently lit. The two most important rooms to light well are the kitchen and the bathroom because of all the activities you do there. These rooms require a layered lighting plan and I would recommend working with a professional to get it correct. It’s not just the amount of lights there are, but the location and the color of the light are important. A professional will break it down into three zones, general, task, and ambient. 

Another type of lighting that is important is natural lighting. Consider your views out the windows and where you need privacy and where you don’t. This will help you sort out where you can let the light shine in. Even in the more private rooms, if you have a view out of the window you might want to see, there are window treatments that will allow for a full view when you want it and total privacy when you don’t.

Lighting can make or break a room! It can also create a huge impact and dramatically change the entire feel of a room - whether is artificial or natural. Making a concerted effort to keep windows clean and clutter free can dramatically increase the light that floods into a room - even painting window frames and window sills white can help. Many of our customers opt for garden rooms or orangeries with roof lanterns because of the sheer volume of natural light that they let in.

Have a think about lighting for different moods and occasions, or features in the home that you want to accentuate and layer your lighting to suit. Ceiling lights for cleaning or working, candle and side lamps for soft lighting for entertaining, up or down lighting to display art or photographs - the possibilities are endless! You can create a huge impact with lighting, and often for a minimal budget!

Express your own personal style. 

 If you’ve just bought your own home, you have permission to put your own stamp on it. It’s why people strive to buy their own homes; because they get to do what they want with it.

Don’t be afraid to be bold when you start to decorate. Use things that express your personality and don’t worry about matching everything up. If you’re decorating according to your tastes, everything will link together to create your own personal comfort.

Start with a neutral colour palette.

A neutral colour palette can allow you to add pops of colour later

It can be difficult to decide what to put on the walls when you first move in. Will you paint a modern color? Will you wallpaper? Will you fill the walls with artwork? Most people are hasty in their decisions just because they want to make the house their own. If you’re unable to decide or want to take your time making your decisions, neutral is the way to go.

Painting all the walls white when you move in will give you a blank canvas, not to mention nice, clean and new walls. You may even find that the light and crisp color works well for you. Neutral palettes with pops of color are a popular trend right now.

Choose accessories that change your room.

Accessories should be changed to fit your mood or the season. They bring character to any room. You want to have pictures in decorative frames of family and friends. Even a specific wall dedicated to a gallery wall is a great idea.

Colour can tie a space together.

Starting out with a blank canvas such as a new home doesn’t mean that you have to buy everything matching to coordinate your space. One great way to tie your room together is through your use of colour. So if you already have a sofa but now have the space for a coffee table, consider your materials and colour scheme. This will help to seamlessly combine the pieces together.

Many new builds will have a very neutral interior. So if you want to inject some colour into your space but don’t have the time or money to go all out on your decor, be clever with your furniture choice colours, such as colourful dining chairs or a bold coloured sofa set. Colourful dining chairs are a great way to add a stylish pop of colour to your new dining area.

The neutral scheme of many new build homes is a great opportunity to be bold with your colour choices. Don’t forget, you can always add textures such as a rug into your space to bring a pop of colour.

Measure twice. 

Don’t trust your eye rather than a tape measure. This is never a good idea when choosing your furniture, especially when buying online. Thinking your new sofa and coffee table will fit is very different to knowing that it will, so save yourself the stress and hassle on delivery day by knowing your measurements well before you place your order.

You have a budget for a reason. 

TOP TIP: One way to make sure you stick to the essentials is to make a note of your budget- and stick to it! Home Renovation can be an expensive time, so it’s a good idea to know how much money you have to actually spend on furniture before you set your heart on a sofa and dining set that is way out of your budget. Once you know what you’ve got to work with, then you can start shopping around. If you have any leftover cash, you can then buy those extra pieces on your wish list without any guilt as all the important pieces have been covered.

Start With Your Investment Pieces

A statement piece can be a focal point in the room

The term investment pieces can hold connotations of costing a lot of money but try to think of your investment pieces as just that- investments, not expenses. A good quality bed, sofa and dining table will provide comfort and seating for your family for years to come. So if you can afford it, it’s a very smart move to spend more on these staple pieces for your new home. Vital parts of any home, investment pieces will be the furniture that you use the most and keep the longest, so you’ll want to choose something that’ll last.

Be inspired. 

The glossy interior magazines do look stunning. However, sometimes the best styling inspiration can come from real homes. There’s a whole community of new homeowners sharing their design journey on social media platforms such as Instagram and Houzz, so be sure to follow people in the community. #newhome, #newbuild and #firsttimebuyer are great hashtags to get started. Then you’ll start to discover accounts that you love! You can also use the platforms to ask questions and even share some of your own knowledge. This can be invaluable when moving into a new home.

Start off by searching for relevant hashtags. This way you’ll find relevant accounts and people to follow. You can follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Pinterest as an example.

Most importantly.

Have fun! Moving into a new home does have its worries and stresses, but make sure you take a moment to think of the home you’re creating for you and your family; it’s a space to make new memories during mealtimes, family celebrations or even just relaxing at home.