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.

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.

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.​

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.

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.

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.

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.

Top Tips For Choosing Your Wall Paint Colour.

Whether you are a first-time homeowner eagerly awaiting your BTO or Condo keys, you are in the middle of renovating your resale HDB or Condominium or you are looking for style inspiration for your Landed Property, the process of choosing paint colours remains the same.

Choose colours you love (and can live with).

Firstly, picking paint colours can be overwhelming. The main thing to keep in mind and the easiest way to choose your interior paint colours is to start with colours you love. If you don’t like green, to begin with, you won’t like green when it’s on your wall and you are staring at it daily.

If you start with colours you love, you help yourself by narrowing down the paint colours you have to choose from but also if you choose some of your favourite colours, your colour scheme can grow from that. Your favourite colours can be the perfect inspiration for your scheme.

Curate images and pictures that inspire you.

If you think you don’t have a favourite colour, spend some time on Pinterest saving images that appeal to you. you. Soon enough it will become clear that you do have some colours which you are drawn to. Don’t only rely on Pinterest, there are many other sources of inspiration. Magazines and catalogues have long been a source of design inspiration. There is something about seeing a picture in print that will grab your attention.

The internet is of course awash with billions of pages of inspiration. Paint brands such as Dulux, Nippon and Benjamin Moore have interactive websites which can allow you to imagine what your home will look like.

Social media platforms such as Instagram and Pinterest are great sources of inspiration. Pinterest will allow you to create boards which are collections of images that you like, ensuring you keep all of your ideas together in one spot.

Don’t rule out neutral paint colours.

Neutral paint colours don’t have to be boring or laid-back. In the context of interior design, neutral means without colour. Neutrals such as beige, black, grey, taupe, ivory and shades of white can appear to be without colour, however, many paints have undertones. For example, beige may have an undertone of gold, ping or grey. White may be somewhat yellow, bluish, peach or ivory. Neutral paints in Singapore may be used in a couple of ways, either to create a soft, neutral or quiet look or as a backdrop colour for more dramatic accents such as bold curtains, feature walls or art prints.

Paint colour inspiration can be pulled from other elements in your home.

Whilst your interior designer (ID) might be suggesting colours that work within your scheme, be brave and look at the other elements in your space for inspiration. You may have an art piece that you are planning to bring into your space, why not look to use some of the colours from this in your scheme? Fabrics such as curtains, bed linen or cushions can also be a great place to start. Pulling a colour from your favourite cushion cover can be a great way to find a paint colour that will bring your scheme together.

In Singapore, people tend to start with their wall colours and build up their theme or style from there, however, why not start with a piece that you love and draw your wall colours from there?

Shades of colour matter.

So you have created what feels like endless Pinterest boards, saved images from Instagram, pulled together your favourite art print and still something feels off and that your room is not quite coming together? Sometimes all you need is a little adjustment to find the right paint colour. Before you abandon your paint colour choice, (and all hope) too quickly, consider a lighter or darker shade of the same colour. Many paint colours appear on a paint strip in gradual shades, but you can also ask your paint store to customize it by percentages of light or dark shades.

Undertones can work both for and against you.

If you have ever found yourself in a situation where you have painted your bedroom in what you thought was the perfect greige, only it came out too pink (or green or blue)? Thank the paint undertones.

You can be unpleasantly surprised by the undertones when choosing your wall paint colours. Simply put, undertones are the colours hiding beneath your favourite paint color. A simple beige may not be all that simple if it has a strong green undertone. The only way to accurately tell how an undertone will appear in your home is to sample the color. Undertones from other surfaces in your room can also change the way your paint appears due to reflection, so sampling would be ideal.

Visualise the paint colour in your own space.

This is easier said than done in Singapore. Dulux have some paint testers available from Hardware City on Shoppee, however endless google searches haven’t shown up the same option for other brands.

That said, both Nippon and Dulux have their own apps where you can visualise your chosen colours within your own homes. These can be hit and miss, but worth using to give you some idea of what the colours will look like in your home.

Make sure you look at the colours at different times of the day and in differing lights. The last thing you want is for you to love a colour in daylight but as soon as the sun sets, you can’t stand it.

Do what works for you but be practical.

You might be getting the keys to your BTO, your very first home and moving in with your spouse, don’t forget that your family dynamic may change in the future. Whilst you may envision pure white walls sitting alongside your brand new white leather sofa when you move in, don’t forget your circumstances may change. Will you be able to maintain a bright white wall with a toddler? If you like entertaining, will bright white be able to withstand high traffic areas of your home such as your entrance hallway?

Paint colours can always be changed.

It can feel like a leap of faith to decide on what colours work for your scheme and your space. The silver lining is that its relatively easy to repaint and change the colour you have chosen. Unlike built-in cabinetry which is more permanent, you can opt to change your paint colour at a later time. Whilst this may send you to a cool airconditioned room to lie down in fear, its comforting to know that in all your. home renovation decisions that you are making, some things you settle on are less permanent than others.

Most importantly.

Have fun with your paint colours. Your paint can change the feeling of your room or your entire home. You can always use soft furnishings such as a rug to bring your room together, paint is just one element in a larger scheme.

The Pros & Cons Of Vinyl Flooring 2021.

Vinyl flooring is an affordable, durable, and easy-to-install material. Find out the 4 Things You Need To Know Before Selecting Vinyl Flooring. Vinyl flooring is often confused with other types of flooring, such as linoleum and laminate. Due to their versatility, durability, and similarity to wood planks and stone tiles, luxury vinyl tiles and planks are becoming increasingly popular. There are many pros and cons when it comes to choosing vinyl flooring over other floor types. We break down the main pros & cons and what you need to know.

Pros

• Vinyl flooring is more affordable than wood, marble, or stone.

• Vinyl flooring is easy to clean and requires little maintenance. To keep it in good condition, you can sweep it with a broom and then mop it with a damp cloth.

• Floors made of vinyl are extremely water-resistant. Thus, even if you leave liquids on the floor for an extended period of time you won't have to worry about them spilling. No damage will be done to the vinyl when it's wiped off. Being water-resistant makes vinyl flooring an excellent choice when living in a humid environment, such as Singapore. If you walk on vinyl barefoot you are treated to a softer floor.

• Maintaining vinyl flooring properly can enable it to last for years.

• Its wear layer protects vinyl flooring from stains after spills, which makes vinyl flooring highly stain resistant.

• Without professional assistance, vinyl flooring can be easily installed

Cons

• Heavy furniture can leave permanent marks on vinyl flooring. Heavy or pointed objects can cause permanent marks on vinyl floors if they are dragged across them.

• It is not possible to repair vinyl tiles or sheets, so you have to replace them.

• There are more environment-friendly options, but they still contain plastic and are not biodegradable.

• Those with respiratory problems or allergies may be adversely affected by new vinyl floors due to VOC emissions.

• Installation on a bumpy floor is not recommended, since you will be able to see any small indents or bumps through the vinyl. There's even a chance that the vinyl will crack or become further damaged as a result of this bump.

• Time and direct sunlight may cause it to fade and turn yellow. This makes it unsuitable for outdoor use since it becomes discoloured quickly if exposed to sunlight.

• When rubber is in contact with vinyl flooring, it is susceptible to chemical stains. This may cause discolouration and tarnishing of the flooring.

So there you have it, vinyl flooring is indeed affordable, durable and easy to install. It does however need to be laid on a smooth surface and repairing is not possible.

You may also like: 4 Things You Need To Know Before Selecting Vinyl Flooring.

7 Tips To Maintain Your Floor Tiles.

Keeping your tile floors clean and looking new is as simple as following a few simple tips. No matter what you do, tile floors are going to get dirty from time to time. The dirt is going to be tracked across them, as you don't live in a continuous plastic bubble. It is inevitable that stains will happen. Occasionally, food becomes stuck and fossilized. Be sure to pay attention to your floor's details. Treat each mark immediately as it appears. It will make your floor look cleaner and last longer. Get tips on the right cleaning products and tools to use, how to clean tile grout, and how often to do it.

1. Dust And Vacuum Often.

Dust and dirt should be removed daily with a vacuum or fluffy dust mop to prevent them from becoming embedded in your tile and grout. Maintaining your flooring this way is the quickest and easiest method. Using a straw broom will scratch your tiles, so don't use it.

2. Put Your Mop To Work.

You should mop your floors once a week with warm water. As well as using soap as a cleaner, you can add gloss, shine, and colour to your tile. Before using any cleaners, check with the manufacturer to ensure your tiles will not be damaged.

You should always dry your floor right after damp mopping to prevent accidents, as well as to prevent new dirt from settling into the wet surface.

3. Clean Spills ASAP.

Wipe up spills with absorbent cloths to avoid dirt accumulation and slipping. In addition, it will reduce the chance of stains forming on your tile.

Clean dirtier spills with a cleanser or disinfectant. In order to prevent bacteria from setting into your tiles, you need to clean raw meat and eggs more aggressively. It might be a good idea to mop the area with water, since the chemicals may dull the tiles.

Use a vacuum or a fluffy dust mop daily to remove dust and dirt before it becomes embedded in your tile and grout.

4. Make Use Of Doormats.

A doormat should be placed on both sides of the doors leading into and out of your home. Water and mud won't be tracked indoors during inclement weather with this method. Use a bath mat in the bathroom if you have floor tiles.

5. Rugs Are A Good Addition.

Area rugs or runners should be placed in high-traffic areas. The entryway or a family room, for example, will not become dull, scratched or covered in the dirt if this is done. Need help choosing a rug? We have you covered.

6. Deep-Clean Regularly.

Every so often, you should deep clean your home. Cleaning with this method will prevent tiles from being damaged by stains and greasy residue. A gallon of warm water should be mixed with 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Kitchens benefit greatly from this natural approach. Vinegar can be substituted with 1/2 cup rubbing alcohol if you don't have any on hand.

You can remove hard grease from your flooring with fresh water and dish detergent. You can remove stains with a mixture of scouring powder and warm water.

7. Pay Attention To Grout.

Grout should be cleaned regularly. There is no need to buy special cleaners for this job. Mix baking soda and water to create a paste. Use an old toothbrush to scrub the grout after spreading the paste on it and letting it sit overnight. If you are finished cleaning, remove the paste with warm water.

There you have it, with these tips you should be able to maintain your tiles for years to come, no matter what materials you use.

4 Things You Need To Know Before Selecting Vinyl Flooring.

1. What Is Vinyl Flooring?

As a flexible, practical and affordable floor covering, vinyl flooring is composed of multiple layers of different materials sandwiched together. In order to give vinyl floors the desired hardness while remaining flexible, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is mixed with other compounds. A urethane-based coating covers the top layer. Its water-resistance and stain-resistance properties provide durability and stability. Recently, companies have been working to improve the safety and eco-friendliness of vinyl flooring, by using materials that are organic and do not emit harmful chemicals.

2. How Much Does Vinyl Flooring Typically Cost? 

Singapore's average price for vinyl flooring is approximately $1.50 to $6 per square foot. Depending on the thickness (3mm to 5mm), the price will vary. Vinyl flooring is one of the cheapest types of flooring available.  Their life expectancy is between ten and twenty years, making them an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals.

3. What Types Of Vinyl Are Available? 

Vinyl comes in a variety of designs, colours, and textures. With vinyl flooring, you can choose from a variety of visual appearances, including wood and ceramic-looking floors. Options with textures resembling wood and stone are also available. The colours and textures of these different designs can be customized to match a variety of interior design projects. The following three vinyl flooring types are described in more detail below:

• Vinyl Planks

Vinyl planks give the appearance of hardwood flooring. The texture and richness of vinyl plank floors mimic those of real hardwood floors. They have a variety of finishes and colours that you can choose from, depending on what kind of wood you intend to mimic. The dimensions and thickness of vinyl planks differ from that of laminated flooring, and they are generally installed via glue, similar to vinyl tiles. Usually, vinyl floors are installed over a layer of foam core that provides strength and rigidity. It minimizes walking noises and absorbs shocks. Planks of vinyl can be easily installed on concrete, tile, and wood floors. Vinyl flooring adds warmth and comfort to interior living spaces. 

• Vinyl Sheets

Rolls of vinyl sheets are 6 feet and 12 feet wide, much larger and wider than vinyl planks. Their thickness ranges between 2mm and 3mm, making them the thinnest type of vinyl flooring. There are many colours, textures, and patterns to choose from, so they do give you a variety of options. They have a fibreglass core that prevents them from expanding or contracting, helping them to maintain their original quality without cracking or rolling. Commercial use of vinyl sheets is widespread. It is due to their strength that they can resist abrasions from the heavy traffic flow.

• Vinyl Tiles

Vinyl tiles are an excellent choice if you want a ceramic-tile look in your home at an affordable price. Tiles are available in nine-by-nine-inch or twelve-by-12-inch sizes. They are more durable and stronger since multiple layers of the same colour vinyl are fused together. It is possible with vinyl tiles to emulate patterns like marble, granite, and other stone-like materials, for a classic look. They are a cheaper alternative to these materials. For longer life and to withstand more wear and tear, some types of vinyl tiles have a coating and paint applied to the top layer.

4. Is The Thickness Of Vinyl Flooring Important?

It would be natural for human traffic to vary between living areas in the house. Your tiles will have a different depth depending on this. It may not necessarily be the case that thicker flooring means longer-lasting vinyl flooring! It is important to consider the thickness of the wear layer and vinyl. Typically, for low-traffic areas (e.g. bedrooms), a thickness between 2mm and 4mm will work well. It is recommended to use a thicker vinyl layer (4-6mm) in areas like the living room. Durability is determined by the wear layer. If the wear layer is thinner, users may find walking more comfortable!

Guide to Asian Zen Home Design.

How should you go about bringing Asian Zen interior design into your home? How can you master the look with authority? As inspiration, we're going to show you how you can use the interior design style in your home. We've got your back on what to source, celebrate, and how to use it.

Zen: What Is It?

'Zen' is actually the Japanese pronunciation of the Chinese term 'Ch'an', which is the Chinese way of saying 'Dhyana', the Sanskrit term for meditation. Today, Zen refers to a state of self-awareness of our place in the universe, in addition to being at peace with our thoughts.

How Does Asian Zen Design Differ From Other Interior Design Styles?

Asian Zen interior design aims to create a home that promotes harmony, balance, harmony, and simplicity. Inspired by the concept of Zen and the importance of incorporating nature into your décor, something usually found in Asian interiors. A simple and minimalist style is achieved by layering rich textures with simple elements.

Furniture With An Asian Influence.

Another aspect of Asian zen interior design is furniture. The furniture influenced by Asian design is often minimal and made from dark wood. The contrast between that and your otherwise subdued colour palette would be perfect. Other great furniture choices include bamboo and rattan.

Cotton and linen should be used for upholstery and accessories such as throw rugs and pillows. Coloured fabrics look comfortable and undemanding, thanks to their natural hues. You can also use them creatively to give your home a pop of colour to make it a bit more dynamic and interesting.

Using Low-height Furniture.

There is nothing more Zen than floor-level furniture. When you sit at low heights, your eyes will generally be drawn upwards, helping you feel the volume of the room. Platform beds, floor mats, low sofas, pouffes, and ottomans are the way to go. If you want a more authentic Japanese look, pair a low table with floor-level cushions or bring in a futon. By keeping furniture pieces of different heights consistent, you can create visual harmony.

Lightness Is Your Goal.

As far as visual complexity is concerned, Zen interior design is all about lightness. It is said that light, minimalist and floating forms have a calming effect on the mind. Follow the less is more principle from individual decor pieces to the overall layout of the room. Lightness can be achieved by varying traditional decors, such as choosing bamboo furniture over solid pieces or translucent screens instead of heavy opaque doors. The appearance of bamboos and other thin, long-stemmed plants is lighter.

Pick A Natural Palette.

Throughout Asian Zen interiors, nature plays an important role, as you probably already know. Natural colours are usually at the heart of Zen palettes. Our recommendation for enhancing this style's sense of calm is to select the most neutral and natural hues in the softest shades for your primary and secondary colours, such as white, different shades of beige, or grey. As for accent colours, some popular choices include... natural colours, of course, but in bolder shades (such as green, yellow, orange, and blue).

Adding Natural Fabrics.

Choosing natural fabrics over impersonal synthetics is another way to celebrate your connection to nature. Additionally, you will reinforce their sense of comfort and cosiness to help them feel more relaxed at home. Linen, cotton, and wool are some popular Zen fabrics, and you can incorporate them in several ways, from curtains to throw pillows.

Zen Homes Are Minimalist In Design.

The Asian Zen interior design is minimalist as well. If you are surrounded and distracted by clutter, how can you focus on tranquillity and balance? Decluttering is an excellent way to start your journey to Asian Zen.

 In other words, you should consider only keeping those pictures or decorative items that have a special meaning to you or that are truly precious to you.  Ask yourself whether each of your objects sparks joy, as Marie Kondo says. In that case, it probably isn't suited for your minimalist Zen home.

Bring In The Light.

If you plan to build an Asian zen house, you will want to make sure your home gets as much natural light as possible. There are various things that you can do, such as opening up new window spaces. It is still possible to optimise the amount of sunlight reaching every room without demolishing and reconstruct.

By reflecting the light and directing it to the dark areas of the room, mirrors and reflective surfaces are ideal for maximising the amount of light available in the room. White and light beige are also good choices for walls.

Select artificial light bulbs that are similar to those in sunlight in terms of tone and warmth. Switch to dimmer switches or smart bulbs if you want to be completely in control of your environment. By adjusting the intensity of the light, you can change the ambience of your home easily.

Keeping Patterns To A Minimum.

This style is not suitable for heavy patterns in fabrics, wallpaper, carpets, or rugs. Think plain and simple, even if different textures all contribute to the overall finished look. A Zen world cannot tolerate chintz! Even a straightforward geometric pattern, or a touch of Japanese blooms, will work in a room or home.

If possible, keep lines simple and straight, with a few softer curves thrown in for effect. It would be best if elaborate table legs and swirls or embellishments were left at the door—also, angles and points with harsh, sharp edges.

Add A Splash Of Green.

To give your Zen style home the finishing touch, bring a little green into the decor. What about a bonsai tree? Perhaps some lush plants with large leaves to create a sense of calm? Zen-inspired interiors can also benefit from displaying a stunning orchid. The presence of plants helps to create more calm and oxygen in an environment. Even the tiniest plant can help to create a sense of peace in a room.

A Zen-inspired interior can be a place of complete relaxation and tranquillity when textures and colours come together in the right way.

8 Ways To Maximise Storage In Your Bedroom.

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

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

1. Maximize Under The Bed Storage.

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

2. Organize Drawers To Free Up Space.

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

3. Optimise Space In Your Wardrobe. 

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

4. Consider Double Duty Furniture. 

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

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

5. Consider A Built In Wardrobe. 

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

6. Store Only The Essentials In Your Bedroom. 

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

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

7. The Back Of The Door Is Useful Space. 

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

8. Declutter Regularly. 

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

What Is The Most Relaxing Colour To Paint A Bedroom?

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

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

What is the Science?

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

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

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

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

Blue Brings Calm.

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

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

Yellow Brings Happiness.

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

Green Brings Outdoors Indoors.

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

Orange Brings Warmth.

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

Pink Brings Softness.

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

How to Maximise Space In A Small Bedroom.

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

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

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

Consider How the Room Functions.

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

Build storage around the bed.

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

Bulk Up Your Bedside.

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

Opt for Double-Duty Pieces.

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

Float Some Shelves.

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

Consider adding storage to your headboard.

Free Up Desk Space By Opting For Wall Lights.

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

Full-length Curtains Create An Illusion Of Height.

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

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

Plants Bring Life Into A Small Room.

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

Go For Hidden Storage With Fitted Furniture.

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

Add Texture With Rugs.

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

Consider A Platform Bed.

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

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

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

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

Pros

Organisation.

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

Privacy.

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

Maximise Possible Space.

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

Cons

You need to be REALLY organized to have one.

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

Pay More For Lighting & Carpentry

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

Sacrifice Space Elsewhere.

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

Empty shelves will encourage extra spending.

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

Walk-in wardrobe Tips.

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

1. Look At The Corners.

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

2. Use Vertical Space.

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

3. Skip the Doors on Your Regular wardrobe instead.

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

The Pros And Cons Of A Kitchen Island.

So you are thinking of installing a kitchen island in your HDB, Condo or Landed Property? Let’s look at the plus points and the drawbacks to installing a kitchen island. Ultimately, you want the kitchen island to be functional and add to the aesthetic of your home, but you need to ensure you have enough space and that it doesn’t disrupt the flow of your home. 

Pros

Space.

Firstly, keep in mind that the function of an island is to have all sides open to working on. If there isn’t enough space in your kitchen, you’ll end up bumping into it more than anything else. For unrestricted movement, experts suggest you need at least 1 metre of clearance on all sides when you draw up your kitchen island designs, without which the island may become an obstacle. 

If there is enough space for a kitchen island, there are still things to consider to make sure it’s suited to the design. Even in larger kitchens, sometimes it’s hard to get as much counter space as you want. An island can help create an extra landing space for hot dishes, extra prep space, or even a spot to do your baking. It can also play into the visual/aesthetic portion of the design if you choose to make that countertop a contrasting or accent colour.

Storage.

Similar to counter space, an island can provide more cabinet space under the counter. The area beneath can be used for additional storage to help you organize your pots, pans and other necessities. And, if you have the extra space, you can even add an appliance to your island.

Added Seating.

An island can also be used for kitchen seating by adding a breakfast bar to one side. An island with seating, such as barstools, gives you another place where friends and family can gather to talk and create memories.

Space Definition.

In an open concept plan, there are no walls on one or more sides of the kitchen. An island can provide added countertop space with no walls, but can also form a virtual divide between a kitchen and the adjoining spaces without closing it off. This can even out the work triangle and make space for the cook to work while still visiting the company in the other room.

Adding a kitchen island can easily convert a kitchen layout. For example, an L-shaped kitchen can quickly be turned into a U-shaped kitchen with an added island. Then, with an open concept plan, you can interact with those not in the kitchen while you’re creating meals.

Cons

Not suitable for wiring and venting.

The centre of your kitchen may not always be suited to wire or vent. Check with your designer to see whether it is safe to install a cooker or plugin appliances, so you can have a secure cooking experience.

Remember putting a cooktop on an island, it’s not only hard to vent, but a hot surface in an open area can be dangerous for children or people reaching across.

Disrupts the work triangle.

Ideal kitchen layouts with an island should have easy access to the cooker, refrigerator, and sink (the work triangle). An island can disrupt this structure and put obstacles in the way of preparation, cooking and cleanup.

Comparatively expensive. 

Adding an extra workspace in the kitchen means adding more materials which could mean greater costs. The extra countertop and cabinets might add up to more than the flooring that would otherwise take the island’s place.

Summary

In summary, there are quite a few considerations when looking at installing a kitchen island. If planned out correctly, it can add additional storage and counter space to your home. Poor planning can result in an island that disrupts the flow of your kitchen and incurs an additional expense for a kitchen island that you want to rip out.

A Guide To Mid Century Modern.

9 step guide to bringing the mid-century modern style into your home

The long-lasting popularity of the Mid-Century Modern style is based upon numerous factors. It provided us with tidy lines, mild natural curves, a love for various materials and designers that are idolized even today. But how can you bring it into your HDB, Condo or Landed Property? Follow our 9 step guide to create the ultimate mid-century modern style into your home.

Mid-Century Modern Style

Bauhaus designers and designers who migrated to America as an outcome of financial modifications in Germany after the Second World War started the style movement called Mid-Century Modern. It's defined by simplicity and performance. While there is some dispute about when the duration started, it approximately lasted from the mid-1930s to the mid-1960s. The ageless quality of the design, nevertheless, continues to interest today.

The differentiating functions of this style consist of a timeless, downplayed appearance, and tidy lines with very little difficulty.

• Performance is very important, as form follows function.

• Sleek and uncluttered lines with both natural and geometric lines.

• Very little ornamentation or ornaments.

• A mixture of both standard as well as non-traditional materials.

• The juxtaposition of various, and in some cases contrasting materials.

1. Wood Is Key.

Most of today’s furniture is made of engineered pressed wood. Let real wood take centre stage via the high-quality furnishings of the ’50s. These mid-century masterpieces have clean lines of teak, walnut, oak and rosewood. Maybe hunting for these old pieces seems like too much work. Or maybe an original piece from George Nelson or Noguchi piece is out of your budget. If so, there are plenty of modern-made replicas to be found that mimic these elements. Thanks to the increasing demand of this design movement, many retailers are grabbing hold of the trend by offering lower-end furnishings that nod to this style.

2. Use Modern Lighting. 

Look at any mid-century modern home and you will surely see dazzling modern marvels dangling from the ceilings or lighting up sleek side tables. Unique pendant lights and fixtures are not only functional; they are pieces of sculptural art. There are numerous online artists who custom-make these architectural lights. Look around until you find the piece that calls your name, and remember mid-century modern is not a matchy-matchy style, so no need to find lamp sets. Indeed, bold lighting is another must-have accessory to take your home back in time to this artistic era.

3. Mirror, Mirror on the Wall.

No matter what style of décor you choose, mirrors are the perfect design accessory. They add a light airy feeling to any room in your home. If placed properly, a mirror can make a space look bigger by reflecting light into a room or highlight a beautiful backyard landscape by placing it opposite a garden door or window. A sunburst mirror is an icon of this era. It is simply a must-have accessory that shines mid-century into your home. There are plenty of replicas or originals to be found online or in stores.

4. Wall Colour – White Is Right

Most mid-century homes had walls covered in white paint. Why? Because it allowed for the high-quality furnishings to take centre stage. Mid-century homeowners were proud of the craftsmanship of their home and furnishings, and white paint let the rest of the room show off its lines. What an easy mid-century design solution!

5. Small Details Can Make the Difference

Sometimes it’s the simple things added to your décor that make the biggest style statement. One or two artistic metal wall plaques or a large graphic oil on canvas can make a bold style statement. For a modern look, don’t clutter your walls with tons of artwork. Keep it simple and clean with a few bold, high-end pieces of art. After all, isn’t it better to have one or two high-quality pieces instead of a bunch of inexpensive knick-knacks?

6. Wallpaper – If You Dare

While most walls benefit from clean white lines, a touch of glamour in a dining room can be added by simply papering one wall with bold glitzy wallpaper in a graphic pattern. If you don’t like the idea of permanent wallpaper, then try some of the higher-end wallpapers that easily peel off.  Homeowners in this time period loved their bold, graphic prints.

7. Mix And Match Different Styles

Just because you don’t have a Mid-century home, it doesn’t mean you can’t embrace retro style. With an emphasis on simple lines and purity of design, combined with the enduring beauty of wood, Mid-century timber furniture, such as these original Ercol sofas, have a timeless appeal, which sit well with other styles both old and new.

8. Introduce Retro Fabrics

For a quick and easy retro pop try updating a lamp with a shade in a retro print or styling a plain sofa with cushions made from 1950s fabrics. Mid-century designs are very functional and bright. Organic and geometric forms/patterns are most often utilised. In addition, mid-century modern designs explore traditional and unorthodox materials at the same time, they are based on contrasts and intriguing juxtapositions.

9. Be Bold, Be Eclectic, Be Experimental

Mid-century modern design doesn’t have to be exclusive. If you already have modern pieces you love and would like to keep in your home, you can buy a couple of mid-century furniture pieces that you’re missing. Determining whether these mid-century items will go well with the rest of your belongings depends on your style preference.

9. Keep to a Guiding Theme

A final thing to keep in mind is that pulling off a stylish mid-century modern design can be tricky. Eclectic choices and contrasting decisions can easily contribute to clutter and chaos. If you go for way too many ideas, you’ll feature distinctive pieces that will be fighting for attention. Thus, you need to come up with some guidelines before getting started with the execution