About HDB Kitchen Design

Designing or renovating the kitchen of your HDB flat or BTO unit is quite an overwhelming task. If you just recently bought the unit or you just moved in, there’s always the excitement of redesigning the interior spaces to fit your liking. However, remodeling or renovating kitchen spaces requires time and effort, and thoughtful planning.

If you are doing everything alone from scratch, it can get you stuck in an “analysis paralysis” situation. Meticulous planning, creativity, and an understanding of space optimization are necessary when designing kitchens. The kitchen is considered the heart of the home. It is where families gather and bond whether over dinner or prepping meals for occasions and celebrations.

In this blog, we will delve into the world of HDB kitchen design, exploring popular themes, essential considerations, and innovative ideas for various HDB flat types. Whether it’s a -room, 5-room, 3-room HDB kitchen design, an executive maisonette, or even a compact 2-room flat, we’ve got you covered.

Popular Themes for HDB Kitchen Design

An attractive and functional kitchen goes far beyond aesthetics. Besides being functional and efficient, it should also reflect your personality and style. When choosing themes for your HDB kitchens, keep aesthetics and practicality in mind.

1. Modern Minimalism for HDB 4-Room Kitchen Design

Stylish lines, neutral colors, and uncluttered spaces are defining characteristics of modern minimalism. Utilize built-in storage solutions in the kitchen to optimize space and eliminate clutter and disorganization. Materials like granite or quartz countertops give the kitchen a contemporary look. Integrating energy-efficient appliances also adds efficiency and convenience to the space.

2. Elegance and Space in 5-Room HDB Kitchen Design

Design elements can be tested out more freely in a 5-room HDB kitchen layout. Think about a classy motif with a hint of luxury. Include pendant lighting, a bar-height island, and open storage to showcase chic dinnerware. A combination of materials and textures, such as metal and wood, can give the design more depth.

3. Charming Practicality in 3-Room HDB Kitchen Design

Optimizing space without sacrificing design is difficult in a 3-room HDB kitchen. Pick a theme that is both charming and useful. Use multifunctional furniture to maximize every square inch of the room and think about using bright colors to make the room appear larger. A great addition for both storage and show is open shelves.

Explore Popular Interior Styles

It’s time to look at some popular interior design trends and determine which ones speak to you:

• Modern Minimalism

Clean lines, neutral hues, and uncluttered areas characterize modern minimalism. Modern minimalism’s sleek simplicity could be advantageous for a 4-room HDB kitchen design.

• Rustic Charm

Make use of natural textures, exposed wood, and vintage components to embrace warmth and authenticity. Your kitchen can feel pretty cozy with this design theme.

• Industrial Chic

Consider industrial style with raw materials, metal accents, and an airy, loft-like feel if you’re drawn to urban aesthetics.

• Scandinavian Elegance

This look mixes comfort and functionality while being light, airy, and effortlessly chic. It’s ideal for fostering a calm environment in your kitchen.

• Eclectic Mix

An eclectic style is perfect for folks who enjoy diversity since it combines many eras, hues, and textures to produce a one-of-a-kind room that is brimming with life.

Key Points To Consider When Transforming Your HDB Kitchen

• Ventilation and Airflow

Proper ventilation is crucial in any kitchen to prevent the buildup of heat, steam, and odors. Ensure your kitchen design includes a suitable range hood and windows for cross-ventilation.

• Tiling and Backsplash

Choose durable and easy-to-clean tiles for the kitchen floor and walls. The backsplash is an opportunity to inject personality into your design. Opt for materials like subway tiles, mosaics, or even glass to add visual interest.

• Space Planning

Regardless of the HDB flat size, space planning is essential. Consider the work triangle (the arrangement between the sink, stove, and refrigerator) for optimal workflow. Customized cabinets and storage solutions can help you maximize available space.

Tailoring HDB Kitchen Design to Different Flat Types

• 4-Room HDB Kitchen Renovation Ideas

In a 4-room HDB kitchen, you should always focus on practicality. Opt for a U-shaped layout to ensure everything is within reach. Consider a breakfast bar for casual dining. Blend white and wood tones for a cozy yet modern ambiance.

• HDB Executive Maisonette Kitchen Design

Executive maisonettes offer larger spaces, allowing for creativity. Consider an open-concept kitchen with a stylish island as the centerpiece. Embrace a mix of textures and colors to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

• 2-Room HDB Kitchen Design for Compact Living

When space is limited, every inch counts. Choose space-saving appliances and consider a galley kitchen layout. Light colors and mirrored surfaces can help create an illusion of a larger space. Vertical storage solutions are your best friend in a 2-room HDB kitchen.

Conclusion

Designing an HDB kitchen is both an art and a science. It’s a blend of aesthetics, functionality, and personal expression. Whether you’re dealing with a 5-room, 4-room, 3-room HDB, an executive maisonette, or a cozy 2-room flat, the key is to tailor the design to the available space while keeping your preferences in mind. By following the principles of effective space planning, incorporating proper ventilation, choosing the right tiling and backsplash, and selecting a theme that resonates with you, your HDB kitchen can become a culinary haven and a design masterpiece within your home.

Introduction About Shelves For A Wall

Along with storage options like drawers, wardrobes, cupboards, etc., shelving for the wall holds an intrinsic value in a home for storage. It is termed the most adaptable and convenient solution to broaden the storage capacity of a house. Wall shelves provide you with an opportunity to display your belongings or masterpiece stylishly and attractively.

In Singapore, where people love to live the way they feel comfortable, an additional storage option is necessary. Wall shelving is becoming essential for everyone with advanced lifestyles. In this article, we have covered some elemental features of wall shelves pertaining to their designs and functionality with respect to compliance with Singaporean Laws.

Popular Types of Shelves for a Wall in Singapore

As we all know, Singaporeans are always finding ways of increasing space in their houses. The concept of wall shelving has become popular in Singaporean homes today. The reason is, it offers a wide storage option compactly and offers great aesthetics. There are an array of shelving types for offices or homes. Let’s have a look at some main highlights.

1. Floating Shelves

These shelves are a simple yet stylish choice for Singaporean residents. Floating shelves create the illusion of a hanging shelf as they are elegantly mounted with the help of invisible attachments that cannot be seen by the naked eye. This shelf type is suitable for displaying decoration pieces, lightweight plants, or books.

2. Cube Shelves

Another type of shelving for the wall is Cube or Box shelf that provides a modern and handy solution for storing things. Its cube-shaped structure combines to form compartments that offer substantial space to store, display or organize things. These shelves have the characteristic of multiple arrangements in different locations and have an antique wall visual appearance.

3. Corner Shelves

The concept of corner shelves originated to artistically utilize the empty corner spaces of a place. They impeccably occupy the corners to provide a wide display storage option. This type of shelving is best for displaying extra books or ornamental items that have no place in the front showcase.

4. Ladder Shelves

Multi-tier wall shelving design is also called “Ladder Shelves” that incorporates a ladder style to showcase items. These shelves are the most practical and aesthetically appealing option that provides storage differently. You can display or store plants, attractive accessories, and useful books to enhance the splendor of a place.

Attractive Designs of Shelving on Walls

A shelf is designed in a way to make it a deliberate part of a place. Shelf styling depends on the area it is going to be located. The designs used in a living room differ from those that are used for a bathroom. Singaporeans love to design their shelving storage in different styles according to their preferences and suitability to their home or office interiors.

1. Minimalist and Modern Shelving

A preferred shelving style for Singaporeans is Minimalist and Modern shelving. Fine lining, soft finishing, and neutral shades are a favorite choice for a fresh and sophisticated shelving experience. Simple shelf design can merge with any interior. It, without any doubt, adds a touch of elegance to any space.

2. Rustic and Customizable Shelving for the Wall

Rustic often referred to as Industrial shelf design is yet another vintage-inspired shelving option. This design incorporates a wooden or metal appearance lending a rugged or weathered appearance to any space.

Moreover, Singaporeans are now opting for customizable or modular options for their wall shelves. This personalized choice is for those who want flexible and adjustable storage space for rearranging items whenever required.

3. Geometrical Shape Shelving

Geometrical shape designs for shelf-making are gaining popularity in Singapore. Incorporating formations such as triangular, asymmetrical, hexagonal, or any other geometric outlines adds an eye-catching effect and a unique addition to the walls.

Viable Functionality of a Wall Shelf in Singapore

In Singapore, the addition of extra storage space holds immense value to any property. In such instances, shelving for the wall offers a high degree of practicability and feasibility for providing more capacity to store items. It maximizes vertical space, foregoing the need for extra floor space and creating valuable additional space. This contemporary concept allows you to utilize your walls to the maximum level.

The functionality of wall shelving in Singapore extends to multiple areas within a space. Whether it is a bedroom or a living room, the kitchen or even a bathroom, you can make your space according to your choice. Wall shelves for an apartment play a role of a display unit for storing regular-use items or a bookcase. It creates an organized space motivating individuals to work in a clean, spacious environment.

Material Utilization for Making Wall Shelves Singapore

Material usage for constructing wall shelves is strictly compliant with Singapore’s state laws and regulations. According to the Government rule, there must be a great focus on fire safety elements while constructing a building. However, wall shelving in Singapore utilizes material that is in line with these regulations and does not involve any aspect that comes under law violation.

Singaporeans commonly use materials including solid or engineered wood, and metal for creating shelves. This is because these materials are resilient, long-lasting, harmless, and can survive the severe climatic conditions of Singapore. Before making up their mind about wall shelving, Singaporeans always opt for honest suppliers. They fully adhere to the stated laws and regulations while ensuring complete protection.

Conclusion

In Singapore, the wall shelving concept is the most prominent feature of any place. It offers a multipurpose solution for compactly storing many items. There are different types, styles, and designs of decorating walls with aesthetically approved shelves to elevate the magnificence of an area. You can never run short of the perfect wall shelf ideas that complement your space functionality.

The utilization of vertical space for shelving for the wall allows you to make the best use of your place while maintaining your desired ambiance. However, it is crucial to consider the regulatory authorities before considering the material used for wall shelves. Making the right shelving choices can greatly enhance the manageability and charm of your space.

Introduction

A Flush Mount Sink is a type of sink that is installed into a countertop, making it level with the surface. This type of sink is gaining popularity in Singapore for its easy-to-clean, modern look in both bathrooms and kitchens. In this article, we will dive into understanding the definition, differences, characteristics, pros, and cons of a flush mount sink, and the interior themes that match well with this sink type.

What Is A Flush Mount Sink?

A flush mount sink, also known as a tile-edged sink is a sink that is installed into the benchtop, making the rim of the sink align with the surface of the countertop. This type of sink is different from traditional sinks, which are usually installed on the countertop and sit above it. With a flush mount sink, you can achieve a seamless flow in design without any breaks or bumps making the sink appear virtually invisible.

Flush Mount vs Undermount Sink

Flush mounts and under-mount sinks are two popular types of kitchen sinks that have different installation methods and design features.

Flush mount sinks have a rim that sits on top of the countertop and is visible. This type of sink is typically easier to install, as it can be mounted directly to the countertop. It is also a good option for those looking for a more traditional or budget-friendly option since it can be made from materials like plastic.

Undermount sinks, on the other hand, are mounted underneath the countertop, so the sink’s rim is not visible. This creates a seamless look and can make the countertop easier to clean, as there are no seams or rims to trap dirt and debris.

Undermount sinks are typically more expensive and require a high-quality, heavy-duty material, such as stainless steel and solid countertop material including granite or marble for proper installation.

In terms of design, under-mount sinks tend to offer a more modern and sophisticated look, while flush-mount sinks can be more traditional. Both types of sinks come in a range of sizes, shapes, and materials, so you can find one that suits your budget and style preferences. However, Flush mount sinks can be slightly more challenging to find in the market than undermount sinks.

Characteristics of A Flush Mount Sink in Singapore

• It is on a level with the countertop.
• Easy to clean and maintain.
• Adds a sense of continuity to the room.
• Can be made of a variety of materials such as ceramic, glass, or stainless steel.
• Comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors.

Pros and Cons of A Flush Mount Sink

Pros:

• Offers a harmonious look, aesthetically. pleasing and practical.
• It is easy to clean since crumbs and liquids can be wiped out easily.
• It is hygienic and pristine.
• Makes the room feel more spacious.
• It is versatile and safe.

Cons:

• More expensive than other traditional sink types.
• Can be difficult and expensive to install.
• Not suitable for all interior themes.
• Can be hard to find in the market and difficult to replace.
• Can be prone to cracking or chipping if not handled with care.

Hachi Flush Mount Sink

The Hachi Flush Mount Sink is a new and innovative product introduced in the Singapore market. It is designed to offer homeowners a seamless and beautiful finish. This sink is the first of its kind in the country and is increasingly becoming the preferred choice of many due to its unique features.

The Stainless steel flush mount design of the sink helps to combat various problems associated with top and under mount sinks, such as the growth of algae and mold, water retention, unhygienic hidden corners, and water seepages caused by tears in the silicon.

These features make the Hachi Flush Mount Sink a durable and practical solution for anyone looking for a sink with a beautiful finish that is also functional and hygienic.

Interior Themes that Well Match with a Flush Mount Sink

A flush mount sink can match well with various interior themes, including:

• Modern and Contemporary: When integrated with other electrical appliances, the flush mount sink conveys modern style and timeless beauty making it ideal for modern and contemporary interiors.
• Minimalist: Minimalist Interiors that emphasize clean lines and simplicity are best complemented by the smooth finish of a flush mount sink.
• Industrial: The stainless steel material of a flush mount sink matches well with industrial-style interiors, which often feature raw materials like metal and concrete.
• Farmhouse: The rustic charm of a farmhouse interior can be enhanced with a flush mount sink, especially if it is made of a natural material like stone.
• Transitional: Transitional rooms, which combine traditional and contemporary design elements, can also benefit from a flush mount sink. The sleek finish of the sink can add a touch of modernity to a traditional space.

This type of sink is versatile and can be used in a variety of interior themes, such as minimalist, industrial, and even traditional themes with a modern twist.

Conclusion

Reflecting a very streamlined interior design concept, flush-mount sinks are on the trend.

A Flush Mount Sink is a great choice for those looking for a modern and hygienic sink solution for their kitchen or bathroom. It is easy to clean, versatile, and comes in a range of materials, shapes, and colors. While it may be more expensive and challenging to install than traditional sink types, it offers a harmonious appearance and blends effortlessly into the overall kitchen design.

If you wish to install a flush mount sink in your home, select one that fits well with your interior theme and is made of high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting durability. The Hachi Flush Mount Sink is an innovative product in the Singapore market that can be integrated into the kitchen since it offers unique features, making it a durable and practical solution for homeowners.

Additionally, the flush mount sink can match well with various interior themes, including modern and contemporary, minimalist, industrial, farmhouse, and transitional interiors.

Introduction

Before moving to another home or purchasing a property, the floor plan of the area is one of the fundamental aspects to consider when making the decision. In Singapore, where space is at a premium, it is important to make the most of every square foot. In this guide, we will take a closer look at some popular home types in Singapore and explore the best ways to plan for a room.

What Is Space Planning?

Before we dive into the floor plan layouts for different room types, let’s first talk about what space planning is.

Space planning refers to deeply analyzing and optimizing the use of space. A space plan, also commonly known as a floor plan, is a drawing to scale that illustrates the architectural elements of a room or a building. It includes the placement of walls, windows, doors, furniture, and built-in objects, within a space.

A thoughtfully laid-out space plan will have strong relationships between rooms or spaces.

Some of the popular home types in Singapore include 3-bedroom, 4-bedroom, and 5-bedroom houses, executive flats, maisonettes, terrace houses, semi-detached houses, condominiums, and bungalows. In this article, let’s discover the floor plan layouts of some Landed Home types.

Popular Landed Home Types To Do Room Planning

A 3-bedroom house is a popular choice for families in Singapore due to its increased privacy and sense of community that comes from living in a more spacious home. It provides enough space for parents and children to live comfortably, without being too large or overwhelming. A 3-bedroom house in Singapore typically ranges from 1200-1300 square feet.

The space plan for a 3 bedroom house features three bedrooms, a kitchen, a living and dining area, an en-suite bathroom or common bathroom, a service yard, and a storeroom. Each of these spaces is open and connected, allowing for easy circulation and social interaction. The bedrooms should be located in a separate wing of the house, providing privacy, rest, and relaxation.

When designing a floor plan for a room or 3-bedroom house, it is important to consider your preferred style, size, and budget. For example, a modern 3-bedroom house will often have an open floor plan than a traditional one which impacts the size of the rooms and hence, the budget.

Plan Of A 3-Bedroom House

What does a typical plan of a 3 Bedroom House look like?

• A typical 3-bedroom house layout in Singapore consists of a living area, dining area, and kitchen on the first floor, while the bedrooms and bathrooms are on the second floor.
• The living area is usually a spacious and airy room with furniture including a sofa, chairs, and a television.
• The dining area is designed next to the living room and has enough space to seat a family of six.
• The kitchen may be a closed kitchen or an open-concept kitchen that is connected to the living and dining area for a smooth flow in space design.

This living-dining-kitchen layout with furniture facing each other encourages interaction between guests.

On the second floor, there are three bedrooms, with the master bedroom having an ensuite bathroom. The other two bedrooms have shared bathrooms or ensuite bathrooms. The bedrooms are designed with built-in wardrobes, and the windows are large enough to provide natural light and ventilation.

Additionally, a 3-bedroom house in Singapore has a small outdoor area, such as a balcony or a backyard, for outdoor activities or relaxation. Some 3-bedroom houses feature a car porch or garage for parking.

Plan Of A 4-Bedroom House

Larger families in Singapore find 4-bedroom houses very appealing due to the abundance of rooms, and spacious living areas. Homeowners can embrace the luxury of creating a home office without giving up the guest room. A 4-bedroom house in Singapore ranges from 1,500 to 2,500 square feet on average.

The layout consists of core meeting spaces including a living area, and a dining area located adjacent to the living area with a dining set for a family of eight. This seamlessly transitions into an island or open kitchen with more than sufficient storage space, a stove and oven, and a breakfast counter.

On the second floor, there are three bedrooms, with the master bedroom having an ensuite bathroom. The other two bedrooms share a common bathroom or have ensuite bathrooms depending on size. The bedrooms are designed with built-in wardrobes and large windows.

The third floor has a fourth bedroom which is a multipurpose room that can be used as a guest room, study room, or playroom for kids. This floor can also have an outdoor roof terrace, swimming pool, or roof garden that offers a space for leisure and family entertainment.

Layout Of A Living Room

Whether you reside in an HDB flat or own a 4-bedroom house, your living room will serve as a space to unwind, relax, and host visitors for a conversational gathering. Here are some tips and ideas on a living room layout:

• Seating: This is the centerpiece of the living room. A comfortable sofa, armchairs, and a coffee table are placed. Additional seating options including floor cushions and ottomans can be used depending on the size of the space.
• Entertainment: The seating area faces the TV console which can also be mounted on the wall.
• Windows: The positioning of a large win. s are an important part of the plan for a room to make the space feel warm and inviting.
• Storage and Display: If you are a homeowner of a small house, the walls can have hidden storage to maximize the use of the space. Open shelves, bookshelves, and cabinets are used to showcase personal items such as photographs, books, and decorative items.
• Décor: Other decorative elements including throws, cushions, curtains, and can add texture, detail, and colour to a boring living room. Prints, artworks, or other collectibles can act as focal points of the space by creating a gallery wall.

All these design elements of the living room help define the layout of the space and bring about the overall aesthetic of the space.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the space plan/floor plan for a room is crucial to design a comfortable and functional living space. Each room in a home should be well-designed, with adequate light and ventilation. Careful consideration should be always given to the use of the space for a cohesive design.

About Makeup Tables in Singapore

Makeup tables are a must-have in the bedroom. If you always find yourself rummaging through a pile of cosmetics and beauty products every time you get ready, then having a proper makeup table should be your priority. It can make a big difference not just in keeping your room look tidy and organized but also in making it look aesthetically pleasing.

If you are thinking about getting a makeup table or you’re currently looking for different makeup table designs from online stores, then this blog is for you. We understand that choosing furniture, such as a makeup table, can be a stressful and daunting task. With the thousands of choices out there, it’s hard to narrow down and find exactly the perfect makeup tables suited for your needs. In this blog, we put together a list of some of the most creative and stylish makeup table ideas that you can incorporate into your bedroom. So, without further ado, let’s dive right in.

#8 Creative Make-up Table Styles

Whether you are planning to buy or create a customized makeup table, you can take note of the following styles and choose which among them embodies your personal taste and buy or create that makeup table.

1. Hollywood Style Makeup Table

A Hollywood-style makeup table, as the name implies, refers to a glamorous table with a large mirrored surface and desk area where one can apply makeup and style hair. This type of makeup table is often adorned with lights and has a luxurious appeal. You’ll often see this type of make-up table in Hollywood Glam bedroom interior styles and high-end or luxurious homes. Aside from the functionality it brings to the bedroom as a makeup table, it also adds to the overall interior composition and can be a focal point in a certain corner or area of the bedroom.

2. Minimalist Make-up Table

If you have a bedroom with limited space, adding a makeup table may be the least important to you. However, having one can help make your bedroom organized. You don’t have to place your makeup essentials and other hygiene kits everywhere because you have a designated space for them. The best makeup table for small bedrooms is, of course, the minimalist type. These are often desks made of wood with slightly tapered wooden legs and a mirror. This table usually has small drawers underneath where you can keep your stuff.

3. Makeup Table with Storage and Round Chair

Makeup tables are usually bought as a set together with a chair. There are, however, makeup tables that do not come with a chair. You can opt for this if you are looking for an affordable makeup table or if you are planning to repurpose old tables as makeup tables. A makeup table with a round chair, however, is a great option for creating continuity in your bedroom’s interior and a sense of unity in the overall aesthetic of the room. Makeup tables like these are also a great option for luxurious bedrooms that requires a bigger makeup table.

4. Marble Makeup Table

We all know that Marble is the most popular and sought-after material used for tabletop surfaces. A makeup table with a marble countertop is popular among contemporary, modern, and even transitional and traditional bedroom designs. Marble gives spaces a sense of elegance and grandeur which is necessary when achieving a luxurious aesthetic in the bedroom. Marble makeup tables can now easily be found in most furniture stores online and in physical shops.

5. Scandinavian Style Makeup Table

A Scandinavian-style makeup table is perfect for those people who are planning to decorate or style their bedrooms in Scandinavian style. Scandinavian makeup tables are simplistic and practical in both design and function. This type of makeup table is commonly made of wood. Some interior and furniture designers choose to paint half of the makeup table in white or other colors, while some parts feature the natural wood grain of the wood specie that the furniture is made of. Placing a Scandinavian makeup table adds extra warmth and coziness to modern or minimalist bedroom spaces.

6. Luxurious Makeup Table

When we say luxurious makeup table, we’re talking about a sleek modern design with clean lines and a high-gloss finish that shines like a mirror. The surface of a luxurious makeup table is big, with plenty of space for all your beauty products. Luxurious makeup tables have a style fit for a queen. Whether you want a Hollywood glam bedroom or a Regency-styled interior design composition, you can never go wrong if you choose a luxurious makeup table. You can also customize your makeup table by getting an exquisite organic-shaped mirror and installing the mirror light bulbs by yourself.

7. Corner Makeup Table

Another ingenious way to incorporate a makeup table in a small bedroom is by using a corner makeup table. Get rid of those dead spaces within your bedroom and install a corner makeup table instead. One of the best features of a corner makeup tale is its versatility. A corner makeup table can fit effortlessly into any space. There are countless creative ways to install a corner makeup table. If you want a minimalist look, opt for a wooden tale that you can seamlessly mount on the wall. If you want to a space-saving corner makeup table, go for something creative that you can tuck away when not in use.

8. Classic White Makeup Tables

The classic white makeup table is perhaps the most popular and common option among homeowners. Of course, white is a versatile color that can fit in just about any interior design style. The white finish of the table adds a crisp and clean touch to the bedroom, and it evokes a sense of spaciousness. Classic white makeup tables are also easy to find in both physical and online stores. Whether you want a clean Scandinavian look, industrial, or modern contemporary, a classic white makeup table will complement your style effortlessly.

What we have presented are just a few of the many makeup table design ideas you can find out there. We hope this list has given you an idea of what makeup table would work best for your bedroom, considering the space available and the function it will serve in your room. If you are still unsure of what makeup tables design works best for you or if you are finding it hard to decide whether to opt for a customized one or buy a ready makeup table furniture in the store, don’t hesitate to reach out to our design experts and we’ll gladly assist you in making an informed decision that you’ll never regret.

Introduction

Home renovation can be an exciting and much-needed change, but it can also be a hassle, especially when it comes to finding a place to stay while the work is being done. If you’re a Singapore resident facing this dilemma, don’t worry – plenty of options are available. In this blog, we will discuss several reasons you need to move out during the renovation. In more detail, we’ll also explore some of the best options for temporary housing so you’ll have ideas on where to stay during home renovation in Singapore. This will help you make an informed decision that works for you.

It’s Necessary to Move Out When You Are Renovating

1. Health and Safety Concerns

Home renovation projects can generate a significant amount of dust, debris, and chemicals that can be hazardous to your health. For example, lead paint, asbestos, and silica dust can cause serious health problems if they’re not properly handled. To ensure your safety, it’s recommended that you move out of your home while the renovation work is being done. This will reduce your exposure to these hazardous materials and ensure that you and your family are not at risk.

2. Noise and Disruptions

Home renovation projects can be noisy and disruptive, especially if you have young children or pets. The constant banging, drilling, and sawing can make sleeping, working, or relaxing difficult. To minimize the stress and disruptions associated with home renovation, it’s best to move out during the process. This will give you peace of mind and allow you to carry on with your daily life without interruptions.

3. Lack of Privacy

Home renovation projects can be intrusive, and contractors may need access to your home at all hours of the day. This lack of privacy can be uncomfortable, especially if you have young children or are particularly sensitive to noise and disruptions. To ensure you have the privacy you need, it’s best to move out during the renovation process. This will give you the space you need to relax and unwind and ensure that you are not disturbed by the constant presence of contractors.

4. Protect Your Belongings

Home renovation projects can be messy and can result in damage to your personal belongings. For example, paint splatters, sawdust, and debris can settle on your furniture and cause permanent damage. To protect your belongings and ensure they are not damaged during renovation, it’s best to move out of your home. This will give you peace of mind and ensure that your items are not damaged during the renovation process.

Where to Stay During Home Improvement Programme?

With a clear understanding of why it’s necessary to move out during a home renovation project, the next step is to find suitable temporary accommodation. Singapore offers a range of options for homeowners who are looking for a place to stay during the renovation process. Depending on your budget and personal preferences, you can choose to stay with friends or family, rent a serviced apartment, or check into a hotel. Let’s take a closer look at each of these options.

1. Stay with Friends or Family

One of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to accommodate yourself during a home renovation is to stay with friends or family. If you have a friend or relative with a spare room, this could be a great opportunity to catch up and bond over your shared experience. Additionally, this option allows you to save money on temporary housing, which can be a significant financial burden.

2. Rent a Serviced Apartment

Serviced apartments offer a convenient and comfortable alternative to staying in a hotel. They typically come equipped with all the basic amenities, such as a kitchenette, and offer more space than a traditional hotel room. Additionally, serviced apartments offer greater privacy, making them a great option for families who need more space or those who prefer a more relaxed environment.

3. Stay in a Short-term Rental

Another place where to stay during home renovation in Singapore is short-term rentals. Short-term rentals, such as Airbnb, can be a great option for those who need a flexible and affordable place to stay during a home renovation. These types of rentals come in a variety of styles and sizes, and they are available in most areas of Singapore. This option is especially convenient for those who need a place to stay for an extended period, as short-term rentals often offer better value for money than traditional hotel rooms.

4. Stay in a Hotel

Staying in a hotel is a popular option for those who need temporary housing during a home renovation. Hotels offer the comfort and convenience of having everything taken care of for you, including housekeeping, room service, and 24-hour concierge. Additionally, hotels in Singapore typically offer great value for money, especially for those who want to stay in the heart of the city.

5. Rent a Temporary Housing Unit

A temporary housing unit could be the answer for those needing a more permanent solution during a home renovation. These units are designed specifically for those undergoing renovations and come equipped with all the necessary amenities, including a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping quarters. This option is perfect for those who need a comfortable and convenient place to call home during the renovation process.

Conclusion

As a homeowner undergoing a home renovation, it’s important to consider the impact that the renovation process can have on your daily life. You may face dust, noise, and other disruptions to your daily routine. That’s why it’s crucial to find a place to stay during home renovation in Singapore that offers comfort and peace of mind. By choosing a hotel, serviced apartment, or short-term rental, you can ensure that you have a clean, quiet, and convenient place to relax and recharge after a long day of renovations.

In addition, these options also offer various amenities that can make your stay even more enjoyable. Hotels, for example, usually have a wide range of facilities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and restaurants, while serviced apartments often have a fully equipped kitchen and in-room laundry facilities.

Moreover, by staying in a place other than your home during the renovation, you can also ensure the safety and well-being of your family. This is especially important if you have young children or pets, who may be at risk of exposure to dust and other potentially harmful materials used in the renovation process.

In short, finding the right place to stay during home renovation in Singapore can help ensure that the renovation process is as smooth and stress-free as possible. With the options outlined in this blog, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and budget.

Kitchen Top Materials

When it comes to selecting new countertops or tabletops for your kitchen, you have a plethora of materials to choose from. From natural stone options like granite and marble to man-made alternatives like quartz and concrete, each material for the kitchen top has its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks.

In this article, we’ll delve into the most popular options on the market, examining the pros and cons of each material and which interior design themes they suit best.

Pros & Cons of Popular Kitchen Table Top Materials

1. Granite – A Timeless Classic

Granite is a natural stone that has been a popular choice for kitchen tops for decades. It is known for its durability and resistance to heat and stains, making it a practical choice for busy households.

In addition to its practicality, granite is also quite attractive, with a wide range of colors and patterns to choose from. However, it can be pricier and requires regular sealing to maintain its integrity.

2. Quartz – A Durable Man-Made Option

Quartz is a man-made material that has gained popularity in recent years as a kitchen top option. It is made from a blend of crushed quartz and resin and is known for its durability and resistance to stains and scratches.

Like granite, it comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, but it does not require the same level of maintenance. However, it can also be expensive and may not be as heat-resistant as other materials.

3. Marble – A Luxurious but Delicate Choice

Marble is another natural stone option that is known for its beauty and elegance. It is often used in high-end kitchen designs, but it can be quite delicate and is prone to staining and scratching. It also requires regular sealing and may not be the best choice for busy households.

If you love the look of marble but want a more durable option, you might consider a quartz or granite alternative.

4. Concrete – A Unique and Versatile Material

If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, you might consider concrete. Concrete countertops are becoming increasingly popular due to their versatility and ability to be molded into any shape. They can also be dyed or finished in a wide range of colors and styles. However, they are prone to chipping and scratching, and may not be the best choice for heavy use.

5. Wood – A Warm & Inviting Material

Finally, wood can add warmth and character to a kitchen. Wood countertops are often made from butcher blocks and can be sanded down and refinished if they become damaged. However, they are prone to staining and are not as heat-resistant as other materials. If you like the texture of wood but want a more durable option, you might consider wood-look quartz or granite.

6. Laminate – Lighter & Easier to Maintain

If you are looking for an affordable countertop material to update your existing one, laminate might be the right material for you. A laminate countertop is made from layers of kraft paper that are glued together to create a solid surface. Aside from its affordability, another good quality of laminate is its weight. It is lighter compared to other materials and is very easy to maintain.

7. Stainless Steel – Extremely Durable

Stainless steel counter-tops are meant for heavy-duty kitchens. You’ll often notice that chef’s kitchens or big kitchens such as those in restaurants and fast-food chains have stainless steel counter-tops. This is because stainless steel is extremely durable & resistant to stains, heat, and rust. Moreover, they look sleek and edgy in a modern or industrial-type kitchen.

8. Natural Stone

We’re down to the most popular one: Natural stone. There are different kinds of them: granite, marble, soapstone, slate, and others. Natural stone is a good option if you expect to create a luxurious and premium kitchen. Having this material in your kitchen will surely add value to your home. Moreover, the veiny aesthetic of granite and marble tops evokes elegance and luxury making your kitchen look classy.

Which Interior Design Themes Suits These Kitchen Top Replacements?

If aesthetic appeal is your main concern, you need to select a kitchen top that has a flexible and versatile look that would look good in almost any interior style. Here are a few interior styles where you can incorporate these kitchen top materials.

• Contemporary:

A contemporary kitchen has a pretty much straightforward aesthetic. We all know that the characteristics of a contemporary kitchen are: streamlined edges, clean visual appeal, and iconic accessories and furniture pieces. To complement this style better, stainless steel, quartz, or natural stone countertops are your best options.

• Modern

Quite similar to contemporary, a modern kitchen also has a clean aesthetic but is more inclined on providing comfort and functionality. For this reason, countertops made of natural stone, concrete, and stainless steel would be perfect.

• Minimalist

For the minimalist lover, quartz, and concrete is the best material for kitchen top. Both have a clean and simple appearance that is perfect for small and modest kitchens. If you want a budget-friendly alternative, opt for laminate with a natural stone aesthetic.

• Scandinavian

Solid wood or butcherblock countertop is best for achieving the Scandinavian aesthetic. Wood is an element that has always been a main characteristic of Nordic-inspired interiors. It evokes warmth and makes the kitchen look inviting to guests.

When to Consider a Kitchen Top Replacement?

As with any home improvement project, deciding when to replace your kitchen tops can be a difficult decision. While it is natural to want to hold onto your current table tops for as long as possible, there may come a time when a kitchen top replacement is necessary. Here are a few key considerations when deciding whether it is time for a kitchen top replacement:

1. Damage: If your current kitchen tops are visibly damaged, chipped, or scratched, it may be time to consider a replacement. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may be able to repair it, but in some cases, it’s more cost-effective to simply replace them.
2. Age: Over time, kitchen tops can begin to show their age. If your table tops are starting to look worn or dated, a replacement may be in order.
3. Functionality: If you think that your current kitchen tops are no longer meeting your needs, it may be time to consider a replacement. For example, if you’re doing a lot of baking and find that your countertops aren’t holding up well to the heat, or if you’re table tops are too small for your needs, it may be time to upgrade.
4. Style: If you’re simply bored with your current kitchen tops and want to update the style of your kitchen, it is best to opt for a kitchen top replacement.

The decision to replace your kitchen tops is a personal one and will depend on your budget, the condition of your current tops, and your overall goals for your kitchen.

Conclusion – What Are The Best Materials For Kitchen Tabletops?

Although there is no definitive answer, the following suggestions may help you make the right choice. The best materials for kitchen tops will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as durability, maintenance, and aesthetics when making your decision.

• If you want to invest in a long-lasting, high-end material, granite could be the right choice.
• If you’re looking for a practical, low-maintenance option, quartz could be the way to go.
• For a luxurious appearance, marble is a great option whilst, for a one-of-a-kind look for your kitchen, concrete could be your choice.

About Rattan Furniture in Singapore

Rattan is a naturally renewable vine-like palm, similar to bamboo that grows in the tropical regions and jungles of Africa and Asia. There are many types of rattan but the majority can be identified by its tough, solid stems that can grow to extensive lengths. Rattan furniture has become an iconic piece in almost any interior design style. Furniture pieces, decorations, and accessories that are made of rattan lend a warm and cozy vibe to the space. Its features are versatile and flexible and it is suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings.

Another advantage of having rattan furniture at home is that it is very lightweight which makes it easier to move around. However, like any other furniture made of organic materials, proper care and maintenance are required to keep the furniture in good condition. If you want to know more about rattan furniture in Singapore, continue reading below and see whether rattan furniture is the right furniture for your space.

Different Types of Rattan Furniture

Before buying rattan furniture, it is important to make sure that you have basic knowledge about this organic material.

• Where did it come from?
• How is it manufactured?
• What are the different types of Rattan?

Knowing all these characteristics about the material will help you take proper care of your furniture so it can last for years. Here are different types of Rattan furniture in Singapore today.

1. Cane

Cane is the layer that can be found just below the outer skin of the rattan plant. It is the part that is removed before the rattan is processed. After cleaning and drying the rattan, the cane is peeled into long strands. These strands are the parts that are used in weaving chairs and other furniture. Because the can is flexible, it is used to wrap and secure parts of furniture and can be commonly seen in the back of chairs, and sofas.

2. Reed

The inner, wood-like component of the rattan plant is called reed and is more porous and fibrous than the cane layer. In contrast to cane, the reed is absorbent and susceptible to staining. Reed is frequently used to make the swirls and curls that adorn some ornate pieces of wicker furniture.

3. Synthetic

There is a material that is manufactured to imitate authentic rattan. This material is called PE rattan. It can endure wetness as well as harsh sunshine, both of which could damage authentic rattan. While polyethylene (PE) is not the only synthetic material used to make rattan, it is more environmentally friendly and of higher quality than other synthetics. Because of its characteristics, PE rattan is preferred to use in outdoor spaces.

Best Rattan Furniture to Add to Your Home

There are a variety of furniture, décor, and accessories that are made of rattan. If your goal is to create a tropical vibe in your interior space, opting for rattan seating would be ideal. However, keep in mind that you should only select significant items and avoid sprucing your entire space with rattan materials. Rattan requires proper care and maintenance. Therefore, before you buy, make sure you have the time and capacity to care for the furniture. Here are some rattan-made furniture pieces you can easily purchase to spruce up your space.

1. Rattan Sofa

The rattan sofa is probably the most popular one you can find. Rattan sofa comes in different styles. Some come with seat and back cushions. Rattan can also be painted with other colors such as white, brown, or black. If you have a modern home, a black-painted rattan would make the room look sleek and edgy.

Unfinished rattan, on the other hand, is best for contemporary, minimalist, and farmhouse-styled interior spaces. If you are planning to buy new seating in your living room, opt for authentic rattan. For outdoor areas, synthetic rattan would be a much more practical option.

2. Rattan Chairs

The craftsmanship of rattan chairs is meticulously detailed which makes them a great piece to add to the space as accent items. Rattan chairs are both decorative and functional. The most popular rattan chair is the peacock chair, followed by a rattan rocking chair and a marina lounge chair. These chairs are usually placed in outdoor areas like balconies, outdoor gardens, and lanais. They can instantly make a room look cozy, homely, and inviting.

3. Rattan Dining Chair Singapore

Rattan dining chairs will look great in your room whether you are aiming for a modern or more classic farmhouse aesthetic. Rattan dining chairs have that sleek and modest appearance that makes the dining area look chic & stylish. Moreover, having these chairs will make it easier for you to rearrange the layout of your dining table because you can easily move these lightweight chairs around. If you live in an HDB unit or a condo unit, having lightweight furniture such as these rattan dining chairs is a great advantage.

4. Coffee Table

A coffee table made of rattan is a great accent piece to complement your rattan sofa. Rattan coffee tables come in different shapes, sizes, and styles. The most popular rattan coffee table is a round or oval-shaped table. Rectangular rattan tables are also available but a round one can bring harmony to spaces with a lot of straight lines. Additionally, they create the appearance of additional rooms. A spherical coffee table also makes moving around much simpler.

5. Floating Egg Chair

Are you looking for a statement-making piece to add to your home? Get a rattan floating egg chair! This type of furniture is often used in lounge areas such as those in hotel lobbies. They add personality and character to your living room composition. To truly embody the tropical vibe in your space, place a floating egg chair in one corner of the room.

Which Interior Designs Are Most Suited For Rattan Furniture?

Since rattan furniture is versatile and flexible, it is suitable in many interior design styles such as Contemporary, Minimalist, Farmhouse, Modern, and Bohemian. It offers a warm, cozy, and clean aesthetic to a space. If a simple interior design style is what fits your current lifestyle, adding rattan furniture into your home will definitely make your space stand out.

Moreover, accentuating it with other decors and accessories will be much easier because of its versatile characteristics. If you are planning to switch the interior design style of your home with rattan furniture in Singapore, our in-house designers can help you. Comment down below or send us an email for more enquires.

What Do You Know About Cement Screed Wall?

Whether you want to admit it or not, an interior’s wall finish can either make or break the overall aesthetic of the room. Paint, wallpaper, or even accent material mounting, the wall is perhaps the most defining element in any style.

In this modern age of innovation and redefining styles, material finishes are constantly evolving. One such material is cement screed. This particular finish gives off a polished concrete look as the screed is a mixture of cement, aggregates, and water; which is then mixed to form a smooth paste and applied on a surface. Once dry, you are met with a hard, firm, and durable surface.

While it is often used in flooring, designers have seen the potential application of the finish on walls and in particular areas of the space. This results in stunningly beautiful interiors. And believe it or not, you can incorporate this finish into your interior. Here is how some designers have applied cement screed walls in some interiors and how you can apply it.

1. What Can It Do For Your Walls?

As stated earlier, a cement screed is a mixture of cement, aggregates, and water, which when mixed and applied to any surface, produces a firm, durable and polished look. Simply put, it acts like a varnish for cement surfaces. It can also level off any uneven surface, similar to how wall putty is used before paint is applied.

Cement screed walls make ordinary and raw cement look polished and your walls seamless and neat. It also provides a no-frills, appealing finish that is often paired or complemented with various styles and other finishes.

2. The Application Of Cement Screed Wall

Now that we have understood what it can do, it’s time to apply them. There are several ways and styles you can incorporate cement screed into:

• Industrial Style

The unfinished look is often associated with the industrial style. This style is characterized by the use of unfinished concrete, raw building materials, and exposed pipes. While raw brick and exposed concrete are common for wall finishes, some homeowners will eventually grow tired of the look. Particularly the exposed raw concrete when it starts showing hairline cracks.

If you would like a more polished version of the raw concrete, you can apply some screed on the surface. Depending on how much is applied, a cement screed wall can make a space look either masculine or feminine. You don’t necessarily have to have the entire wall space treated with screed. You can have a wall treated with it and that will become an accent wall. Some popular accent walls can be seen in foyer areas, entertainment areas, living room areas, and even dining room areas.

To soften the overall look, you can pair the wall with wood slats, panel boards, and even metal grids. You can set a modular sofa against the wall or even a modern dining set. You can go the extra mile by installing wall art to further bring out its industrial look.

• Used For Kitchen Walls

Kitchens require a lot of work, especially if you are the type who will be using them daily; hence the need to invest in premium materials and finishes. Usually, kitchen walls would have tiled backsplashes, but over time, tiles would fall out, and finding a replacement tile would be hard since there would be a possibility that the tile in question would either be sold out or hard to find. Instead of using a tiled backsplash, why not use a screed instead?

A cement screed kitchen wall is perfect for kitchens that are constantly used daily. Especially in cooking and washing. Since screed application creates a firm and durable surface, it is more than ideal since it can withstand heat and moisture. It is also perfect for an industrial style or modern style kitchen as it evokes a polished, minimalist look. To get the most out of the look, opt for a light variant as it can add more depth to a space. You can pair this wall with a kitchen with white or dark gray cabinetry.

3. Alternatives To Cement

Now, you might be thinking that applying screed can be quite of a handful since you will need to make sure each application is evenly spread. Or perhaps, you live in a condominium or property that has strict rules when it comes to certain types of renovations; particularly the walls. So the question is, is there an alternative to cement screed that is both efficient in the application and cost? The answer is yes. Several paint suppliers have products that could imitate the look and feel of cement screed walls.

These cement screed wall paints come in various types of finished textures and are easy to use, quick to dry, and readily available in most hardware stores. This alternative is perfect for spaces; particularly in buildings with strict rules on wall renovations. Simply apply the paint onto the finished wall and the result is a beautiful, polished wall that mimics the effect of a screed. You can also opt to hire a painter or contractor to paint on your walls since they can ensure an even and polished wall.

In conclusion, is cement screed really an ultimate wall treatment? Is it a lot better than simple paint or wallpaper?

Truth is, having a more polished and durable wall finish is what every designer and homeowner would like. Most especially since redoing the wall would cost time and money so more often than not, wall finishes are usually designed to last a lot longer. And when it comes to longevity and durability, that is where cement screed comes in. And the best part of cement screed is that it is quite easy to clean and maintain.

So if you are considering having cement screed walls, be sure to invest in good quality materials and a highly recommended contractor who can apply them. After all, you deserve to have a lovely space to come home to.

About Fluted Glass Door

When it comes to glass, many homeowners would be surprised to know that there are many kinds and types of glass out in the market. Each type has different effects and properties that benefit both the aesthetic of the interior and the homeowner. From frosted glass to tempered glass, many homeowners can decide what kind of glass suits them well.

One of the most popular types of glass that has recently been seen in many of Singapore’s premiere interiors is fluted glass. Also known as reeded glass, ribbed glass, or more glass, this type of glass is characterized by having straight lines etched into the glass surface; giving off a sleek ribbed texture.

You may have noticed this type of glass in certain areas and certain interior styles. Many homeowners prefer having this type of glass in very special and personal spaces. So what makes fluted glass highly favored by Singapore’s designers? And how is it an impressive material? Here are a few things you need to know about it and how it’s applied to popular elements like fluted glass doors.

1. What Is Fluted Glass?

As stated earlier, glutted glass is characterized by distinctive straight lines across the surface. It comes in various colors and finishes with the most popular being clear, low iron, blue, bronze, green, grey, and even black. It is also distinguished by its thickness. While most glass types have a thickness of 7mm, fluted glass can come in thicknesses of 6,8,10 and 12mm with 12 mm considered a custom thickness.

2. How Big Is It?

Fluted glass panels can come in 4 sizes namely 1830mm x 2140mm, 1830mm x 2440mm, 3300mm x 2140mm, and 3300mm x 2440mm. Though it can also be customized depending on the interior space’s needs and the client’s preference. Depending on your space, the standard size of the panel can be made into 1 fluted glass door.

3. What Are The Pros & Cons?

If you are considering incorporating fluted glass into your interiors, you need to consider the pros and cons of fluted glass. Like every construction or finishing material, not all have perfect properties, and understanding them ensures the right kind of maintenance, aftercare, and a guaranteed extended lifespan.

PROS

• Fluted glass allows light transmission without distorting the perspective. In layman’s terms, it simply allows the light to bounce off the ribbed lines and easily disperses it without being too bright for the space.
• If you happen to have a low ceiling, the fluted glass ribbed panel can give your space the illusion of height; making it appear taller than it normally is. Or it can also make your space look wider, depending on the glass’ orientation.
• And finally in terms of aesthetics, because it has such a pristine and sleek look, it gives off a hazy look of clarity and consistency as though water were running down consistently. It can also break the monotony of a severe space by simply positioning it as either a door, a divider, or even an accent.

CONS

• However, when one thinks about the cons of fluted glass, one needs to consider that fluted glass can be quite costly; with prices ranging from 200-300% more than the price of regular glass.
• It can also prove to be difficult to clean especially for the concave and convex spaces on the glass. It is important to invest in a supplier who provides easy instructions for aftercare or a cleaning service that can clean and maintain your glass.
• And most importantly, although the thickness is a lot more than a regular one, it lacks the equivalent strength due to irregular surfaces caused by the ribbing. To put it simply, it may be thick, but it isn’t a guarantee that it will be strong enough to withstand certain elements.

Fact!
More important, if applied appropriately, with the right maintenance and aftercare, you are guaranteed a unique and modern type of fluted glass door that can make any interior unique and creative.

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4. Where Can I Use It?

Fluted glass is often used in modern interiors, though some owners have used it in contemporary and even transitional themes. This is due to the sleek ribbing and its hazy properties that give off a subtle sense of privacy without compromising its beauty. The most popular application is fluted glass doors seen in many aspects of the interior.

• Cabinetry: A very popular trend was having the kitchen cabinets and even the living room cabinets have glass doors so that homeowners can display their good china. If you want to have a more modern update, you can use fluted glass instead of the regular clear ones. You can have it where some of your overhead cabinets have fluted glass doors installed. This allows you to showcase your best chinaware without overtly showing it.

• Interior Doors: The most popular type of door for modern interiors is the sliding door. This is because it effortlessly saves space while defining it at the same time. Fluted glass sliding doors can be seen in walk-in closets, bathrooms, personal offices, and even in-room partitions.

• Partitions and Walls: You can use fluted glass as partitions and walls. You can even use them as accent walls, railings, and even sliding windows

5. How Do I Get The Right Fluted Door?

There are a lot of fluted glass suppliers in the country. Each supplier has years of experience and has supplied various homes with fluted glass doors. Singapore homeowners can be assured that the suppliers will provide them with the best options, the best aftercare, and overall, the best experience.

So if you want to incorporate a few fluted glass doors into your interior, it is always best to consult with a designer. Not only can they come up with various ways of incorporating this innovative material, but they also have access to many suppliers who will give you the best options for your interior. After all, having sleek and beautiful glass in your interiors speaks boldly of elegance, innovation, and creativity.

What You Need To Know About Wall Designs

Are you wondering how to decorate your living room walls? Or looking for design inspiration to freshen up the look of your living room and bedroom spaces? Perhaps one of the tricks lies in redesigning your walls. It’s about time to say goodbye to those dull, sterile-looking white walls and transform your home’s interior into a more interesting and visually stimulating space.

Whether you are planning to redesign your living room’s interior space to give it an updated look or simply looking for wall designs to enhance the look of your property and increase its value, this blog will help you choose at least one wall designs you can do for your living room and bedrooms. Discover new ways to add life and color to your living space. Here’s a list of #10 unique and beautiful wall designs that you and your family will surely adore.

1. Board and Batten Paneling

Board and batten paneling is popularly known as classical wainscoting. Wide boards are fastened next to each other, commonly vertically, to create the board and batten style of wood paneling. Additionally, the siding has a little piece of wood called a “batten” that is attached over the joints between wood planks to give it more dimension and personality. This type of wall design can be applied if you are planning to create a traditional home interior design look.

2. Accent Mirror Wall

If you are decorating a tiny bedroom or living room space, adding a huge mirror will do the trick. We all know that mirrors create the illusion of more space and light bounces back from the mirror’s reflection, thus making the interior look brighter. Opt for mirrors with interesting frames. It can also be of any shape and size. However, just keep in mind the principles of interior design such as balance and proportion when placing multiple decorative items on the wall.

3. Color Blocked Wall Designs for Bedroom

Another wall design you can do to add character and personality to your home is to color block the walls. Be creative as you can select colors that go well with each other. One of the reasons why color-blocking walls are so popular these days is probably because it is by far the easiest to integrate. You only need paint, and a paintbrush or roller to color blocked a wall which makes it very affordable on top of being the easiest to put.

4. Creative Mural Wall Designs For Living Room

If you want to go extra bold and a little more playful in your home, you need to consider repainting the walls that your children will adore. You can paint scenery, some beautiful landscapes, geometric figures, and other interesting yet creative murals that both the inhabitants of the facility or building can truly appreciate in the future.

5. Pastel Paint Color

Everyone is obsessed with the pastel aesthetic these days. Pastel colors can help enhance the mood and set a good and relaxing atmosphere in your home. If you are living in a small condo with a very tight space to move around, you should get rid of your unnecessary things and replace the color of your walls with something lighter yet calming to the eye. Pastel-colored walls give each space a very dreamlike atmosphere which can make your home Instagram-worthy.

6. Fluted Bedroom Wall Design

Engineered wood fibers with polyethylene densities are used to create fluted wall panels. Because wood fibers are used to create these products, they frequently mimic the appearance of real wood and frequently have a wooden finish. A mix of polystyrene components, however, makes a flanged wall panel resistant to termites, water, and mold.

7. Wood Slats

If your goal is to add texture and an interesting feature to your living room, go for wood slats. Wood slats can be readily bought online or in manufacturing stores. They are also available in different finishes, colors, and sizes. Adding wood slats on one of your living room walls is a great technique to create an accent wall or to integrate wood elements in the interior.

8. Floating Shelves

Instead of color blocking, placing furniture, or installing wood slats behind the TV monitor, you can mount floating shelves in the room instead. Floating shelves can be both functional and aesthetic. You can use it to store small books that won’t fit anymore in your bookcases. Floating shelves add depth and visual texture and most importantly, you can decorate on them such as adding a small potted succulent, sculptures or figurines, books, and other decorations and accessories they wish to add.

9. Wallpaper Designs For Living Room

Putting wallpapers are a way to exercise your creativity. When deciding to decorate your living room and bedroom with wallpapers, think of the result first. What interior design style are you aiming to achieve? What is the color palette of your living room? Determine all these factors to be able to choose the right wallpaper designs and patterns that will be suitable for your living room.

10. Statement Art Pieces

Lastly, you can decorate your living room walls with statement paintings. You can choose to have one big painting on a frame and hang it on your living room wall where the guest can instantly notice it the moment they walked into your home. Another cool strategy is to place a gallery of art pieces. A gallery of artworks means there are more than two or three paintings on your wall. Usually, these artworks are different in size and are mounted on the wall symmetrically or asymmetrically, depending on how you do the layout. Choose art pieces that stand out from your living room’s color scheme. It can be abstract art, pop art, modern, classical, or something entirely different yet eye-catching.

We haven’t covered everything yet about wall designs but we hope that the ideas we have mentioned above inspired you in transforming your house into a home as well. If you need help in deciding what wall design to choose from, don’t hesitate to contact our design team. Our in-house interior designers will gladly assist you in your journey to making your house a lovely place to be in.

About Shaker Style Cabinets

When redesigning or renovating a kitchen, one of the most important things that one should consider is the style of the cabinetry. Kitchen cabinetry takes up almost 70% of the kitchen space. It acts as the focal point of the kitchen and is the feature that determines the overall interior design style of the space.

Therefore, your choice of cabinetry design matters a lot. In this blog, we will discuss shaker-style cabinets. This type of cabinet has been widely popular for decades and is considered a timeless cabinet style. If you are considering renovating your cabinetry or building from scratch, you might consider getting shaker-style cabinets. Read on to find out more about this type of cabinet design.

What Are Shaker-Style Cabinets?

Kitchen cabinet designs sometimes look identical. It is difficult to distinguish which style is which if you are not that verse in cabinetry design and craftsmanship. The most distinguishing feature of a shaker-style cabinet is its shape. It has a box-shaped appearance with square edges. Within that box or slab is another square-shaped box but a little bit smaller, thus forming a border with an inset panel

Kitchen cabinets made of shaker style typically have soft curves and straight lines. Shaker-style cabinets are made of five pieces—two rails, two stiles, and a central panel—and are constructed significantly differently than typical kitchen cabinets.

What Are The Characteristics Of Shaker-Style Cabinets?

1. Minimalist

Shaker-style cabinets have a very simple and minimalistic design. This is one of the reasons why they remain timeless and on-trend even up to this day. You’ll often see shaker-style cabinets being incorporated in minimalist and tiny kitchens like those in small apartments and condo units.

2. Durable

Shaker cabinets are also very durable. They are made of solid hardwood and are distinguished by their sturdy all-wood construction, simplistic design, and reasonable price. They also feature recessed panel doors and rail frames and panel construction. This is what creates the timeless, clean lines of shaker cabinet doors.

3. High Quality

Shaker cabinets require a very low maintenance and upkeep but will endure a long time, although being slightly more expensive than modern cabinetry. Although high-end veneers and other materials can be used to create a comparable aesthetic, almost all shaker cabinets are constructed from solid wood, usually oak or maple.

4. Detailed Craftsmanship

Shaker cabinets have been here for quite so long because of their extraordinary craftsmanship and durability. The style originates from the past and is crafted by skilled artisans. Professional cabinet makers have skillfully and meticulously created all of its features, such as the cabinet door, drawers, and beveled edges.

5. Versatile Design

The simple and minimalistic appeal of shaker-style cabinets makes it a versatile cabinet design that can fit almost any type of interior design style. To incorporate it smoothly into your interior design choice, you must be mindful of the accessories you can put to complement it. These include the hardware, paint color, finishes, kitchen countertops, and backsplashes.

Top 6 Interior Design Style Where You Can Incorporate Shaker Design Cabinets

Below are the most popular interior design styles where you can easily integrate the shaker-style cabinets.

1. Transitional

If you want to create a kitchen aesthetic that blends contemporary and traditional, shaker-style cabinets are the best cabinetry style to achieve that look. Painting the cabinets in white gives it a modern touch, while its beveled edges, soft craftsmanship, and elegant hardware evoke the charm of a classic kitchen design. It is a great cabinetry choice to add warmth and vibrance to a rather clinical modern kitchen.

2. Traditional

Another interior design style where shaker cabinets are popularly used is the traditional interior design style. If you love the traditional vibe and want to create an elegant, sophisticated ambiance that makes you feel like you are being transported back in time, go for shaker-style cabinets. The clean aesthetic of shaker cabinets will nail that look. Moreover, you can paint it brown to maintain the natural wood grain appeal or paint it with a neutral or pastel color for a more heavenly appearance.

3. Modern Victorian

Modern Victorian homes, as the name implies, refer to residences that combine elements of the Victorian era with contemporary design. This means that a modern Victorian interior mixes and matches modern accessories with Victorian or vintage-style pieces. To best complement this type of interior style, choose simple yet detailed and classical interior architectural features, including kitchen cabinetry. Shaker-style cabinets are considered the most suitable cabinetry style to achieve the modern Victorian aesthetic.

4. French Country

The French-country design combines rustic pleasures with European grandeur. The current decorating trend provides a welcoming, polished, and lived-in appearance by utilizing calming colors, delicate patterns, and antique details. The aesthetic of French-country kitchens is friendly, rustic, and nostalgic, making shaker cabinets the perfect cabinet style to apply. You can paint shaker cabinets with vibrant hues such as gold, crimson, or olive.

5. Contemporary

Because of their versatile and flexible characteristics, shaker-style cabinets can also suit modern and contemporary kitchens. Having a simple and modest kitchen cabinetry style will make it easier for you to decorate, accessorize, and accentuate it with other design elements. No matter how many times you redecorate your contemporary kitchen or how many times you switch interior design styles, one thing will constantly remain timeless and stylish, and that is none other than your shaker-style cabinets.

6. Coastal Interior Design Style

A constrained color scheme of muted hues reminiscent of the beach and the ocean and organic elements like worn wood and rattan distinguish a coastal decor concept. This concept is like a mix of country or farmhouse interior design styles but with subtle hints of a coastal vibe through the use of color, accessories, and decorations. The best cabinetry style for this type of interior design look is, of course, shaker cabinets. The modest appearance and soft and subtle features of shaker cabinets perfectly complement that coastal aesthetic vibe.

There you have it! We hope you find this short blog about shaker-style cabinets helpful in your search for the best cabinetry design to integrate into your kitchen. Whether you want a modern or traditional kitchen, there’s always a unique and creative way to integrate shaker-style cabinets that will make your kitchen look just the way you want it. Need more help in designing your kitchen? Send us an email, and our in-house interior designers will be there to assist you.

What You Need To Know About Toilet with Exhaust Fan

Most buildings in Singapore were designed around the limited land space in the ever-growing metropolis. As such, while everyone has slowly embraced the idea of living in small and practical spaces that even the most basic feature which is proper ventilation and air circulation. This cannot be more evidenced in toilets and baths where there is either a small singular window or none at all.

Without proper ventilation, moisture accumulates in the room, leading to the development of bad odor, bacteria, molds, and other health risk factors.

The best solution is by equipping your toilet with an exhaust fan. Now what exactly is an exhaust fan and how do you incorporate it in your bathroom without compromising both function and aesthetics?

The first thing you must know about exhaust fans is that they come in various styles and designs. But the most common is that of a bladed fan. What it does is that it sucks the air out of the room and into several ducts or through an opening, leaving room for fresh air to enter.

A common way of equipping the bathroom exhaust fan is by having a small opening in the wall, but for some apartments where the toilet and bath are located in areas where having an opening in the wall is non-negotiable, designers and suppliers have come up with innovative designs that solve the ventilation problem.

Below are some of the innovative designs that are employed in some of Singapore’s premiere condos and HDB/BTOs.

1. Window Mounted Bathroom Exhaust Fan

A classic method involves mounting the exhaust fan either near the window or incorporating it in the overall window’s design. While this may be considered a practical approach, it gives designers the option to create a unique design that looks as if they are simply part of the window or more. They can opt for a modernized version of the fan covered in a louver or even a seemingly bladeless fan. Just be very specific when it comes to choosing the right size. For window-mounted exhaust fans, you need to choose fans that are at least ½ of the panel.

2. Ceiling Mounted Toilet Exhaust Fan

So what happens if your toilet and bath don’t have a window? Where else can you install an exhaust fan? How about on the ceiling?

Yes, believe it or not, you can take advantage of the ceiling and install your exhaust fan there. The ceiling conceals the pipes and plumbing and even has small air ducts that help with the ventilation of the unit.

For bathroom exhaust fans, opt for exhaust fans that are seamless in the frame and are not too big or too small. Square and rectangular ones are often used, but as of late, designers have opted to use a ceiling-mounted fan that doubles as a lighting fixture. A popular design is a fixture that looks like an LED light that has a fan behind the light source. When in operation, it silently

3. Inline Fan

A type of exhaust fan that is designed to serve multiple bathrooms. The inline exhaust fan is called such because it is installed in the middle of the pipes before the ceiling is installed. While it makes the ceiling clean to look at, it can also be difficult to replace because that would involve replacing the entire ceiling. When considering this type, it is best to consult with the installer on the maintenance upkeep as well as practical usage.

What To Consider Before Purchasing Exhaust Fans

Since there are a lot of suppliers who supply various exhaust fans, what do you need to consider when purchasing one? Many homeowners rely on professionals since they have a good idea of what type of exhaust fan will suit them better. But if you’re the type who would like to make that decision, here are two things you need to consider.

1. Air Changes Per Hour

This refers to the number of times stale air is removed from the room and replaced with fresh air. This determines the speed and efficiency of the exhaust fan you would want to use. Ideally, the air change rate should be at least 6-10 times per hour. A way to determine the rate is by dividing the cubic meter per hour rating of the proposed exhaust fan by the cubic meter of your bathroom.

2. Noise Level

For many, toilets with exhaust fans can be quite noisy. Particularly, the sounds of the blades echo throughout the room and disturb other unit owners. Noise level is measured in decibels and the average noise level that can be tolerated is 60 decibels which is equivalent to a normal speaking voice.

Sadly, most, if not all, exhaust fans produce noise due to their heavy motors. Good quality ventilation fans have sound levels that are at least 25-40 decibels whereas subpar ones emit sound levels of 50-60 decibels. When having it installed, always consider proper maintenance and upkeep if you want your exhaust fan to last longer.

In conclusion, remember to speak of consultations when you are planning to equip your windowless toilet with exhaust fans. You must consider if your property has certain regulations about it. As much as possible, you need to consider if the area will affect the structure’s overall integrity or safety.

For HDB flats, only a registered or trained professional can install the exhaust fan. The same principle is for other managed properties and condominiums. This is done so that when the exhaust fan is properly installed, it will not compromise the overall look; the safety of the unit owners as well as the outside, and the overall comfort.

Contractors and designers can help design your toilet with the right exhaust fan that will make it less stressful on your part as well as others.

Lighting For Living Room Ideas

Lighting plays an integral role in the overall appearance of the house both exterior and interior, yet a lot of people often overlook this fact when decorating their spaces. Interior light for the living room is more than just placing a light bulb or lamp on a table. It requires detailed and accurate planning to achieve the desired mood and atmosphere of a certain space. Without proper interior light for the living room, no matter how luxurious and beautiful your interior is, it still won’t make a great impression.

We’ve seen countless interior lights for living room design but most of these compositions have become outdated. This year, however, is brimming with new, creative, and inspiring lighting ideas that have swept the interior design world by storm. Designers and home décor enthusiasts are taking notes and so should you. So, without further ado, let’s take a deep dive into what these lighting trends are.

Most Popular Living Room Lights

Below are the most popular types of lighting that are commonly seen in Singapore living rooms.

• Chandeliers

Chandeliers are considered as general lighting. They are placed in the living room to generally light up the space and create ambiance. Chandeliers come in different sizes and styles. Choose the style that best fits your living room’s interior design style.

• Recessed Lighting

Recessed lighting is also considered general lighting. They are most likely seen in corners of the ceiling to light up certain areas and prevent some corners from being kept in the dark. Recessed lighting is a common type of lighting and can be found in almost any room.

• Sconces

Sconces are lighting fixtures that are mounted to walls. They are known as accent lights because they add style to a living room’s wall and are often used to highlight certain architectural features in the wall.

• Floor lamps and table lamps

Floor lamps and table lamps are both decorative and functional elements in the living room. Lamps in the living room are categorized as task lighting because they are placed in a particular corner to aid in tasks like reading, sewing, and other tasks that are often done when relaxing in the living room. Some floor lamps and table lamps have a unique style which makes them a good décor piece to add to a living room space.

Here Are 5 Ideas for Living Room’s Lighting

1. Minimal Yet Eye-catching

In some interior design eras, chandeliers and huge sparkling pendant lights are reserved for grand and castle-like spaces. But in today’s modern world, designers are using a new technique of mixing and matching items and accessories from different eras to create a sense of intrigue and interest not just in the visual aspect but in the emotion and overall vibe of the space as well.

A luxurious chandelier hung on a minimalist living area or foyer can easily catch the attention of your guests. Having that piece that stands out against the neutral backdrop is such a statement-maker. Your guests will surely be awed as their eyes are glued to the masterpiece of a chandelier hanging in your room.

2. Match Made in Heaven

Sometimes, contrasting styles are perfect together. Taking an old element and modernizing it is another great way of making a statement with your lighting composition. Keeping everything streamlined in a contemporary space is old news.

The fresh idea now is to spice it up with texture and color either through the amount of light or the type of lighting item in place. Vintage lamps on a minimalist side table evoke a concept that tells a story. Interior design is storytelling in the form of selecting items carefully in a way that they either complement or contrast each other.

3. Meticulous Interior Light for Living Room Details

God has been in the details since time immemorial and such is true for interior lighting design. A subtle tweak in the lighting temperature of a bulb can either make or break a space. That is how powerful lighting is. And when it comes to selecting lampshades, pendant lights, and chandeliers, details matter. It is the meticulous and ornate features of a lighting fixture that makes it truly special.

No matter how simplified or modest a fixture looks, as long as it has carefully crafted details it can make any interior light for the living room stand out and look classy. Fixtures that are made of metal, bronze, or gold are a favorite of the crowd. Glass is also another thing. Regardless of what material they’re made of, it’s the details that matter.

4. Modern and Luxurious

Grand chandeliers can be a thing of the past – like those you see in Georgian and Victorian interiors. However, not all chandeliers are a thing of the past. There is a new wave of chandelier designs that are perfect for contemporary spaces without looking overly regency. A simple, yet luxurious piece against a modern and neutral scene.

There are two main scenes one can create with lighting design. It is to contrast or to complement. Modern and luxurious lighting tends to do the latter in contemporary spaces. They’re crafted and designed to blend in and add coherence to the concept.

5. Subtle and Organic

On the one end of the spectrum, there are materials like metal, gold, bronze, nickel, glass, and the like. While on the opposite end, are the fixtures made of organic or natural fibers such as rattan, jute, wicker, and bamboo.

This organic touch is so aesthetically pleasing to the eye and sense of mind that people are starting to incorporate it in their spaces including bathrooms and bedrooms. This whole revolution of organic lamps and chandeliers is so enthralling that this style trend is not going to die down anytime soon.

There are many fascinating interior lights for living room trends to discuss, but we’ll save that for another time. We hope that this brief article has inspired you and provided you with ideas for what lighting design is best for your space. Subscribe to our email list to keep updated on the latest news and trends in interior design. 

What You Need To Know About Window Blinds in Singapore

Window blinds are considered one of the most popular and typical window treatments (aside from curtains, shades, and draperies). Window blinds are more convenient and practical which is why many people prefer them over curtains. Blinds can also be stylish and they can come in a variety of styles and colors.

Blinds are an essential part of your window since they have several advantages over being merely decorative, as most people like to think of them. A blind enhances your home’s privacy, limits the amount of light that enters a space, and aids in maintaining a cozy interior temperature. Whether your home is in traditional or contemporary style, there surely is a perfect window blind that would fit just fine.

If on the other hand, you have a rather unconventional window design, you can request a window blind manufacturer or supplier to create customized window blinds for you. If you are planning to upgrade your windows soon and are not quite sure whether to go for shades, curtains, or blinds, then continue reading this blog. We’ll take a deep dive into the difference between blinds, shades, and curtains, enumerate the most common types of window blinds; and discuss their installation process.

The Difference Between Window Blinds, Shades, and Curtains?

• Blinds are window covering that have slats that tilt and close when operated to block light or allow light through the space.
• Shades, on the other hand, are single pieces of textile used to cover the windows. Shades are pulled by a string for them to move up and down.
• Curtains are made of fabric and are primarily used to create insulation in the room, block sunlight, and also serve as a décor element in the interior space.

5 Types of Curtain Blinds in Singapore

Window blinds are classified into 5 types which are commonly found in most houses these days. If you have been thinking about getting window blinds, you first need to find out what window blinds would be best. Below are some of them.

1. Smart Blinds

A smart blind is similar to a regular blind, but it is integrated with a smart feature. Most homes these days use smart home features with the popularity of Alexa and Google Home. With smart window blinds, you can control your window blinds by using a voice command or a tap on your phone.

If you have large windows with large blinds which can be difficult to access to open and close manually, use smart blinds instead. That way, you don’t have to make an effort every day to pull down or up your blinds because one voice command will do.

2. Wooden Blinds

Blinds that are made of wooden slats are referred to as wooden blinds. Blinds like these are common in most traditional homes. However, these types of blinds can also be used in modern homes to create contrast and accentuate the neutral color scheme of contemporary homes. If you want to add character and visual texture to your window, you can go for wooden blinds.

3. Vertical Blinds

Vertical blinds are commonly used in large floor-to-ceiling windows such as in balconies and in sliding doors or windows leading to the outdoor space or patio. Vertical slats ran along the track at the top of the blind. The blind can be opened by pulling it to the left or right side or by parting it in the middle. There are also vertical blinds that are integrated with a home automation feature – which means you can control them using a remote control or an app on your phone.

4. Venetian Blinds

The most widely used type of blinds in Singapore is Venetian. They are horizontal blinds with horizontal slats that are attached by string or fabric tapes. Venetian blinds’ bottom slat presses into the slat above this because it is lifted.

5. Panel Blinds

For patio doors and especially wide windows, panel blinds are yet another popular option. With panel blinds, you can open and close them because the portions move along a track. Depending on the fabric you select, panel glides are efficient in obstructing light and establishing privacy. They are frequently used for interior blinds and room dividers despite having a generally lower ability to control light than vertical blinds.

Blinds Installation Singapore Guide

A few brackets are used to fasten window blinds to the wall or window casing. Normally, after the brackets are connected, the blinds will glide into them. Before installing, check that the complete set of blinds – including the brackets – fits the window. You can hire someone to install the blinds for you especially if you have many large windows in the house. If on the other hand, you are planning to install blinds on small windows that you can easily reach, you can do them by yourself. You’ll also need to take into account the type of blinds you are going to install because some blinds can be difficult and can only be installed properly with the help of a professional.

It just takes 5 to 10 minutes to install horizontal blinds including wooden blinds, mini blinds, and vertical blinds. You simply only need a few screws and a screwdriver, making them simple enough for a DIY beginner to accomplish.

If you’re doing it yourself, installing vertical blinds or panel tracks over large windows or sliding glass doors can be difficult, heavy, and stressful. You’ll avoid the hassle by working with a professional installer.

Why Choose Window Blinds Singapore?

Like other window treatments, window blinds contribute to your home’s energy consumption. They work as insulation, trapping air against the windows, safeguarding your house, and making it simpler to heat or cool. We hope this short guide has helped you know more about window blinds in Singapore. If you are still unsure what type of blinds to put in your window or whether shades and curtains would be a better option, contact our team of designers and we’ll gladly assist you in making the right and informed decision regarding window treatments.

About The Open Concept Wardrobe

Have you been struggling lately in keeping your closet organized? It might be because you don’t have the right wardrobe design that works for your kind of routine. You see, some people think that wardrobes are all the same. Actually, there are different kinds of wardrobes that people can consider in their bedrooms (depending on their preferences). Some might prefer the open concept wardrobe where it is easier to access clothes while others may want the traditional closed wardrobe to keep everything hidden in plain sight.

If you are looking for the best wardrobe style that will help maximize the space you have in your bedroom while, at the same time, keeping your stuff organized, this article is for you. We’ve gathered several open-concept wardrobe ideas you may want to try in your bedroom.

1. Rack Open Concept Wardrobe

The first that we have on the list is a rack wardrobe. A rack wardrobe is very simple. It is basically made up of wooden sticks fitted together to form a rack where you can hang your clothes. This works best for minimalist and contemporary bedrooms with limited space. Rack wardrobes like these are very convenient because you can move them around the room in case you want to rearrange your bedroom’s layout. Moreover, clothes hung on racks can be easily accessed which is very convenient for people who often get dressed in a rush.

2. Shelf Wardrobe

Shelf wardrobes can either have doors or not. Shelf wardrobes with doors are common in most homes. It is basically a closet that has multiple shelves inside where you can organize your clothes accordingly. An open concept wardrobe is also becoming more popular these days. With the rise of organization hacks, many people subscribe into the minimalist interior movement and are adapting to the aesthetic which typically involves displaying items around in the open.

3. Contemporary Open Wardrobe Ideas For Small Bedrooms

If you are looking for modern, sleek, and streamlined wardrobe ideas for a room with limited space, go for something contemporary in design. Contemporary wardrobes can be purchased readily in furniture stores. They are easy to assemble, durable, and flexible. Wardrobes like these are designed with practicality, functionality, and aesthetics in mind. So, if you are looking for a straightforward solution to solve your organizing problems in the bedroom, check out some contemporary wardrobe designs on furniture stores, hardware, and other furniture online stores.

4. Hidden in Plain Sight

Some people prefer to keep their stuff hidden in plain sight. While open shelving and racks are becoming a popular aesthetic nowadays, nothing still beats having a streamlined interior space where all your belongings are tucked neatly behind a closed wardrobe. Wardrobes like these are ideal for people who don’t have the time to arrange and organize their clothes every day. Having to do this almost every time you change clothes can be daunting. Rather than leave your clothes hanging on chairs, on the bed, or on the floor, it is best to get a closed wardrobe where you can tuck your clothes away to keep everything in your room organized and pleasant to the eyes.

5. Mirror Wardrobe

For bedrooms with very limited space, squeezing in a large wardrobe might make the space too cramped. One trick you can do is to install mirrors on your wardrobe doors. Mirrors can brighten the space and creates the illusion of more space because of the reflections. Therefore, if your aim is to make your room bigger and more comfortable, consider putting mirrors on your wardrobe doors.

6. Traditional Shabby Chic Wardrobe

A shabby chic wardrobe is not only for traditionally-styled bedrooms. Among other designs that embody the traditional country vibe, shabby chic furniture is perhaps the most versatile among them. This type of furniture complements modern and contemporary interiors in a unique way. They add a sense of story and emotion that makes one feel like the interior is telling a narrative more than just displaying a design composition. If you want to try out new things when it comes to interior design, consider a shabby chic wardrobe and complement it with a modern piece.

7. Wheeled Wardrobe

Wheeled wardrobes are considered a storage solution for many homeowners. However, a wheeled wardrobe does not look aesthetically pleasing compared to other wardrobe designs that are made of wood and are fully finished or painted. A wheeled wardrobe can be more around effortlessly because of its wheels. If you are looking for a temporary wardrobe, wheeled wardrobes are the best way to go. You can store them away when not in use or easily transport them when you decide to move houses.

8. Sliding Door Wardrobe

A sliding door wardrobe takes its cure from Japanese-styled interior spaces. Sliding doors are a common design feature in traditional Japanese houses. Many people (especially young professionals who are starting to build a life in the city) prefer minimalist and practical designs when it comes to decorating or furnishing their homes. A sliding wardrobe is considered practical and it saves a lot of space. If your interior design scheme is geared toward Japanese minimalism, then a sliding door wardrobe would be perfect.

9. Mini Walk-in Wardrobe

If you are lucky to have more space in your bedroom, then don’t hesitate to go for a walk-in wardrobe. A walk-in wardrobe is way more convenient because you can also place your bags, shoes, and other belongings there. Having them placed makes sit easier to organize them. On top of that, you don’t have to scour your drawers and closet doors when looking for specific clothes because you can neatly organize them and display them in your walk-in wardrobe/closet.

Organizing your closets saves you time and stress. When your clothes can easily be found and pulled out from one certain place, you can avoid wasting your time rummaging through each drawer. An organized bedroom equates to an organized life. Therefore, to keep your bedrooms neatly organized and clean, consider changing up your wardrobe into an open-concept wardrobe or redesigning your bedroom to improve your routine and make your life easier.  

About Cabinet For Living Room

Cabinets are essential furniture pieces in the living room. Without cabinets, our living room may look disorganized, uncluttered, and overcrowded with stuff. The existence of a cabinet for the living room keeps our small stuff hidden in plain sight and makes us easier to find them.

Here in Singapore, where people are mostly living in HDB units and apartments with limited space, adding an extra cabinet in the living room would be very helpful not just in terms of keeping the home organized, but also for aesthetic purposes. Cabinets make the living room look furnished. Moreover, they are considered an extra storage space and everyone needs an extra storage space.

If you are still in the planning stage of furnishing your home and are wondering what type of cabinetry to put in your living area, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we gathered the most common cabinets that homeowners have in their homes. You can include at least 2-3 types of these cabinets in your home and hire a professional to customize them for your space. So, without further ado, let’s jump right into the list.

1. Floating Cabinet for Living Room

From the name itself, a floating cabinet refers to a cabinet that is mounted or attached to the wall without any support. This creates the illusion that the cabinet is floating. Cabinets like these are popular in modern and contemporary homes because of their streamlined, sleek, and clean appearance. Although they don’t have legs to support their weight, floating cabinets are strong because they are mounted on the wall and it is the wall that supports their weight.

2. Sideboard Cabinet

If you are looking for storage that you can rearrange or move around, go for a furniture type such as a sideboard cabinet. There are many things you can do with a sideboard cabinet. You can place it in your living room and decorate its surface with accessories and artwork. The advantage of sideboard cabinets is their ability to be moved around. You can place it in the dining room, entryway, or hallway.

3. TV Stand Cabinet

Perhaps the most common location to put cabinets is on your TV stand. TV stands are furniture pieces that you can purchase from a furniture store. If all you need is another storage space to add to your small living room, purchase a TV stand with drawers and cabinets. You can then use these drawers and cabinets to keep books, remote control, and other electronic devices and TV accessories.

4. Hidden Cabinet On Wall

Maximize the space on your walls by creating a hidden cabinet for the living room. If you want more storage space but don’t like the idea of having it in the form of bulky furniture, then create customized cabinetry on your walls and camouflage it so it is hidden in plain sight. This trick is best for modern or contemporary homes where everything must be streamlined and clean. Hidden storage areas like these also tend to be a lot more spacious since you can have an entire wall of cabinetry to store your belongings.

5. Cabinet in TV Wall Panel

You can also have cabinets on your TV wall panel. Some homeowners prefer to have their TV wall panels custom-made. You can ask your handyman to create cabinetry in your TV wall panel design where you can store your TV accessories, wiring, and other appliances

6. Ornate Cabinet Furniture

A piece of ornate cabinets for the living room furniture is not for everyone. Unless your home has a traditional vibe or you want to create an interior design composition that combines modern with traditional. Cabinets like these are bulky and they can easily catch the attention of people because of their ornate designs and detailing. You can find this type of furniture in thrift stores, antique shops, and flea markets. Get something like this if your aim is more than just to add storage but also to evoke a sense of grandeur in your space.

7. Glass Display Cabinet

A glass display cabinet is intended so you can have a place to display your accessories and decorations. Glass display cabinets are common in kitchens where most people place their prized cookware to display. There are also a variety of glass cabinet designs that are appropriate for the living room. These designs usually have a two-door cabinet and have a more modest and streamlined design to fit in minimalist and modern spaces.

8. Side Table With Cabinet

Side tables are tables placed on one or both ends of the living room couch. Side tables often come with a drawer and a cabinet depending on the style. You can place one or two of these on the end of your sofa. It will serve as a space where you can put a vase, a stack of books, or a table lamp to style your living room. On the drawers and cabinets, you can store small things like coffee table books, phone holders, bowls, candles, and other things that you will find scattered about in your living room.

We know that the living room is one of the rooms that are difficult to keep organized and free of clutter. Keeping things organized becomes even more challenging especially when there are kids, toddlers, and a pet in the house. Having extra cabinets whether it is on the wall, a piece of furniture or storage space under your sofa’s seating can make a whole lot of difference.

If you are redesigning or renovating your living room always consider the storage spaces. Do you have enough of them? If not, where can you possibly add one? Is it on the walls? On your TV wall panel? Or maybe you can squeeze in a side table, a display cabinet, or a sideboard in your space. Assess your surroundings and make a rough estimate of how many cabinet for living room you should have or whether or not you should add one.

About Floor Renovation in Singapore

If you are planning to renovate your home or do a little upgrade on a property that you’re about to sell, one of the most important parts that you should focus on is the flooring. The flooring in an old property can look very outdated, dirty, and unpleasant. If your goal is to get a higher return, you must prepare the house and do simple floor renovations to make everything look good as new.

On the other hand, if you are thinking of changing the flooring of your house for aesthetic and practical purposes, you should buy the best flooring materials that will work best for your demands, needs, lifestyle, and design taste. There are a lot of things that you should consider when looking for flooring in Singapore. In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into floor renovation and discuss about the most common flooring material and its pros and cons.

Common Floor Renovation Material To Use In Singapore Homes

1. Bamboo Flooring in Singapore

Bamboo has become a popular material to use in flooring. Bamboo is considered sustainable because it is a type of grass that grows faster which makes it more environment-friendly and a good alternative to solid wood. Bamboo flooring is engineered and is sought after because of its sturdiness and clean aesthetic that fits the contemporary and minimalist interior.

If you want to go green and sustainable with your home’s interior design, bamboo flooring would be a great choice. There are also a variety of engineered bamboo designs you can choose from. You can go for horizontal or vertical bamboo strips. Moreover, you can stain your bamboo flooring if you prefer a different color such as a lighter or a darker brown.

Pros: Bamboo flooring is durable and DIY-friendly. It is also easier to clean and absorbs moisture way better than any other hard wood. Bamboo is also versatile whether your home is modern, contemporary, or traditional.

Cons: A thin and cheaper bamboo flooring is susceptible to damage and scratches. Unlike other materials such as tile and vinyl, bamboo is limited when it comes to color. You can only find bamboo flooring in certain shades of brown.

2. Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl is another popular type of flooring that is commonly used in small condo units and apartments. Vinyl is affordable and is a great material if you prefer to DIY. There are many kinds of vinyl. One is sheet vinyl which usually comes in a roll and is glued into place. Another vinyl type is the one with a peel and stick feature. This is usually purchased per plank where you remove a sticker on the back and install it by simply sticking the plank onto the floor.

There is also thicker vinyl available but they can be quite costly. If you have a larger floor area to cover, you might want to go for the thicker vinyl planks. These types of vinyl flooring are more comfortable to walk on and have the highest quality among other types.

Pros: If you decide to go for vinyl flooring, you have many choices available ranging from the vinyl type, design, color, and size. If you have a very specific flooring design and color in mind, go for vinyl and look for certain vinyl designs on stores. Undoubtedly, you’ll find the best vinyl design you’re looking for because of the many options available.

Cons: The problem with vinyl is that it is not as sustainable compared to bamboo, wood, or tile. Its lifespan also is not guaranteed. You have to be careful not to soak the flooring or else your vinyl will get damaged.

3. Hardwood Floor Renovation

Hardwood is considered a classic flooring material. Whether it is in the kitchen, living room, or outdoor space, hardwood will never fail to satisfy not just in terms of aesthetics but in quality as well. Hardwood is durable which means it can last for a very long period of time. It is also very versatile so you can switch up your interior design scheme a couple of times and your hardwood flooring would still be able to fit in the picture.

Pros: Quality and design-wise, hardwood tops the list of the best material choice for flooring. Its beauty is unparalleled and having hardwood flooring will instantly increase the value of a home.

Cons: Hardwood is expensive and although it is durable, it is still prone to dents and scratches. Having this kind of flooring would require you to properly care for and maintain its appearance so it wouldn’t lose its charm.

4. Laminate Flooring

Laminate can replicate the appearance of wood. If you want to have wood flooring but don’t want to go for natural wood because of the price and the downsides, then laminate flooring would be the perfect alternative. Laminate is durable and is available in a variety of styles. If you want to achieve the hardwood floor effect but are a little tight on budget, consider laminate instead.

Pros: Perhaps the greatest advantage of laminate flooring is its affordability. You can upgrade the flooring of your home and make it look clean and good as new at a relatively low price. Moreover, laminate is easy to install so you don’t have to pay for labor when installing it because you can also do it yourself.

Cons: The material in which laminate flooring is made is prone to water damage. Therefore, you shouldn’t install this flooring in areas where it can be exposed to water such as near the bathroom, kitchen sink, or outdoor spaces.

5. Tile Flooring in Singapore

Tile can withstand all of the spills and messes that come with daily life without being easily soiled. Terracotta, porcelain, glazed, and quarry are the four main varieties of ceramic tile. Each variety has a distinctive appearance and feel, as well as varying degrees of durability. Remember to pick a tile that will be sturdy enough to withstand heavy use if you’re putting ceramic tile in a highly congested area of your home.

Pros: Whether it is aesthetic, durability, quality, or functionality, tile flooring can serve all that effortlessly. It is the ideal flooring to use in kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor areas, and even living areas. If you are looking for a flooring material that won’t have any issues in terms of damage and stains in the long run, tile is the way to go.

Cons: Because of their hardness, tiles frequently result in both internal and external damage when something falls on them, shattering glass and causing fractures and chipping in the process.

If you are not sure what flooring material is best for your upcoming floor renovation project, contact us and we would gladly assist you in choosing the best material flooring perfect for you. Upgrading the flooring of a home is a tedious and a very expensive project to embark on. You need proper guidance and the help of a professional so you won’t end up wasting your money on a wrong flooring material. Don’t hesitate to message our team if you have any questions!

About HDB Toilets Design Ideas…

The bathroom is one of the most essential rooms that we have in our homes. When we buy a property, we always make sure that the bathroom is in good shape, functional, and at the same time, comfortable. But when it comes to designing a home, we tend to overlook the bathroom.

But actually, we spend most of our time in the bathroom. We use it every day and is considered an essential part of making our lives convenient and efficient. With that being said, it is beneficial to give our bathrooms a complete update or makeover every once in a while.

Here are 10 modern HDB toilet design ideas that you can do no matter how big or small your bathroom is. Stick until the end of this blog and you’ll surely find one particular design that will be perfect for your bathroom.

1. Color-blocked Walls

Nothing can make a wonderful impression in a room quite like the playful splashes of color. If you are planning to update a toilet in a children’s room, introducing bright and bold colors would make the toilet an interesting room for the kids.

Color blocked the walls in your bathroom with complementary colors to create contrast and visual play. Colorful bathrooms like these are common in modern and contemporary HDBs. They not only make the bathroom look trendy but they also improve the overall ambiance of the space.

2. Luxurious HDB Common Toilet Design

A Luxury HDB toilets design is not only for classic good-class bungalows and premium condo units. You can also achieve this even for your tiny HDB unit. Do you ever dream of having a bathroom decked in marble? Go for it! Luxury is not only for grand spaces.

With the right materials and design concept, you can transform even the smallest bathroom in an HDB unit into a spa-like retreat. If you are not sure how to do it, interior designers are always there to help you out. Consult a designer and make your dream bathroom a reality.

3. Old HDB Toilet Design

Old or traditional bathroom designs frequently incorporate materials and decor that are appropriate to the historical eras they represent, such as Victorian, colonial, or Georgian forms, as well as what is now popular in the design world. In Singapore, traditional design themes are common not just in landed houses but in HDBs as well.

Of course, many people are charmed by the nostalgic and delightful design of a traditional themed space. If you like to add character and stick to a traditional theme throughout your unit, consider designing your toilet in a traditional style. Incorporate vintage decors such as mirrors, lamps, and an old vanity and clad the walls with stone or brick tiles.

4. Industrial Bathroom Design

One of the most well-loved interior styles in contemporary spaces is the Industrial style. Industrial-style bathrooms frequently have exposed wires, ducts, tubes, and pipes. This intensifies the design’s sense of incompleteness.

On the ceiling, a sizable silver duct can be seen. Above the vanity, pipes are visible for aesthetic purposes. The room doesn’t appear too dilapidated because the floor and ceiling are covered in hardwood to create contrast and add visual texture. If you are tired of the all-white bathroom aesthetic, try designing your bathroom in industrial style.

5. Scandinavian Toilet

Scandinavian bathrooms have a simple aesthetic but are quite practical and functional. Although white serves as the foundation for Scandinavian design, you can avoid having your bathroom look institutional by adding various muted color bursts that will give it a sense of character.

6. Japandi Style

Japanese design frequently promotes sustainability. It’s an excellent decor trend because natural materials and straightforward designs are so common. Japandi’s success is not surprising given that more and more consumers are drawn to eco-friendly aesthetics. Natural wood, neutral colors, and simple lines make this design ideal for bathrooms. This style exudes serenity, making it ideal for achieving a spa-like atmosphere in the bathroom.

7. Rustic Chic

The rustic design makes use of raw materials like salvaged wood and soaring stones. All bathrooms of all sizes and forms can benefit from rustic bathroom decor since it highlights a natural aesthetic with a rustic edge.

Rustic bathroom decor ideas include the use of reclaimed wood, galvanized metal, rough stone, and cast iron. These unpolished, raw materials impart a sense of handcrafted originality and instantly add personality to any space.

8. Modern Toilet With A View

A hotel-style bathroom or a toilet with a view is perhaps every HDB homeowner’s dream. White having a toilet with a view depends on the layout of your unit or whether or not your bathroom has a window with a view that overlooks the city, you still have a chance of achieving such a look even without a huge window.

Designers use the faux window mirror trick to make a small bathroom appear luxurious and spacious. By incorporating huge mirrors on the walls, the light will bounce off the walls making the space brighter and airer.

9. Patterned Walls

The bathroom can be one of the trickier rooms to design because of the focus it places on utility. Finding the ideal bathroom paint color is important, but wallpaper may offer a unique and appealing touch. Wallpaper is available in countless styles, patterns, and hues.

In places prone to spills and splatters, use vinyl wallpaper because it is the most durable of all wallpaper kinds. Keep in mind that vinyl should be hung below the toilet and around the shower.

10. Minimalist Suspended HDB Toilets Design

For tiny HDB units with very small bathrooms, incorporating décor elements can be challenging because it might end up overcrowding the space. If you want to maximize the space, opt for a suspended toilet.

A wall-hung toilet or commonly known as a suspended toilet is one that has its tank built into the wall and a toilet bowl that is fastened directly to the wall. As a result, wall-hung toilets can be more compact. Since the operating components are covered, placing the tank behind a wall gives it a more contemporary appearance.

A well-thought-out bathroom design may give you a soothing spot to rest after a stressful day as well as an efficient way to meet your daily demands. For instance, adding cool design elements and ambient lighting can give your home a spa-like environment and atmosphere. So, what are you waiting for? Pick at least one of the HDB toilets design ideas we presented and give your bathroom the update it deserves!

About Kitchen Doors In Singapore

A kitchen door may serve as the focal point of any kitchen entrance, much like the entry door can. The type of door that would work best for the interior of your home, therefore, requires a bit more thinking. In this blog, we’ll talk more about kitchen doors in Singapore. After reading this, you’ll have an initial idea of the variety of kitchen door designs available for you.

Which Type of Door is Best for Kitchen?

A kitchen door helps make the kitchen well-ventilated. You can have an external door to have direct access to a dirty kitchen if there’s any or to your service area and outdoor space. You can also install interior doors to create a division between your dining and kitchen.

Regardless of where you want to install your kitchen door, knowing the best material appropriate to use in the kitchen is essential to make your kitchen convenient and efficient. The most common materials used for kitchen doors are glass, stainless steel, engineered wood, and solid wood. Make sure that the door you install is made of either of these materials to ensure comfortability and safety in your kitchen.

#9 Kitchen Door Ideas Singapore

Below are some of the door types that are perfect to have in the kitchen. Check them out!

1. Sliding Glass Doors

Sliding doors, whether used as an interior or external entry door, may significantly increase air circulation and ventilation. They can function as extra-large glass windows that you can open to let the natural light and air go through the space. Sliding glass doors can seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor areas as well as the interior space. It is an ideal kitchen door to have for contemporary homes with an open-plan layout.

2. Bi-fold Doors

Any kitchen would benefit greatly from having bifold doors. They may provide illumination, wide-ranging viewpoints, and a smooth transition from an indoor space to an outside one. Bi-fold doors are a great addition if you want to create a tiny bit of creativity in a minimalist setting. Bi-fold doors are playful and interesting to look at. They offer visual texture and are truly a perfect minimalist accent to an all-white kitchen.

3. Barn Doors

Barn doors are a terrific alternative for any of these rooms, including a den, dining, living, and kitchen. You can simply lock it off if the area is cluttered or you need some solitude. Barn doors may connect the various rooms in your house more easily and give your interior a contemporary feel. They are excellent in kitchen spaces, especially for walk-in pantries and big storage spaces.

4. French Doors

French doors may be an excellent entry point between adjacent rooms or outside areas and aesthetically link spaces. French doors have a number of benefits over sliding glass doors, including making it easier for daylight to move between rooms. French doors are frequently used for both indoor and outdoor environments. French doors are undoubtedly quite practical, but their aesthetic appeal is their main use. French doors may have a significant influence on your house.

5. Frosted Glass Doors

Alternatives that are more environmentally friendly and let in natural light include frosted glass doors. They greet people into the space with a cozy indoor ambiance, giving them a natural vibe.

As a result, there is a considerable decrease in the need for artificial illumination, which also lowers energy usage. Because it fosters both a sense of solitude and style, frosted glass is the material of choice for some homeowners.

A frosted glass door can also be used in above-the-counter cabinetry to hide or conceal the cookware and kitchen utensils. The kitchen can be tiring or challenging to clean and organize. You can use them as doors to cabinets and pantry. They can effectively hide clutter especially if you’re too busy to arrange and organize the spices and condiments in your cupboard.

6. Screen Doors

Screen doors give the kitchen space good natural ventilation while at the same time keeping the pests and bugs from entering the kitchen. They typically feature basic hardware and hinges and are frequently made with wood or aluminum frames.

In more temperate areas, screen doors are a great option for ventilation, especially for kitchen entrance doors, and are a natural addition to a screened-in porch. Additionally, the Singapore screen kitchen door is an excellent alternative for porch or deck entryways since they make it simple to move between each space.

7. Kitchen Sliding Doors In Singapore

Patios and backyards may be quickly and easily accessed thanks to sliding doors. They come in particularly helpful for homeowners who enjoy cooking in the kitchen since they may provide an easy link to outside areas, enabling them to host gatherings for pool parties or barbecue times in the backyard.

You can use a kitchen sliding doors in modern and minimalist spaces. You also have the freedom to style them all you want or transform them into a new piece.

8. Kitchen Door With Sliding Partition

A Singapore kitchen door can be both a door and a decorative partition. If you are installing a kitchen door to divide the space between your dining and your kitchen space, then a wooden French sliding door is your best option.

You can close the door if you want to focus more on cooking or open it during family dinners and social gatherings to allow guests to enter the kitchen space with ease. Opening up the door will also make the space look larger. This type of door is considered a classic and is commonly seen in a traditional, farmhouse, and rustic chic interiors.

The door in your interior space, whether it’s in the living room; bedroom; dining room; and kitchen, can impact the overall visual and functional scheme of your kitchen. When deciding on the kitchen door types to purchase, get the insight of a professional designer to help you guide you on the right path. If you’re interested in finding out more about weikeninterior and what we do, go through our website and read some resources. Hope you find this blog helpful!

About Lighting In Interior Design…

Good lighting is essential in interior design. It adds character to the room and sets the overall ambiance of the space. Without proper lighting, a home’s interior might appear dark, gloomy, and uninteresting. Interior designers leverage lighting design to create drama and highlight significant architectural features of the house.

One of the most common locations where designers start to decorate and style with lights is the ceiling. There are a variety of techniques on how to decorate the ceiling with lights. But perhaps the most common is general or ambient lighting and a little bit of accent lighting to add visual texture and layer.

In this blog, we’ll tackle cove lighting ceiling. Cove lighting is one of the most popular ceiling designs in modern and contemporary homes. It is straightforward and easy to work and style with lights. Stick until the end of this blog to learn more about cove lighting.

What Is Cove Lighting?

Cove lighting is an indirect kind of lighting that is installed in the recess areas up on the walls of a space. Because the lighting used in this ceiling is hidden in the cove or recessed space, the light creates a soft warm glow that subtly embraces the spaces. It highlights the ceiling’s gorgeous detail and creates a sense of drama in an interior space. A Cove lighting ceiling is a great idea if you want to add a minimal yet alluring design feature to your home.

What Type Of Lighting Is Best Suited To A Cove Ceiling?

There are two types of lights that are recommended by designers and contractors to use in a cove ceiling. These are LED lights and fluorescent lights. Due to their high energy efficiency and extended lifespan, LED lights are becoming more and more popular. They may be used to produce any kind of effect because they come in a range of colors. Fluorescent lighting, on the other hand, is reasonably priced and uses little energy. They are adaptable for use in cove systems since they are available in a variety of sizes and forms.

7 Best Ideas Of Cove Lighting Ceiling

1. Minimalist false ceiling cove light

A minimalist cove lighting design creates a halo-like effect in your ceiling. You can choose a cool white lighting temperature for a sleek streamlined look that will complement your home’s minimalist aesthetic. A minimalist false ceiling features a rectangular drop with a cove space around it that houses the lights. This makes the minimalist ceiling less boring to look at.

2. Curved cove lighting ceiling

If you want to add a bit of character and add a wow factor to your ceiling, you can design your ceiling with different patterns or add a curve appeal. This type of design is commonly used in commercial and public spaces such as shopping malls, restaurants, and coffee shops. A curved cove lighting design will surely attract the attention of your guests and give them a feeling of grandeur and elegance when they enter the room.

3. Geometric drop ceiling with cove light

Adding a geometric pattern is the right design to go with if you want to stay minimalist but at the same time add a bit of visual texture. Carve out interesting geometric lines, shapes, and patterns on your ceiling and utilized that space to install your cove lights.

4. Classical cove lighting

A classical cove lighting ceiling design is appropriate for traditional and classical interiors. Such interior spaces are those designed in transitional, modern Victorian, and regency styles. Classical ceilings are more ornate and detailed.

They often have intricate moldings, and sculpted design features in the form of florals and wavy patterns. Cove lighting is installed on the recessed area to provide a soft warm glow and illuminate these intricate features.

5. Modern and contemporary cove lighting

A modern cove lighting design is a great way to spread out light across your space. It works best for the living room and master bedrooms. If you want to have a lighting design composition that is timeless and adaptable, go for something with a simple and streamlined ceiling detail.

Contemporary ceilings often have wood features to serve as visual accents. Cove lighting is then used to emphasize these features and add a soft cool glow to the space.

6. Cove lighting with a warm glow

Warm light is typically a wonderful choice in a living room with white walls since the color encourages light rays to bounce off of it, creating a comforting and lively appearance.

Moreover, warm light appears to soothe us and assist us in winding down from the day and preparing for sleep as part of our normal human circadian cycle. This makes the warm light ideal for bedrooms. To create a warm and welcoming ambiance, opt for warm light to put in your cove ceiling to add a soft warm glow to your space.

7. Custom-designed cove lighting design

Of course, if you have a certain cove ceiling design that you want for your home, you can have it custom built. There’s nothing quite like a unique ceiling design composition that has never been seen in any home. There are spaces that are too big and grandiose to stick to a basic or standard ceiling design.

Get the help of a professional interior designer to help you design the ceiling of these spaces. There are also rooms that are too small that they would look more cramped with a drop cove ceiling. Again, consulting the help of an interior designer will help give you expert advice on the ideal things to do with such spaces.

There are in fact an infinite number of methods to enhance the interior space of your house. But trust us when we say that cove lights will quickly assist you in doing that. Choose your favorite design from our list of highly suggested options for cove lighting ceiling ideas, or contact us if you need help in creating your cove ceiling or designing cove lighting composition for your space.

Introduction About Wall Partition

Wall partitions are used in interior design to create a division within a space and transform a room into separate zones for better flow and function. Today, with the popularity of open planned spaces, interior designers are coming up with new and clever ways to divide spaces without having to construct a permanent wall.

One of the most practical solutions they come up with is movable wall partitions. What are some creative ideas of wall partition that can be used in offices and homes? Find out in this blog.

What Is A Wall Partition?

Non-load bearing walls called partitions are used to divide rooms or areas in interior spaces. In addition to dividing space, they can also offer flexibility in layout, privacy, and acoustic and fire isolation. Wall partition in Singapore can be framed structures, movable screens, or solid constructions, which are often made of wood or drywall.

A partition wall can sometimes be confused with bearing walls. But the two vary distinctly. Partition walls do not carry any weight while bearing walls support a portion of the home. Bearing walls carry the weight of the roof and higher levels to the base, acting as crucial structural components.

Why Is There A Need For Partition Walls?

Partition walls are an essential solution to create separate spaces within a space. There are a variety of reasons why they are a popular choice compared to a brick and mortar structure. First, a partition wall is cost-effective. They are basically easy to construct and there are manufactured materials for partitions that you can readily purchase in the market.

Another reason is partition walls are practical. You can easily move them whenever you want to so there’s less effort and less money spent whenever you decide to change the layout of your interior space.

Common Wall Partitions Ideas

Are you planning to create a division in your home and are wondering what wall partition design would be best? Here are several ideas to help you get started.

1. Glass Wall Partition For Office

Office partitions made of glass are becoming more and more popular as companies and corporate buildings choose to add more glass components to their workstations for a contemporary feel. Glass completely encloses distinct spaces while maintaining visibility and light. To define and differentiate rooms while maintaining the “open plan” concept of an office, glass is used to create separate yet open work zones or “pods.”

2. Wall Partition Design That Has Storage And Display

Short or tall bookcases offer excellent alternatives for a temporary wall or portion of a wall. A single tall bookshelf may divide a space into a storage area and a partial wall can be created with numerous shorter bookshelves of a similar size.

It is a clever way to separate space partially but not totally. Shelving partitions are not only aesthetically pleasing. They are also practical and functional especially for rooms with limited space as they provide additional storage and display areas.

3. Pocket Doors

Smaller spaces that might not have enough area for a full-swing door might consider pocket doors. They’re ideal for closets, bridging gaps between rooms like between an en suite and a walk-in closet, and compact bedrooms where every square inch matters.

Pocket doors were popular in traditional Victorian houses but are now gaining popularity because they are a common feature in modern farmhouse-styled interior spaces and rustic chic living rooms.

4. Folding screen

Folding screens have been a favorite among decorators for a long time. They highlight the depth and increase the room’s aesthetic appeal. They can split a room in half or conceal unwanted clutter.

In addition, they may be used as patterned backgrounds in living and dining areas. In order to conceal specific characteristics, such as kitchen doorways, screens might be utilized as a makeshift wall at the transition between rooms.

5. Curtains

Using curtains to divide a huge space into smaller ones is a practical and easy solution. Curtains may also be used to include a sleeping section in a multipurpose room without needing structural walls.

When space is limited, curtain dividers come in extremely handy. To put it another way, if your home is small, you can take down the walls that divide some of the rooms and replace them with curtains.

6. Trellis Screen

The purpose of a trellis, also known as a treillage, is to support and showcase climbing plants, especially shrubs and is often formed from an open framework or lattice of interlaced or intersecting pieces of wood, bamboo, or metal. Trellis’s unique craftsmanship is the reason why it is utilized in interior spaces not just to serve as a partition but also to add character and decoration to a room.

7. Drywall partition

When used as a barrier, drywall is incredibly adaptable, enabling homeowners to design their walls as they choose. Its adaptability and versatility enable you to make the most of any space and carry out renovation with careful preparation.

Drywall is an excellent choice if you want to create a partition that looks permanent such as arches, eaves, and other architectural features. It can be installed quickly and easily, is highly resilient, and only needs minor repairs when it is damaged.

8. Wooden Slats

When clients don’t want the durability or difficulty of a brand-new, solid interior wall, full or half-height dividers constructed of wood slats are a fantastic alternative. Slats allow for some natural light while offering some privacy and soundproofing.

Although wallpaper and paint are still excellent choices for feature walls, there are other ways to call attention to a particular space and create a design statement. Wood slats can be put horizontally to provide the illusion of extra width or vertically to create the illusion of height on a wall.

Apart from serving a specific function, dividers, folding screens, and room partitions may provide color, texture, and dimension to a room. These ideas of wall partition in Singapore might be the perfect solution you’ve been looking for.

About Rooftop Design

If you have an apartment unit or a landed house with a rooftop, it’s a great opportunity to create a new space in your home where you can spend some time relaxing with friends and family. Having a rooftop is considered a luxury.

Not many people have this extra feature in a home because rooftop features can make a property expensive. So, if you happen to have an empty rooftop or you are planning to add or convert a space into one, we created a list of some unique house with rooftop design ideas you might find interesting.

1. Open Terrace Rooftop Design

Perhaps the most straightforward way of utilizing a space located on your roof is to convert it into an open terrace. This is a great option if you want to stay on the budget or are still looking for ways how you can maximize the potential of your rooftop space.

An open terrace is a great asset especially if you have a wonderful view of the city. Later on, once you have the means and the right budget, you can transform it into a private lounge or a small coffee shop if you intend to utilize it for profit.

2. Roof Garden

Roof gardens are pretty common. You have probably seen one in your neighborhood or perhaps it is your dream to have one. Roof gardens, aside from their aesthetic value, also provide a good effect not just on the environment but also on the overall health and well-being of people.

Gardens are known to evoke a sense of tranquility and calm that can lower anxiety and depression. So, if you have a rooftop space and are considering using it for personal purposes, you should definitely convert it into a rooftop garden.

3. Glass Rooftop Railing Design

There are many kinds of materials you can use for your rooftop design but glass is perhaps the best option among all others. If you don’t have time to maintain other railing materials, like wood, then glass is a fantastic alternative.

The majority of stains and dirt may be readily cleaned, and it won’t rust or corrode. Many individuals are concerned that the glass may shatter or that it won’t be able to withstand the weight that conventional railings can. That is untrue. In many aspects, glass railings are safer than conventional railing systems.

4. Pergola Rooftop Shed Design

The way you use your rooftop might change with the right pergola roof designs. They help you enjoy your rooftop in all weather conditions, turning it into a useful addition to your house. They provide protection from the sun during heatwaves and the rain during downpours.

5. Outdoor Living Area Rooftop Deck Design

If you want to have a house with rooftop design outdoor living space, you can transform your rooftop into one. Spending time outside has been shown to boost both mental and physical wellness. People who spend a large amount of time outside are more likely to be happy and healthy. So, grab a few furniture pieces and create a seating area on your rooftop where the family can bond.

6. Rooftop Bar

Do you want to transform your rooftop into something grand and luxurious? Why not build a rooftop bar! A rooftop bar is a great idea if you want to use the space for fun and recreation. It’s a plus if your rooftop has a wonderful view of the city. You can invite your friends over and host a party on your rooftop. It is definitely a great option for millennials and for people who love to have fun.

7. Mini Cinema House With Rooftop Design

The non-traditional moviegoing experiences, such as rooftop screenings and outdoor film clubs, are extremely well-liked among millennials who are constantly on the lookout for social encounters to capture in a photo.

With Netflix nowadays, you don’t have to go to a movie theatre. What you can do instead is make your own and make one that is unique to experience something different. Set up a small theatre on your rooftop and invite your friends for a Netflix and chill overnight.

8. Lounge And Dining Areas

Dreaming of having a house with rooftop design outdoor dining area? Look for extra space in your property to have one. Most of the time, in houses located in neighborhoods where there is little to no space for a backyard, the rooftop is the second choice for an outdoor space. So, if you have a rooftop, you can make a dining area by putting a picnic table or a dining table where your guests can dine.

Being surrounded by a variety of sights, smells, and sensations when dining outside helps to calm our whole sensory experience. This provides us with a respite from the stuffy indoor environment, which helps with better creativity, enhanced attention, and our general wellbeing.

9. Rooftop Pool

The sheer luxury of having a rooftop pool is one of the major reasons you would desire one. Imagine spending lazy days poolside sipping a beverage while admiring the breathtaking scenery.

The privacy that a roof-top pool provides is one of its main benefits. While You may unwind and enjoy yourself in full secrecy without worrying about being watched. On top of your roof, you may create your own personal sanctuary by planting lovely plants and bushes.

There you have the most popular house with rooftop design ideas! Don’t just leave your rooftop space empty. Utilize it for your own personal use and watch your property transform from ordinary to extraordinary!

The possibilities are endless if you have an extra space that you can utilize. Don’t know where and how to start your rooftop transformation project? Give us a call or message us through email and let us know how we can help you.

INTRODUCTION ABOUT DRY AND WET KITCHEN

Kitchens have developed over time to play a larger part in our lives. Today, we use them for much more than just cooking. We frequently gather there to socialize with friends, unwind with our families, and do much more. It takes more than simply a one size fits all strategy to design a place that is functional for a variety of functions and seems fashionable enough to amaze your guests.

In this blog, we will be discussing the kitchen layout that’s very popular in Asian countries: the dry and wet kitchen design. What is it? And how do you create this layout in your kitchen? Stick until the end of this article to find out.

What Is A Dry And Wet Kitchen?

Kitchens in Singapore are occasionally divided into “wet” and “dry” spaces. Wet kitchens are used for heavier or more involved cooking, whilst dry kitchens are utilized for less complicated preparations.

For ease of access between them, both kitchens are typically placed close to one another.

The wet kitchen is called such because it is where the majority of the cooking and “messy” preparation work happens. Whereas, the dry kitchen is where the easier tasks like toasting, chopping up fruits and veggies, or microwaving leftovers are usually done.

Is dividing your kitchen into a wet and dry one necessary? Although not strictly required, it is a fantastic alternative if it improves your way of life and you have the resources to do so. An excellent approach to give your living and dining spaces more room is to have a separate dry and wet kitchen.

How To Build A Dry And Wet Kitchen Design?

1. Divide the kitchen into two sections

In comparison to the wet kitchen, the dry kitchen must be significantly smaller. A wet kitchen should be placed carefully inside a small area so that it cannot be seen from the formal rooms of the house. Light cooking takes place in a dry kitchen. When you have an open floor plan, the dry area’s design should blend in with the living/dining room’s aesthetic.

2. Put up a partition between the dry kitchen design and the wet kitchen area

The dry kitchen and the wet kitchen should be separated by a wall constructed of masonry, plywood, or toughened glass. Because of this, the unwashed dishes and kitchen clutter are concealed.

So that there are less visible barriers and they may be integrated into one space, think about utilizing glass to separate the wet and dry kitchens.

3. Make both spaces functional

The wet kitchen should be utilized for more than just heavy cooking; it should also be used to store groceries and maintain utensils, silverware, and a dishwasher. Wet kitchens typically have larger counter space to accommodate heavy cooking activities like chopping, vegetables, and meat, washing large cookware, and cleaning dishes.

A tiny sink for hand washing or cleaning cups and knives is located in the dry kitchen, which also contains a small kitchen countertop. As the dry kitchen enables the family to interact while making meals together, think about a tiny built-in induction stove for light cooking. A separate breakfast counter, bar, or study table can be added to a dry kitchen to create a very practical room.

4. Set up a dry kitchen island

A kitchen island is considered a part of the dry kitchen area. Building a kitchen island will increase your kitchen’s efficiency and will give you more counter space and storage area. You can also use the kitchen island for prepping lighter meals and for entertaining guests before and/or after dinner.

5. Be sure that shared appliances are easy to access

The proximity of wet and dry kitchens is important since they are parallel spaces and should not need any travel time. Shared kitchen tools like the microwave, blender, grill, and toaster should be easily accessible in each of these kitchens as they are used frequently.

6. The material choice of each kitchen should vary for maintenance purposes

For the wet kitchen, install backsplash tiles made of easily cleaned materials like ceramic or porcelain, and choose laminate cabinets with a matte surface. Heavy, greasy cooking produces a lot of filth that attaches to the walls and cupboards, making the wet kitchen a nasty, unclean place. Therefore, your material choice should be something that is easy to clean and maintain.

As opposed to a wet kitchen, a dry kitchen only has to be cleaned occasionally because it is only used for heating food and preparing small breakfasts and snacks. So, solid surfaces and quartz may be used to create the countertop for a dry kitchen, and you can think about giving the cabinets an acrylic finish.

7. There should be proper ventilation

The wet kitchen performs the same tasks as a typical kitchen, including lots of frying, boiling, and washing that generates steam and heat. To stop the formation of mold or mildew, the wet air should be replaced with fresh air.

In order to properly vent out strong cooking odors, smoke, heat, and other indoor kitchen pollutants, the kitchen should have a chimney and an exhaust fan in addition to sufficient natural ventilation through a window.

Due to the use of flameless cooking and the presence of air conditioning, a dry kitchen, on the other hand, is one that is smoke-free.

There are many factors to take into consideration while planning your kitchen layout. Considering separating your kitchen zones into dry and wet areas is one of them. If you spend a lot of time cooking in the kitchen, you probably notice the need to separate these spaces to increase convenience and efficiency when cooking.

Some homes, however, don’t have the luxury of extra space for a separate dry and wet kitchen. But don’t worry! You don’t exactly need a bigger space to separate kitchen zones. It’s all just about a matter of design and making the layout work. Need help in designing your dry and wet kitchen? Send us an email!

Introduction Of HDB Altar Design

Home altars are considered a traditional and cultural feature. While they may be connected to a specific religion, altars may also be used for personal purposes (for example a designated area for meditating, or for paying respect to objects/people you value). Anybody can benefit from having an altar actually.

Most people who are religious put high regard to it while others who are not simply want to have one for design/decoration purposes and to bring luck and positive energy to the house. Regardless of your stance, if you are considering having an altar, here are some creative and interesting HDB altar design ideas you can check out.

1. Altar Table Design

Putting up an altar in a small HDB unit is quite a challenge because of the limited space available. Some HDBs, condos, and apartments are too small to even have a designated space for an altar but this does not mean you can’t have one.

If you really want to have your own altar in your home, you can set it up on a small table and place the table on one of the corners of your home or any space where the table might fit.

Choose a long and narrow console table and keep your statues, figurines, and other alter decorations to a bare minimum to not make it look cluttered. Opt for a minimalist style and make your altar design simple yet significant.

2. Wall HDB Altar Design

Another HDB altar design that is ideal for homes with small limited space is a wall altar. Designate a part of your wall and convert it into an altar. You can offset the wall or place a floating cabinet or shelf where you can place your altar decorations.

An altar on the wall is common in contemporary and minimalist spaces and is a great option if you just want to have a tiny meditation corner in your home.

3. Altar Above A Cabinet

Altars are pretty easy to set up. You don’t need a huge space or fancy decoration compositions in order to have one. Look around your HDB unit and find a surface you can declutter or organize to squeeze in a small altar.

If you have a cabinet or shelf in your living room, you can free up the space above it and utilize the space for an altar. This altar design is commonly seen in HDB and Condo units where there is not much space for an altar. Decluttering a particular area or table space in your HDB and transforming it into an altar can make your house look organized and well-designed.

4. Altar Beside A TV Wall

In one of our previous blogs, we’ve talked about various tv wall designs you can create in your home. Did you know that you can also set up an altar beside your tv wall design?

TV wall designs often have cabinets, shelves, and counter spaces that you can utilize as an altar. Doing this will save you enough space and can serve as part of your TV wall decoration. Keep your altar simple, minimalistic, and organized for a much better aesthetic appeal.

5. Exclusive Altar Nook

You have the option to build a big altar if you have extra space for it in your home. Many religious people include an altar space as part of their home’s floor plans. If you have a house with a dead space or nooks and corners, consider transforming that into an exclusive altar.

This type of altar is considered semi-private which means it is accessible by people who live in the house but not too exposed to guests. You can have this kind of altar if you frequently do meditations and prayers privately.

6. Altar In The Hallway

Hallways are typically empty but oftentimes, this is where we place our credenzas or console tables to add a little bit of decoration. Narrow hallways don’t need decorations or furniture because they might block the way.

But for houses with big long hallways, you can make use of that space by placing a console table or a wall cabinet shelf design to put your altar. This can make the house appear fully furnished rather than dull and empty.

Why Have An Altar At Home?

You may use a home altar for anything you like, but most people use it as a place to meditate.  The altar can assist you in keeping your meditation concentrated and in sync with your aspirations. The things you hold important in your life might be recalled by visiting your personal altar. This might be your loved ones, your hobbies, or your passions. Others may use it as their spiritual practice, which may involve using incense and icons.

What Should You Put in The Altar?

Your altar should be a physical reflection of whatever you’re honoring, whether that’s your loved ones, yourself, your aspirations, or your religious beliefs. Add items that relax you and make you happy if it’s merely going to be a place for meditation.

Here is a list of often included elements in case you’re unsure of exactly what you want to include:

• Incense
• Flowers
• Religious icons/statues
• Crystals
• Picture frames
• Essential oil diffusers
• Small potted plants
• Candles

Your HDB altar design depends on what kind of altar you wish to put up. If it is for a religious purpose, you might consider something exclusive. If it is for meditation, opt for a semi-private altar with a very minimalist approach. For tiny altars in small HDB units and apartments, wall altars and altars on a table will perfectly suffice.

We hope that this short blog gave you an idea of what altar design to choose in your home whether you live in a small HDB unit or a large landed house.

INTRODUCTION

A bathtub often serves as bathing equipment, but more significantly, it serves as the focal point of any bathroom, taking up the most room and drawing all of the attention to the bathroom. But bathtubs are not merely for aesthetic or luxury purposes. A tub is required if you have young children, puppies, or toddlers to bathe. A tub is a necessity if you find that the best way to unwind is to soak in one.

A bathroom cannot be considered a full bath without a tub. A bathroom without a tub is called a three-quarter bath. It is common in some bathrooms but a tub is definitely a must-have in master bathrooms and some common bathrooms.

You don’t need to have a huge amount of bathroom space to have a bathtub. In fact, it is possible to have one even in a small HDB unit! Here are a few things to remember when considering installing an hdb bathtub.

Bathtub in HDB Guidelines

There are major criteria and guidelines to follow when it comes to installing a bathtub in an HDB as there are standards to follow in renovation and plumbing. Remember this before embarking on a bathroom reno or a bathtub installation so you’ll know what to do and what not to do.

1. Bathtub placements

One of the main rules to follow when putting a bathtub is that it should be placed in the original bathroom of the HDB unit. For those who are dreaming of having a bathtub with a view near the window, it’s not possible if your bathroom is not located near one. You must abide by these regulations so as not to cause any damage to the unit that might inconvenience your neighbors.

2. Bathroom renovations

The HDB regulations state that any replacement of old toilet floor finishes must be done with permission and at least three years after the block’s construction. Take note of this rule when purchasing a bathtub by making sure that the one you should purchase does not require excessive floor renovation when installing.

3. Bathtub weight

When choosing a bathtub for your HDB house, make sure it is not too heavy. The weight restriction is established at 400 kg per tub and 150 kg per square meter.

This rules out tubs constructed of heavy materials like marble or those with substantial cast iron legs. When considering your alternatives, focus on lightweight substances that are safely within the weight restrictions, such as acrylic or fiberglass-reinforced plastic.

Types of HDB Bathtub Design

Choosing the ideal tub from among the many available styles is arguably the most exciting step in the installation process. Here are several hdb bathtub designs you can choose from:

1. Built-in bathtub

Built-in hdb bathtubs, which are also known as alcove or drop-in baths, take up less space than other similar-sized tubs when space is limited. Moreover, the design of built-in tubs blends in flawlessly with your bathroom walls. This is the most common bathtub type seen in most HDB units in Singapore.

2. Corner bathtub

Due to its unusual design, corner tubs are ideal for the odd areas in your bathroom. Its rounded border also gives an additional element of shapeliness to liven up the appearance of an otherwise squarish bathroom.

3. Standalone bathtub

Standalone bathtubs are a straightforward yet striking addition to most bathrooms that is sleek and contemporary. Not to add that installation doesn’t involve hacking and that placement possibility are more versatile.

4. Jacuzzi

You can reduce your stress levels by using a Jacuzzi. You may relax and release physical tension when bathing in warm water. It aids in reducing any negative thoughts you may have after work. Additionally, nothing seems handier than lowering stress levels while relaxing at your home.

5. Japanese-style bathtub

With a Japanese ofuro, or wooden tub, you can recreate the calming onsen experience in your own house. It is a tight choice to fit into tiny HDB bathrooms since it is often shorter in length.

Most Japanese ofuros also have walls that are slightly taller, extending up to the neck region, allowing you to relax without having to expose your upper body to the cold.

6. Walk-in bathub

A walk-in tub is a must if there are elderlies living in the house. It’s easy to enter and exit the bath with ease with the ultra-low step-in, handrails, and wide door. The traditional bath or shower just cannot provide the same level of safety and convenience that a walk-in tub does.

How To Properly Maintain Your HDB Bathtub?

You’ll frequently need to give the tubs a thorough scrub at least once a week because of the extra corners that bathroom filth may get caught in and the cracks that can grow over time. Maintenance requirements vary depending on the material. In comparison to wood, reinforced plastic and fiberglass are easier to keep mold-free.

To keep the space dry, make sure your bathroom is well ventilated. Also, think about adding an exhaust fan. Get a bathtub with basic design features; ones with grasp handles or elaborate side tiling will require additional cleaning. Utilize tub repair kits available online to fix tub cracks on your bathtub.

A Quick Tip: How To Use A Bathtub In A Hotel?

When you are planning to go on vacation or have a relaxing staycation in an Airbnb accommodation with a luxury bathtub experience, consider cleaning up the bathtub first before soaking yourself in it. Hotels and Airbnbs do clean their bathrooms but there’s nothing wrong with making sure that you’re not just enjoying a wonderful bath but a clean and safe one as well.
Maximize your bathtub relaxation by adding essential oils to the water, lighting a scented candle for relaxation, and putting on a facial mask for a complete and satisfying experience.

What Are Some Popular Bathroom Brands In Singapore?

1. Hera – where you can find the ideal HDB bathtub regardless of how small or big your bathroom space is.
2. Kohler – KOHLER offers a gorgeous selection of bathtubs for your bathroom, including walk-in, standalone, and drop-in baths.
3. Toto – for bathtubs that are durable, sleek, simple, and perfect for minimalistic spaces.
4. Nobel – find unique designs of standalone bathtubs and other bathroom accessories at Nobel.

Now is the perfect moment to start working on realizing your goal of adding a bathtub to your HDB’s bathroom. Need help in designing your bathroom or selecting the perfect hdb bathtub for your space? We’ve got your back! Send us an email of your concern and we’ll gladly assist you in making your dream bathroom come to life!

INTRODUCTION

It’s natural for people to have preferences when it comes to colour selection. The reason why we prefer some colours to others is that it has a sentimental or emotional attachment to us. But in interior design, colour selection is a lot more complex than merely choosing your favourite wall colour combination. It involves art, science, and a lot of visual circuses to fully pull off a coherent design composition that is well balanced, and pleasantly attractive.

Interior designers understand how colours work and they use a particular process when it comes to selecting the wall colour combination for the living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms. We call it Colour Theory. In this blog, we’ll talk about it in detail and give you a list of wall colour combinations that you can incorporate into your space.

What Is Colour Theory?

The study of colours and how to employ them in harmony is known as colour theory. It’s useful in design since it helps to create a palette that complements each other. Interior designers refer to the colour wheel which is divided into 3 sets of colours namely, Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary. Colour may impact moods, sensations, and visual schemes, so these selections are important in the overall environment of a house.

A colour scheme is a process of using the colour wheel to create appropriate wall colour combinations. A colour combination is also created by combining the 3 sets of colours with the white colour or other neutral hues. Knowing what colours mix well together and how to extract more shades from the basis of each hue is essential for an interior designer trying to brighten up their house.

Below are the most important colour combinations you should know:

1. Analogous Wall Colour Combination

Whether you’re looking for a wall colour combination for living room for bedroom, kitchen, dining space, or living area, choosing colours in the colour wheel that are analogous will keep you on the right track.

Colour schemes that are analogous are made up of colours that are adjacent to one another on the colour wheel. These colours typically appear similar and hence constitute a pleasing colour scheme. Examples of these colours are yellow, yellow-green, green, and red, red-orange, orange.

2. Monochromatic Colour Combination

The monochromatic colour combination is by far the easiest way to incorporate colour into almost any kind of space. This implies the use of the same hue but in a variety of tones to create a single and consistent scheme all throughout.

Monochromatic colour combinations are commonly seen in contemporary and minimalist interiors with a lot of beiges, neutrals, greys, and whites. If you are a beginner when it comes to colour selection and interior painting, opting for the monochromatic scheme is the ideal way to go.

3. Complementary Colour Combination

Complementary colour combination refers to colours that are on the complete opposite sides of the colour wheel. These colours are totally different which creates a unique and visually dramatic scheme when they are paired together into a single composition.

This type of colour combination is best used for creating a statement within a space or a focal point wall colour combination for hall that draws the eye and will attract the attention of the viewers.

Examples of complementary colour combinations are: orange and blue, red and green, and yellow and purple. Get a colour wheel so you can see for yourself where these colours are located on the wheel.

4. Split-Complementary Colour Combination

This colour scheme combines two complementary colour schemes that are adjacent to the colour wheel. This produces the same eye-catching effect as complementary colour schemes while also giving designers a few extra colour alternatives.

When a designer uses this scheme instead of merely two complementary hues, it implies a little more competence in the colour choice. Split-complementary keeps the contrast high, but it eases the strain on your eyes. Red + blue-green + yellow-green is an example of a split-complementary colour combination.

5. Triadic Colour Combination

While not always the simplest, triadic colour schemes are the safest option if you want to branch out from one colour. Colour schemes that are triadic are made up of three hues that are equally spaced on the colour wheel.

Triadic colour schemes, like complementary colour schemes, offer observers dramatic contrast. Triadic colour schemes, on the other hand, produce this impression without disrupting the serenity of the colour combination. “Red, yellow, and blue” | “Purple, green and orange” are two examples of triadic colour combinations.

6. Tetradic Colour Combination

This colour scheme consists of two complementary pairs and is also known as the double-complementary colour scheme. Because these colours can be determined by drawing a rectangle on the colour wheel, they are also known as “rectangular colours.”

When divided into equal proportions, these hues might be a little frightening to look at. Choose one of these hues as your dominating colour and use the other three as accents to avoid visual incoherence.

The Key to Understanding Colour Combinations

Selecting colours to paint your living room or bedroom is a fun and exciting process. However, keep in mind the rules of colour theory so you can avoid making costly mistakes. A painting project is expensive, time-consuming, and a very meticulous process.

Therefore, before you get ready for painting, you have to make sure that the colours you pick are appropriate, well-balanced, and visually coherent. Understand how colour theory works and you’ll definitely have no problem when it comes to selecting colours whether it be for your interior space or any other kind of design output where colour plays a major role.

We hope you have learned the basics of colour theory in this blog, and at the same time, given you an idea of what wall colour combination is best for your interior space. If by any chance, you feel like you need the help of an expert’s eye in selecting the right colour, don’t hesitate to reach us. We’d be glad to help you select the right colour combination to make your home come to life. Drop your email below and let us know how we can be of help.

INTRODUCTION

White is the most popular colour for kitchen cabinets for many reasons. White is versatile, which means it can be paired smoothly with any other paint colour or interior design style. Secondly, white is undoubtedly clean and modern.

Modernized kitchens are very popular in HDB units, small apartments, and condominiums. Lastly, white is easy to incorporate. While there are many good reasons to choose a neutral colour for the kitchen, it is not the best approach if you’re looking for a way to make your kitchen interior stand out among others.

Many people fear incorporating colour because there is the risk that it might not turn out the way they wanted. But there is actually no reason to fear. Colourful kitchen cabinets are becoming a trend and for great reasons as well! Whether you like it modern, rustic, or classic, having colourful kitchen cabinets is the way to go.

So, without further ado, let’s take a look at 10 of the most sought-after colourful kitchen cabinet ideas.

1. Wood and White Cabinetry

Wood and stone are always fashionable. Have maple, birch, or cherry cabinets installed by your contractor. Consider granite, limestone, or slate as stone choices. These elements can add a pop of colour and texture to your kitchen and make it look warm and cosy. It is also a smart way to add contrast and avoid making your kitchen space look very dull and bare.

2. Bright Yellow

If your kitchen lacks natural light or needs some visual warmth, yellow is the ideal color: it’s the brightest colour and it can instantly make any space look vibrant. Any space can be made to appear more spacious and pleasant by having yellow cabinetry.

The vibrant color will make the space appear larger. It is not only ideal for the kitchen but also for corridors, entryways, living rooms, tiny areas, and bathrooms.

3. Cool Mint

Mint is a bright, lively tint comprised primarily of green, blue, and white. It gets its name from a crisp, cool-toned shrub of the same name. Mint is a bright, happy hue that conjures up images of energy, freshness, and lightness.

Green is a terrific way to bring the outside in while also making a kitchen feel light and spacious. Cooler greens, like mint, complement white and light wood accents effectively in kitchens.

4. Zesty Orange

When dealing with orange paint colors for kitchens, there are several options. Orange may be quiet and calming or joyful and vibrant, from brilliant citrus-inspired colours to more earthy, terracotta tones. Orange is a warm hue that works well in kitchens in colder locations.

5. Olive Green

Regardless of whether you have a more contemporary or classic kitchen, olive green would look great in any home. It goes well with neutrals and dark colors like blue or crimson. To give distinction to your white or oak cabinets, consider olive as an accent color for a kitchen island.

6. Classic Blue

Classic blue is another kitchen-friendly hue. Lighter blues, whether utilized on walls, cabinets, or even the ceiling, may produce a crisp, clean aesthetic. Blue is a refreshing hue that works best when utilized in balance so it won’t overwhelm the overall visual appeal of the space.

7. Minimalist Colourful Kitchen Cabinets

Clean lines and black and white items are synonymous with minimalism. But to be a dedicated Minimalist, though, you do not need to perceive the world in two colours!

Minimalism does not imply that you can no longer use colour, in fact, colourful yet minimalist kitchens are the most popular kitchen styles commonly seen on Instagram and Pinterest. Designers incorporate colours by colour-blocking walls and installing colourful modern cabinetries while maintaining that subtle yet playful vibe.

8. Beige

Beige is a flexible neutral that offers a smooth, serene, and harmonious design that is stylish and trendy when combined with matching colours. It gives a kitchen a clean, bright look while still adding warmth that is not always possible with an all-white or neutral-coloured cabinetry. It also works with traditional shaker doors as well as more contemporary flat fronts.

9. Dreamy Pastel

Even though pastels are regarded as being soft hues, they add individuality, joy, and lightness to a place when utilized as kitchen cabinets. However, because to their lighter tones, they reflect light better than dark hues, allowing them to seem soft and airy while still retaining color.

10. Charcoal Gray on White

Gray is another common color for kitchen cabinets. Although white kitchens are fashionable, they can expose dirt, fingerprints, stains, and drips. Gray, on the other hand, creates an elegant and clean aesthetic in your living area. It is a wonderful mix of white and black, so it doesn’t make a room seem dark.

Colour can do so much for your kitchen space. It can highlight certain features, make the room look cheerful and vibrant, and on top of that, you’ll have a kitchen like no other.

So, it’s about time to veer away from the neutral sterile kitchen look and add a splash of colour by incorporating colourful kitchen cabinets. We hope you find this short blog helpful. If you’d like us to join you in your kitchen redesigning project, don’t hesitate to reach us via email. 

INTRODUCTION

Going out to bars with friends is fun and exciting. However, these activities were prohibited during the peak of the pandemic. People rarely go out because of health risks and bar hopping activities are pushed to the side. Wouldn’t it be nice to have your own bar in the comforts of your home where you and your friends can have fun, drink together wearing pajamas, and have the best times of your lives?

Nothing beats a nightcap at your elegant home bar design for unwinding. Perhaps you still enjoy going out, but you’d prefer the option to entertain yourself and transform your home into something that matches the finest of bars. To make that happen, you’ll need more than a well-stocked liquor cabinet, so we’ve compiled a list of 10 elegant home bar design ideas to get you started.

1. Luxury Marble

Marble kitchen and bar worktops have long been a popular choice for luxury houses. If you already have a marbled countertop for your kitchen and kitchen island, consider creating a specific area for your home bar and make the worktop in marble as well to match the overall luxurious feel.

Home bars are oftentimes an extension of the kitchen space depending on where you most likely spend your entertainment and relaxing time. If it is on your man cave or outdoor space, the design can be totally different.

2. Classic Black

A glossy black worktop will provide interest and contrast to your gloss black wine rack or display cabinet while also being easy to maintain. By its very nature, a black home bar design is more striking. Black is a striking color that begs to be seen.

Another advantage is that black goes with any style. Whether you’re trying for a classic design or something more contemporary, black always looks fantastic. If you want a classy home bar with a universally attractive color palette definitely consider a glossy black colour palette.

3. Emerald Touch

The perfect emerald green hue is a bright, somewhat bluish green. However, emerald green may refer to a wide spectrum of hues. What makes emerald an exquisite feature in a home bar is because unlike the colour green, emerald is associated with the characteristics of a gemstone which is shiny, crystal clear, and expensive.

These touches to cabinets, worktops, and accessories in a home bar are trendy because designers believe they make a kitchen seem dramatic and unique, which many people want after decades of seeing neutral white interiors or visually overpowering granite surfaces.

4. Rustic Chic

The rustic-chic look is a popular style commonly seen in coffee shops, bars, restaurants, and many other types of commercial spaces. It is because the rustic look is expressive and natural. It evokes a sense of being around nature with the incorporation of earth tones and earthly elements mixed with the luxury appeal of modern accessories like lighting, storage, hardware, and a lot more.

If you want to create a home bar that will make you feel transported into a luxury club in the city without stepping out of the comforts of your home, the rustic-chic design is something worth checking out. It is the ideal definition of luxury yet homey.

5. Maximalist

If you are an artistic person and you want to make a statement and express your personality through your home bar design, the maximalist interior design is your best option. Maximalism is not a new movement; maximalists have existed for ages all over the world. Throughout history, wealthy individuals have used various types of maximalism to display their affluence.

It is the total opposite of minimalism but in a way, arranged cohesively in visual and physical aspects. The secret to pulling off the perfect maximalist look is by layering and knowing how to balance colour, decorations, and certain design features.

6. Hollywood Regency

Hollywood Regency, is also known as a design style that encompasses both interior and landscape architecture. It is distinguished by its dramatic use of color and contrast, which is frequently complemented with metallic and glass details to convey luxury and comfort.

7. Industrial Vibe

The architectural components inside a place help to characterize industrial interiors. Industrial embraces plumbing and ductwork, giving it the main feature. The raw, almost unfinished nature of industrial interior design lends itself to a relaxed living environment.

8. Exquisite Nook

Even if you have a tiny kitchen, you may create a home bar corner. It may be little in comparison to other home bars, but that does not mean it cannot be noticed. There are various ways to make a small home bar stand out.

Incorporate the right materials like a marble countertop, brass or gold hardware, a cleverly designed wine rack, a storage cabinet to display your wine glasses, and a couple of decorations. Do all these and you’ll have no problem achieving a luxurious home bar in your tiny kitchen nook.

9. The Bachelor Pad Home Bar Design

Home bars are popular features in bachelor pads. Of course, bachelors tend to love bar hopping, and young people tend to have a great interest in various types of wines and expensive drinks.

Elegant antique decorations may combine wonderfully with exposed brick walls and industrial fittings. You may also combine old and modern features in a bachelor pad by mixing textures and patterns. Another element is leather bar stools and industrial-styled lighting ambiance.

10. French Style

Dreaming of experiencing the Parisian vibe? Go for a French interior-designed home bar. It is characterized by a tastefully furnished space that’s both warm and sophisticated. Consider classic kitchen cabinets, beautiful crown molding or scalloped edges, and attractive rustic elements that are more Parisian shabby chic than country.

Everyone can have their dream home bar regardless of their kitchen size. It is all just a matter of knowing how to make things work and being smart and creative to design a home bar that would fit in the overall context of the home’s interior. If you have read this far, you’re pretty much serious about building or designing your very own home bar. We hope this blog has given you ideas on the different types of home bar designs you can choose from. Don’t hesitate to reach us if you need help in designing your home bar. Send us a message and let us know more about your home bar design project.

INTRODUCTION

Children are very creative, adventurous, and curious at a very young age. To stimulate their curiosity and creativity, parents should be meticulous when it comes to designing their rooms.

It is every young girl’s dream to have a bedroom that sparks their imagination and makes them feel like they are living in a world of beauty, fun, and magic. As a parent, keep in mind that a wonderfully designed bedroom is more than just the soft plushy pillows or the charming decorations and accessories. It is also about how the furniture in the room is arranged, the lighting, and the overall convenience of the bedroom.

In this blog, we’re going to introduce several room ideas for girls that they’ll surely fall in love with from their toddler years, up until their early teens.

1. Whimsical

There is no specific aesthetic that defines whimsical design; however, it comprises designs that evoke a sense of amusement, lightheartedness, and fantasy. Whimsical design is subjective depending on the child’s interests and fascination.

If she is fascinated by fairies and princesses, creating a whimsical environment inspired by that theme is the way to go. On the other hand, if she’s into animals like rabbits, unicorns, and kittens, you can define your own whimsical aesthetic and craft a unique bedroom design composition out of that theme as well.

The key thing here is knowing how to capture their fascination and translate it into a bedroom theme.

2. Vintage Chic

Vintage chic room ideas for girls are characterized as cheerful, colorful, cozy, and girly. It is the kind of bedroom design that can be easily updated whenever the child reaches a certain age and wants to switch styles.

Vintage chic is pretty versatile so different design styles can be overlayed or mixed together and it still would look aesthetically charming and timeless. Incorporate vintage decorations like lamps, an old telephone for display, and a comfortable accent chair to add comfort and style.

3. Sweet Minimalist

If you are looking for a simple yet beautiful bedroom design, then opt for a sweet minimalistic look. This type of bedroom style is perfect for toddlers because girls at this stage, do not have design preferences yet.

As a parent, when you start with a minimalist design, it will be easier to make changes or add on as the child grows. A sweet minimalist design has elements that are cute, colorful, and functional. There are elements of wood against a neutral or pastel backdrop and the decorations are kept to a minimum.

4. Pastels and Rainbows

Young girls love pretty things and magic. They are easily attracted by light colors like pink, pastels, yellows, and blues. Incorporate these bright colors into their bedroom by color blocking, putting a wallpaper, or painting a rainbow mural on the wall.

Pastel colors can also be present in the form of pillows, cushions, blankets, and duvets. Pastel colors are easy to blend because they look subtle yet alluring to the eye of youngsters. If you want to incorporate colors that are not too distractive, pastel colors are the best option so far.

5. The Canopy Bed

Originally designed to keep people warm and provide seclusion, canopy beds are today prized for their luxurious appearance. Linen hung over the top and over all sides of these beds, which are usually four-posters, is often completed with tassels or other features to create drama.

The canopy bed is playful and fun – something that kids will totally adore. As we all know, the bed is the focal point of the bedroom, and dressing the bedroom with a lovely canopy is a wonderful way to make any girl feel like a princess.

6. Bedroom with Swing Chair

The plush cushions and mattresses that come with hanging chairs make them comfy. A bedroom with a swing chair looks extra chic and playful. This, however, is not ideal for girls who are still toddlers. But if your girls are already at the age of 8 and up, they can have a swing chair.

There are many great uses for having one. They can sit there while they read or relax in the afternoon. Installing a swing chair is also another way to establish a little nook in their room that can be their favorite space up until they become teenagers.

7. The Twin Bedroom Ideas for Girls

If you have two girls sharing a room, twin beds are great. While bunk beds are still a possibility, a twin bed is regarded to be far more suitable for girls, especially if they are not of the same age.

Having separate beds and designating opposing portions of the bedroom as their corner is a smart approach to split the space and make it work effectively and conveniently for both girls to live together. It’s also an excellent method to help them develop a feeling of responsibility for their own space in the room and avoid sibling conflict.

8. The Bohemian Vibe

A bohemian bedroom is characterized as unconventional, providing for a wide range of decorating options. Earthy tones dominate most boho homes, with bold and colorful accent colors drawing the eye in.

A joyful combination of color and patterns, furniture types, and surprising decor—along with asymmetrical layouts—defines the bohemian style. Boho design is known for being extremely informal and easygoing, with a laid-back attitude to decorating.

These room ideas for girls are some of the most sought-after designs that young girls love. If you are wondering what bedroom design your girl will love, you can pick from one of these or show your daughter what design she would most likely prefer.

Designing a bedroom is a fun and exciting activity both the children and the parent can embark on. Let your child participate in the process so that she will be able to exercise her creative skills and form a sense of attachment and responsibility to her new bedroom.

INTRODUCTION

A lot of people don’t really think much about the design of their car porches. But a car porch is more than just a space to park your car. In fact, it is also the very first thing that your guests will notice once they enter your home. A good car porch design should be well integrated with the overall architectural style of your house.

It is the Architect or Designer’s task to design a car porch that would perfectly complement the house and, at the same time, serve its function in the most convenient way possible. If you are still in the process of building your dream home or you’re planning to renovate your car porch or maybe you’re building a new one, then you might find this blog helpful.

Below, we have outlined eight creative and practical car porch design ideas that you may incorporate in your landed house.

Minimalist Car Porch

A minimalist car porch design is pretty straightforward. Its elements and features, such as color, material, and style are completely similar to the house – more like a continuation of the house. A minimalist car porch is perfect if you need a bigger car porch for 2-3 cars simply because the minimalist approach can make any space look more spacious, brighter, and uncluttered. On top of that, you don’t need to buy more materials for your car porch since it basically will have the same material and color as your house. There are many ways to go for the minimalist style and many designs for you to choose from. The possibilities are endless so feel free to discover various minimalistic designs for your car porch.

Contemporary Car Porch Design

A modern car porch is characterized by clean geometric lines. If your house is of modern or contemporary design, your car porch should be too. Take note that a car porch is not the same as a garage. Unlike a garage, it is open and can be accessed by a vehicle conveniently. Contemporary car porches are popular in most landed homes because a lot of houses here in Singapore are in contemporary styles. What is great about contemporary car porch design is that it can be easily modified and expanded whenever the homeowner wishes to do so. It is a very versatile and flexible design so any owner won’t have a problem with the design whenever they want to switch or transform the look or style of their landed property.

The Wood Textured Car Porch

Wood is perhaps the most popular material that is used to add a character or texture to both the interior and exterior faces of a house. Wood can work for almost any type of design style including Minimalist, Contemporary, Scandinavian, or Traditional. If you want to create texture with the façade of your house, then adding the element of wood on your car porch would be ideal. You can make your car porch columns in wood or place a wooden feature on the roof for added color and substance to the visual appearance of your home.

The Detached Car Porch

Typical car porches are attached on the side or front of the house. But there are also car porches that are completely detached from the main building. This type of car porch design stands on 4 columns, is open on all sides, and usually has polycarbonate roofing sheets. This carport is ideal for homes within a large property with a lot of open space for a vehicle to drive through.

Tiled Car Porch

Car porch design also requires careful planning and this means that every element from the column, to the paint, up to the roof, and down to the flooring, matters a whole lot. The tiles must be able to take a lot of wear and tear since they will be subjected to diverse weights of the vehicles and weather conditions. They should also be non-slip and water-resistant. Finally, in addition to the tile’s characteristics, you must examine the tile’s look and colors. You may complement the tile pattern to your home or mix and match the designs to create a striking contrast.

Cantilevered Roof Car Porch Design

Without the need for supporting columns or bracing, cantilevers provide a clean area beneath the beam. This makes a car porch more spacious and accessible to more than just one vehicle. A car porch with a cantilevered roof is popular in contemporary and industrial-styled landed homes. A larger cantilever is a costly feature since it necessitates extensive engineering and accurate load calculations, but the impact is simply spectacular. If you want to incorporate a statement architectural feature that can wow your guest the moment they stepped into your driveway, then a cantilevered car porch roof is the best thing to have.

Stone Tiled Car Porch

Want to have a touch of that classic traditional aesthetic into your driveway? Then why not opt for a stone-tailed car porch? Stones are considered a good material for both the driveway and the car porch because of their texture which is rough and non-slippery. On top of that, stones are pleasantly attractive and have the ability to make the entrance to your house feel and look grander. Natural stone is also cooler which makes your carport a bit cooler during the summer season.

Plain Concrete Car Porch Flooring

The minimal thickness necessary to withstand breaking under the weight of a conventional vehicle is 3.5 inches. If you’re going to put heavy machinery on it, make it 6″ or higher and reinforce it with reinforcing mesh/rebar. For many years, plain concrete slabs have been used as the flooring material in basements, garages, patios, and utility spaces. Concrete floors are easy to maintain due to the same features that make them so resilient. Dirt, stains, and severe impacts are all repelled by properly treated concrete floors. It’s a perfect choice if you’re looking to build a car porch with very minimal cost but aesthetically pleasing as well.

And there you have it! These are our design suggestions for car porch designs! Please share your opinions by dropping a comment or email below, and if you require any home planning assistance, don’t hesitate to send us a message! We’d love to hear about your next home design project!

INTRODUCTION

One of the most unnerving problems home decorators and room renovators face when redecorating a room is removing sticker residues on the walls. If you are reading this now, you’re probably wondering how to remove sticker residue as well. What are these by the way? Sticker residues can come from sticker wallpapers or sticker decorations that have been on the wall for a long period of time. When you scrape them off, they don’t perfectly come off and there are some pieces of residue left on the wall.

Sticker residue can also come from adhesive tapes and other tapes that have been plastered on the wall. When peeled off, they can leave a mark that can be difficult to scrape off. When repainting the wall, you have to make sure that the wall is clean off of any dirt including sticker residue. So, how to remove sticker residue? With the correct equipment and preparation, scraping sticker residue off your walls is an easy task. Below are some ideas and suggestions to get you started.

How to Remove Sticker Residue (Step-By-Step Guide)

1. Prepare The Room First

Make sure that your room is empty of furniture and other objects that might become an obstruction during the cleaning process. Prepare the room for painting and move all the furniture outside of the room or to its center. A few meters away from the wall just enough for them not to be splashed or sprayed with the chemicals and substances for cleaning.

2. Peel The Wallpaper

If the wall has an existing wallpaper, remove it by peeling it. It doesn’t have to be perfectly removed as residues from the sticker are expected to be left on the surface. Continue peeling off the wallpaper until the wall is empty and only residue and some paint coating remain.

3. Get The Cleaning Solutions

There are a variety of treatments available on how to remove sticker residue, but why waste money on an expensive and perhaps harmful way when there are so many tried and tested methods just inside your own cupboard? Here are several alternatives that will get the job done cheaply, safely, and effectively—removing that annoying residue without causing damage to your wall.

• Dishwashing liquid with hot water

Put a cup of boiling water and a few teaspoons of dishwashing liquid in a small mixing bowl. Apply using a sprayer or a sponge to an area of the wall. As the sticker residue softens, it should wash away. If you’re using a spray bottle, gently scrape the softened glue away with a putty knife or other sharp instrument. (Add a tablespoon of baking soda to your solution for added effectiveness).

• Hot water mixed with vinegar

Blending a few ounces of white vinegar into a pail of warm water is another excellent, and scented, approach to remove sticker residue. If you’re using a spray bottle, combine 50%water and 50% vinegar.  Allow the vinegar mixture to rest for several minutes before removing it, regardless of whether you use spray or sponge to apply it.

• Fabric softener

Mix 1 cup liquid fabric softener with 2 cups of water for a more pleasant-smelling solution. This approach may also be done with a spray bottle or sponge, but only in tiny sections, because the fabric softener may stain the remainder of the wall, producing streaks.

• Cloth steamer

If you have a garment steamer, you may use it for both cleaning and ironing. Simply set the steamer next to the sticker residue and wait for the adhesive to melt. The sticky residue will wipe away easily once it has softened.

4. Wash Out The Cleaning Solution

Whatever cleaning solution you choose, make absolutely sure that you have a container of clean, heated water to rinse the solution and any sticker residue it dissolves once it’s been applied. Wipe away solution and residue using a sponge, washing often to avoid leaving any stains. To eliminate any remaining residue, you may need to reapply the cleaning solution process.

5. Wipe

Wipe away any residue or cleaning solution with a clean dry towel or rinse water. If you still have a few sticker residues left, scrape them away with a wallpaper scraper or a plastic drywall knife. Remove any rough places with fine-grit sandpaper if necessary.

6. Dry

Before adding new wall paint, wallpaper, or any decor, make sure your walls are completely dry. This ensures that your new décor adheres properly and lasts for a long period of time.

Additional Tips To Remember

1. Mix cleaning solutions in tiny batches to keep the water hot for better results. Always keep the water hot.
2. Make sure all electrical outlets are covered. Cover the outlets or switch off the electricity at the breaker to avoid any potential shock or harm when using a liquid solution.
3. Work in little chunks that may be completed in a matter of minutes to prevent the solution from drying.
4. Don’t go overboard with the color on your walls. You might harm your drywall by using too much cleaning product or rinse water, effectively weakening the structure.
5. If you have a large wall to clean or cover, ask help from a family or friend to get the work done fast and easily.
6. If the residue is hard to remove and still persists, go to your nearest hardware and inquire about adhesive residue removal products.

Removing sticker residue from walls or from any surfaces is something that you can DIY as long as you carefully follow the steps above. However, keep in mind that you can always leave these tasks to your contractor or renovator so you don’t have to do all the work. But if you’re planning to do a DIY renovation project and only repainting some parts of your wall, then definitely do it yourself. It might be a bit challenging at first but once you know how to remove sticker residue and after you’ve done the work and see the result, you’re going to thank yourself you did it. Renovating and redecorating our homes is a fun and exciting process, although some parts and processes can be a bit of a chore, at the end of the day, when all is fixed and perfectly put, it can truly feel satisfying and rewarding. 

INTRODUCTION

Planning to renovate your condominium unit? At some point in your life, you will think about renovating your house or upgrading it especially if you’ve just bought a new property or you want to redesign the entire unit.  Renovating is an exciting and fun project to have but renovating a condo unit is a totally different thing from renovating any other type of house like HDBs and landed properties.

There are a lot of legalities and things to consider before you get in touch with a designer or contractor. But no worries! We’ve got you covered. In this blog, we’ll talk about everything you should know about condo renovation rules in Singapore so that your renovation process will go smoothly.

1. Be clear of the changes you want to make.

Before you start anything, create a list of the changes that you want to make. This includes the things you want to be removed, upgraded, and added. You need to have a clearer vision of what you would like your new space to look like. This will not only give you at least a rough estimate on the project costs but it will also set the way of your planning and will direct you to the next steps to take.

2. Obtain planning permission.

Keep in mind that any kind of renovation that will result in an increase in the Gross Floor Area (GFA) will have to be approved by the planning department. The Management Corporation’s Secretary or Chairperson must give you a letter that states their 90% approval to continue with the proposed works you have for the unit.

3. Get a management corporation approval for any changes.

The management corporation may have set out rules and limitations for what types of modifications can be done in the unit. Some of the things they may impose include the amount of time and what day or time of the week that renovation work will be done. These rules can differ in a variety of properties/ buildings. Certain condominiums do not allow features such as glass curtains. It is therefore advisable to get a remodeling professional who has experience in remodeling condo units and who has knowledge about the rules and regulations that these properties commonly have.

4. Know the Condo Renovation Rules Singapore restrictions.

Be updated on the latest rules and regulations of the estate’s management so you can craft a detailed plan on the things you can and can’t do. Doing this will prevent you from making any mistakes as you go along with the process. For example, are building lofts, adding walls, enclosing balconies, and others. Some condos may allow it but with minimal rules while others may not.

This also applies when you’re looking for a condo to buy. If you’re planning to renovate it in the future, find out what the estate’s rules are when it comes to renovating so that you’ll know how many changes you can make and help you better decide whether the unit is the right one for you.

5. Access to the unit might be limited.

Your Renovation Professional’s access should be arranged by your Management Agent (MA). If your condominium just received a Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP), the likelihood is there are a lot of other improvements going on. As a result, the elevator and guest parking lots are limited in terms of availability and accessibility.

Make sure to notify the MA staff, particularly the security officers, ahead who will be working on the renovations and when they will require access. In a situation where access to the buildings is restricted, a qualified Renovation Professional will account for the anticipated delays and devise an alternative plan in place.

6. Make plans to have the bulky renovation waste removed.

Renovation Professionals are in charge of removing and disposing of rubbish created during renovations although some HDB flats and Condo Renovation Rules Singapore provide this service. Flammables, wet cement, and sticky materials, for example, should not be placed in the garbage conveyors. Before removing any debris, check with the MA to see if there are any rules to observe.

Waste disposal schedules should be communicated to the MA. You’re also on the hook for the expense of replacing and/or fixing the waste chute. Additionally, in order to minimize disruption to residents, workmen should only utilize the MA-designated lifts and staircases.

7. Make sure you have an extra budget for additional costs.

Renovations, no matter how carefully planned, may go wrong. As a result, a restoration budget should contain a margin, especially when condominium renovations have higher overhead. For example, you may need to include in the expense of disposing of remodeling garbage. A backup budget can often be allocated between 5% and 10% of your entire budget. Create a thorough breakdown of the remodeling estimate.

8. Get in touch with a professional to help you out

These things can be a bit of a chore especially from dealing with all the legalities and making sure that everything is planned accurately and according to the rules of the estate. If you are new to this, it is challenging and a bit overwhelming. But you don’t have to do this alone. Professionals are there to help.

There are many contractors and Interior designing companies that have experience in doing condo renovations and they are pretty familiar with the Condo Renovation Rules Singapore and their dos and don’ts. Reach out to them and inquire about your project. Chances are, they might have undergone a previous renovation project on the same estate.

This may sound like a lot of things but all these Condo Renovation Rules Singapore processes do not make renovation less fun and exciting. In fact, it just means that you are doing the right thing and by doing the right thing and getting all the necessary things taken care of first, you can be assured that your renovation project will go as planned and as smooth as possible and you and your interior designer can have all the freedom in designing and decorating starting from there. Contact us if you need help with your condo renovation!

INTRODUCTION

An open-planned living room layout might look streamlined and sophisticated for some. But for others, it means there is a lack of privacy. It is aesthetically attractive, especially in photos but living in a very wide-open space with fewer elements for privacy can be a bit of a challenge. If you have just currently moved into an open planned apartment or condo unit and are looking for ways how to separate the spaces using room divider Singapore, this blog is for you.

Dividing spaces is not as simple as it seems. You can’t just build a wall to create a new room because it can be costly, unnecessary, and for some estate, it might even be not allowed. But worry not. Regardless of how big or small your house is, you can divide the spaces using clever room divider ideas. What are these? Dig right into the blog to find out.

1. Glass Accordion Door

If you want to create a separation between your living and dining area without fully concealing each space from the other, you can install a glass accordion door. Accordion doors are popularly used to open up living spaces towards the outdoors to create a much more seamless transition between the indoors and the outdoors.

But if your house is located in a high-rise residential building and you don’t really have a patio that leads to a beautiful garden, then you can just install your glass accordion door to divide your kitchen/dining space from the living room. This technique will make little to no less effect on the visual scheme of your interior which makes it ideal if you want to maintain the clean contemporary look of your space.

2. Shelves Room Divider Singapore

You can easily create a partition if you have extra shelves in the house. Simply move the shelf into the area where you would like to have the division. Decorate the shelf with books and accessories but keep it minimal and alternate so that there are spaces left so you can see through the other room from the frames of the shelf.

It is a great solution if you just want to create a minimum separation of spaces. The space appears to be separated but still somehow visually connected. This type of room divider works well in partitioning stairs, foyers, and dining areas.

3. Old Metal Grills

Add a bit of rustic touch to your modern living area by installing a metal grill with stylish designs and or geometry. Metal grills look elegant and they add luxury and shine to a space depending on the style and paint color you use on the grill.

When installing a grill to divide the space, take note that its paint color should contrast the color of the floor and the ceiling to create visual interest. The partition would stand out and sometimes even become the focal point of the living room. Make sure that it is floor-to-ceiling height and has the right width perfect for the area you desire to divide.

4. Wood Slats

Of course, we can’t talk about room divider Singapore without mentioning wood slats. Wood slats are perhaps the most popular form of room divider. They just never go out of trend. Whether your space is modern or traditional, wooden slats would perfectly blend in just fine. They add texture to the living room’s visual scheme and make spaces feel cozy and warm with their natural grain texture exposed.

If you find yourself overthinking about what divider to select for your living room, try starting with wood slats. They’re versatile and minimalistic so they can never go wrong in almost any space with whatever visual scheme.

5. Low Console Table

Furniture can be used as a divider as well. Want to divide the room fast, with minimal effort, and with little to no cost? Use your furniture! Look around and see if you have a console table that’s a bit longer than typical consoles. Depending on the width of your living room or the area you want to divide, a 1-meter console table would fit quite alright.

Place the table against the back of your sofa and accessorize it with jars, sculptures, and table lamps. This style is ideal for traditionally-styled homes as well as Victorian with a hint of modern.

6. Wooden Portable Room Divider Screen

Portable room dividers have a long and illustrious history that dates back to the 4th century BC in China. These early Chinese folding screens served as both a decoration and a piece of furniture. They were heavy, elaborate pieces of art, which made them valuable.

Rather than finding an alternative room divider Singapore to separate spaces in your living area, you can instead opt for a room divider screen. They now all come in different colors, styles, and shapes.

There is a wide array of styles to choose from ranging from traditional to modern. Pick what you think best fits your interior design style and place it in the area where you want to create a division. You can always move it or tuck it away whenever you want to.

7. Room Divider Curtain

There are a lot of things that you can do with curtains. They’re not just for window treatments. They can also be used to divide your spaces as well. Curtains aside from furniture are perhaps the easiest and also the most cost-effective way of adding a partition element between your living and dining area. You can style them in many ways as well and select styles and colors that complement your home’s décor.

8. Beaded Curtain

Although less popular, bead curtains create a soft barrier between rooms. They block out some light while allowing plenty to get through. They provide seclusion while yet affording a view. Beaded curtains also create a different style which adds interest to the room. They can either be long or short depending on the style you want.

We hope this short blog gives you an idea of what room divider Singapore idea to choose for your living room. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you need assistance whether it be in selecting room dividers, or if you need help in designing and arranging layouts of your room. We are your go-to person for that job.

INTRODUCTION

Hoods are an important appliance in the kitchen. Unless you don’t cook in your kitchen, you don’t need a kitchen hood or range hood. Chimney Hood HDB is necessary for avoiding airborne grease and food odors from contaminating the rest of your house. They are designed to keep your kitchen odor-free so your house won’t reek of the smell of the food you are cooking especially if it is fish or dried fish. That can be really off-putting when you have guests.

In HDB flats, ducted hoods are not allowed. Before you look for a range hood to install in your HDB kitchen, do a bit of research first to be able to make an informed buying decision when you shop for one. Here’s everything you need to know about Chimney Hood HDB, the various types of the hood, and how this appliance contributes to the overall look of a kitchen space.

There are different kinds of hoods for different kitchen styles. These are:

1. Chimney Hoods For HDB

If you want optimum ventilation for your kitchen in return for some storage space, this is the hood for you. Chimney hoods are the conventional, massive types seen in most HDB homes, flush against a neighboring wall and mounted directly above the stove. These hoods, which can handle high fumes, are the ones you’ll want in your kitchen, especially if you cook a lot at home.

In terms of design, while chimney hoods appear to be bulky and cover 30-36 inches of your kitchen wall, they are perfect for both contemporary and traditional-styled kitchens. If you have a larger kitchen with a bigger range for cooking, get a Chimney hood. However, for smaller kitchens, slimline and downdraft hoods are ideal. We will talk about them next.

2. Slimline Hood

The slimline hood is the perfect choice if you’re searching for a low-cost, high-efficiency solution that doesn’t take up a lot of room. Slimline hoods are significantly smaller than their chimney counterparts, resulting in a narrow line that runs horizontally on the wall of your kitchen right above the cooking range and besides the cabinets. This makes them ideal for minimalist kitchens.

These seamless fittings may also be fitted into a recess to hide them when not in use. However, slimline hoods feature fewer powerful blowers and less suction power due to their small size. If you don’t cook often, this is the best alternative for you.

Because of their minimal appearance and compact characteristic, slimline hoods are recommended for small kitchens. If you want a hood that doesn’t take up too much space or is too bulky to look at like the Chimney Hood HDB, then this is the right hood for you.

3. Island Kitchen Hood

Chimney Hood HDB and Island hood are somewhat the same in the way that they are both bulky and are mounted on the ceiling of the kitchen except that the island hood has a much higher extraction rate. Obviously, from what it is called, this type of hood is placed on the kitchen island. It basically takes up the space right above your kitchen island counter where your cooking range is placed.

If you are someone who prefers to decorate the ceiling area right above your kitchen island with pendant lights and other forms of decorative lighting, this range hood is not for you. You can, however, hang a track light or a pendant light if your kitchen island is larger and longer.

4. Downdraft Hood

If you need room for overhead fixtures like storage cabinets or lighting, or if you just want a minimalist option for your kitchen, this is the one to get. Because of the ductwork, downdraft hoods are more difficult to install?

If your kitchen is small, taking on the task may be worth the effort since you will find them to be a great suit in a small space. Downdraft hoods capture emission through a horizontal fan and are installed at the same height as the cooking surface rather than above it. Downdraft hoods may also be kept in a stovetop recess and only ‘pop up’ when needed, thanks to its design.

5. Updraft Hood

Updraft hood on the other hand is the opposite of downdraft. Updraft hoods are mounted above a kitchen’s cooking surface and employ a built-in fan to suck any pollutants upwards. This is why updraft hoods are by far the most common option in Singapore homes.

Updraft hood ventilation ducts are easier to layout and install since they may be run into or over a wall instead of through the surface and to the exterior, as with downdraft hoods. If you’ve been to several HDB units, you would see this type of hood in the kitchen. Updraft hood can be quite similar to Chimney Hood HDB in appearance and style.

6. Range Hood Inserts

Range Hood inserts can either be Updraft, Chimney, or island, but hidden with a compartment that’s built customized to conceal it. This hood is an excellent choice if you want complete control over the appearance of your ventilation fan or if you want to transform a readymade cabinet into a functional range hood.

Whether you want a rustic, old-fashioned aesthetic, a modern and sleek design, or something in between, inserts are a terrific way to create the tone or theme for your kitchen.

What to remember when buying kitchen hoods?

Think about what kind of hood appliance can benefit you best with regards to your cooking activity. Consider the space of your kitchen, the size of the Chimney Hood HDB, and lastly, the aesthetic that you want your kitchen to have.

If you are planning to renovate your kitchen and switch your kitchen hood to a new one, it might be a challenge to find which hood is best that will both fit the style you want and cater to your cooking needs.

But don’t worry! Now that you have a list of the most common hoods in HDB homes, you’ll surely be able to pick the right one in no time. If you face any difficulties in the process, give us a nudge by contacting us on our social channels or email us how we can help. Best of luck!

INTRODUCTION

HDB units are connected by corridors, elevators, and stairs. If you live in an HDB unit, chances are, your house has a recess area that is either directly or indirectly connected to the corridor. The corridor is like the curb appeal of an HDB house. How it looks like can have a huge impact on first impressions.

A lot can be said about the interior of your HDB unit even by simply looking at how clean and well-kept your corridor is. You can design it, decorate, or do whatever you want to make the entrance to your house appealing and none like any other. Keep in mind that there are limitations on how much you can customize and decorate your HDB’s corridor. After all, the corridor is a public and shared space!

In this blog, we’re going to shed light on the most popular HDB corridor ideas that a lot of Singaporeans are doing, as well as the do’s and don’ts when it comes to enhancing the look of your corridor space.

Here are several HDB Corridor ideas you can do to enhance the look of your corridor.

1. Create a vertical garden

If you are a plant lover and you’ve always dreamt of having your own little garden even when you live in a high-rise residential building, then you can create a vertical garden instead. There are a lot of benefits that come along with vertical gardening.

Vertical gardens function as natural air filters because they help absorbs carbon dioxide and enhance the air quality thus providing a clean and healthy atmosphere that benefits human health and productivity. On top of that, vertical gardens save space which makes them ideal to have in your corridor space.

2. Color block the wall and floor

Let’s say you want to go minimalist or creative. A splash of color will definitely be a great idea. Simply paint your corridor floor with a different color just to highlight your space. You can paint your wall with a mural, geometric art, or any kind of creative graphics to make your wall space stand out from the rest.

If you’re into making a statement, you can do this while keeping in mind the rules and regulations and the things that your HDB building allows. Simply repainting the walls can give it an enhanced look as well.

3. Decorate with faux florals and plants

You love plants but you don’t have much of a green thumb or you don’t have enough time to take care of your small garden. No worries! You can always choose to decorate with faux plants and flowers. There are many kinds of artificial plants and florals you can buy that look realistic you can’t even tell the difference.

Faux plants are great if you want less maintenance and upkeep and permanent décor. Since you won’t have to water or take care of them, there will be lesser bugs and insects and you can keep your corridor looking like a garden haven in a residential housing building all year round.

4. Place an artificial grass carpet

Rugs are great for indoors but not so much for the outdoor especially if it is a high traffic area. Corridors are not really a high traffic area but most of your neighbors or the people living in the building with you might pass through it so laying down an artificial grass carpet is way better than a rug.

Grass carpets are also great to have to complete your vertical garden or faux plants garden. It’s impossible to grow authentic grass on the building’s corridor of course, but artificial grass carpets make it possible to achieve that effect.

5. Style it with lanterns

Another great HDB Corridor idea is to decorate the corridor with colorful paper lanterns of different shapes and sizes. Lanterns are common decorations on Christmas and New Year but you can create paper customized paper lanterns that are not only designed for holiday occasions.

It can be really hot in Singapore during the summer season and with nothing to block the heat of the sun from hitting the front door or walls in your HDB unit, the heat will penetrate. Having little obstructions that will filter the light and heat such as lanterns, blinds, and a vertical garden will be of great help.

6. Place a stair plant stand

If you don’t want to fill your entire corridor space with plants, simply put up a stair stand to place your small potted plants and succulents. Instead of shoes and other things, plants make your entrance look more pleasant.

People who are deciding whether to have a garden or vertical garden often start by having a small plant stair stand first. It is a great choice if you’re also just starting with gardening. One of the advantages is you can always move the stair stand indoors or outdoors to keep your plant hydrated during the hot season.

7. Put up a small picnic bench/chairs/table

Place a small foldable bench, chair, or picnic table with a couple of chairs. This setup is an idea especially if your HDB unit is located in the corner. It can serve as your small comfortable nook for lounging and drinking your coffee in the morning or having wine in the evening after dinner. Pick a piece of furniture that is light and can easily be tucked away. A foldable one is so it is easier for you to move it indoors anytime.

8. Place a wall-mounted parcel drop box

Now if you don’t want to do all the effort and spend a lot of time and energy decorating your corridor and you’re just looking for a practical way how to utilize it, then why not place a dropbox!

A drop box is ideal for people who are constantly doing online shopping. If you are that kind of a person, a wall-mounted drop box should be in your corridor. It will be easier for the courier to leave a parcel even if you are not at home. That way, your parcel is safe when you collect it once you got home.

HDB Corridor Ideas Do’s and Don’ts

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Over 26+ Years In Operation

Do’s

1. Read the HDB guidelines on corridors to be able to know what are the things to avoid when designing the corridor.
2. Keep at least 1.2 meters clearance width
3. Keep the decorations modest and minimal.

Don’ts

1. Do not block Emergency Exits and Stairs
2. Do not place anything that is fixed or cannot be easily moved such as fixed laundry racks, fish tanks, and heavy furniture.
3. Do not overcrowd with unnecessary stuff.

There are many things you can do with that corridor space in your HDB front door rather than leave it empty. You can utilize empty spaces whether it be for a practical purpose or decorative. We hope you found this blog fun and informative to read. Let us know what HDB corridor idea you liked the most and don’t forget to share this blog with your neighbors so that they too will have an idea on how to spruce up their corridor space.

INTRODUCTION

Do you have a demand of design your HDB recess area but don’t know what to do with it? Continue reading because that’s what we will be talking about in this blog. But first, let’s start by learning what a recess area is.

About HDB recess area design…

A recess area refers to a receding section of a building, room, or property such as an alcove, bay, or the front space outside of your HDB unit near the hallway. In Singapore, you have the option to buy the recess area of a property if it meets certain standards.

HDB recess area design, despite being deemed communal and technically not belonging to the homeowner, seldom see foot movement unless someone is explicitly heading to that area. As a result, many homeowners have no problems putting permanent or semi-permanent objects in these places, such as planters, storage cabinets, and other stuffs.

Sometimes homeowners even put barriers such as the placing of planter boxes in a straight line, as though the space is solely theirs. So, if you have an HDB recess area and you don’t know what to do with it, here are several HDB recess area designs you can apply to make it look stylish and appealing without going on a full-scale renovation.

1. Create a Seating Nook

If your unit is at the corner of a building and you have a recess area at the very end of a balcony hallway that is not directly accessible by the residents in the building, you’re in luck. You can utilize the space as your very own relaxing nook assuming that you have purchased that area and you have the right to do whatever you want with the space.

Gather a couple of chairs and perhaps a love seat that’s big enough to fit the space. Add a coffee or nesting table and spruce up the rest of the nook with potted plants, an area rug, and throw pillows to make it comfy.

2. Make a small garden

A small garden is a great idea, especially for plant lovers. Balcony hallways are the ideal space to have a garden in a high-rise HDB residential building. There are many things you can do to create a lovely garden. Place potted plants and succulents or put hanging planters.

Plants will not only beautify your HDB recess area but they will also make your space cooler and more relaxing. Gardening on a balcony requires the same attention as a typical garden. Make sure your plants get adequate direct sunshine, try layering the soil in your pots, and water your plants on a regular basis.

3. Repaint the walls

Probably the simplest and easiest way to enhance the appearance of an HDB recess area is to repaint it. Nothing beats a fresh layer of paint in an outdoor wall area. It can instantly create the impression of a newer and cleaner unit. The protective coat of paint protects both the interior and outside surfaces.

Painting your property will help to slow down deterioration and preserve the surfaces from the harmful impacts of harsh weather. If you’re artistic, and you want your recess area to be unique from everyone else, color block it or paint a colorful mural on it.

4. Install a colorful Peranakan Tile Pattern

Typically, HDB recess areas are empty and unadorned. Some have tiled floors while others are plain concrete. Considering you have a recess area that’s very exclusive and that you are the only one who can access it going to your unit, then why not create an interesting floor finish by installing Peranakan tiles. It is a creative way to distinguish your recess area and make a great impression on your entryway.

5. Place a shoe storage cabinet

You’ll see most recess areas are used by residents as a place to dry their laundry or park their bikes. You can do this too! But keep it minimal and organized. You don’t really want your outdoor area to look like a complete mess.

This is where storage cabinets come in handy. You can place shoe cabinets to keep your shoes organized and easy to access. The shoe cabinet can also double as a seating area. You can place a cushion over it and you have an instant outdoor bench.

6. Decorate with lighting

Lighting is an important aspect in both indoor and outdoor spaces. Enhance the look of your recess area by installing ambient light to cast ambient lighting. Accentuate it with decorative lighting such as a wall sconce for an elegant and visually pleasing lighting aesthetic during the night. Sconces are fantastic because, depending on the sconce you choose, they may give whatever sort of illumination you require – ambient, accent, or task lighting.

A well-lit space aids in the safety and security of the unit’s proximity and makes it look stylish and high-end in addition. Don’t just put light for the sake of it. Make it look interesting and attractive too.

7. Apply a wall treatment

The primary purpose of wall treatments is to improve the appearance of the building. All other items in the space are framed by the wall treatments. As a result, they are critical to the building’s outside and interior design harmony.

Examples of wall treatments you can do on your HDB recess area are wooden wall treatment, brick-like, bamboo wood strips, wall paneling, geometric designs, and many more.

There are a lot of HDB recess area design options to choose from and a lot of ways how you can enhance the look of it. The key thing is knowing what fits, and what would work best for your own recess area.

Make sure you have the claim the recess area as part of your unit and you have the right to decorate, renovate, or style it the way you want to. That way, you’ll have all the freedom to choose what you want your outdoor recess to look like. Need to consult an interior designer? Don’t hesitate to contact us through email!

INTRODUCTION

A DB box or distribution board is an essential element to have in a home. It is considered part of your residence’s utility. It is an electrical supply system component that distributes energy and power throughout the house. Without it, your electrical system may not be safe or not work at all. Every HDB units have DB boxes.

It’s just impossible not to have them because they’re built in the system. But if you have entered a home or seen a house with no sign of a DB box, don’t be fooled. Chances are, the owner or designer of the interior space is good at hiding or camouflaging it. There are a lot of HDB DB box design ideas you can do to completely conceal your DB box. Dive right into the article to find out what these are:

1. Inside A Cabinet

If you just moved into your newly-bought HDB unit, find where the DB box is located. Your real estate agent might have informed you where during the house viewing so you probably know where it is. If it isn’t hidden, it is easy to spot. It is typically covered in a white or gray metal door.

To conceal it with a cabinet, build a small wooden cabinet with its dimension and make it look like an ordinary cupboard on the wall. You can paint over the cabinet door to camouflage it with the rest of the wall or you can also finish the wooden cabinet to create a rustic contrast within the space.

2. Storage Space

Hide it in the storage space. In some small HDB apartments, lack of storage space is a common problem. To solve this, consider building a storage space to cover your walls. It could be a floor-to-ceiling closet or just a small double door cabinet with the size that’s enough to hide the visible DB box on the wall.

If it is located in a space where a closet does not fit in the context such as in the kitchen, build a small storage cabinet that looks like a cupboard but in actuality, it is just an HDB DB box design door hiding the electrical distribution board.

3. Camouflaged Panels

Not sure whether a cabinet or storage space will fit on the wall where your DB box is located? Camouflaged it on the wall. If your wall is painted white, paint white over it. Make it as hidden as it can be if you don’t want the gray rectangular box popping out of the walls.

Visible DB boxes can sometimes be a visual bomber in your interior design scheme. It can be a bit frustrating but don’t fret or worry too much just paint over it meticulously and make sure you don’t leave uneven strokes or unpainted areas.

4. Mirror Panels HDB DB box design

Hang a mirror to cover your DB box. Mirrors are used a lot in interior design to make the space appear bigger and make it brighter. Placing mirror panels is a great HDB DB box design to hide the electricity distribution board. Who would’ve thought that behind the sleek array of mirror panels lies your home’s circuitry panel right?

Another advantage of mirrors is that they can be placed anywhere. So, whether your DB box is in the kitchen, hallway, entryway or living area, placing a mirror would not disrupt the interior design flow of your space. It is very versatile, modern, and clean to look at.

5. Behind a Painting

Covering the DB box with a painting is also another solution. You’ve probably seen this technique in the movies before – where people have hidden cabinets or vaults behind their precious art pieces. The idea is somewhat the same but instead of vaults or cabinets, you have your DB board.

It is the simplest and most straightforward way of hiding a DB board. You don’t need to spend so much time and effort on building a cabinet or painting over your DB board door to hide it. However, not in all cases, a painting is the best option. Try to see and analyze whether it is fit to place a painting in that particular area of the wall where your DB box is placed.

6. Hang a Tapestry

DB boxes are typically located near the kitchen, service area, hallways or entryways. In instances where a painting or artwork is not deemed appropriate to be on that part of the wall, tapestries are there to save the day.

Tapestries are easy to place. Just hang it and voila! Your DB box is now hidden. You don’t need to install it as you would do to a painting. You can also change it from time to time when you switch decors or just want a fresh new look for your wall.

7. In The Mudroom Cabinet Storage

For DB boxes that are located in the entryway, you can improvise a small storage corner to hide them. Create a tiny mudroom where you can build storage to place shoes, slippers, boots, sports and fitness accessories, and other stuffs. You can then use that storage to hide your DB box.

Placing the DB box this way will make it easier for you to access it whenever needed. Just simply open up the storage and open the HDB DB box design from there. Mudrooms are stylish and useful, providing you with greater organization and storage. Not only can a mudroom add value to your house, but it also protects your valuables.

There’s actually a lot of HDB DB box design you can do to hide your DB box. You don’t have to worry about it sticking out of the wall and ruining the style of your interior space. If your HDB box is located in an area where it’s hard to conceal or decorate, don’t worry. Chances are you only need to create a unique and customized feature to completely hide it from plain sight. Reach out to us by emailing us and we’re sure to help.

INTRODUCTION

The word “Peranakan” refers to someone who is of mixed Chinese and Malay/Indonesian ancestry. Some Peranakans in Singapore may trace their roots back to Malacca in the 15th century. According to mythology, Hang Li Poh, a Chinese Ming princess, arrived in Malacca with a big cortege after marrying Sultan Mansur Shah of Malacca. This group of people lived in the area and married locals; their progeny was known as ‘Peranakans.’ The word itself primarily means “locally-born”.

From a certain vantage point, you’ll see Singaporean Architecture and Interior Design as the result of the combination of modernism and innovativeness in art and design. However, Singapore is rich in history and culture, and behind the sleek contemporary façade of its buildings lies an intricate scene of historical design etched in the walls, floors, and ceilings of Singapore heritage houses. In this blog, we are going to shed light on what is considered one of the most popular textiles seen in Singaporean homes. The Peranakan tiles design.

The Origin of Peranakan Tiles Design

Peranakan tiles design can be likened to Majolica tiles which were initially created in Germany, the United Kingdom, and Belgium. The Peranakans admired their intricate designs that they became a distinctive feature of the culture. They were known as Peranakan tiles as a result of their popularity. Perankan tiles were utilized as aesthetic panels in porches, halls, washstands, and even courtyards, and were mostly employed as ornamental tiles in Peranakan residences. Houses adorned with these colorful and ornate Peranakan tiles design are regarded as a symbol of wealth and prominence.

Why are Peranakan tiles Popular in Singapore?

As a form of embracing and preserving culture, Peranakan tiles are deemed a valuable attribute to a home. They will always be that distinctive feature that makes homes one-of-a-kind. The bright and ornate varieties of these tile designs can be found on the façade and interiors of Peranakan residences in the streets of Everton Road, Blair Plain, and Joo Chiat. Culture is an important aspect in every community and like countries and communities with strong cultural ties, Singaporeans choose to include a hint of their ancestral origin through interior design.

What Makes It Different?

There are several differences between other tiles and Peranakan tiles in terms of history, provenance, and, most importantly, visual appeal. These tiles have interesting designs and themes. The original Peranakan tiles were composed of earthenware and were beautifully cut and glazed for long-term use.

What makes them truly different from other tiles popularly used in western interiors such as Zellige, herringbone, Arabesque, and other geometric patterns is their much more intricate and colorful designs. Peranakan Tiles design often depicts florals, geometry, fruits, and greeneries.

How to Incorporate It Into The Modern Interior Spaces of Today’s Homes?

A lot of people in today’s era would prefer streamlined contemporary interiors compared to traditional ones. But if you want to include a hint of culture and luxury in your spaces, there are many creative and truly stylish ways to incorporate Peranakan. Here are several interior spaces where you can add them and how you can style them.

1. Bathroom

The bathroom is perhaps the most popular room in a house to place stylish and colorful tiles. Bathroom design is often utilitarian, but that does not mean it has to be dull. Add busy patterned tiles to one wall, such as the shower stall, to enhance your bathroom; use a neutral finish and less intense designs on the other walls to retain harmony.

2. Kitchen Backsplash

If you wish to create contrast and add an interesting feature to your kitchen, consider changing your old backsplash tiles with Peranakan tiles. Many kitchens in condo units, apartments, and HDB homes have this general sterile look which is common in minimalistic and contemporary kitchen concepts. However, these types of kitchens are saturated in the market. If you really want something different and eye-catching, don’t be afraid to incorporate colors and throw in unique artistic features.

3. Patios/Sunroom

The Patio or sunroom is the perfect place to showcase your unique Peranakan tiles. Not only will they give a splash of color into your space but they will also be considered a distinctive feature of your property. Features like these add value to the home so whenever you decide to sell the property, you can highlight this particular design. People love detailed and ornamental crafts. It surely is a must-have.

4. Hallways

Impress your guests with a colorful array of intricately designed Peranakan tiles right in your hallway while they walk towards your doorstep. The hallway is an excellent place to show off your lovely tiles as they glow in the sunlight. Hallways are oftentimes deemed as uninteresting but with Peranakan tiles, you can make them an important factor in your home’s interior scheme.

5. Balconies

Balconies are common in Singapore. Some HDB properties and apartments have small balconies attached to their units. What’s great about having a balcony is you can use the extra space to create a cozy nook either for relaxation or a place to do your hobbies and fitness activities like meditation and yoga. Make your balcony extra special by decorating it. You can install Peranakan tiles on the balcony flooring and spruce it up with the right outdoor furniture, décor elements, and other outdoor accessories.

6. Living Room Flooring

Designed to accommodate guests and a place where the family can bond and spend time together, the living room is the ultimate space to put up a stylish tile design like Peranakan tiles. There are a variety of Peranakan designs and colors you can choose from that will fit your living room’s color scheme. Living rooms with bold colorful styles are quite rare. This kind of style is not for everyone but if you’re into creating an exquisite interior space unique from the rest, then you should definitely try installing Peranakan tiles on your living room flooring.

Peranakan tiles are a fantastic accent to any room. They have sophisticated and appealing patterns that create an incomparable visual result. They’re not only adaptable, smoothly blending into any environment, but they also add to the aesthetic appeal of the room with a wide range of symbols and themes. These tiles are the perfect option for your home if you want culturally influenced architecture and decor. 

We hope you’ve learned a thing or two about Peranakan tiles design in this blog. If you wish to have this feature in your home but don’t know where to start, don’t hesitate to send us a message. We’d love to hear from you!

INTRODUCTION

When we say something is vintage, it primarily denotes something that is of high quality, either an object or style dating from the past. Ironically, vintage style is still trendy. A lot of people are attached to the vintage look, the vintage interior design included, mainly because of its historical charm that seems to take people back to the old times. One particular style that interior designers and home décor enthusiasts love to incorporate in their spaces is the eclectic combination of modern and vintage elements which then gives birth to a new designs style referred to as “modern vintage interior design”

In this blog, we’re going to walk you through the vintage interior design characteristics. What makes it so popular? And how can you achieve it in the modern interior setting? Continue reading to find out.

Why is Vintage Interior Design So Popular?

Vintage Interior Design is the art of decorating spaces with old and classical objects and items to create a nostalgic appeal. Many people are attracted to old things. There’s just something beautiful and charming about the old styles that makes interior spaces look luxurious and classy. Vintage interior design tells a story. It is more than just décor and style. It is a sentimental concept that evokes emotion which makes the home soulful both in appearance and ambiance. People love that in their spaces. This is why vintage is still as attractive as ever in today’s contemporary setting.

How Can You Achieve The Vintage Interior Design Look?

One common misconception people have when they decorate their spaces with vintage is that “oh I’ll just buy old furniture in vintage stores.” Or “it’s just about displaying my vintage object collections.” While those could work, it doesn’t really ensure that your space will have a coherent look considering that you’ll have to mix and match both modern and vintage to achieve the style. But don’t worry, this blog is here to help. We’ve gathered 7 tips on how you can pull off the vintage interior design look in your modern home.

1. Incorporate antique pieces

Of course, it’s not a vintage look without the antiques. If you have a collection of antique pieces, that’s a great advantage. However, keep in mind that choosing the right antiques to display is both an art and a science. Yes. It may sound complicated but it’s actually just the basics of arranging objects in a frame to create visual harmony. Select antiques to decorate your console table. It could be a vintage telephone, jars, clocks, paintings, and other collectibles.

2. Add vintage patterns and colors

To fully get a sense of the mood and color schemes of a particular vintage style era you are trying to achieve, study the elements of that interior design style. Common examples are Victorian style, Regency style, and Georgian. If possible, use an image from the past as design inspiration so you can understand how these ideas were implemented at the time. Polka dots patterns for instance, quickly transfer you to the 1950s, or rich, deep reds equates to the Victorian era. Colorful splashes of color in textiles connect to a somewhat cultural aspect of vintage or more on heritage.

3. Shop for vintage furniture pieces

Furniture pieces are the biggest item that is instantly visible in the space. Therefore, it is highly suggestive to opt for vintage furniture to pull off the vintage look. Keep in mind that you don’t always need to switch your existing furniture with old classical ones. Instead, what you can do is create contrast and use vintage furniture pieces to accentuate modern ones. Pair a modern sofa with classical accent armchairs or place a vintage console against a neutral contemporary background.

4. Mix and Match Seating and Tables

As previously mentioned, you don’t need to buy vintage furniture to get the vintage interior style. The goal is primarily to combine modern elements and accentuate them with vintage ones. Create balance within the two when arranging them. Try putting modern chairs around a historic table in your living room, kitchen, or home office. Pair a simple dining room table with velvety antique seats to enhance. Mixing furniture types is a terrific way to bring a space together!

5. Create balance with neutral colors

If you’re mixing vintage wall art, contemporary furniture, and decorations with other elements in your house, make sure there’s enough breathing space. While various patterns, vivid accents, and bright colors are fashionable, you may balance them out with neutrals to avoid the space seeming uncomfortable or congested.

6. Use vintage accessories and art as a focal point

Let your antique home décor take center stage! Guide the eyes of your guests to your dining room chandelier, or living room wall art piece. Make your vintage decor stand out by placing them in the spotlight. There is a myriad of ways to make vintage items a focal point. You can create one in the dining area, workspace, and even a vintage interior design bedroom.

7. Play with lighting and lighting fixtures

One of the finest methods to blend interior design styles is through lighting! For a unique look, place an antique light on a modern or antique table. Antique sconces and pendant lights may be used to bring drama and warmth to a minimalistic, contemporary, or industrial setting. To add interest, hang a classical chandelier in a modern living room. Spruce console tables with a mix of modern and vintage lamps. Play with lighting temperature and tune brightness and glow to pull off the ultimate vintage look.

It’s one thing to get a vintage interior design aesthetic, but it’s quite another to combine the modern and vintage elements in one composition. Because the former can be tough in and of itself, it’s reasonable that the latter will be difficult as well. However, there are other resources available on the internet, and this simple instruction has already provided you with ideas on how to create the style. If you find it difficult, don’t hesitate to ask questions or contact us with your concerns. We’d be delighted to assist.

INTRODUCTION

Decorating a kid’s room is a fun and exciting process. Unlike designing living rooms and dining areas, the children’s bedroom allows parents as designers to have as much freedom when it comes to selecting colors, themes, furnishings, and accessories.

The kid’s bedroom is their safe haven and as much as possible, it should be designed with them in mind. One thing to do this is to allow and encourage them to participate in the process. Ask the toddler what theme does he want his room to be? What are his/her preferences? What unique feature does he/she like to have?

It’s easy to get lost in the process because as parents, we also have our own preferences. However, keep in mind that it is your kid’s bedroom. And by making their preferences validated and appreciated, you’ll be able to build their creativity and establish independence and identity by doing fun activities together such as decorating and styling their bedrooms.

To guide you in the process of selecting designs, here are several room design for kids that they might love.

1. The Soft Minimalist

Contemporary bedrooms are common in most Singaporean homes especially small apartments and HDB units. Because of the limited space available, a minimalist bedroom is ideal. However, a minimalist kid’s bedroom doesn’t have to be sterile and uninteresting. Inducing a bit of visual play such as color blocking walls, adding fluffy elements like area rugs, poufs, and bean bags can brighten up the space.

2. The Disney Room Design For Kids Themes

If your kids want a Disney-themed room, here’s a simple tip on how to achieve it. Select the color scheme of the particular Disney movie or character then draw all your paint colors, furnishing colors, and other accessories from that palette.

It’s a simple and straightforward way of incorporating a Disney theme without stuffing the bedroom with stickers and wallpapers. You can then style and accentuate with accessories and perhaps a few stuffed toys to achieve the setting in the movie.

3. The Mural Wall

Colorful walls are popular in the nursery room and room design for kids. Nothing can bring the fun and playfulness of the space quite like painted walls. If you want to brighten the walls and add a splash of color, consider painting a mural. You can color block it or create a concept such as animals, nature, fruits, or other cute things and characters that your kid might love.

When creating a mural on the wall, let your kid participate in the process. It’s a good parent-kid bonding activity you can do every once in a while. It will enhance the kid’s creativity skills and make him/her appreciate the painting more.

4. Pastel Wallpapers

Pastels are lighter, softer, and calmer than primary colors because they are less saturated. This is what makes them an ideal room design for kids’ color to use in their walls. They go nicely with neutral hues in the spring to give off an earthy, sophisticated vibe. The use of pastels gives the space a vibrant atmosphere.

5. The Playful Scandinavian

Scandinavian is characterized by the use of wood and a neutral scheme in the interior. The Scandinavian design focuses on quality over quantity and prioritizes clean, clutter-free surroundings.

It encourages peaceful and straightforward appeal that many parents wish to include in their children’s bedrooms. Sprucing the space with a splash of color in the form of beddings, rugs, ottomans, throw pillows, and voila! Your kid can enjoy the playful Scandinavian vibe in his/her bedroom.

6. The Jungle Effect

The jungle is one of every kid’s favorite themes. Why with all the fantastic stories involving jungle settings such as The Jungle Book and The Lion King, it’s no wonder why a lot of kids want to recreate the environment in their own bedrooms.

On top of that, it is a fun theme and there are many things you can incorporate to pull off the look. A netting-covered canopy bed or a basic rattan bed with a low headboard is ideal for this kind of bedroom style. Adding wildlife decals, camouflage, or jungle-print bedding will complete the look.

7. Colorful Geometry

Geometry is used in interior design to create both striking and lovable forms, lines, and shapes. It’s a creative and attractive way to add individuality to your kid’s bedroom wall. There are many ways to add geometric elements to the bedroom. You can either paint the wall with an interesting pattern or opt for textiles filled with colorful geometries and shapes. Another way is through rugs, throw pillows and blankets.

8. The Fairytale Dream

The bedroom should be every kids’ haven where they would love to spend their day playing, doing their hobbies, and even spending time with their parents. This is why fairytale-like room design for kids is so popular both young boys and girls alike.

The fairytale world feels like an escape. An adventure that they want to embark on. Kids have a very wild imagination and these imaginations are the ones that foster their creativity and make them enjoy their childhood.

9. Little Astronaut

The astronaut/space theme is somewhat saturated. The reason why is pretty obvious. Kids love to wonder and they are very interested in things that pique their curiosity. Space, stars, science, and other cool things are a few of them.

If your child loves everything about space, one way you can support that interest is by creating a space-themed bedroom for him/her. It is also a great way to educate the kid slowly about the stars and planets. Who knows he might truly become an astronaut in the future!

There’s quite a long list of room for kids design ideas but it will probably take us tomorrow if we enumerate those, so we keep it short and simple. This list, however, is a few of the most popular bedroom designs for kids that almost everyone will love.

So, if you’re quite unsure what style to incorporate, you can definitely select from one of these, or better yet, ask your kid. Chances are, he/she might already have something in mind. Hope you learn a thing or two from reading this blog. Don’t forget to have fun and enjoy the process of decorating the bedroom with your kid.

INTRODUCTION

Using feature walls in an interior space is a terrific way to add character to a wall and draw attention to it. Rather than leaving walls dull and empty, interior designers have come up with new creative ways to make them interesting and architecturally appealing.

Adding feature walls is one of them. In this article, we will be talking about one of the most sought-after feature wall designs, especially in living rooms. This is the Fluted Panel TV Feature Wall.

What is a Fluted Panel?

Fluted panels are constructed of engineered wood fibers with polyethylene densities or wood plastic composite. It has a natural wood finish and has linear or vertical designs. They typically imitate the look of natural wood.

The materials in which they are made are also are resistant to water, mold, and termite. Fluted panels add texture and depth to walls making them an elegant aesthetic feature that works well with any styles.

Fluted Panel TV Feature Wall

Among the most common areas where fluted panels are used are in the living room. They are often placed as a backdrop in a wall that will serve as the living room’s focal point. A fluted panel Tv feature wall is popular in Singaporean Contemporary homes, condos, and apartments.

Its design gives off a streamlined sophisticated look that’s perfect in houses with modern, Scandinavian, and minimalist themes. When coupled with the correct furnishings, fluted panels are extremely popular for TV unit walls. It may also be used as a compartment to hide the Tv unit utilities and wires.

Why Is It So Popular?

With the hundreds of wall feature designs out there, what makes the fluted panel so popular? Here are nine reasons why they’re a must-have in your space.

1. It provides a great aesthetic.

Unarguably, having a fluted panel TV feature wall adds a wonderful aesthetic. It creates texture and a sense of continuity in the space. Since fluted panels are also made of wood, they embody nature and in Japanese interiors, they symbolize the presence of a bamboo tree which is known as one of the most popular plants in Japanese culture.

2. Perfect for minimalist homes

So, you want to adapt the minimalist interior design but you think white bare walls are boring. The solution? Fluted panels of course. The earthly natural wood grain color of fluted panels is perfect for minimalist two-toned color palettes. It makes your house look simple, minimal, yet interesting.

3. It is a great feature wall

What is good about having a feature wall like fluted panels is that it gives your eye something to look at. When you look at a TV Unit, you don’t just see the Tv on the wall. You can also admire the craftsmanship and design of the wall where it is mounted. Fluted panels can be used anywhere not just behind Tv Units. They make good partition walls and are considered a unique architectural feature both indoors and outdoors.

4. It is eco-friendly

Since most fluted panels are made of wood-plastic composites (WPC) they are considered environmentally friendly and sustainable. WPCs are frequently regarded as a sustainable material since they can be created from recycled plastics and wood industry waste.

5. It adds depth and texture to the wall

While you can add the texture you your walls using paint, and you can also spruce it up with artwork and mirrors to make it less bare, nothing can beat a feature wall from making it a hundred percent more attractive. If you’ve ever been to retail shops, restaurants, and coffee shops in the malls, you will notice that some, if not most of these commercial establishments use a fluted panel on their walls. It is because it is a simple and straightforward way of adding depth and texture without thinking about paint color, and other elements to make a wall pop.

6. It is considered a contemporary architectural feature

Fluted panels are not only used in walls where they are attached to a concrete structure. Architects and interior designers also use them to serve as a partition wall. If you are considering dividing your spaces into two sections, a fluted panel would be an ideal feature wall.

7. It is simple yet sophisticated to the eye

Wooden elements have the power to transform any space into a sophisticated, elegant, and comfortable environment. When you think of places like salons and spas, resorts, and other places for relaxation, you’ll often see fluted panels on these walls. Aside from the fact that they are simple, they also provide sophistication that makes these places feel and look at their finest.

8. It is clean, calming, and relaxing

Most fluted panels have the color of the wood. However, you also have the option to pint it with a different color if you want to. Its natural earth tone finish is clean, calming, and relaxing to the eye. Regardless of what color scheme you have in your room, the natural color and finish of fluted panels will fit just fine.

9. Serve as an acoustic wall panel.

A common acoustic panel is usually square or rectangular. But did you know that fluted wall panels are good sound absorbers? Yes. Having them in a closed space improves the quality of sound within the room because the grooves between each vertical slat, reduce the number of sound waves that are reflected off the walls.

Fluted Panels are versatile. Whether you want to add one in your living room as a Fluted Panel TV Feature Wall or in the kitchen, in the bedroom, in the office, indoor or outdoor areas, it will absolutely look good. Its durability and resistance to any form of damage, water, termite, and mold are exceptional. Fluted panels can be purchased by panel depending on how large the wall you want to cover it with. It is also very easy to install. Moreover, fluted panels come in a wide range of colors and textures, making it simple to create different appearances for feature walls.

INTRODUCTION

The entertainment wall is the focal point of the living room so it is only essential to carefully think about a TV Unit Design that will go with the overall interior theme of the house. The TV Unit serves two primary functions. It holds the TV of course, and at the same time, serves as a storage space for TV accessories such as remote, speakers, and decoration fillers like books, vases, and figurines.

When it comes to selecting a TV unit, you need to consider a few things. Determine how big your TV is as well as your entertainment area. You don’t really want to buy a TV unit that is too small for your TV to fit. Second, think about its function. Do you want to store accessories and a couple of decorations? Or do you want to go for something minimalistic?

Selecting the right TV unit furniture is a bit challenging. You can get inspiration from these 10 TV Unit Design for hall 2022 that we’ve gathered.

1. Wall Mounted Console

The wall-mounted console also known as the floating console is one of the most sought-after TV Unit design in the market. Its appearance is sleek and minimalistic. It is the kind of console that works for both spacious living rooms and living rooms with limited spaces.

The floating console evokes a hint of contemporary style which makes it perfect for modern homes. Floating consoles can also contain a couple of shelves or drawers for storage. Depending on your preferences, there are numerous designs of TV Units that can be wall-mounted available in furniture stores.

2. Solid Wood Backdrop

Wooden elements look amazing in the interior of homes. Almost all contemporary designs embrace the element of wood either as part of the architecture, furniture, or small details like decorations and accessories.

Wood is often used in the interior as a design feature on walls. So, if you ever want to add a wooden element to your living room, choose to place it on your entertainment wall. Opt for a wooden TV Unit Design with a solid wood backdrop to frame your TV and make your wall stand out.

3. Cabinet With Floating Shelves

The cabinet with floating shelves can be somewhat similar to a wall-mounted console, except that the TV cabinet unit is not mounted to the wall. It can be a piece of furniture that you can place on the floor. If your TV is attached to the wall, the floating shelves are mounted on either side of the TV to serve as some sort of framing.

This will add character and visual appeal to your entertainment wall. It will make the space appear less empty and more interestingly styled.

4. Scandinavian Tv Unit Design Stand

A Scandinavian-styled TV Unit Design is a console or cabinet with tapered legs. It is made of wood and the natural wood grain is highlighted as its main feature. This type of TV Unit usually comes with drawers with its doors painted in white to contrast with the wooden framing of the furniture.

This type of TV unit is ideal for contemporary homes, condo units, and small apartments. If you’re not ready to invest in expensive furniture, you can start with this one. It’s typically affordable, lightweight, but also very durable.

5. Luxury Modern

A luxury modern TV unit design is basically any type of console furniture that embodies the luxurious theme of a modern contemporary home. It could be made of wood or a different material but with a hint of bright sparkly colors like gold, bronze, or silver to truly evoke that modern luxury ambiance.

6. TV Unit with LED Lights

In one of our previous blogs, we’ve discussed entertainment wall designs. Entertainment wall designs commonly have lighting (flushed LED lights) to highlight the wall design feature. Quite similar, you have the option to install LED lights on your TV unit design console or cabinet to make it look extra appealing especially during the night.

Regardless of what cabinet style you choose, adding a lighting design can enhance the look of your living room to a whole new level. When watching movies with the lights dimmed, you can have the LED lights open for a wonderful movie marathon experience.

7. Modern Minimalist

A modern minimalist TV unit design is the kind of console furniture with handle-less cabinets which have grooves called channels to open them. It usually has a solid color either white, gray, or the natural grain of the wood.

This tv unit is perfect for minimalist homes. Its modest appearance also makes it a piece of versatile furniture that can be easily added to any type of interior design look.

8. Low Lying TV Unit

A low-lying TV Unit is a cabinet or console that has more or less 12 inches in height. It lies on the floor and is typically smaller than ordinary console cabinets. This type of TV Unit looks sleek and stylishly modern in homes with limited spaces as well as in luxurious mansions and penthouses.

If you want to have this type of TV unit, make sure you don’t have dogs or pets running around as they might climb onto the surface and topple the decorations.

9. Classic Tv Unit

Classic Tv units are those cabinet consoles with a traditional style inspired primarily from the English and French styles of the 18^th and 19^th centuries. This type of furniture has intricate design and ornamentation that’s typically seen in traditional luxurious homes.

If you’re into traditional designs like Modern Victorian or Neoclassical, this TV unit design will definitely embody that era.

10. Contemporary Clear Glass

Wood is a common material used to make TV unit furniture but did you know that glass is too? Glass TV consoles are popular because it’s furniture that you can disassemble. Having a glass tv unit can make your space look extra spacious.

The transparency and sleekness of its appeal make it a perfect addition in contemporary homes. Glass consoles also come in a variety of designs. There are consoles with 1-3 tier shelves.

We’ve pretty much covered the different TV unit design ideas commonly found in Singaporean homes. We hope this blog has inspired and helped you decide on what kind of TV unit you should have in your home. If you ever found yourself struggling with the process of designing your living room, feel free to reach us through email or drop a comment down below.

INTRODUCTION

The bathroom is the tiniest room in the house. If you don’t want it to be dark and gloomy like those in scary movies, you should use sufficient lighting to lighten up the room. The function of a toilet light is more than just lighting. It also aids with tasks such as cleaning one’s face, hands, shaving, and, of course, applying makeup.

Toilet lights, in addition to offering convenience and efficiency, also improve the interior design of a bathroom. It defines the edges and draws attention to certain design elements. Bathrooms with lovely illumination appear opulent and elegant.

If you’ve always wanted a 5-star hotel kind of bathroom, here are a few toilet lighting ideas as well as tips on how to properly decorate with light to get you started.

In lighting design, there are 4 layers of light to be considered. These are:

1. Task Lighting

Task lighting refers to the light that illuminates the workplaces inside the bathroom. These workplaces usually are sinks and vanity countertops. The lights are mounted on the wall or under the cabinet.

A bathroom with proper task lighting installed is considered well-designed since it provides convenience to the user especially when doing meticulous tasks such as applying make-up, removing contact lenses, doing the hair, and shaving. In interior design, convenience and efficiency should always come first before aesthetics.

2. Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting, from the word itself, is the light that establishes the ambiance of the bathroom. It is the general light that illuminates all the areas and provides an equal distribution and lighting temperature on all corners of the space.

Ambient lighting enhances the sensation of warmth and depth in a room or place, in addition to providing basic lighting performance. Without ambient lighting, all forms of decorative lights will not be sufficient to make the bathroom look attractive.

3. Decorative Toilet Light

Decorative lighting serves as the cherry on top of every interior design. It adds character and personality to the space. Examples of these are lamps, chandeliers, sconces, and strip LED lights. The decorative lighting in the bathroom is usually the one that defines the style. A modern bathroom has rectangular sconces or strip lights. Traditional ones on the other hand have chandeliers and industrial-styled bathrooms tend to have vintage metal lamps.

4. Accent Lighting

Accent lighting highlights certain design features within the bathroom. Examples of these are can light and up lights, wall sconces, wall wash, toilet wall light, track lighting, and torchieres. They are often placed on either side of a decorative panel or on top of artworks to highlight them in the wall. Accent lighting is less important in the toilet but adding a few will surely enhance the interior of your bathroom.

What Type of Bulb Should You Use in A Bathroom?

We’ve talked about 4 layers of light but we haven’t touched on the most important part – which is basically the type of bulb. Task, accent, decorative, and ambient lightings won’t be able to serve their part if you fail to choose the right bulb. So, what type of bulb should you actually use in the bathroom?

• Energy Efficient

Select a light bulb that’s energy-efficient. Energy-efficient light bulbs emit less heat, reducing the amount of work your air conditioner has to do to keep your room at a suitable temperature. Bulb disposal is less wasteful with energy-efficient bulbs since they live longer.

• Temperature

The ideal lights for the bathroom are those branded “daylight,” which have a color temperature of 5000K to 6500K, or bulbs classified “cool white” or “bright white,” which have a color temperature of 3500K to 4100K.

When it comes to wattage, for adequate bathroom illumination, you’ll need bulbs that are at least 60 watts. You might wish to use 75-watt-equivalent bulbs if your bathroom is really spacious or you like it to be brighter.

• Shape

Globe-shaped bulbs, which are more appealing than ordinary lights, are frequently used in bathroom vanities.

• Type

LED bulbs are significantly more energy-efficient, last much longer, and don’t produce nearly as much heat as incandescent. As a result, LED lights are the greatest option for illumination in bathrooms.

• CRI Rating

A CRI of 90+ indicates great color contrast and brightness in bathroom lighting. This is great for putting on make-up or doing any other work that requires careful application.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Designing Lighting for Bathroom

1. Avoid Shadows

Shadows are created when the lighting is not placed in the appropriate direction. For example, when you look in the mirror and you find it hard to put your makeup on because of shadow that’s blocking your view, you need to configure your lighting placement. To produce cross lighting, place two wall-mounted lamps at eye level on either side of the mirror.

2. Awkward lighting placement

Placing your light in inappropriate height and position can break the overall scheme. Make sure that your lighting placement is plotted accurately before installing them. Seek the advice of an interior designer for better clarity.

3. Disregarding Color Temperature

Using a light bulb with a lower CRI than recommended might make the bathroom hue seem odd. Similarly, choosing a lighting fixture with a greater or higher temperature might have an unanticipated influence on the bathroom’s overall look.

4. Not Having Enough Light

If you don’t have enough lighting fixtures installed, it can obviously make the bathroom look a bit darker. Most people tend to go for a light bulb that’s brighter than what is suggested thinking that it would be enough to light up the room.

But not following recommendations from professional interior designers can have repercussions which can be seen in the outcome. It’s better to stick to the appropriate specifications provided to ensure a quality result.

5. Too Much Light

In the same way, too much light can also make your toilet light a flop. If your bathroom has windows or has access to natural lighting, pick a light bulb with enough CRI rating and temperature that will complement and blend smoothly with the natural light that comes into the room. Too much light not only breaks the interior design look but also consumes a lot of energy.

There are a lot of processes that go into designing a toilet light for the bathroom. It’s actually not as simple as putting light bulbs and installing beautiful fixtures. But don’t fret just yet. While it may seem like a very extensive and challenging task, we are here to guide you. We hope you’ve learned more about bathroom lighting design in this blog. If you need assistance, feel free to send us an email.

QUICK NAVIGATION

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  INTRODUCTION
  
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  1. Mosaic Tiles
  
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  2. Marble Tiles
  
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  3. Geometric Tiles
  
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  4. Check Pattern
  
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  5. Argyle Pearl Pattern
  
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  6. Hexagon Tiles
  
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  7. Herringbone Tiles
  
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  8. Brick Tiles Design for Toilet
  
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  9. Natural Earth Slate
  
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  10. Tiny Square Tiles
  
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  11. Subway Tiles
  

INTRODUCTION

The bathroom tiles are what define the interior design of a bathroom. When choosing a tiles design for toilet, there are a lot of things that need to be put into consideration. Aesthetics, strength, and affordability should all be taken into account when selecting bathroom tiles.

In order to avoid the formation of bacteria, germs, and mold, bathroom tiles should be water-resistant, anti-skid, and simple to clean. Here are ten (10) tiles design for toilet you can get inspiration from on your next bathroom renovation project.

1. Mosaic Tiles

Mosaic tiles are known as a popular floor tiles design for toilet. Any combination of tile sizes, colors, shapes, and/or materials set in a sheet for easy installation is known as mosaic tile.

They can be made of ceramic, porcelain, glass, natural stone, metal, or mirror, and are usually set randomly or in a pattern on a mesh-mounted sheet. Because of the large number of grout lines in mosaic tile, these slip-resistant flooring solutions are ideal for wet areas such as bathroom and shower floor tiles.

2. Marble Tiles

Whether countertop, kitchen backsplash, home flooring, or bathroom, marble tiles are always a good option. Marble is usually a fantastic choice for bathroom design since it is both classic and beautiful.

Marble, on the other hand, has certain drawbacks, the most significant of which is upkeep. To avoid stains, scratches, and moisture damage, marble must be sealed once a year and cleaned on a regular basis.

3. Geometric Tiles

Geometric tiles may completely change the appearance of your bathroom by adding a contemporary and trendy touch to any design. These tiles may be used to form a variety of designs and can be simply adjusted to any color combination, giving the interior of your bathroom a unique look. Geometric tiles may give your living area a fresh, modern appeal.

4. Check Pattern

Check pattern tiles design for toilet are those black and white squares that look chic and trendy. It is a playful tile design perfect for classical bathrooms and modern ones. This tile pattern is playful and visually eye-catching.

You can either position the tiles in a square grid or diamond layout. The choice is up to you. Just make sure that you don’t make any mistakes when installing them or else, one misplaced tile will ruin the whole pattern.

5. Argyle Pearl Pattern

The Argyle pattern is inspired by the pattern of argyle on fabric. It is a diamond pattern with different variations of colors. This pattern is just as playful as the check pattern but more subtle in appearance since it is typically a combination of similar hued colors, although you can select different colors depending on how colorful you like your bathroom to be.

6. Hexagon Tiles

Pretty much self-explanatory, hexagon tiles are shaped as such. It is usually installed with a variety of colors, often patterned. But perhaps, one of the trendiest hexagon tiles design for toilet is the gradation of tile color from lighter to darker.

It is what makes bathrooms with hexagonal tiles so popular. It adds character and stylishness to the bathroom and as a result, hexagon tile will continue to be fashionable and trendy for many years to come. 

7. Herringbone Tiles

Herringbone tile patterns are small-format tiles that create dramatic feature walls, tiles patterned in this way are making a significant effect in the kitchen and bathroom trend worldwide.

We all know herringbone is a popular kitchen backsplash but it also slays in the bathroom, giving the bathroom that chic, contemporary and minimalistic appeal. If you desire more fine decoration in certain locations, herringbone mosaic tiles are available in teal white, black, and other colors.

8. Brick Tiles Design for Toilet

Brick is perhaps one material that will never go out of style. Brick is not only for outdoors, rustic kitchens, and fireplaces. In fact, brick tiles in bathrooms are gaining popularity, taking platforms like Instagram and Pinterest by storm.

This type of aesthetic has an earthly, natural appeal which can make a bathroom feel like a sanctuary in nature. Brick tiles can be of any color depending on your bathroom’s color palette.

9. Natural Earth Slate

Natural earth slates are typically installed on bathroom walls. It is a great way to include nature or add an element of nature in the bathroom space. Bathrooms with natural earth slate are usually those in hotels, resorts, and grand houses and mansions located in tropical areas.

It is not for a typical bathroom in condos or small apartment units. Nonetheless, it is a good material for designing high-end luxury showers and baths.

10. Tiny Square Tiles

You need a lot of these tiles if you wish to fill your bathroom walls and floors. It is basically square tiles that are so tiny the typical dimensions are 2×2 or 3×3 inches. These tiles are best for minimalistic spaces.

You also have the choice to select different colors depending on your design. Small bathrooms with tiny square tiles have all-white tiles since it creates an illusion of a spacious bathroom. 

11. Subway Tiles

Though those early subway tiles were constructed of white glass, subway tile takes its name from the appearance of the tiles in the New York City subway system. It is a rectangular, thick, low-fired, glazed ceramic tile that is generally 3×6 inches in size.

However, it is available in a range of sizes for usage in the house such as in the kitchen backsplash, bathroom walls, floors, including shower walls. Subway tiles are installed in the same way as bricks. The style is referred to as running bond.

Deciding on the tiles design for toilet is challenging. With the variety of colors, patterns, and material specifications to choose from, it is easy to get lost in the process. Before you visit a tile store to buy, make sure that you have your bathroom interior design plan ready as well as a mood board and specification list to follow.

About Kitchen Countertop in Singapore

Designing the kitchen is no easy task. It requires effort, time, and resources. More than that, it also demands extensive planning, material searching, and accurate designing to achieve the desired result.

When it comes to choosing the material for your kitchen countertop, there are a lot of things that need to be factored in. This includes the kitchen countertop height, kitchen countertop bar, cost, aesthetic, durability, functionality, and appropriateness. You don’t just select a material because of its color or design.

You also need to consider those underlying factors that have the most impact when it comes to the kitchen’s efficiency and usability. Different materials have different perks. In this article, we’re going to look at #11 most commonly used kitchen countertop materials and get to know more about their nature, as well as their pros and cons. Let’s dive right in.

Most Commonly Used Kitchen Countertop Types In Singapore

1. Marble

For many homeowners, marble is still the most popular choice for kitchen worktops. It does, however, have limits that should be considered while using it in the kitchen. If used for kitchen countertops, it is a rather delicate and porous stone that must be sealed carefully and periodically.

Marble is one of the most appealing natural stones due to its distinctive look and veined patterns. The two main downsides of a marble kitchen countertop in Singapore are it can get quickly discolored unless it is treated on a regular basis with a high-quality sealant due to its porous characteristic. Secondly, since it is a soft delicate stone, it can easily get scratched.

2. Granite

Because of its durability and natural beauty, granite remains the most preferred countertop material. Granite has the ability to transform any kitchen into a lavish and opulent space.

Is it really worth it to spend so much money on granite countertops? The answer is yes. If you choose a neutral color and design, they will last for years with minimal upkeep. When compared to marble, which may only last 20 years, experts believe they will endure 100 years if carefully managed.

Granite is expensive and is not DIY-friendly. Seek the help of a contractor or professional granite installer when installing granite countertops.

3. Laminate

Laminates are one of the most versatile of all countertop materials. Although they are not as regarded as those expensive high-class materials, laminates look nonetheless different.

It is made up of a thin layer of plastic laminate laminated to particleboard or medium-density fiberboard.

They look aesthetically good and work well in modern or mid-century modern homes. Note that when compared to other materials, laminate countertops might feel empty and light.

4. Ceramic Kitchen Countertop

For new countertop selections, ceramic tile is a good moderate option. It comes in a variety of colors and sizes. It can also be purchased in quantity for a reasonable price. It is durable, easy to install, and looks visually appealing in any kind of kitchen design. It’s also great for a DIY project if you want to make your own countertops.

5. Soapstone

A soapstone countertop is great for your kitchen if you often place hot things on your countertops. Surfaces made of soapstone are heat resistant. Soapstone is naturally non-porous. As a result, you won’t have to worry about staining or heat damage. Soapstone countertops are perfect for most kitchens because of this particular characteristic.

6. Quartz

If you would list down kitchen countertop materials from the strongest to the weakest, a kitchen with a quartz countertop would definitely top the list. It is harder and more durable compared to granite.  It is also not porous which means, it is easier to clean and is resistant to any form of bacteria buildup.

Quartz is an excellent choice for kitchen counters, as well as bathrooms.  Because of its durability and wide range of colors and styles, it’s a very practical material.

7. Slate

Slate is perhaps the most affordable countertop. It costs less than granite, quartz, marble, concrete, and other countertop surfaces. Slate is a heat-resistant countertop surface that can be readily sliced into thin sheets and absorbs very little moisture.

Slate tiles are ideal for kitchen and bathroom countertops because of their longevity and toughness. Slate counter surfaces are resistant to heat-generating appliances such as hot pots and hair tools.

8. Concrete

Concrete also makes for good kitchen countertops. It is a long-lasting material as long as it is sealed and properly maintained. While concrete is not impervious to scratches, it outperforms softer counter materials like solid surfaces and laminate.  

Concrete countertops are becoming increasingly popular in kitchens of all types, from modern to classic.

9. Stainless Steel

You might be thinking. Isn’t stainless steel for chef’s kitchens and restaurants? Technically yes, but stainless steel also works for regular kitchens especially those with modern industrial style.

Steel countertops are not only attractive, but they are also water-resistant as well as heat and stain-resistant. Stainless steel will resist corrosion, food stains, and meat juices, as well as the strong cleaning agents used in industrial kitchens.

10. Recycled Aluminum

Contrary to what many people think, recycled aluminum is somewhat similar to engineered stone and other solid surface countertops rather than to stainless steel and other metallic materials.

It is primarily because they are a blend of solid surface waste, aluminum flake, scrap, and recycled acrylic. Aluminum countertops are one of the least common forms of metal countertops, but owing to their unique qualities, they may be utilized in a variety of applications.

11. Recycled Glass

Recycled glass countertops are made from a mixture of glass melted down to form a new slab. Similar to other countertop materials, it is durable and heat resistant which makes them a viable alternative for daily usage, although they are not as lasting as other materials.

If sharp objects such as knives scratch the surface, the glass may chip, especially around the corners.

The variety of materials available for kitchen countertops is astounding, and there are kitchen countertop materials that have not been included in this list. It seems like an endless choice. 

Each material has benefits and disadvantages that must be considered before making a purchase decision. We hope this blog has helped you in any way and assisted you in making informed choices when designing your kitchen.

INTRODUCTION

When we think of a living room the common things that pop into our minds are comfy large sofas, colorful chesterfields, loveseats, and contemporary sectional couches. However, did you know that you can still achieve a warm, welcoming, and comfortable living roof without a sofa? Yes, that is totally possible.

If you live in an HDB condo unit with small spaces or limited area for a living room, a “sofaless” living room could be the solution to your problem. If you are also looking for a unique way to redesign your living room, try to remove the sofas and use these seating alternatives instead.

1. Bean bags

One of the most fascinating couch options is bean bags. However, they are not that comfortable to sit on especially when you are working on your laptop or carrying food or a cup of coffee. Well, it is also not advisable to be working or carrying food on your sofa either. Kids love bean bags. So, if you have kids, it’s a great addition to your toddler-friendly living room without a sofa.

2. Build a window seat right below your bay window

Not all HDB condos and apartments have bay windows. But if you happen to have one, consider it as a great opportunity to build a seating right below it. The seating can also house storage underneath where you can place books. Regardless of what type of window you have, simply putting a rectangular box with a customized cushion on top can be an alternative seating. Not only does it save space but it also gives you extra storage space.

3. Hang a hammock

Hammocks are a unique addition to any room. If you have a pretty tight living room, and if you live alone, a hammock is a great choice. Also, if you love the boho unconventional interior design style, you should definitely get yourself a hammock. Not only will it transform your space but it will also make it look a lot more interesting. Sprucing the space up with a couple of potted plants, a shelf, and an area rug will complete the look.

4. Use accent chairs

Accent chairs are often paired up with sofas and couches to furnish a living room. However, if you have a small space, using laid-back accent chairs can serve as your seating. This is a perfect seating alternative for people who seldom stay at home. Since you won’t have that much time lounging in your living room, having a chair where you can sit for a couple of minutes to read a book or watch TV would work just fine.

5. Use floor cushions

Floor cushions are popular among minimalist and Muji-styled homes. Floor cushions are light and can be moved or dragged easily. This makes it a perfect alternative seating for a small family with toddlers or babies. It is a fun addition to a living room without a sofa and can be piled up and put in a corner when not in use. You also have the option to choose small floor cushions or long rectangular ones.

6. Tatami chairs

What’s great about tatami chairs is that aside from their unique style, these types of chairs are also practical and allow you to sit comfortably everywhere in the house. When they’re not in use, they’re very simple to pack up and store in the closet.

If you are looking for a sofa alternative that looks a bit more like a small sofa, a tatami chair is exactly what you are looking for. Tatami chairs are indeed perfect for small contemporary spaces and for the minimalist enthusiast. 

7. Iconic lounge chairs

Want your living room to feel comfy and full even without a sofa? Get a lounge chair and spruce the space around it with an ottoman, a side table, a shelf, and an area rug. This setup will look like a warm comfortable nook where you can both lounge or take a nap. This type of alternative sofa seating is perfect for working professionals who live alone and who only spend a few hours lounging in their living room.

8. Spruce up with ottomans

Ottomans or floor poufs are excellent and inexpensive couch alternatives because you can buy one to match almost any aesthetic at a very low cost. They can be utilized as a seat, a backrest against a wall, a footrest with an armchair, or even a tiny table depending on the situation. To avoid the space looking too matchy-matchy, get a few in a variety of colors.

9. Place a chaise lounge

If not traditional seating, choose a lounge. Lounges can be as big as a loveseat or a small sofa so it is a great alternative to one. This type of furniture is appropriate for classy or traditional designed living room interiors.

However, if you really want a chaise lounge as a sofa alternative, there are a lot of contemporary-styled chaise lounges on the market that you can purchase. Avoid lounges that are heavy or too bulky otherwise, they will only crowd your space.

10. Industrial bench

Benches are the new thing. Many people are appreciating the advantage of having a minimalistic living area. It gives them more room to move around and less clutter to mind. Hence, the idea of a living room without a sofa is appealing to them.

Since couches and sofas usually involve heavy and challenging cleaning processes and maintenance, opting for a minimalistic industrial bench instead is a smart move. Not only will it give you more wiggle room in the house but it will also save you time and effort in cleaning and maintenance.

However, keep in mind that you may not be able to sit comfortably or lounge on a bench but you can be creative and create your own backrest by simply pushing it up against the wall and placing cushions and throw pillows to make it comfortable.

Now that you have learned about the seating alternatives you can have instead of a sofa, let us know which among them you think fits your style and your space. If you also want to create a unique living room without a sofa, tell us how we can be of help. Comment your thoughts down below or send us an email.

What is Maisonette?

The word “Maisonette” originates from a French word that means “small house.” It is a popular house type in Europe and its popularity spread across Western and Asian countries including Singapore. Examples of maisonette designs can be found in semi-detached homes or HDB’s.

A Maisonette is basically a flat with a front door facing directly off the street. Unlike single-story flats which are commonly accessed through a shared entrance and common areas, maisonettes are different. They typically consist of two floors, with the bedroom on the second floor and the living and dining area on the first floor.

Executive maisonettes are one of the most popular property types for homebuyers here in Singapore. Now let’s talk about the most sought-after maisonette designs specifically living area and maisonette kitchen designs.

For the Living Room Look

Since maisonettes are commonly located in HDB residential buildings, the exterior design is not as important as the interior. So here, we will be focusing on maisonette design styles. For the living area, these are the most popular design styles:

1. Modern

Modern design is perhaps the most straightforward way of decorating the interior of maisonette homes. Since these types of houses commonly have a modern layout, it is easier to style. Modern maisonette designs are sleek and practical which can appeal to a variety of homeowners or homebuyers seeking a modern way of living.

2. Colonial

The colonial-style originates and is largely popular in Western countries. However, due to its classy and luxurious characteristics, many people also wish to incorporate this style in their homes regardless of their house design and country. Maisonette homes with colonial living areas are attracting the attention of buyers and homeowners. The house with colonial-style looks completely furnished, elegant, and posh.

3. Contemporary

Contemporary is characterized by simplicity and subtle sophistication. The reason why this is also one of the most sought-after maisonette designs is that it is easier to configure and redesign. Whether you are buying a furnished or a non-furnished home, incorporating the style into your new mansionette wouldn’t be too much of a chore since the common design principle of a contemporary interior is all about clean lines, simplicity, and functionality. 

4. Midcentury Modern

Mid-century modern is an American Interior design and Architecture movement that started way back in the 1940s. This design has a somewhat transitioning vibe which makes it a common interior design choice of people who love to incorporate unique and distinguishing features into their homes to make them stand out. The design is mostly defined by organic shapes, the use of iconic furniture pieces, and the fusion of both traditional and modern décor elements.

5. The Mediterranean

Mediterranean maisonettes are not so common, however, maisonettes with these styles are considered “executive maisonettes”. It’s popular among homeowners who seek a luxurious lifestyle and those who want everything in their house to look none like any other. Typical characteristics of a Mediterranean-designed living area are the incorporation of wooden elements on the ceiling and on maisonette staircases.

6. Sustainable Home

Having a sustainable home is an ideal way of living. For people who are environmentally conscious, and who want everything in their homes to be sustainable and eco-friendly, a sustainable maisonette is a perfect choice.

This means that the home’s decorations, building materials, and energy consumption are all sustainable. Factors that add to the house’s sustainability include the layout and placement of windows and the integration of passive cooling design.

7. Smart Home

The main feature of a smart home is the integration of automating and monitoring technology to make everyday activities smooth and easier. With smart home systems, you can automate your daily home processes such as turning on and off the lights of an area or room of your choice, drawing the blinds, locking and unlocking your doors remotely, as well as controlling the home’s temperature and humidity.

Maisonette Kitchen Designs

When homeowners/homebuyers look for a home to purchase, one of the things they check is the kitchen. What are the amenities and appliances the kitchen can accommodate? Is it big enough for the family? What design style could possibly be perfect for the kitchen? Take note of these maisonette kitchen design styles when you hunt for your next home.  

1. Modern

Modern design is characterized by flat surfaces, geometric forms, and little or no embellishment or adornment. Sleek, angular, and minimalist designs, with little or no hardware, flush doors, and smooth surfaces, are common features of modern kitchen cabinets.

2. Traditional

Painted cabinets with or without glass front doors, basic granite or laminate counters, and hardwood floors are common features of traditional kitchens. Traditional kitchens that are at their best rely on classic aspects while yet allowing for family pleasure or guests’ activities.

3. Industrial

Commercial or professional-grade appliances are used in industrial kitchens. Similar to a commercial kitchen, they’re built to perform at a higher level, be incredibly useful, and feature very durable materials and surfaces.

4. Asian

Clean and simple lines, floral motifs, and wall art are all hallmarks of Asian-style kitchen design. Light stone tiles, wood components, and even rocks or pebbles are common in Asian-inspired kitchens as well. This type of kitchen design also compliments modern and contemporary styles.

5. Scandinavian

Touches of warm wood in the shape of cabinetry and flooring, pale-hued paint colors, and a simple yet textured backsplash are generally used to create a Scandinavian-inspired cooking space. The design is typically spruced up with sleek but elegant barstools and graded organic cookware.

Maisonette Staircase

We can’t possibly talk about maisonette designs without mentioning maisonette staircase. Because maisonettes are two-story residential homes, their most distinguishing feature is the staircase. Usually, maisonette staircases have a simple contemporary design. This includes a wooden staircase with unique metal railings, a floating staircase with a glass railing, and an industrial-type concrete staircase.

When you decide to view a maisonette, the staircase design would be the first feature that would likely call your attention. Take note of the style as well as the layout and don’t forget to check its condition as well.

INTRODUCTION

Private dining rooms in singapore have become a lucrative option for families and relatives to dine in when there are occasions to celebrate. Since the hospitality industry is still slowly transitioning from pandemic to post-pandemic setups, dining in open and public restaurants still poses a threat. Whether you are planning a simple dinner with the family, a birthday celebration, a corporate event, or preparing for the holidays, private dining is a great option.

A private dining room provides more than just safety, privacy, and an intimate get-together. It is also a great opportunity to show your efforts and entice your guests by preparing and designing customized private dining exclusively for them.

So, what are the things you need to consider when setting up a private dining room?

1. The Location

When planning a get-together with friends or family, the first thing that would almost always come to mind is the location. The same goes for planning a dinner gathering. The location usually depends on what type of occasion you are celebrating (which we will talk about in the next point).

However, you have the option to pick certain places that are convenient for everyone and most importantly, a location that everyone agrees and are looking forward to. It could be a private dining room on a rooftop overlooking the cityscape, an outdoor garden dinner. Private dining set up near the pool or the beach, or even in just the comfort of your home.

2. What Type of Occasion Are You Celebrating?

Occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, baby showers, or reunions call for a celebration and gathering with a couple of friends and relatives. The type of occasion you are celebrating will serve as your guide to determining how many guests will be attending, how you are going to set up the dining, as well as what interior design style you will be incorporating.

If it is just a simple family dinner or a corporate dinner event, no need to go over the top. You can keep everything simple and straightforward but also with a hint of luxury and a premium feel to the space so your guests feel welcomed and comfortable.

3. What Interior Design Theme Are You Going to Do?

If the family is celebrating a birthday, the design would of course be a certain birthday theme. You could go for different styles like Bohemian, Mediterranean, Asian, or Victorian/European vibe. The same goes for wedding or wedding anniversaries.

However, for family reunions, deciding on what interior design style to incorporate can be a bit of a challenge. There’s this thought of wanting to impress the relatives and the fear that you might overdo the design and it might end up as an inconvenience to everyone.

Suggestively, for reunions and corporate gatherings, stick to something that is modest and simple. Everything should be presentable and keep in mind that the most important thing is to provide efficiency and convenience for the guests. Stick to minimal decorating and add style with lighting.  

4. Choosing the Appropriate Dining Table and Chairs

There are many reasons why a private dining room setup can go haywire and perhaps one of the most common is not having a table that’s big enough to accommodate all the guests. Another thing is overlooking the number of guests who are coming so you end up not having enough chairs for everyone. If this happens, it can be embarrassing.

That is why it is very important to plan ahead. Knowing ahead of time how many guests will be attending will help you determine what kind of dining table to use and how many chairs to prepare. Suggestively, a round dining table allows for a more interactive and light-hearted environment. Since everyone is gathered around the table, there’s going to be less confusion on who should sit where and who should sit there since a round table means that everyone is equal and included.

5. The Table Setting Design

When the guests come into the private dining room, the first thing that they would notice is the table set up. How the table is set up also determines what type of occasion the family is celebrating. If you want to impress your guests, hire a table stylist to come up with an impressive table styling composition.

Depending on how grand or how simple the dinner is, table styling would usually have a couple of floras and bouquets for decoration, candles, and a chandelier or lighting effect to complete the look.

6. Layout and Access

Once you already have the chairs, dining table, benches, and buffet tables, think of the layout. The dining table should be near the buffet table for the guests to easily and conveniently access the food. However, make sure that there is enough wiggle room between tables so guests can move around with ease.

Thinking of the arrangement also prevents accidents that can happen such as spilling food over or dropping utensils and kitchenware. Provide extra space such as a bench for guests to place their belongings so they don’t have to carry them around with them in their chairs.

7. Lighting Design

Lighting sets the mood. Lighting food, flowers, and really nice bottles of wine with wall washing or recessed lighting over the table is a terrific idea. It also gives your dining space more dynamic ambient lighting. Accent lighting creates an inviting ambiance by casting a warm glow and illuminating the room’s edges.

It provides the idea that your guests are sitting at a casual dining table in your living room. Another thing is wall sconces. These types of lighting are considered decorative and they add detail to the room. You can place wall sconces on a wall near the dining table to create a dimmable light that adds drama to the scene.

Whether you are preparing for an upcoming dinner get-together or simply planning ahead of time for the coming holidays, one thing is for sure, choosing a private dining room is a great option. The tips above can also apply when choosing private dining rooms in restaurants to book. We hope you find this blog helpful and if you need any help in designing, feel free to comment below or reach us via email.

What Is The Muji Interior Design Style?

Muji is a Japanese concept that embodies an exquisite and minimalist living room style, influenced by the Japanese Zen religion. It is characterized by sleek minimalistic features, lots of organic elements, and subtle yet interesting hints of iconic design features.

A Muji-styled home is serene, organized, and welcoming. It’s the kind of home that you would surely appreciate after you get home from a tiring day at work. The fewer things you see, the calmer and more relaxed your mind can be. Here are 12 ways to achieve the minimalist Muji living room so you can experience the ultimate Zen aesthetic relaxation that this style offers.

1. Select Wooden Furniture

If you look up “What is Muji minimalist living room” on the internet, you will see images of interior homes that usually consist of two primary colors. The color of wood, and white-painted walls and ceiling. The main element of Muji design is wood. From the flooring to the furniture and partition elements. Opt for wooden minimalist-style furniture pieces to achieve a Muji-styled living room.

2. Stick To Neutral Colors

Since a Muji minimalist living room has a very simple and straightforward color palette, putting much play in your paint colors is unnecessary. As much as possible, stick to neutrals. Chose white for your walls and ceiling and perhaps a little bit of beige, cream, or pastel for certain areas to create an interesting transition and for added dramatic visual experience.

3. Pick Beige-Colored Fabrics

For the furniture, select sectional sofas with beige-colored or neutral-colored upholstered fabric. Fabrics with the shades of gray, the color of cream, pastels, and beiges would look visually appealing and calming against the neutral minimalist backdrop of a Muji-designed living room. Keep in mind that creating a minimalist living room is also about color as it is about decors and furniture layout.

4. Go Organic

Muji is inspired by the Japanese zen aesthetic. The organic design emphasizes minimalism and harmony between man-made features and the natural environment, drawing inspiration from nature. Natural forms and simple materials like wood and glass are promoted in organic home furniture design trends.

5. Declutter

The key to achieving the perfect minimalist living room is to, of course, declutter. Little to no accessories and ornamentations in your living room is ideal. The goal of the Muji-styled home is to create balance and harmony through design and layout. The more organized and clutter-free a room is, the more composed and productive you get. Try practicing decluttering every day and you will notice a change in your everyday mood.

6. Incorporate Potted Plants

Nature elements are one of the most important things that induce peace and tranquility in us. We love to be around nature and one way to do this is to add natural elements and greenery into our homes especially minimalist living room HDB.

The presence of plants accentuates wonderfully with the wooden elements in a Muji home It makes everything look vibrant and alive.

7. Create An Open Minimalist Muji Living Room Layout

When you have an open layout, your living room can appear bright and spacious. If you are worried about having limited space, or if you are planning to redesign your minimalist living room HDB, you can always try to reconfigure the arrangement of your furniture to create a more open layout. Avoid bulky furniture and stick to Scandinavian-styled ones.

8. Paint Your Walls White

We have tackled colors in the previous pointers, but here, I will reiterate again, the importance of the color white in a Muji-inspired home. White evokes calmness and tranquility.

You can pretty much add or decorate with any colors as long as the backdrop is painted in white. A white wall can serve as your canvas. It will be easier for you to complement the white with hanging decors and painting that if you have a bright colorful wall.

9. Paint Your Kitchen White

A clean and white pristine kitchen is the epitome of minimalist living room designs. If you are a fan of Japanese smart home solutions, I am pretty sure that you have stumbled upon photos of minimalistic and innovative Japanese kitchens. Their kitchens top the charts when it comes to the cleanest and most technologically advanced kitchen designs. When aiming for the Muji style, use white as the backdrop paint color of your kitchen.

10. Opt For A Solid Hardwood Flooring

The best acoustic properties are found in solid hardwood. With that being said, solid hardwood flooring is the best choice for a Muji-styled home since it is a great absorber of sound. Having wood flooring makes the interior look organic, sleek, and minimalistic but with a tinge of comfort and warmth. Almost all Muji minimalist living room designs also have solid hardwood flooring.

11. Decorate With Mirrors

Mirrors give an illusion of a brighter and more spacious room. When your living room is small, having a huge mirror on the wall will help make your space look a bit larger than it really is. There are also many ways to decorate with mirrors. You can hang them on the walls in alternative to paintings, or lean them against the wall for a minimalist and effortless aesthetic appeal.

12. Have Enough Shelves And Cabinets for Storage

We talk about how decluttering is important to achieve the ultimate minimalist look. But how can you declutter and be organized without enough storage spaces right? Designate storage spaces and shelves in your living room.

Make use of your entertainment wall and inject a couple of cabinets where you can hide your excess accessories and open shelves for displaying the necessary ones. Don’t forget to integrate one in your foyer or mudroom as well.

Mudrooms can often get cramped with stuff especially when guests come to visit the house. Having a closet where they can store their bags, shoes, caps, umbrellas, and coats will be very convenient for them and for you as well.

We know that you are excited to create your very own Muji-styled minimalist living room. And we know you can do it on your own. Simply take heed of the tips we’ve gathered above and you’re good to go. However, if you don’t know where to start, it can really be a bit of a challenge. Decluttering and organizing along is a chore. If you need help, comment down below or end us an email of your concern.

INTRODUCTION

No matter how well you maintain the items in your home, notably door knobs, knockers, and handles, they will corrode with time. Steel items in your home will rust and become brittle, which at that point they will need to be replaced.

When iron and oxygen react in the presence of water or moisture in the air, rust occurs. Surfaces that rust fast are usually those found in kitchens and bathrooms, where moisture is pervasive. Rust stains, on the other hand, can cause damage to surfaces such as wood, glass, steel, and tile.

While you have the option of discarding rusted metals, there are still cost-effective methods for restoring them. If you’ve noticed rust on some of your utilities, here are several methods on how to remove rust on different kinds of surfaces.

1. How To Remove Rust Stains from Tiles?

Tile is a common material we use to finish our kitchen floors and bathrooms. It gives off a cleaner and simpler appeal which not only enhances the interior of the house but also makes it look brighter and elegant.

However, cleaning tile surfaces properly can be a bit challenging. Depending on the quality, some tiles tend to crack when acted on by a strong force. It can also accumulate rust stains which is the most common problem that individuals face in their kitchens or other moist places.

Metal furniture, home décor items, LPG cylinders, cutlery, and other metal objects can cause rust stains on the floor. Rust is caused mostly by hard water, and it makes your flooring look dirty and untidy. Furthermore, rust can damage the tiles, resulting in cracks.

The good news is that you can remove rust stains on tile flooring using 2 commonly used home cleaning remedies: Vinegar and Lemon.

Vinegar

Vinegar is the most powerful home cleanser. The acidic nature of vinegar, whether it’s a mineral deposit, grease, or rust, may remove all of these stubborn stains quickly.

Here’s how to do it in 3 simple steps:

• On the rust stain, pour 2-3 teaspoons of vinegar.
• Allow it to settle for 3-5 minutes.
• Wipe down the floor with a clean, soft cloth.

Lemon

Do the same procedure until the rust stain on the floor will start to go away.

Lemon is a citric acid-rich fruit. Because of its antibacterial capabilities, it can not only clear charred containers and rust stains from floors, but it can also destroy bacteria. Simply follow these steps on how to remove rust stains using lemons:

• Get a bowl and mix lemon juice with a small amount of salt.  
• Apply at least ¼ teaspoon of the mixture to the rust stain.
• Allow it to settle for 10 minutes. After that, brush the surface with a toothbrush. You will see that the rust stain on the floor begins to fade.

In typical cases, rust stains on tiles are only minimal. The solutions outline is very easy – something that you can do yourself immediately. 

2. How To Remove Rust on Stainless Steel?

Stainless steel is widely used in a variety of household products and building materials. It is naturally resistant to rust because it is covered with a chromium film on its surface.

However, if the chromium layer starts to fade, the steel will begin to rust. If you are noticing rust on your pots, pans, knobs, or handles that are made of steel follow these steps on how to remove rust.

• Get two cups of water and pour 1 tablespoon of baking soda.
• Baking soda is non-abrasive; thus, it will gently remove the rust discoloration from the steel. Get a soft-bristled toothbrush and put the mixture into the rust stain with the brush.
• Wipe the area with a moist paper towel after rinsing it.

Restoring objects that are made of steel can help you save a lot of money from buying newer ones. Unless the materials are really old and decaying, following these cleaning tips will help you revitalize your things and make them look good and new again.

3. How To Remove Rust on Laminated Wood Flooring?

Laminate flooring is an excellent substitute for hardwood flooring. It has the same aesthetic attractiveness and durability as hardwood. However, it, like other types of surfaces, can acquire stains, particularly if the floor is not cleaned and maintained on a regular basis.

This is where rust stains and other dirt can accumulate, deteriorating the quality and appearance of the laminated wood. Luckily, there are several simple home solutions on how to remove rust. You will be able to do the process properly without causing harm to the floor surface as long as you are ready to put in the effort. Here’s how it works:

• To remove any surface dust or filth, moisten a clean sponge with warm water and gently rub the affected floor in circular motions.
• Fill a big plastic jar with 1/4 cup cream of tartar powder. Pour 2 tablespoons of lemon juice into the mixture and stir the ingredients until it forms a paste.
• Apply a coating of the paste to the rust stain on the floor with a spoon or sponge.
• Put a bit of the mixture into the sponge and scrub the paste into the surface until the rust is totally removed.
• Get a damp cloth and wipe away any paste and rust residue on the floor surface. Once done, clean the floor with a dry microfiber cloth.
• Note that: Cleaning a laminate floor using abrasive chemical cleaners, soap detergents, scouring brushes, steel wool, wire brushes, or steam cleaners will peel the protective covering and increase the probability of stains.

To remove rust discoloration, many people suggest using nail polish remover. While it will remove the rust, it will also most certainly peel the laminate.

You now know the different methods on how to remove rust. Whatever rust removal procedure you choose to attempt, always perform a small section testing to determine which technique is most likely to work. In cases where the rust stains are so largescale and difficult to remove with household solutions, consult a professional cleaner and research for commercial rust removal products available.

INTRODUCTION

There are several reasons why most people especially young couples and professionals are eyeing BTO flats over landed properties as their future investments. BTO flats are extremely popular and this is due to their convenience and style.

This means that these houses are versatile and can adapt to just about any design style that you choose to dress it up with. These are the types of properties that appeal to homeowners and investors who are either looking for a new home to move in or a property to purchase and rent out in the future. Below are a few 3-room BTO design trends that homeowners are swooning over.

1. Scandinavian

Scandinavian 3-room BTO design will never go out of style. Muted color palette with a tinge of light wooden elements and decors, accentuated by earthy tones of iconic furniture are the distinguishing characteristics of a scandi-style home.

This style appeals to home buyers and renters who have a practical and minimalist lifestyle. Scandinavian aesthetics are so popular among younger generations of homeowners. They want something clean and straightforward and a design style that can easily be modified to their liking.

2. Minimalistic

A minimalistic home can fall under a variety of design styles which include Scandinavian, Modern, and Contemporary. It is more like a concept that can be applied in both the way of living, design, and organization methods. A minimalist BTO flat means a cleaner layout embodies the principle of “form follows function”. Designed for practicality, and promotes sustainability in all aspects.

3. A Touch Of Farmhouse

If you think the farmhouse style is only for landed homes located in rural areas, you’re totally wrong. Design styles evolve over time and that goes for the farmhouse interior design style as well.

Regardless of whether your property is a bungalow or a high-rise BTO unit, you can recreate the country farmhouse vibe by incorporating the right design elements. Things like distressed furniture, faux wood tiles and planks, lighting fixtures, and vintage accessories can be added to your interior to achieve the farmhouse look.

4. Modern Victorian

The essence of a modern Victorian 3-room BTO design is the fusion of the classic design of the Victorian era flavored with a contemporary twist. This unique combination is attractive to a wide range of demographics.

One distinguishing characteristic of a Victorian home is the moldings and trims on walls and ceilings. Typically, walls are designed and painted to serve as a focal point. The walls are often painted with a darker hue in contrast to a lighter-colored ceiling. The furniture items and accessories are what wraps the Modern Victorian look altogether.

5. Industrial

Industrial 3-room BTO design flats are gaining favor in the market for two key reasons. It is adaptable and has a very artistic appearance. The factories developed in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries served as inspiration for industrial design.

Forward-thinking Architects decided to convert existing structures into residential apartments during the rise of globalization to avoid wasting valuable space. The designers embraced the building’s architecture by keeping its raw features unaltered and visible, giving rise to this interior design aesthetic.

Today, people who move into their newly finished BTO often decide to incorporate the industrial interior design style because it is raw yet stylish. You pretty much don’t need to spend a lot of money on expensive décor to live in a stylish flat. It is all just a matter of creativity and style.

6. Retro Feel

Singapore is strewn with historical shophouses that evoke that nostalgic retro vibe. And what better way to experience a blast from the past than to redesign the interior space of your home in retro style?

If you think retro styles are only seen in cafes and retros, you must see a few HDB and BTO flats that are nailing the look and getting the swoon of interior designers and retro lovers. A simple interior can transform into a space with character and style with the right design elements of your choice.

7. Tropical Vibe

Tropical style is defined by its emphasis on warmth, simplicity, and functionality. Warm and relaxing hues, derived mostly from natural features like the sea, sky, and flora, characterize the style.

Colors can be rich and complex, or they can be softer and brighter. If you ever dreamed of having a home that feels like a vacation house near the coasts, there are certainly BTO units designed like these that you can find.

Although designer units are pretty rare and can be a bit expensive, incorporating the tropical vibe is not at all difficult. Simply spruce up the space with furniture made of natural materials like wood, bamboo, or rattan, and paint your wall with a colorful botanical mural.

8. Mid-Century Modern

The mid-century modern interior design style first gained popularity in the 1940s and has remained popular ever since. The style has an undeniable ageless appeal, defined by clean lines, organic shapes, minimum decoration, and high practicality.

Mid-century modern designs are noted for combining sleek lines examples of these are slim, peg legs on dressers and desks with organic curves, reimagining conventional items with new materials and processes. The appearance was contemporary, yet not completely alien to the past.

9. Stylish and Playful

Many BTO flats have an open-planned layout. This is intended so that residents can have the freedom to modify and design the space according to their interior design style. Multifunctional spaces are created and interiors are looking more stylish and playful as many designers are embracing the unconventional way of decorating spaces.

A few distinguishing features of stylish BTO’s are color-blocked walls and ceilings. Huge windows, open kitchens, and even movable walls. BTO’s with these styles are also easier to market if residents decide to sell the property since buyers can also customize and renovate the spaces with ease compared to traditional-styled units.

If you are planning to purchase a new home or a BTO unit, these are just a few of the hottest 3-room BTO design trends that we have found. At the end of the day, how you want your home to look is still all up to you. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable in the space you create and you can be proud to call it your home. Need help in designing your BTO flat, send us an email and we’ll match you with your ideal interior designer.

INTRODUCTION

There are a lot of things to consider when designing a kitchen, from the correct type of flooring to the paint color of your walls. This article will discuss one of the most essential design aspects in the kitchen that should not be overlooked. It is, of course, the kitchen backsplash.

If you believe your kitchen is too plain and monotonous, consider giving it a makeover. Adding a pop of color with trendy kitchen backsplashes may help your kitchen seem like the ones you see on cooking shows. Continue reading as we guide you through the best kitchen backsplash Singapore designs. You might just find the right design for your kitchen!

Kitchen Backsplash Glass Ideas

A glass backsplash for the kitchen is now a thing. Traditionally, tiles or marbles were often used as kitchen backsplashes, but many interior designers are recognizing the capability and durability of glass in the kitchen scene.

Glass is more resilient and adaptable than you may believe. This type of material does not require sealing and is mold resistant. A glass backsplash is very simple to maintain because there is no grout to keep clean all the time. Simply wiping the surface with a non-abrasive cleaning will keep your kitchen looking new and fresh every day.

A glass sheet backsplash is just a sheet of glass that may be painted in the color of your preference and then put on your wall. This method provides a totally customized appearance while being very practical.

The glass reflects light, making it an excellent choice for a kitchen with limited natural light. A glass sheet backsplash is an excellent backsplash choice for today’s kitchen. It requires little upkeep, is simple to construct, versatile and timeless, and is reasonably priced. So, if you are thinking of revamping your kitchen backsplash Singapore, a glass sheet material is definitely something to consider.

Kitchen Backsplash Tiles

Tile is the most commonly used material for kitchen backsplash. Tile is a popular material for kitchen and bathroom surfaces because it is resistant to water. There are also several tile materials from which to pick. Porcelain, ceramic, stone, marble, and even glass sheet are examples of such materials.

A tile backsplash is an excellent design feature to create an accent and make identifying elements of your kitchen, depending on the pattern, style, or color of your choosing. A colorful tile backsplash draws attention to your sink and counter area, making your kitchen backsplash Singapore more appealing and eye-catching.

Tile is also simple to clean and maintain, apart from requiring a fair bit of work to scrub the grout so that dirt does not build. Overall, tile material is a fantastic choice whether you want to go simple with your kitchen or go for more fun and colorful design with interesting mosaic patterns.

Kitchen Backsplash Marbles

Marble’s distinct feature is the primary reason for its widespread usage as a countertop and backsplash material in kitchens. The Greeks were among the first to utilize marble to decorate their structures. The Parthenon, for example, was finished with a marble sculpture.

Marble backsplashes are well-known for their beauty and elegance. It can turn any kitchen from drab to opulent. Because marble is a natural stone, you can be sure that no two backsplashes or kitchen countertops will be the same. So, if you are looking to add a unique feature to your kitchen, consider marble for your backsplash.

Although marble is more expensive than other materials, it is well worth the investment because it is one of the most long-lasting backsplash options. Marble can look new and pristine for a long period of time if it is properly cared for.

#5 Kitchen Backsplash Ideas

Ever wondered what are the different ways you can make your kitchen backsplash Singapore unique? Here are a few interesting ideas.

1. Patterned

If you want your kitchen to look stylish and fun, what other creative way to do it than to incorporate unique patterns! For this particular style, you can choose tiles either made of marble, glass, or ceramic and create a mosaic pattern to add an interesting visual appeal.

You can choose repeating patterns or non-repeating patterns. It is the best kitchen backsplash idea if you want to add a statement feature in your kitchen.

2. Artistic

Of course, since it is your kitchen, it should show your own artistic touches. You can get creative with your backsplashes in many artistic ways. This includes, color blocking your backsplash and your overhang cabinets so that it creates visual interest. Select a tile with your color choice or else use a glass sheet as a backsplash for a sleeker and more contemporary appeal. Another way is to choose tiles with different shapes and sizes.

3. Minimalist

One common misconception people have about minimalistic design is that it looks dull and boring. Well, that does not have to be always the case. Minimalism is not the absence of interesting features but it is in fact, the right balance of certain design elements that makes it pleasing to look at.

If you are into creating a simple, minimalistic style, opt for the same material with your kitchen countertop and kitchen backsplash. For example: having the same marble pattern for the counter and backsplash creates a waterfall effect and makes your kitchen look visually cohesive.

4. Wood

If you want to add a wooden texture to your kitchen, you can choose faux wood tiles for your kitchen backsplash. Wood design is one of the most sought-after design features so it’s no wonder why people are looking for creative ways to incorporate wooden texture in their homes.

One good thing about faux wood tiles is that they look exactly like real wood. You don’t need to make the extra effort of finding genuine wooden planks to put on your kitchen walls. Simply purchase a tile with wooden texture and there you have it.

5. Rustic Chic

Choose white-tiled walls with a brick-style pattern if you want a rustic-chic, farmhouse kitchen atmosphere. This design, when combined with wooden features such as overhang cabinets, creates a geometric impression that adds warmth and brightness to your kitchen.

When choosing the right kitchen backsplash Singapore, keep in mind that it barely matters if you have a small, cramped kitchen or a large, open-plan kitchen. The most essential thing is that everything in your kitchen is useful, practical, and attractive. There’s nearly always an appropriate backsplash material for your desired aesthetic, regardless of what interior design style you want your kitchen to look like.

What Is A Platform Bed?

A platform bed, unlike a panel bed, has a larger solid base that is meant to support a mattress and does not require the extra support of a box spring or mattress foundation. Platform beds are a little lower in height than most other beds. Many people choose platform beds because they have a more modern and contemporary appearance.

Unlike panel beds, platform beds may be altered to meet a variety of styles. Some beds can be folded, tucked into the walls, and other space-saving options, as well as platform bed frames that are the same height as the mattress, which are great for small apartments.

Here are #9 of the most popular platform bed design ideas we think you will totally love.

1. Wooden Platform for Bed

We all know that wood is the most popular construction and design element in interior design. And when it comes to beds, wood surely tops as the most commonly used material for bed frames and bed designs.

Platform beds made of wood are a great addition to any bedroom. It’s not just an ingenious way of embracing nature and incorporating warmth and coziness into a space. It is also a versatile material that can look absolutely good no matter what interior design style you want to have in your bedroom.

2. Platform Bed with Storage

Many people consider bed frames with storage underneath to be bulky and unattractive. When looking for a bed with a space-saving design solution, the truth is that you don’t have to forgo beauty for functionality.

Many elegant and trendy platform bed designs with storage areas exist. Platform beds without handles or notches are available with drawers on both sides. Handles might be unsightly, and you don’t want your bed to resemble a massive drawer in your bedroom. A platform bed with flushing drawers might be an excellent alternative.

3. Floating Platform Bed Frame

The term “floating platform bed frame” refers to a bed that appears to float since it is not supported by legs. This is because the legs are built closer to the middle of the platform, giving the impression that the bed is unsupported.

Floating beds have a modern look that may appeal to people who are trying to arrange a small bedroom. This is a basic and beautiful design style that is typically seen in Nordic or Scandinavian interiors.

4. Platform Bed Designs Without Headboard

While headboards are a common feature of beds, they aren’t always necessary. Having a platform bed without a headboard allows you to be more creative have new ideas on how to decorate the headboard area. You can choose to leave the bed as it is, simple and minimalistic, or come up with a unique idea and customize your own headboard.

Beds without headboards are widely appreciated today since many people are leaning into a more practical and functional way of decorating. Instead of a traditional tufted headboard, many would want to have a headboard that doubles as storage space or a flushed headboard that is neatly pushed up against the wall to conserve room.

5. Sleek and Stylish Platform Bed

Sharp lines, a subdued palette, and a stripped-down elegance are what define a sleek and stylish platform bed. Platform beds can be made of wood or metal, and are comparable to minimalistic bed frames in concept.

Intricate patterns and other types of adornment are absent from platform bed frames. Instead, they are simple and uncomplicated, making them excellent for bedrooms with a contemporary design.

6. Space-Saving Platform Bed

Aside from beds with drawers underneath, there are a variety of platform bed styles that are perfect for small rooms. Space-saving beds have platform frames because this type of design is pretty straightforward.

With the absence of a footboard and a headboard, this type of bed can be easily altered or transformed into different forms. You can fold it, tuck it into a wall similar to a Murphy bed, or convert it into a sofa or daybed whenever necessary.

7. Platform Bed With Slatted Base

Slats are a sort of bed foundation. They’re made up of a series of interconnected bars that run the length of the frame. These bars, which are made of hardwood like pine or beech, operate in tandem with your mattress to offer support.

Solid slats or sprung slats are the two types of slats available. Many people say that a bed with a slatted bed makes the mattress cooler, therefore helping you have a more relaxing and breathable sleep.

8. Steel Frame Platform Bed

Metal bed frames are as common as wooden frames. While there are quite a few people who claim that sleeping on a metal bed can disrupt your sleep and may be harmful to your health, this is actually a hoax.

Whether you sleep on a wooden bed frame or a steel frame, you can’t really tell the difference except perhaps if one of the mattresses is uncomfortable. The materials however of the bed frame, have nothing to do with the quality of your sleep. A steel frame platform bed is durable and lightweight. Its simple and practical style fits the modern bedroom context.

9. Platform Bed With Canopy

While canopy beds are normally seen in children’s bedrooms, this does not mean that an adult can’t have one. Canopy beds are inherently playful. Its unique design feature makes the bed a central element and the focal point of a room. They evoke that grand classical vibe that can make any space feel like a royalty’s bedroom.

However, canopy beds have evolved over time. Traditionally, a canopy bed has a headboard and a footboard. But today, you can find canopy beds with contemporary designs. Some of which adapts the platform bed frame design. These beds are commonly seen in tropical or coastal styled bedrooms. It creates a more open and breezier atmosphere which is ideal in beach resorts and hotels.

There you have our best ideas for platform beds. If you are thinking of redesigning your bedroom or looking for bedroom design ideas, there’s no reason why you should not go for a platform bed. However, we still advise you to keep on researching to really find out whether or not, a platform bed is the right bed design to have in your bedroom. Need our assistance? Comment below your questions or send us an email and let us know how we can best help you.

INTRODUCTION

A well-designed shower room is important to have in the bathroom. Even if you have a tiny space for a bathroom, there are many unique and creative ways you can do to incorporate a shower room.

Having an enclosed shower room will make your bathroom look cleaner, fresher, and organized. It’s easier to use and convenient to have especially in bedrooms that share a common bathroom.

As we all know, the bathroom is the space in our house that needs extra effort to clean and maintain.

Therefore, when planning to redesign or renovate a bathroom, you need to carefully plan and know all your options. So, before you jump into the process, here’s everything you need to know:

1. Shower Room Design Layout

The layout will determine how spacious your bathroom could be. If your old bathroom is tight and cramped, you might think that there’s not enough space to designate a shower room. However, that is not always the case. The problem might lie in the way your bathroom is planned.

• Maximizing the space

If your bathroom is really small, declutter the space. Remove unnecessary fixtures and try to keep a minimalist style, get rid of decorations, molding, cabinets, etc. These could be things that often get in the way like trash bins and bathroom stools.

• Create an open layout

Don’t be afraid to go for an unconventional layout. Use glass for your shower room enclosure to make the space look more spacious. Put a large window to allow the light to get in. See to it that the window is facing directly to a blank wall or private garden space for privacy or choose a frosted glass for your windows.

• Reconfigure the layout

Whether you have a large bathroom or a tiny one, how the fixtures are put into place can make or break the layout. Keep in mind that it should be planned for ease of navigation and layout. So, if your water closet is in the wrong position, reconfigure it, as well as your faucets, sink, and showerheads.

2. Shower Room Tiles

Your tile of choice should depend on the design you want to achieve in your bathroom. Here are a few tips on selecting the right tile for your shower room.

• Accentuate with pattern

The tile pattern is something that will never go out of style when it comes to designing bathrooms. Patterns are interesting and it’s almost always in every bathroom. Select a patterned tile and use it to create an interesting design feature in your shower room.

• Create contrast with colors

There are many ways to create contrast. One way is to use a tile with different colors. You can choose a different color for the shower area, a different one for the toilet, and another color for the walls as well.

• Quality and safety

Select the tile with the best quality. Do a little more research on what tile is best for your bathroom. It could be ceramic, vinyl, or natural stone. Take note that there are tiles that might be too slippery so always be wary when choosing tiles.

3. Shower Room Wall

The walls are probably the first thing that you notice when you enter a bathroom. Walls can be used to style and make the bathroom more interesting. It can also be utilized to maximize space and create a visual division between the shower and toilet area. To decorate walls, here are a few tips:

• Opt for a wooden accent

Incorporate a natural element by adding a wooden accent to your walls. Wood is unarguably everyone’s favorite when it comes to wall accents. It can instantly bring your interiors that earthly vibe that evokes calm and tranquility.

• Unfinished wall style

An unfinished industrial-style bathroom is a thing. You can leave your bathroom walls in plain unfinished concrete. This creates a very chic and edgy appeal that is common in a contemporary and industrial interior.

• Color block

Color blocking your bathroom walls is chic and aesthetically lit. If you like browsing Pinterest for interior design ideas, you have probably come across bathrooms and shower rooms with striking color contrast like whites and yellows, pink and gray, purple and white, checkered tiles, and many others. It’s a great way to add character to your tiny shower room.

• Brighten up

For very tiny bathrooms, stick to the typical white and neutral colors to maximize space. White brightens up the space and a bright and well-lit space creates the impression that the room is bigger than it actually is.

4. Shower Room Accessories

Accessories and décor items make the bathroom complete and furnished. A shower room should look vibrant, warm, and comfortable. One way to pull that off is through accessorizing. For a shower room with limited space, here are a few ideas on how to add accessories and pull off a stylish look.

• Floating shelves

Floating shelves create a more open feel. Remember that it is a bathroom and not a kitchen. Unless you have a large master bathroom, do not put overhang cabinets as it can cramp the space.

• Storage racks

Always have at least one or two storage racks to place your towels. You can place one inside the shower area and another one outside – either on the wall or behind the door. Racks make a good and convenient storage idea.

• Under sink cabinet

Under-sink cabinets are good for storing items like toilet papers, hand towels, sanitizers, cleaning equipment, cleaning products, and the likes. While overhang cabinets should be avoided most especially for very small bathrooms, you can, however, utilize under sink storage. You can opt for an enclosed cabinet or an open one depending on your style of choice.

• Bathroom trays

Bathroom trays are for keeping your hygiene kits organized. Here you can place items like soaps, shampoos, hand sanitizer, air freshener or scented candle, and maybe a small potted plant or flower to add a little bit of color and décor.

By now, I am pretty sure that you have visualized what your ideal bathroom and shower room would look like. Are there any shower room design ideas that we haven’t mentioned in this blog? Share it down below.

INTRODUCTION

We all want to have a vast, lush garden, sweeping lawns with beautiful plants and landscape. A cool outdoor space for dining and sitting, maybe even a pool or a small fountain. But the truth is that if you live in an urban location, like here in Singapore, your square footage will be quite limited.

In certain cases, if you live in a high-rise apartment or condo unit, you don’t have space for a garden. Making your tiny garden appear larger is something that many homeowners desire to do. While some Singaporeans may think that having a garden is impossible if your property does not have a yard, keep in mind that Singapore is known as a pioneer for creating vertical gardens.

So, without further ado, here are a few small garden ideas balcony or for your detached house property.

1. Create An Indoor Atrium

Don’t have a lawn or an outdoor space for a garden? Well, bring the garden inside. Garden atriums are popular among contemporary homes that are designed with either feng shui or Zen principles in mind.

A garden atrium really gives off that calming natural vibe. It is a perfect feature to have in a house especially if you live in a country as hot and humid as Singapore.

2. Hanging Plants

Gardens can be in any form and size. If your property does not offer you the privilege of creating a garden, make one by creatively putting the plants in containers or pots. A hanging plant is ideal to have regardless of what type of house you are living in.

It also makes a good décor element. You can hang them on your kitchen, living room, bedroom windows, and balcony.

3. Small Potted Succulents

Build an indoor succulent garden by collecting a variety of succulents and planting them in pots. You can mix different types of these plants in one big plant box like a large succulent terrarium.

You can then place these plant boxes by the window or near the entryway. Succulents are excellent at purifying the air and removing toxins and is one of the easiest small garden ideas to do in your home.

4. Plant Herbs and Veggies

Singapore is known as the Garden City, and the city-state has encouraged residents to build their gardens where they may cultivate and gather food. Roof gardens and cascading house plants are examples of this, which may be seen in a variety of high-rise residential buildings.

So, if you have a balcony or a large window, there’s no reason you can’t start your home garden. Planting herbs and vegetables is a long-term gardening strategy that will undoubtedly pay off.

5. Make A Beautiful Landscape

For people who owned a detached property, making a beautiful landscape on your lawn is a great option. Landscape enhances the exterior look of your house and also increases the property value. Make use of the yard that you have and hire a landscape designer or if you want to DIY, research more about landscaping and gardening methods to transform your yard.

6. Small Garden Ideas Balcony

Since many people live in vertical housing units, garden balconies are a thing. If you have access to a balcony, you can grow a variety of plants. This includes hanging plants, succulents, herbs, and even veggies.

Be creative with your choice of plants and see to it that everything is organized. Avoid including plants that are challenging to care for and maintain.

7. Opt For Climbing Plants

Climbing plants look undeniably good especially when the plant crawls beautifully on the exterior of your building. There are many ways to incorporate climbing plants. You can place them in your bathroom to give off that clean, fresh, and natural vibe.

You can also plant them on your balcony and let the plant crawl freely on the façade of the building. Taking care of crawling plants is a bit challenging but the most important thing is to always be mindful and check them from time to time.

Trim them if necessary or if the plants crawl into areas where they shouldn’t be unless you want your house to look like the Amazon rain forest.

8. Decorate Windows

Place a plant box right outside your windowsill. European-styled windows look aesthetically pleasing when decorated with flowering plants. But depending on the style and design of your window, you can choose different kinds of plants.

Anything that you think would fit best for the kind of look you are trying to achieve. For windows on high-rise residential units, you can decorate them with hanging plants, small potted succulents and even climbing plants. The trick here is to look for interesting features in your home where you can designate your small garden ideas beautifully as a décor element.

9. Pave The Pathway

Another great small garden ideas is paving pathways. If your property has a huge lawn, create a beautiful landscape and pave the pathway. Pathways are considered a hardscape garden element. You can integrate pathways leading to your front door, backdoor, indoor garden, or even to a covered patio or pool.

Pathways make the outdoor landscape of your property a high-end and luxurious type. People are attracted by certain elements that allow their perception of space to easily guide them to a certain location or destination. This is basically the role of a pathway – to guide. A paved pathway means a clean and organized outdoor and indoor space.

10. Create A Cottage Core Vibe

Love the florals? Don’t be afraid to be creative and try planting a variety of plants. The cottage garden setting was widely romanticized by many because of its nostalgic vibe that resembles the quiet, serene, and fairy-tale-like impression of country living.

Cottage core entails the idyllic country lifestyle that embraces nature and the use of simple organic elements in design and ornamentation. A clear picture of this is a garden just outside of your kitchen where you can grow your herb garden, add some pretty florals, and place old or repurposed furniture under a shade of a tree. This will completely top that cottage core feel.

There are no strict rules in gardening. All you really have to do is to work around a certain layout, plant the flowers that you want and shower your garden with care and love. We hope you find this small garden ideas guide helpful in creating your home garden.

INTRODUCTION

Singapore is well-known for the building of vertical housing projects. In nearly every area, there are thousands of high-rise buildings. Singapore has something for everyone, whether you want an HDB, a condo unit, a luxury apartment, a detached house in Singapore, or a penthouse. Thousands of these properties are available for viewing and buying everywhere you look.

Singapore is also known for its wonderfully built residences with cutting-edge architectural elements. Of course, Singapore is not all high-rise buildings. There is also a variety of bungalow-style or detached residences that are certainly a visual feast.

Singapore has everything when it comes to high-quality architectural and lifestyle houses. This article will look at the many types of detached house designs available in Singapore.

1. A Small Modern House for Practical Living

In today’s modern times’ people want a comfortable and practical way of living. One way to achieve that is to have a house designed to cater to the lifestyle that they want. Singapore is strewn with these types of houses. A small modern house is attractive, especially to young Singaporean couples who are looking to buy their first home.

On the exterior, the building may look simple and ordinary with not many extravagant features to call it luxurious. But that does not mean that the house lacks substance. Design-wise, modern practical homes like these have all the important amenities and features needed to jumpstart a new life.

It is designed with practicality in mind therefore everything from the building materials to the utilities is built to provide a smart and modern way of living.

2. Contemporary Minimalist Semi-Detached House Singapore

Modest and simple homes are one of the most sought-after characteristics of a house that homebuyers want. These homes have the impression of being cost-effective in terms of maintenance and energy expenses. Quite similar to modern practical homes, minimalist properties are also simple and contemporary in design.

The difference between a detached house in Singapore from a semi-detached house is that: a semi-detached house is a single-family dwelling having one shared wall with another property. This means you’ll just have to share a tiny section of the house with another family. In semi-detached housing, the two residences that share a wall are frequently mirror copies of one another.

Multigenerational households are common in semi-detached houses. In many cases, the nearby home is owned by a newlywed couple, while the other is the principal abode of their parents or in-laws.

3. Detached House Singapore with Green Living Features

Green concept homes are popular in Singapore. Even skyscrapers adapt the concept of green living by incorporating green elements in their building design. these kinds of features not only make the property look aesthetically pleasing and vibrant on the exterior but also provide health benefits for the residence.

These features are considered luxurious and have the potential to increase the value of the property. If you are a plant lover or a horticulture enthusiast, a green concept detached house in Singapore is undoubtedly a perfect choice. You can find properties like these in various districts like in the Core Central region or Sentosa and the rest of the downtown region in Singapore.

4. Sustainably Designed Detached House

A house designed with sustainability in mind is composed of efficient features. This means that all of its components from the building materials, water, and energy use, to utility systems, are designed to achieve full optimization and low environmental impact.

It’s easy to spot a luxurious house but sustainably designed homes are actually quite rare. This is because houses with sustainable features can also be a little costly. However, these costs can save you a lot in the future considering that it has efficient and ecological characteristics.

Sustainable homes feature the smart use of natural light and ventilation, green roof terraces, garden atriums, and lush green courtyards. Any property with these amenities would surely be anybody’s definition of a dream house.

5. Simple Scandinavian Style

Scandinavian design is a minimalistic style that uses a combination of textures and soft colors to make clean, modern décor seem warm and welcoming. It focuses on clean lines, practicality, and basic furniture that are useful, elegant, and comfortable.

This style originated in the Nordic region and due to its popularity, it has been widely embraced by many countries all around the world. Scandinavian style is versatile and practical which is one of the reasons why so many people especially those who love the simple and contemporary are designing homes with this style.

Scandinavian design is characterized by utility, simplicity, and workmanship. Natural materials, particularly pale woods like ash and beech, wool and linen fabrics, leather, and glass, are used in the bulk of Nordic-style designs.

6. Modern Victorian Property

A Victorian house is one example of cross-cultural designed properties that can be found in Singapore. These types of houses, however, are old and have probably been renovated a couple of times. But this does not hinder the property from being desired by a lot of home buyers. Some people love the charm and beauty brought by such types of antique homes.

Designers are continuously coming up with ideas by transforming Victorian styled homes with a twist of modern characteristics. This makes the house a lot more interesting than it originally is. If you are looking for a unique property with a hint of vintage appeal, a modern Victorian detached property should be something definitely worth checking out.

7. A Cozy and Chic Smart Home for Millennials

We all know that millennials are huge fans of technological advancements. They love to be updated with the newest trends and they always want to be on top of everything. Nothing can probably be more appealing to the younger generation of homeowners than houses with smart features.

A house with smart features has modern or contemporary design features. These are accompanied by smart home technology where the occupants can easily automate household tasks to make their lives easier and simpler.

While these amenities do not often come together with the house but are something that can always be added or integrated, there are modern homes that are built with these features incorporated from the very start. This makes the home cut out for any technological advancements that the owner may wish to add in the future.

These are only a few of the detached houses that you can find in the country. However, these are some of the most sought-after features or design features that many detached houses have in common. Which among the types of detached houses do you plan to have in the future? What are the features that you want to have in a dream home? Tell us in the comments down below.

INTRODUCTION

The most challenging part when it comes to designing a kitchen is choosing the right materials that are durable and easy to maintain. We all want our kitchen spaces to be looking sleek and fresh all the time.

However, it can be difficult at times primarily because there are a lot of things that we do in the kitchen. Preparing meals, cooking, washing food, are just a few examples. There will be a lot of stains, grease, and food waste, and sometimes, cleaning gets a bit overwhelming.

Here we are going to discuss one of the most popular and common materials used in kitchen countertops and tabletops. This material is quartz. What is it? And what makes this material so popular? Let’s take a detailed look.

1. What Is A Quartz Table Top?

Quartz is a hard, crystalline mineral made of silica. Quartz is a wonderful material for not only kitchen countertops, but also bathrooms, fireplaces, bars, and any other part of your home. Because of its durability and diversity of colors and styles, it is a highly adaptable material.

A quartz tabletop is not 100% made of quartz. It is basically a combination of a polymeric or cement-based binder, crushed up granite, marble, recycled industrial material like glass, mirrors, and ceramic.

Although the mixture may have more quartz in it, the material used for countertops is not all quartz. The combination of this variety of materials is what gives it the aesthetic textured pattern we know as quartz.

2. Vulcan Tabletop Vs Quartz: What Are the Differences?

VULCAN is a large-format sintered compact surface that is manufactured with highly sophisticated Italian machinery and technologies. A composite of clays, feldspars, kaolin, and quartz blended, compacted, and fired above 1,200 degrees Celsius, VULCAN is an impact-resistant engineered surface that is heat and fire retardant.

Quartz on the other hand is also an engineered material. Its surface is sintered which means that the material has undergone the process of sintering which imitates the natural compression of the environment. This is what gives the material its unique faults and natural appeal. A Vulcan tabletop can either be made of clay or quartz or a mixture of both.

3. Characteristics Of Quartz Tabletop

Let’s take a look at the reasons why a quartz table top is a good material choice for your kitchen.

a. Durable

Quartz can last for a very long time because it is considered one of the most durable materials along with granite and marble. Because it is an engineered material that is made by compressing other materials together, it is very compact and impermeable to damage, stains, and scratches.

If you are looking for a material for your kitchen counters or kitchen island, quartz would be a great choice. For a large kitchen where you do heavy cooking, such as cutting meat, cooking in huge pots and pans, quartz is highly suggestive compared to marble.

When your countertop is made of quartz, you can easily move around your cookware and utensils without having to worry about cracks, damages, or scratches.

b. It Has a Variety of Styles

Quartz is available in a variety of hues, including rose pink, warm reds, off whites, beige, light green, and many more. This makes it simple to incorporate into any design to create the vibe you want in your kitchen.

To produce attractive patterns and swirls, specks of pigments and other materials can be added during the current production process of quartz slabs. Whether you’re planning to create a modern kitchen or a rustic-themed kitchen vibe, a quartz kitchen counter would have a perfect style, color, and pattern to suit your style.

Due to the continuous advancement of technology, there are new ways that quartz manufacturer does to add as many designs and patterns to the quartz they produce. Simply look at the catalog of designs that manufacturers have and select the style you think would accentuate the overall look of your kitchen.

c. Easy To Maintain

Quartz countertops are low-maintenance, so all you have to do is wipe them off with soap and water when they become greasy after cooking. Because no harsh cleaning is required, you may simply use soft towels or sponges instead of scouring pads.

You don’t have to worry about bacteria or germs growing on quartz, so you may prepare your raw ingredients right on the countertop surface.

d. Does Not Require Sealing

Another thing that is great about quartz is the minimal list of “don’ts”. Unlike stones such as granite and marble, quartz requires no sealing at all to protect it from stains and other forms of marks. You only need to be careful not to make marks from a pen or other inked materials as it can cause the surface to discolor and may not easily be removed.

e. Easy To Install

Installing a quartz countertop may require the help of a contractor or a friend but this does not mean that you can’t do it yourself. Doing it yourself might be extremely challenging. However, if you are aiming to save a lot on cash or trying to challenge yourself on a new DIY activity, installing quartz is doable.

Quartz slabs are often delivered pre-cut and customized depending on your order. You can easily follow tutorials available on the internet or check out this detailed step-by-step installation guide by WikiHow right here.

f. More Affordable Compared to Marble

Quartz cost less than marble but had a higher price benchmark compared to granite. It’s kind of like the middle choice. Quartz is a great option if you prefer consistency.

Whether it’s on your kitchen countertop, kitchen island, or backsplashes, having a surface made entirely of quartz will save you money.

You will have a clean kitchen appearance and everything will be easy to maintain and look after since you will only have one material surface to clean and maintain consistently.

g. Perfect For a Contemporary Kitchen Revamp

Quartz is a great choice for those who are looking to do a quick renovation of their kitchen. For example, if you are selling your property and want to increase the value of your home, opting for a quartz material on your countertop will cost you less in expenses but will transform your house into a contemporary dream home that appeals to a lot of home buyers.

You have now learned so much about quartz tabletop and its characteristics. Is it the right material for your kitchen counter? Tell us what you think by commenting down below.

INTRODUCTION

The quality of the door hardware is just as essential as the appearance and style of your door when it comes to interior design. Squeaky doors, rattly doors, and corroded hardware that causes doors to not close and opens smoothly are just some of the problems that might arise from using substandard hardware.

Keep in mind that each type of door needs to be paired up with the right hardware. Listed below are the ten most popular types of door hinges in Singapore, together with their distinct characteristics and purposes. Get to know your doors better and continue reading to find out.

1. Detachable Hinge

If you need to remove a door regularly, taking apart hinges or detachable hinges will do the trick. They are often used on detachable doors and panels as well as gates and consist of a male leaf with a connected pin, as well as a female leaf without a pin. With or without holes, they can be constructed in either a left- or right-handed manner.

2. Concealed Hinge

A concealed hinge, often known as an invisible hinge, are called as such because they are meant to be hidden. Concealed hinges are designed to be utilized without being seen. Popular among those who want to show off their door’s style. A hidden hinge consists of two pieces. Pivot is the first, followed by bracket.

There is no way to see this hinge from the outside of a door since it is hidden in a recess. The door can be opened at a 90-degree angle thanks to the pivoting mechanism on it. Interior doors use this sort of hinge, which isn’t as popular as some of the other varieties.

3. Bi-fold Hinge

Despite being less frequent than other door hinges Singapore, the Bi-Fold hinge does have a very specific function for which it’s designed. A hinge with several leaves of various lengths may be required in certain scenarios. In this case, it’s a bi-fold hinge.

As a result, the door may be opened and closed with more ease because of the numerous pivots. Sometimes, people may be able to alter the leaf sizes for a specific reason. Certain types of interior doors will benefit from the bi-fold hinge.

4. Butterfly Hinge

In addition to outside doors, internal doors often include butterfly door hinges. It’s important to note that this hinge is not strong enough to raise or hold the weight of an external door.

They are very popular for interior doors because of their beautiful appearance. Butterfly hinges are a great option for anyone who wants to add a little flair to their interior doors. If you enjoy the appearance of butterfly wings, this hinge is for you.

5. Olive Knuckle Hinge

The H-shaped olive knuckle hinge is unusual. The hinge forms an “H” shape when the door is open. It is only the knuckle that is visible when the door is shut. As a result of the hinge’s design, it’s extremely adaptable. Many people utilize olive knuckle hinges on cupboards in addition to external doors. Due to its enormous size, it is extremely durable.

6. Heavy-Duty Door Hinges Singapore

In this case, the name of the hinge is self-evident. Hefty-duty hinges are thicker than standard hinges. In terms of thickness, it is over a quarter inch thicker than a standard hinge.

By employing heavier materials, a heavy-duty hinge can mimic the form and function of any of the other types of hinges described above while maintaining the same overall appearance. It’s ideal for a huge, heavy door that’s opened and closed a lot.

7. Strap Hinge

When gates are opened and closed, this is the hinge that is attached to the gate. It is safe to say that strap hinges are the most distinctive choice on the market. However, they have the shortest hinges and the longest leaves of any type of hinge.

Strap hinges are a great option for anyone who wants an outside door with a unique design. Because of the longest leaf, the door will have somewhat more support than usual. Hence, the usage of strap hinges is common for heavy-duty doors, such as front doors, gates, and even garage doors.

8. Standard Butt Hinge

Butt hinges are a common choice for outdoor doors. On each hinge in this set, there are two leaves that are exactly the same. But only one leaf may be moved at a time, with the other one remaining firmly in place. The leaves of this door are linked to a coiled barrel to make it swing open.

No one can doubt the significance of butt hinges due to their strength. Because they can bear the weight, butt hinges are the best choice for a steel or fiberglass door. Other door hinges Singapore may be broken as a result of the increased weight.

9. Case Hinge

Butt hinges and case hinges share many commonalities. Consequently, they are typically utilized for larger, wider, and heavier front doors. As a result, case hinges are a bit showier and more ornamental than butt hinges.

This makes them appear great as soon as they come in the door. There are so many different types of case hinges that they may even be found on luggage as well.

10. Ball-Bearing Hinge

Another type of butt hinge is one with a ball-bearing butt hinge. As far as durability goes, a ball-bearing hinge is one of the best alternatives on the market today. Wide, hefty doors are supported by this hinge.

A ball bearing is sandwiched between two knuckles in this hinge. Because friction between the knuckles wears out hinges over time, ball bearings are used to decrease friction. Many people utilize them on large, high-traffic entrance doors. Another benefit of ball-bearing hinges is that they are quieter while opening and closing.

Door hinges come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making it difficult to choose the appropriate one. Therefore, it is important to do your research and find out more about door hinges Singapore before for you to know the perfect hinge to use for a certain type of door.  

INTRODUCTION

Most people would agree that a home’s most essential space is its living room. The living room is where guests are welcomed, where the family gathers, and where the rest of the house is connected.

It wasn’t that long ago that living rooms were bursting with color. But the vividly colorful classical interiors are giving way to subdued and neutral tones in today’s modern environment. Depending on what color you pick for the walls, you may create the appearance and feel of your living room that you’ve always wanted.

House design with paint is used as a means of creating a mood in the surrounding area. If you’re wondering what are the finest paint colors for living room? In this article, we’ll look at some of the most popular hues interior designers are highly recommending. Here are some:

1. Crisp White

White will always be an option. It is the most basic paint yet the most popular simply because there’s so much that you can do with white. A white painted living room may represent modesty, minimalism, or sophistication.

What is also great with white is that it is versatile. You can pretty much decorate and accentuate white with bold bright colors and your living room won’t look like a mess. White is a perfect choice for people who are starting to decorate their house or those who are looking to try out different interior design styles.

2. Lime Green

Deciding to paint your living room right away with bold bright colors may not always be a good choice most especially if you don’t have a clear design scheme. Yet if you want to add a burst of color, start with modest but bright colors.

A Lime green-colored wall or ceiling is a great element to add. It makes the space look vibrant without being overly imposing. In addition to being visually appealing, lime green has a relaxing, soothing effect that makes your home appear clean and fresh.

3. Bright Yellow

A lot of people are scared to paint their interiors in bold bright yellow. While yellows are not for everyone, it is still considered one of the most popular living room house design with paint colors that can brighten and make any space stand out.

Yellow is unconventional. It creates a chic and stylish vibe that can make your house look like it came straight out of a home design magazine. If you’re into that kind of energy and flair, yellow is a great choice.

However, be extra careful and make sure that you’ve got your mood board and design scheme to follow so you’ll be able to perfectly tie everything together.

4. Neutral

Neutral colors such as white, gray, black, charcoal, and beige will never go out of style. It’s easy to decorate and accentuate a living room with a neutral-colored backdrop. Such hues are calming and pleasing to the eye.

There is no incorrect way to start when it comes to neutrals, regardless of whether you are looking for modern minimalism or a fun boho or rustic atmosphere. Colors such as these are used in most contemporary homes since they accentuate the modernistic approach and offer the interior a distinct look and feel.

5. Sage Green

Green hues are perhaps everyone’s favorite when it comes to painting the living room and this is because green embodies nature. It’s soothing and very relaxing. Sage green is versatile.

Whether you are planning to design your interior in traditional, Victorian, or modern, you can use sage green as a backdrop. Sage green is not only for living rooms. It is also widely used in bedrooms and kitchens.

6. Pastel

Dreaming of a living room like those you’ve seen on Instagram and Pinterest? Go for pastel. Pastel colors can be light pink, peach, crimson, powder blue, etc. There’s a whole scheme of pastel colors you can find.

Primary and secondary colors can be softened by adding white to them to create pastel hues, which are also called tints. If you’re thinking of pale pink, it’s basically a red color with a small amount of white mixed in. With each additional layer of white, the color becomes lighter. So, if you want to have a dreamy interior vibe, opt for pastel hues.

7. House Design with Paint Color of Cream

In the same way, that pink is the pastel color of red, the cream is the pastel color of yellow. The cream may be made by combining yellow and white. What makes cream so remarkable is that it is nearly usually the color of choice for most homes.

The color cream is not only suitable for interiors, but it also looks beautiful on the outside. Cream, like white, is generally used as a backdrop and may be combined with or adorned with a range of interior design styles.

8. Lilac

A living room with a soft purple hue induces class and elegance. There are many ways to incorporate the color lilac into your space. You can go bold with it, or go subtle. You can also use lilac to create an interesting color-blocked wall to make a statement.

While lilac may be an unusual color choice, it can however transform your space into something interesting and one of a kind. A lilac-colored space is not something that you see every day so if you’re into making creative avant-garde interiors that will amaze your guests, experiment with new interesting colors.

9. Olive Green

We can’t get enough of green hues. Among other shades of green olive is the perfect hue for a living area! This lovely shade of green brightens up a room, while still keeping it comfortable and classy at the same time.

Green is a hue of calm and rejuvenation, and it is often associated with nature. Due to its similarity to natural colors, it’s one of the greatest living room house design with paint colors to utilize in your home. For those who don’t have the space for an abundance of home plants, green walls are the answer.

10. Pale Blue-Gray

For living rooms, grey is great since it offers a wide range of options, from barely visible to deep charcoal. It is the perfect base hue for creating your fantasy living room. One shade of gray that designers really love is pale blue-gray.

It is a color that’s torn between dreamy pastel and neutral. It’s the color you see in coastal interior styled homes and Hamptons interior style.

That’s probably a lot of information to process but don’t be overwhelmed! While choosing the right house design with paint color for your interior can be challenging, it’s also a fun and exciting process. If you need further help with regards to choosing the right color for your living space, send us an email and we’ll gladly assist you.

INTRODUCTION

Humans have always relied on wood as an important natural resource. Some uses for wood include lighting fixtures and stunning ornamental accents like wood furniture. Almost all countries throughout the world have embraced these the wooden interior design ideas.

Wooden interior design finishes are one of the best methods to use wood materials to adorn your home. Modern interior design concepts, such as the use of décor pieces made of branches and logs, bring your home closer to nature.

You may opt to employ wood décor and furniture for contemporary interior design because they are also pretty striking. The textures and pattern of the wood are also very stylish. You may use tree branches and logs to give a sense of rustic elegance to your property.

Here are some ways on how you can add wooden elements to your interior design scheme.

1. Go For a Wooden Interior Design Ceiling

With their unlimited diversity and versatility, wooden ceilings have long been regarded as the ultimate ceiling design choice. Everywhere in the globe, wooden ceilings have been a staple of homes and public buildings for millennia.

With a wood ceiling, you may transform the area over your head with anything from aged barn wood to recycled ship beams. Any home, whether it’s rustic or elegant, will benefit from having a contemporary wood ceiling. It provides an easy and pleasant feel to any room, reminding you of beach cottages and rural getaways.

2. Wooden Floors Add Warmth to The Space

Not only can wood flooring lend a sense of beauty to your house, but they’re also quite cozy. Many homeowners feel that having hardwood flooring really makes the area appear larger than it actually is. In terms of cleaning and maintenance, hardwood floors are a breeze. Dust and grime can be removed via sifting, steam-cleaning, or vacuuming, among other methods.

As a bonus, wood floors are easier to clean than carpets since they are stain-resistant. To clean up a spill, all you have to do is wipe it up. It’s easy to maintain this type of flooring because it’s durable. There is a possibility of minor scratches and dents, although they are rare. Wood flooring may last for decades if it is installed correctly.

3. Use Wooden Furniture

For the most part, wood looks excellent in any context. No matter what your style, wood furniture can be incorporated into any wooden interior design plan. No matter if it’s a lighter-colored wood or a richer, deeper tone, wood can give beauty to any area. Unbridled design innovation may be added to every piece of furniture when it is made by a professional craftsman.

Wooden furniture may also help to create a sense of the outdoors in the home. As an urban dweller, you may want to create a sense of nature in your living environment. Wood is the appropriate material for this because of its vast range of colors, as well as the interesting patterns of grains and fibers. In addition, wood can instantly provide warmth to otherwise bland spaces.

4. Wood Decors and Accessories

Wooden home decor ideas are ideal for anybody who wishes to create a warm cottage atmosphere in their house. For a stylish but attractive look in your home’s interior design, why not use wood?

Your wood house design ideas will come to life with the addition of some vintage accessories and a vintage-inspired appearance. With wood décor, you can simply build your own decorations to display in your house if you are proficient with tools.

No complicated carvings are required; simply make something that fits well with the present décor in your living area and you’ll be OK.

5. Faux Wood Beams for A Rustic Look

For an otherwise empty space, adding real wood beams will give it some much-needed interest and detail. If your living room or dining room has a dull ceiling, rustic fake wood beams might give it new life.

When wood paneling and imitation wood beams are used to cover vaulted ceilings, the effect is stunning. Many styles of wood paneling and beams are available for your house décor.

Incorporating fake wood ceiling beams into the wooden interior design of your room may have a significant impact on its appearance and functionality. These benefits may be obtained using recycled wood while minimizing the environmental effect and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the wood.

6. Add A Touch of Nature with Wood Wall Claddings

In addition to being an excellent natural insulator, wood also has the ability to keep heat from escaping and cold from entering the home. In the summer, it may help keep your home cool, and in the winter, it helps keep it warm.

As a consequence, you’ll be able to save money on your energy costs and minimize your carbon footprint. This type of wall cladding has a rich, elegant appearance and may offer your home a distinguished appeal when installed.

There are a number of styles and patterns to choose from to give your home a warm appeal. When utilized in drab spaces, wood panels look great with all sorts of furniture including upholstered furniture.

7. Add Sliding Wooden Barn Doors

Barn doors have an undeniable charm when compared to ordinary interior doors. As a result, they are the perfect thing to impress your guests. Rooms may be decorated in a wide range of styles and designs, depending on your own taste and aesthetics.

Barn doors are a good choice if you have a restricted amount of space. A barn door is ideal for closets, pantries, and other storage places where a flush door would be too narrow. Think twice before installing a barn door in your bathroom since it provides a more open atmosphere than traditional close-and-latch doors.

For those with small bathrooms who wish to maximize their space, however, a barn door might be ideal.

8. Wood Floating Staircase

Any space may benefit from the unusual arrangement created by the floating staircase, which lends itself well to the clean, modern style. Almost every interior or house style may benefit from its levitating look.

They also let additional light into your house when they are utilized in conjunction with an open floor design. As a result, your house will be naturally lit, spacious, and pleasant.

If you want to reap the benefits of wooden interior design, you don’t have to create your entire house out of wood. Just simply find small yet innovative ways how you can incorporate the material in your interior space. If handled properly, wood is a long-lasting material that may survive for hundreds of years.

INTRODUCTION

The terms “modern” and “contemporary” are frequently interchanged. This is due to the fact that the two design styles are very similar. They do, however, have a noticeable difference. Modern interior design, unlike contemporary, is based on a design trend that started around the turn of the twentieth century.

It refers to a period of design that began in the 1950s and ended in the 1970s. Scandinavian and German architecture influence this style, which is characterized as simple and unadorned.

Modern design is unique in that it takes lifestyle into account. In addition to making places more visually appealing, it also provides a functional purpose and function that makes people’s lives more convenient.

The job of designing a home in a modern style can be fairly difficult. Modern design is often thought of as being entirely black and white. It’s frigid and unflinching. Modern design, on the other hand, is much more than that. A mix of preferences, utility, and elegance. But even though it’s officially a bygone design era, the modern design remains fashionable and widely accepted.

Here are ways on how you can achieve the modern interior design style in your home:

1. Make Use of Edgy Furniture

Simple geometric lines and clean minimal furniture are hallmarks of modern home design; attempt to increase the scale with distinctive, daring furniture items to add individuality.

2. You May Also Choose Minimalist Shelves

Organizing and decluttering are major themes in modern interior design. You want a clean look, so make sure everything is in the proper position. You have to be willing to give up a lot of things when you decide to become a minimalist. Fortunately, there’s always a way to decorate and organize your belongings with the right storage shelf.

3. Use Aesthetic Mirrors to Draw Attention

Bright, sparkly, and reflective materials tend to attract our attention. An essential feature of modern interior design is glass. Windows, a central table, and other objects are all included. Because of its versatility, glass can be used to create a feeling of elegance in any room.

When it comes to incorporating these characteristics into your home, mirrors are one of the best options. Not only can mirrors light up a room, but they also provide the impression of more space than there actually is in the room. Reflective surfaces appear to elicit artistic sentiments.

4. Streamlined Furnishings Is Important

If you want to create a modern space, keep everything streamlined and simple. A tough task, especially when there are so many beautiful items to choose from, is choosing the right furniture for your home.

Prevent analysis paralysis from taking over. Decide what you want. Modern houses appreciate minimalist furniture for its simplicity and beauty. There is less garish ornamentation and greater attention to detail in these kinds of furniture.

5. Decorating With Opulent Lighting Fixtures Is a Great Idea

The ambiance of the interior is established by the lighting in the room. It may be used to draw attention to particular aspects of the space, giving it a more polished and detailed appearance.

Modern lighting design is largely defined by its purpose. As a result, lighting is employed more intentionally and isn’t just there as a decoration. Modern lighting fixtures often have sculptural qualities, which is another plus.

6. Don’t Forget the Classics

Any design style associated with the modern appearance, whether it’s mid-century modern, urban modern, or any other design style, is incomplete without an iconic item.

7. Follow The Less Is More Principle

If you’re looking for a modern look, consider the “less is more” idea. Make your area as clutter-free as feasible. Put your favorite decor items on the open shelves. Books, a minimalist geometric décor, a beautiful vase, ceramic pots, and candle jars are some of the items that would look excellent on an open shelf.

8. Create An Open Layout

Transform your furniture’s arrangement to make it more open-concept friendly. The goal of modern design is to create a more practical place with fewer ornaments and greater functionality. The open style also makes it easy to get about and find what you’re looking for.

9. Artistry Is a Plus in Modern Interior Design

People who love modern decor have a design technique that helps them create an eye-catching space with little decoration. What’s the secret? Hanging artworks and graphic prints on the walls is what it is. Your interior design may be enhanced by choosing posters with bold graphic colors or huge monochrome artworks. In addition, you may personalize your own artwork by selecting the ones that you like most.

10. Color-Blocking

Color blocking your walls is another great method to bring a lot of individuality to a place. This provides a sense of contrast and pulls the attention. Your interior composition’s atmosphere is also heightened by highlighting the room’s architectural elements.

11. Smooth Lines and Geometry

Several features of modern interior design stand out. The architectural elements, arrangement, and décor pieces are minimal and streamlined, according to modernist principles and current style. Example: Rectangular furniture is usually supported on tapering legs. No decorations on the wall and they’re generally maintained neutral or styled with simple forms, patterns, and colors.

12. It’s All About Minimalism

There are fewer items of décor in modern homes since the style is all about clean sleek lines, basic geometry, and hints of organic components. Set the mood for the room by using period-appropriate light fixtures and tableware.

If you want to add potted plants and decorative things like vases or decorative throw cushions and rugs, you’ll want to arrange them in an orderly fashion. As a guide, use the linear geometry and arrangement. You should keep in mind that the composition as a whole has to be well-organized.

There are many various methods to style in the modern-day, so keep that in mind. No one size fits all technique may be used to get the desired look. It’s possible to produce a timeless modern interior design by sticking to elegance and simple principles.

INTRODUCTION

We take the time to choose the perfect door to emphasize the entrance and make our homes look grander even by just standing at the doorstep. But in doing so, we often overlook the importance of the door lock design and its details. Keep in mind that the door lock is as important as much as the type of door you choose.

There are so many different door lock types. Each serves a special function depending on the security level needed in a room. You need to be wary when it comes to selecting the appropriate door lock for each door in your home to ensure not just design coherence, but security and convenience as well.

So, if you’re wondering what would be the perfect door lock to put in your door, whether it’s the front door, bedroom door, or bathroom door, we’ve come up with a list of the most popular door lock types and their uses.

1. Door Knob Locks

Doorknob locks are by far the most popular type of door lock. It’s basically everywhere. Chances are, your door locks right now are also door knob locks. This door lock type is pretty straightforward.

It’s common in interior spaces like bedrooms and bathrooms but it is not ideal for exterior doors like the front door and back door. This is because doorknob locks only serve a limited capacity for security. They tend to break easily under the exertion of force. So, if the lock in your front door is a doorknob lock, you might consider updating it or pair it with a deadbolt to strengthen its security.

When it comes to convenience, doorknob locks top the charts. It’s easy to open and lock allowing people to smoothly transition between rooms. This is also what makes doorknob locks perfect for offices and workplaces where people flow into different rooms every now and then.

Typically, doorknob locks are rounded in design and have a silvery brightness of chrome and stainless steel. However, there’s now a huge influx of different doorknob styles and colors. You can opt for a gold-colored knob, wooden knob, or a simple minimalistic style for a contemporary door.

2. Deadbolts

Deadbolts are widely used in residential homes. Unlike doorknob locks, deadbolts are considered the most secure type of door lock. You can only open it with a key. A deadbolt does not have spring-loaded mechanisms to operate the bolt, that is why it is termed as “dead”. Meaning you can’t move it.

This type of lock is typically used in exterior doors. Some people use double cylinder deadbolts for an added layer of security. But you can also use the single-cylinder deadbolt in rooms where it deems fit.

Deadbolts are great to have in front doors, storage spaces with important things in store, and other rooms that need to be soundly secured.

3. Lever Handle Door Lock Type

Cylindrical lever handle locks are pretty much similar to doorknob locks in terms of function and convenience. However, lever handle locks also have a significant difference which makes them an appropriate door lock for certain types of doors or rooms.

This type of lock is commonly seen in residential interior spaces but is widely suggestive in commercial spaces. When designing for accessibility, lever handle locks work best compared to any other type of lock simply because of their cylindrical shape – making it easier to grip.

Lever handle locks also come in different styles. They are way more stylish compared to doorknob locks because the lever can be configured into different forms. Designs vary from ornate traditional handles to modern contemporary ones.

4. Mortise Locks

Mortise locks look kind of similar to lever handle locks but they originated way older than cylindrical locks. With that said, this type of lock can be found in older homes or buildings. If you’ve ever been to an old traditional home, you might see that the locks on their doors have the mortise mechanism.

Although some traditional homes have now been upgraded with newer utilities, there are still quite a few that use mortise locks. Mortise locks come as a set of hardware that needs to be assembled in the door. One of its defining features is the strength of its lock. It is considered heavy-duty which is why it lasts longer and still operating even in century-old houses.

5. Smart Door Locks

A smart lock is a smart home device that functions when connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. To put it simply, you can easily open and close a door with a tap of a finger or a voice command. Another staggering feature of a smart lock includes remote controlling it via an app so you can operate it wherever you are.

Of course, some concerns come along with using high-tech amenities like this one. But smart lock doors also provide a traditional key port so you can open your door regardless of your Wi-Fi connectivity strength.

Modern apartments, condo units, and contemporary landed homes are now using smart locks. It offers a new and convenient smart home experience which a lot of people find efficient and helpful in their everyday lives.

6. Electronic Locks

Electronic locks are a traditional version of smart locks. They function similarly to smart locks but with limited features. Examples of electronic locks are those doors that require a passcode or a specific access card that you need to swipe to open the door.

This type of lock is highly popular in luxury apartments and condo units as well. Like the smart lock, it also comes with a traditional key. As technology becomes more advanced, new features are being added and electronic locks are becoming sophisticated which then develops into what we now called smart locks.

Bottom line:

There are a lot of door lock types out there that we haven’t covered. But these door lock type, are the most popular ones that we commonly see now. Whether in commercial or residential spaces, these door lock types offer the best quality in terms of security, efficiency, and design.

So, if you’re thinking of updating your door lock to achieve that new level of comfortability and safety, check out the locks we mentioned above.

INTRODUCTION

The roof is more than just a structure that gives us shade and protection over our heads. It is also the crowning glory of our house that defines its visual appearance. Roof design for house vary in design and size depending on the building’s footprint and its architectural style.

Contemporary homes for example, often have unique unconventional roof designs or simple flat roofs. Whereas, the gable roof is likely seen on European, colonial, and ranch houses. If you are thinking of building a traditional European-styled house, you might consider having a gable or hip roof design.

However, if you want to get creative with your roof design for house, configure your roof structure and have your architect sketch out different roof concepts.

No matter what your roof design looks like, keep in mind that the roof is your home’s protection. Proper roofing is important to keep your house protected against harsh weather. It should also be structurally stable and sound equipped with the right roofing system.

Here in this blog, we’ve unearthed some of the most popular roof designs for house to get you inspired.

1. Modern Front Gable

A gable roof is comprised of two sloping roofs that come together at a ridge which creates a triangular shape situated on top of a house. Gable roofs are common among European and colonial homes. Front gables are often added as an exterior embellishment to highlight the entrance and front elevation features of a house. These are referred to as false-front gables.

Gable roofs are getting widely popular amongst contemporary houses as well. Modern cabins and minimalistic cube houses use gable roofs to create a clean and sleek continuity of shape from the squared body of a house up to its triangular roof. It gives off a simple, yet highly contemporized appearance.

2. Hip And Valley Traditional Roof

A hip and valley roof has a total of four sloping sides joined at a common ridge. This type of roof design for houses is typically seen on ranch-style homes. The hip and valley roofs are usually structured to follow the layout or footprint of a house. Some houses that have a “T” form layout or “L” form layout uses the hip and valley roof design.

This kind of roof structure is considered appropriate among houses that have a complicated layout since its structure is designed in a way that is easy to branch out from one sloping side and extend the roof from there.

3. Flat Roof

A lot of people opt for a flat roof design because of many reasons. First, flat roofs are easy to construct. They take up less space and are considered cost-effective since little roofing materials are needed to put up the roof. Flat roofs are popular in contemporary-styled homes. Simple, minimalistic, and very practical.

Flat roofs are not literally flat. It has a pitch of 1-10 degrees to allow water to flow off the roof down to the rainwater pipe to prevent roof damage. Usually, a flat roof is walled with a parapet to create the illusion of a perfect horizontal flatness.

4. Unconventional House with Roof Design

Unconventional roof house designs are for people who love to play with shapes and get creative with their houses. These are the roof types that don’t look like any other. It includes steeper roof slopes, wavy roofs, zigzag forms, and other peculiar-looking roofs that make houses stand out from the rest.

These types of roofs are often created by combining different roof forms. Because of their unusual form, unconventional roofs can be a bit complicated to construct. If you want a unique roof design like never seen before, tell your Architect to come up with concepts and make sure you have the assistance of professional engineers, and roofing contractors to ensure roof stability and safety.

5. Contemporary Shed

A shed roof consists of a single sloping roof and is also made of a single piece of roofing. This type of roof is very simple and straightforward to construct which is why it is the typical roofing used in small cabins, firewood racks, and other types of detached storage rooms.

Contemporary houses are also using the shed roofing style – often inclining it in steeper to add character to the exterior of the house. Shed roofs reduce low points and corners on the wall making the interior look more spacious. Simple roofs like these still require proper roofing features like gutter, and fascia boards.

6. Butterfly Roof

The butterfly roof is pretty much similar to the shed roof but it is comprised of two sloping sides inclined away from each other which creates a “V” form. It is called such because it kind of resembles a butterfly’s wings.

The rainwater runs off at the valley created in the middle where the lower portion of the roofs meets then continues down the scupper. The butterfly roof is common among modern and contemporary homes.

Like the shed, it eradicates the corners on walls thus making the interior appear more spacious. Houses with butterfly roofs often have high ceilings and huge window glazing to allow sunlight throughout the space.

7. Clerestory Roof

A clerestory roof is quite comparable to a shed roof. This type of roof design for a house has a vertical wall that sits between two sloping roofs. The wall has a row of glass windows – termed as “clerestory” where daylight can pass through illuminating the space inside.

If you want to have a clerestory in your house, this type of roof is your best option. The clerestory roof can either be symmetrical or asymmetrical depending on the building’s footprint. For most modern houses, an asymmetrical roof system is typically implemented to create contrast and make the house visually interesting when viewed from a certain standpoint.

The Bottom Line:

Those are just some roof designs for a house we think are interesting and can arguably make any house look attractive. However, you can’t just pick a roof you think you like to crown your home. take note that visual coherence and structural integrity is important to create a well-designed home.

If you’re planning to get started building your dream home, we highly advise you to talk to an Architect and make your visions come to life.

INTRODUCTION

Most people don’t think much about the design of a door when they purchase one. They’re more likely to focus on the size, the type of door lock, and of course the price. But the design of the door matters too. In fact, door with design is considered as one of the primary features that can affect the exterior and interior style of a home.

How ornate and sophisticated your door design is, is what defines the character of your house. Palaces, for example, have huge grand palace doors. Traditional elegant homes have elaborately carved front doors.

Choosing the perfect door with design for your preferred interior and exterior appearance is quite a challenging task. If you’re thinking of switching to a new door design, or just starting to build your home and looking for that strikingly appealing door, this article is for you. We’ve unearthed 8 Impressive doors with designs you might want to check out to find your next perfect door. Read on!

1. Wooden Door: Door Design Of Wood

When you search for doors, I bet the first thing you’re going to see are wooden ones. Wood is arguably one of the most common and widely used door materials. Wooden doors are durable and are very good at resisting wear. They last longer compared to PVC and fiberglass doors. A wooden door also comes with a variety of designs.

Door designers and manufacturers can create personalized doors and carve elaborate designs as requested. What’s truly exceptional about wood is its versatile appearance. It can fit in almost any design style you have and. You can find a wooden door for a traditional home, a neoclassical home, and also for modern contemporary homes.

2. Paneled Door

Paneled doors are quite popular. They have been adorning homes for ages and even up to now, paneled doors are still loved by many. The concept of this door is simple. It is comprised of rectangular panels that are fit together to create the finished door.

Paneled doors are made of wood and timber although there are newer designs that incorporate a glass panel feature right below the top rail or at the center. You can pretty much use panel doors as your front door. You can paint over it with a different color to add a pop of color to your exterior and make your entryway look interesting.

3. Glass Door

Glass doors are usually seen in interior spaces, patios, decks, and balconies. It is comprised of glass panels fit in a wooden or steel frame. Minimalistic glass doors look ideal for contemporary spaces with an open plan layout.

The design of glass doors is much more significant in their framing and size. You can choose to have one huge glass panel or multiple square-sized glass panels depending on the look that you want to achieve in your home.

4. Sliding Barn Door

This type of door is pretty unique. You can see them in the farmhouse and rustic-themed homes. Sliding barn doors are used to divide spaces in the interior or create a smooth transition between two rooms. In huge rustic themed houses, you’re often going to see huge sliding barn doors between the living area and the dining area.

It is a good interior design feature that induces a sense of style and warmth to the overall color scheme. Smaller sliding barn doors are perfect to use for rooms with limited space such as the bathroom and bedrooms.

5. Dutch Door

The Dutch door is a very special kind of door. It is a door that is split in half. The upper portion has a resemblance to that of a glass-paneled window and the lower part is a solid paneled door.

This type of door originated in New England and is designed in a way that allows the breeze and a little bit of sunlight into the room while keeping it closed halfway.

You don’t see this kind of door often but if you want to have a unique and interesting feature to add to your home, then having a Dutch door would be fascinating.

6. French Patio Door

Ever wondered how to achieve that ethereal garden look in your patio? Well, the answer is a French Patio Door. This type of door with design has hinged on its sides and it swings open.

It is designed with squared paneled glass which allows an ample amount of sunlight to stream into the interior space creating that alluring ambiance. A French door patio is commonly seen on French provincial, Neoclassical, and Hamptons-styled homes.

7. Pocket Door

A pocket door functions the same way as a sliding door but when pushed open, its body goes into a small compartment in the adjacent wall. Hence the term “pocket”. Pocket doors are used to save space or if the room is too small for a flush-mounted door, designers would use this type of door as a solution. It’s a smart way to maximize space without compromising the design of the interior space.

There are also a variety of pocket door designs. The wooden pocket door looks attractive against a neutral-painted wall backdrop. There are also pocket doors that are made of glass panels which are ideal to use between walk-in closets and bathrooms for smooth transitions.

8. Bifold Door

Bifold doors are also called folding sliding doors. This door type looks similar to a sliding glass door except that the panels fold when you open it like an accordion. Bifold doors look stylishly sleek and are ideally used in terraces and patios.

If you wish to have that contemporary space with floor-ceiling glazing that opens up to your garden or pool, then a bifold door might be your best option. Because of its mechanism, it can span for a few meters and look way more stylish compared to sliding doors.

Now is the time to open your door to new possibilities!

I’m pretty sure that you’ve already got an idea of what door with design is perfect to update your old ones. Don’t be mediocre when it comes to choosing your doors. Inject a little bit of creativity and fun and make your door as interesting as the rest of your interior space.

INTRODUCTION

Employees spend an average total of 40 to 60 hours per week at work. With employees spending this much amount of time at the office, it’s important to have the space look comfortable so it can boost productivity and creativity. Even right down to how the conference and meeting rooms look, it’s important to look into what is best for the appearance such as a conference table Singapore.

The appearance of an office matters to clients and potential clients as well. If you want your business to look welcoming for clients, and comfortable enough for employees, then redesigning the office is the answer. The interior design of an office gives a sense of what the office is about but also gives an idea to clients and talent how the company culture is.

For example: if your office is cluttered, this will signal that the management or overall business is scattered and unorganized. If you’re looking for ways to help bring more satisfaction to your office, and even the business, then try redesigning with these methods.

1. Ergonomic Furniture

You’ll want to start by looking into whether or not your workspace is functional for everyone. The office should be comfortable, however, the furniture should not look outdated or worn down. Ergonomic furniture is an excellent choice for an office. Some employees have different working styles that should be taken into account. One example of this would be standing desks, some workers prefer to stand to work rather than sit the whole day.

The same can be put into an account for meeting rooms as well, conference table Singapore should be looked into because these need to be ergonomic for long meetings. Take into account what everyone in the office is interested in and how a compromise can happen to where they’ll have comfortable furniture and the office space looks updated.

2. Plenty of Natural Light

Natural light plays a big part in day-to-day productivity. This is the best lighting for offices, however, not all offices are lucky enough to get a sufficient amount. Sunlight is an excellent way to improve everyone’s mood, and staff must benefit from it.

This not only helps everyone feel better, but the office space will look much better as well. If your office is lacking in natural life, then visual aesthetics can be your friend. Placing stylish lamps along desks and corners can be a great way to make the office look more stylish. If it’s possible to change out light fixtures, try something such as a pendant light.

These modern fixtures are both stylish and add some uniqueness to the office space. It’s also best to have good lighting in conference areas as well, conference table Singapore should be near large windows for maximum sunlight. This will not only look better, but the bright lighting can help employees feel better.

3. Conference room and the Conference Table Singapore

Meetings are not exactly something people look forward to in an office. By creating a pleasant environment, can make everyone more comfortable and at ease during the meeting. While many offices have an open floor plan where the space is open and airy, conference and other meeting rooms should not be this way.

This room should still stand as one of the areas that should be private so productive meetings and stay suit. These meeting rooms would have plenty of natural light, comfortable seating, and enough personal space for everyone. Furniture helps set the environment in this closed-in space so be sure that everything is of high quality. Look into a conference table that can suit your needs for these important meetings.

4. Scents

Interior design and scents go hand in hand together. A space isn’t truly beautiful unless it has a nice scent because no one wants to be in a space that smells bad, no matter how good it looks. Incorporating candles is a great way to bring an aroma to the office. This helps with creating a less tense environment, plus it helps make the environment more welcoming to visitors.

5. Décor

Accessorizing is very important to complete any look. Skip out on the generic-looking corporate art or inspirational phrases, no one likes them. Instead, use art pieces that draw the eye. Try to find paintings or prints that are colorful, make sure it has some of the colors currently found in the office or it may look too out of place.

Decorative accents such as rugs and pottery can make an office look inviting. Allow employees to have their decorative accents for their desk, this can help them stay inspired and boosts their mood. Adding personality to a space never hurts anybody, so just encourage it.

6. Clean Spaces

This tip may seem simple, but it’s very crucial and make a world of a difference. Far too often desks will get bombarded with work, leaving them full of notes, paperwork, and halfopened envelopes. This is a complete eyesore and also has the potential of ruining productivity. While it can be understandable if an employee’s desk is unkempt, it does send a bad message to other employees and visitors.

Try to give small nudges and reminders that desks should be tidy. A great way to help with this is by providing wipes and cloths for desks, this way, it can promote a clean workspace. Also, make sure that any boxes that are received immediately go into a storage area, this will help declutter. If any areas need to be replaced or repaired, such as a stain on the carpet, be sure to take care of this immediately.

7. Indoor Plants

Be sure to have live plants placed around the office space, faux just doesn’t cut it. Plants are a timeless interior trend that will never go anywhere, with good reason too. Plants are known for purifying the air and can be fantastic stress relievers too. Bringing nature inside has been proven to increase productivity. You just need to be strategic about where the plants will be placed for both aesthetic purposes but also so they’ll thrive.

Areas such as dark corners that need to be filled can have a large Peace Lily placed there or maybe a White Birds of Paradise next to a south-facing window. Plants go marvelous in conference rooms, especially near conference tables. You can find a great selection of conference table Singapore for your own office. There are a wide variety of plants available, and they can be styled into a space to look simply elegant. Don’t forget to pick up some pots or baskets to complement the plants.

INTRODUCTION

Every wood flooring opens up a plethora of opportunities on how to design the space. These come in a variety of styles. Plus wood flooring comes in different tones and styles such as parquet flooring in Singapore as an example.

If you don’t know – “Parquet is a geometric mosaic of wood pieces used in the floor tiling & floor decoration. The parquet patterns commonly seen are squares, lozenges, triangles and herringbone (most popular)

Weiken Interior Design
The Longest Running ID Firm in Singapore

Wooden flooring is the perfect foundation for creating a sleek modern home. You’ll want your furniture to match the space, plus all the decorative accents as well. Now that you have your floor as the foundation, your next step is looking into what will complement it.

These eight tips will help you figure out what will look great and complement the wood flooring in your home.

1. Pay Attention To The Undertones

Not all wood floors are the same, they come in a variety of tones such as cool, warm, and neutral. These undertones are what will help define the space. What you’ll want to do is use this as a way to match your décor to what the wood’s undertone is. The warmer tones for woods would be red, orange, and yellow.

These warm colors can work well with other warm-toned furniture and accents. The same can be said for cooler-toned undertones such as white and gray. Neutral undertones however are a different story, these are excellent because they work beautifully for both warm and cooltoned furniture. Matching undertones will greatly help when designing the interior of a space.

2. Try And Choose A Complementary Color Palette

It can be tricky when selecting the right color scheme for a room, especially if you’re determining based on the floors. What you’ll want to do is try and balance out the colors in the space. As stated above, you’ll need to pay attention to the undertones of the wood flooring because this can drastically help when picking furniture. Picking a complementary color palette will help elevate the space and it makes everything more balanced and put together.

3. Parquet Flooring Singapore Open Floor Plans

This tip is mostly for homes that have an open floor plan. It’s best for the flooring to remain content in between rooms unless walls and a door are separating the spaces. Open floor plans just look awkward if there are any divides in the flooring. Consistency in this open airy space is key because it is both aesthetically pleasing to the eye and it’s easier to clean too.

4. Soften The Floor When Rugs

Adding some textiles to a space is a surefire way to bring more texture and color into a space. Wood flooring lacks the soft coziness that a carpet has. What also needs to be kept in mind is that repeatedly walking or standing on a hard floor throughout the day will cause discomfort.

Rugs can minimize the effect of discomfort and add a layer of much-needed texture. Layering rugs is currently very trendy, with good reason as this can make a room very comfy. Try by layering up rugs in define sitting areas in an open space such as around the dining area or near a sofa. This can make them bring the chairs together for a more cohesive appearance.

5. Rustic Can Be A Way To Go

Wooden tones do not need to match when it comes to furniture and flooring. While it is nice if they complement one another, it certainly will not look bad if they don’t match. A modern approach is to combine wood floors and wooden furniture. This gives for a rustic and rough appearance.

The diversity in the wood shows different textures and stains that can make a space look very good. You can just create an overall theme within the room that eludes to coziness. Rustic is a fun way to go and it can be a great way to add an overall cozy ambiance to the room.

6. Contrast Is Important

One of the core rules for decorating any space would be allowing contrast in a space. If you have dark wood floors in your home, then place light wooden furniture in the space, this way, it pops and looks satisfying. What you could do instead if you have a lighter wood for your flooring would be to have darker furniture pieces. This way, a strike of balance is within the room.

If a space doesn’t have contrasting colors, then it’s going to look plain and monotonous. Parquet flooring Singapore tiles immediately have some contrast within the flooring itself which alone helps a lot with contrast in the space.

Also everything in the room, especially small pieces will become lost in space due to everything just matching. Contrasting colors help create a focal point within the room. Contrast doesn’t just need to be colores either, the same rule goes for texture as well. You’ll want your smooth floor to be balanced out with a softer texture such as a rug. Rugs are a great way to cover up scratches and other marks that wood floors will get from time to time. Wooden floors need upkeep, so it’s important to look into it such as parquet flooring repair.

7. Modern Metals

Modern wood flooring works greatly with metal furniture pieces. Industrial styling has been very trendy over the last few years. Using industrial pieces of furniture and decorative accents that incorporate materials such as bronze or steel will look fantastic when contrasts against the floor.

Distressed metal furniture can also be a great way to add some character to a space as well. Glass is also a material that can look wonderful and fit beautifully into a modern home. Most styles look great from industrial, rustic, to modern-chic, just make sure that you’re matching your flooring and your furniture to the look you have in mind.

Since there are so many different types of styles when it comes to wood flooring, one of the best is parquet flooring for Singapore homes.

8. Mix In Wood Furniture

Wood flooring is one of the most natural pairings in traditional interior design. Most homes, especially older ones will commonly have wood flooring. This often provides a juxtaposition to more sleek elements in modern-day interiors. Modern wooden furniture has a lot of clean lines, and this can greatly be complement by the wood flooring. This embraces the balance between smooth and hard services while also having a complementary color palette. On an occasion, you’ll need to parquet flooring polish or any other sort of polishing for your floors and furniture.

When it comes to interior design, there aren’t any hard rules. Not all rooms are the same, therefore not all interior “rules” can work for all spaces. If you’re limited on what furniture you have or just not interested in creating contrast in the space, then that’s completely fine. Flooring such as parquet flooring Singapore homes can look fantastic when being complemented by furniture.

There are plenty of other ways that wood flooring can look great in a space. Just experiment
around with what you have and just try to find a way to strike some balance. This is your home, you can decorate it how you like and experiment as much as you want.

INTRODUCTION

Let’s face it. You’ve heard those stories of people breaking into homes and stealing valuables. And more often than not, they go through the windows rather than the doors. More often than not, many homeowners increase the security of their windows by using hard to break glass, top of the line locks and hinges and even installing CCTV cameras aimed directly where the windows are at.

But is it possible to combine both function and aesthetics when it comes to security? Yes. It is quite possible. Most homes in Singapore have employed the use of window grilles in making sure that the home is secure and protected. However, some people have opted against the use of grilles as it could also present a potential hazard in the event of a fire. In recent years, many companies have developed innovations in design and function for many window grilles. So here are a few things you need to know about Singapore’s window grilles and what you need to consider when opting to have one installed.

1. What Is A Window Grille?

A window grille by definition, is a decorative pattern on a window or door made up of vertical or horizontal bars that divide the piece of glass into smaller panes. Apart from metal, grilles can be made from narrow strips of wood and vinyl.

They are used primarily for the purpose of aesthetics, since it can be arranged in a particular pattern to create an interesting pattern on otherwise dull windows, but in recent times are beginning to serve a more preventive function. There are two types of window grilles Singapore’s modern homes have employed in the last few years. These are namely the slim grilles and the invisible grilles.

2. What Is A Slim Grille?

Perhaps the most classic of the window grille types, the slim grille takes its name from the overall size of its grilles. While most grilles tend to be thick as they are constructed from thicker metals such as an angular bar, the slim window grilles are thin, having a measurement of at least 6mm or less. These type of grilles give off a more classic contemporary feel. Here are a things about the slim window grille Singaporean designers talk about.

• Protection- Most homes use these grilles as a means of protection. While many homeowners dread the idea of intruders entering the house via a cracked window, the slim grilles provide that much needed obstruction thanks to its equally spaced bars; either horizontally or vertically. With these in place, it will make it virtually impossible for the intruder to enter the home.
• Flexible and Adaptable- When looking to create a unique and functional window grille, Singaporean designers often use the slim grilles since it can be arranged in a way that makes the room’s windows appear lighter or compact. It can also adapt to various styles such as contemporary, modern, minimalist and industrial.
• Framed View – Believe it or not, many Singaporeans will agree that a view is something that many would like to look at. However, grilles could easily obstruct and destroy its overall aesthetics. Luckily, slim window grilles can make the view look much more picturesque. Because of its narrow size and overall spacing, homeowners are treated to a picture window of the outside. Depending on how the grilles are placed, you can have a narrow looking frame or even an equally cut view.

3. What Is An Invisible Grille?

While the slim window grille has remained one of the popular types of window grille Singapore homes use, there is another type that is slowly making its mark in many homes. While regular grilles provide both protection and security, it can also age a house’s exterior and obstruct the view of an otherwise beautiful scenery.

Luckily, there have been innovations in design that provide revolutionary solutions to the age old problem of obstruction and aging. These come in the form of grilles that seemed barely there. These are called invisible window grilles and they have become quite popular with designers and developers. Here are several pros and cons if you should consider using invisible window grilles in your Singaporean home

PROS

• Barely there– As mentioned earlier, grilles tend to obstruct the view of an otherwise beautiful and interesting view .Invisible grilles provide the much needed shape while providing the much needed function. Because they appear seamless in composition, these allow homeowners to enjoy the great and clear view outside without having to move closer to the window
• Stylish– What makes them unique is the fact that they are designed to accommodate just about any style imaginable. They also make the windows look uncanny from the outside and the best part of all is that they do not rust.
• Quick Installation and Maintenance– Believe it or not, many designers and contractors will agree that installing invisible grilles are quite easy. There are many professional who specialize in providing these kind of grilles and will easily walk you through the process from manufacturing the grille to installing them. Apart from easy installation, they are also quite easy to maintain and clean, with methods ranging from a damp cloth to simple wiping them with a cleaning solution.
• Alarm System– Do you recall the concept of the Trojan horse? It appears harmless from the outside, but inside it is a different story. The same principle can be applied to the grilles. Since they appear invisible, they also appear less threatening. Designers and security companies take advantage of this factor and create security systems for these type of window grilles. Once installed, it would appear as though they are barely there, making it difficult to be seen by potential intruders.

CONS

• Accidents– Because the grilles are almost invisible to the naked eye, it also presents a potential hazard in the form of people accidentally walking into the glass. Children who are particularly active and who cannot see the glass could also get hurt. The grille is considered to be particularly strong and could easily knock a person out. It’s important to make sure that everyone is protected from external as well as internal factors.

4. Are They Pricey?

A window grille at a Singaporean price will vary depending on their type, size and overall composition. Slim grilles are easily the most affordable grilles since they come in various styles and the material is abundant. It is normally priced at around $450 to $1000. There are many suppliers who also price this at around $300-$900, relying entirely on the material itself. Invisible grilles, however are of a different variant.

With a very innovative design to boot, you can bet that it will also come with a hefty and innovative price. These kind of grilles are known to be a bit pricier than most window grilles. They range from $1080 to almost $1450. This is due in part to the manufacturing of the grilles’ materials, size, installation and aftercare services.

If you are still sure of employing these grilles, consult other suppliers on their prices and see which one is favorable to you. You can search online for the best suppliers and they can provide you with a consultation as well as a free quote and design. However, you must also consider that when you purchase and install these grilles, these are an investment and you will be glad to have them in your home. So always go for the best and most reasonably priced option.

5. Are There Other Types Of Grilles?

When it comes to creativity and functionality, window grilles come in various shapes and designs. Apart from the popular slim and invisible window grilles, many homeowners prefer employing more creative patterns in their windows.

• For some that prefer the classical look, grilles shaped like florals and scrolls are often used. Other patterns like meander keys, diamonds and even shutters are also used.
• For a more eclectic look, patterns utilizing the Moroccan ogee, the fleur de lis and even abstract lines are employed.

However, one must take care when choosing a different type of grille as it could either be prohibited by the hdb property itself or it could age the overall interior entirely.

Final thoughts:

When it comes to choosing a particular window grille for your home, it’s always best to consult with a designer and professional contractor as they are familiar with the property’s regulations as well as the installation and replacement process.  While some HDBs are rather strict with their window grille, Singaporean designers often use HDB approved grille designs when designing or renovating windows.

More importantly, when choosing the perfect window grille, it should not be a daunting task, but rather a fun and engaging experience. Choose suppliers and installers who will be able to work with your budget and size of window as well as overall grille type. You can also go the extra mile and make a unique and completely different window grille.   After all, the most important thing you need to have in your home is protection and security. And that is exactly what window grilles can do for you.

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  INTRODUCTION
  
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  1. What Is A Flexi Flat?
  
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  2. What Can I Put In The Flexi Flat?
  
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  3. Popular Styles & Ideas For 2 Room Flats
  

INTRODUCTION

It stands to reason that at some points in a person’s life, the idea of living in a large house may prove to be both a hassle and costly to maintain. Especially if you are the type who is considering long term investments. Another inevitability in a person’s life is when we age. Let’s face it, no one wants to go to a dreary old folks’ home. 

The most logical solution to these factors is by investing in a studio apartment. However, most studio apartments are placed in a certain part of the city specifically for them. Think of it as a cluster of singular rooms. And most studio apartments come with a very high price tag for just a compartmentalized space. Moreover, the idea of living in a studio apartment for a long time can prove to be a very daunting and almost unfulfilling task.

So, if not a studio apartment, what else is there? Fortunately, there is another type of flat that the HDB have developed specifically for low income families and individuals as well as retirees. This is called the 2 room flexi flat. Now, you might have heard about it in passing, but as of late, more and more people, particularly the retirees are trading in their old accommodations and moving into these 2 room flats. And you might be wondering, can anyone live in a 2 room flat and have an amazing interior to boot?

The answer is yes, anyone can have an incredible interior no matter the size. So here are a few things you need to know about the 2 room flat and a few design tips that many designers employ in making the hdb 2 room flex design completely unique.

1. What Is A Flexi Flat?

Before we dive into it, we must first understand what a 2 room flexi flat is and what makes it different and highly preferred than the studio apartment.

From the name alone, it is a 2 room flat… This means one room encompasses the living, dining, kitchen and household shelter while the other room is the singular bedroom and toilet and bathroom. In other parts of the world, it is called a one bedroom house.

What makes this different from most flats is that it has what is called the flexi scheme. The flexi scheme is designed in such a way that it offers retirees the option to monetize the existing home for retirement while utilizing a flat with a lease period based on their age, income and other factors.  It is also meant for low income families who are looking to buying their own home. While the studio apartment is around 16-24sqm in size, the 2 room flats come in two sizes; 36 sqm and 45 sqm, giving homeowners the option to choose their preferred sizes.

2. What Can I Put In The Flexi Flat?

You can put anything you want so long as the space allows it. Most homeowners, specifically those who are retirees, tend to lean towards the more basic necessities. Although there are some who also have an affinity for several styles. Perhaps a very important factor to note when creating your one of a kind hdb 2 room flexi design is prioritizing the long term needs of the occupant.

Say for example the owners are retirees who may require grips to hold on to. Especially in the toilet and bath. You will then need to install grab bars and foldable handles in certain parts of the flat. You will also need to consider the type of flooring you have as of now since some 2 room flats have pre-installed flooring that may not be favorable to you.

A quick trip to try is taking the time to list down the things you want to retain, the things you want to have and the things you want to replace. Next, consult with a professional designer and tell them what you would like. They will then advise you what will be ideal for your flexi flat based on your budget, your preference and your needs.

3. Popular Styles & Ideas For 2 Room Flats

We come to the more exciting part where you can try some of these creative and innovative ideas in your hdb 2 room flexi flat design. There are many styles to choose from, depending on your preference, color scheme, style and budget. Now, depending on the size of the 2 room flat that you have, there may be some areas that will need to be adjusted. For example, you may want to reconsider having a 6 seater dining set if the space can accommodate at least a 4 seater. Or in the case of the bedroom, you may want to maximize the space and storage.

• Living Room– Quite naturally, this is where most homeowners tend to stay and relax. There are several popular styles used in many of Singapore’s living rooms. If you have an affinity for the contemporary look, as it is a style that can stand the test of time and is as flexible as ever, go for sofa sets consisting of a 3 seater, a 2 seater and a 1 seater sofa.You can have all three or even just the 3 seater and have an accent chair as well. You can also go for an l shape sofa if the space is quite small. If you prefer a more Scandinavian feel, you can opt to have oak and upholstered sofas. You can also use coffee tables that have additional storage and incorporate a few built in storage features for your TV rack and some shelves. If you happen to have windows that are amazing, you can have either blinds or soft curtains. To compliment the look, choose throw pillows that can help soften the overall look. You can go for plain or printed pillows and you can even have some accessories like vases, trays and framed paintings all over your living room.
• Dining Room– This can be quite tricky since you have to consider two possible scenarios. One is that you might have guests coming over and you will need additional seating. The other being you might be used to having a big table and you end up using a big table and taking up more space than necessary.The dining room, in itself, is just a small space. That being said, you need to consider the following factors. How many people are in the flexi flat and how many will be visiting if ever. A four seater dining set is the safest and most practical set often employed in many small interiors. There are many ways you can have your 4 seater set styled. You can have high back upholstered chairs in the fabric color of your choice, you could also have iconic modern café chairs and if you’re daring and looking to save space, you can have benches custom made to your table.More often than not, a rectangular table is favored since it can efficiently provide the necessary coverage for the dining room; but you can also use a round table, provided that the space allows it. Another interesting idea to try, especially if you will have guests coming over, you can opt to have a dining table that can extend from a 4 seater into a 6 seater or 8 seater table. There are several tables that even have storage options and compartmentalizing functions. You can even go the extra mile and have a unique dining table mounted on the wall or suspended from the ceiling.

• Bedroom– Most 2 room flexi flat bedrooms tend to be at least ¼ of the overall flat space, so it stands to reason that the bedroom space would be either big or small.  Most hdb 2 room flexi designs have full or double sized beds used as the bed for homeowners; since its width can allow two people to sleep comfortably side by side.However, there are some bedrooms that are big enough to have a queen size bed. Most designers suggest considering the size of the room before committing to the desired bed size. Another element to consider is storage and a great idea to try is having a bed with storage compartments that can store your clothes and linens.You can have custom made wardrobes and media centers fixed to the wall so that you can have ample space to move about. You can also have a desk placed in with a chair so that you can do computer work or do some writing or reading. Don’t forget to invest in good quality linens. Go for beddings that have a thread count of 300 or more since you are assured of a soft and durable bedding.

And perhaps the biggest advice for anyone looking to have a unique hdb 2 room flexi design is by consulting with a professional designer. They will be able to address your needs and requirements and can work around with your budget as well as your vision.

Creating a one of a kind 2 room flexi flat should never be a daunting task, but rather a fun and exciting investment that is sure to make you happy for the rest of your days.

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  INTRODUCTION
  
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  1. Dual Function Stairs
  
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  2. Uncanny Staircases
  
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  3. Artistic Railings
  

INTRODUCTION

What is the most overlooked element in any interior? When we say overlooked, we quite literally mean something that is never given a second look over. Could it possibly be the windows? No, windows come in various sizes and styles and it often makes the space both brighter and interesting. Perhaps the doors? Doors do come in various styles and finishes. But sometimes, it’s a hit regardless. Could it be the walls? The floors? Or even the ceiling?

Not quite. What if we were to tell you that the most overlooked element in most homes is where you take the next step. We are talking, of course, about the staircase. Now, you might be thinking, how in the world is a flight of stairs the most overlooked element in any interior? To put it simply, most people would think that the stairs is merely a structure with steps that lead to the second floor of a house a functional element, but nonetheless just a structure.

However in recent years, designers have begun taking the basic design of the staircase and have since improved its overall look, aesthetics and function.

Staircases are no longer just structures that lead to the next floor, they have now become an integral part of the interior and have also become a functional accent or two. That being said, here are several staircase design ideas that you can use in your interiors.

1. Dual Function Stairs

Perhaps the biggest improvement in staircase design is the fact that it can serve as an access point and as a room in itself. If one were to look at it, the space in the bottom of the stairs is almost spacious for a room or piece of built in furniture. And with most hdb homes having limited space, it is imperative for so many designers to make use of whatever space is there. So here are several staircase design in small spaces that many designers often use.

• Cupboard under the stairs– While it may be a reference to the famous Harry Potter chapter, it also has meaning. Cupboards are small spaces with shelves that are often used for storing things like shoes, travel luggage, seasonal linen and even the household cleaning supplies. When creating your cupboard storage, consider how deep it is so that when allocating the necessary shelving.
• Lounging and Reading Area-another idea to try out, especially if you are a bookworm at heart, is creating a reading nook underneath your staircase. You can have a small daybed outfitted to the size of the space and install a few shelves. You can go the extra mile and install a small light in the center of the reading area.
• Work space– if you can’t have an office, why not convert the space under the stairs into a small working space. You can custom make a table and cabinet storage and fit them out underneath the stairs. For that added feature, install some electrical sockets so that you can plug in your laptop, computer or even your printer if needed. A cool idea to incorporate is an integrated seat that can be kept under the desk so that it would look a bit neater.

• Open Cabinets and Bookcase– If the space under your stairs is quite small, don’t worry, you can actually make a unique built in open cabinet or storage piece. You can use this to display books, figurines and even shoes.
• Powder Room – the difference between a powder room and a bathroom is that the former lacks a shower. Powder rooms are favored especially if you need to refresh yourself before heading out. The same can be said for guests when they need to relieve themselves. When creating the powder room, you will notice that plumbing is quite important since you will need to provide a source of water for your fixtures. Take care also to choose adequately sized fixtures. You wouldn’t want a sink that is too wide or too tall or even a water closet that is too high or too low. Always consider the height of your stair space since when you enter the powder room, you may need to provide allowance so as to avoid any head bumps and accidents.

2. Uncanny Staircases

What if we told you that staircases can be as picturesque as a statue? What if we were to say that staircases can become something beautiful? Instead of having the traditional monolith type stairs, why not have your stair steps attached to the wall for a more modern futuristic look.

This type of staircase design is often employed in modern design homes, but you can also see this in contemporary and even tropical style homes. You can even go to the next level by making the finish of your stairs similar to the finish of the wall where it is attached to such as wood, marble or even stone.  

Another unique idea to try is creating a seamless continuous set of steps made entirely out of bentwood. This gives a curved almost spinal looking aesthetic which is biophilic and almost natural in nature. You can also have you stairs suspended from the ceiling as a sort of floating step. You can also try mixing different wood finishes to create an interesting set of steps instead of the usual wood plank and paint combination. You can also be a bit daring and go for a spiral staircase using various materials such as iron and bentwood. 

Speaking of spiral staircases, you can even make a sculpted type of staircase that could resemble petals or leaves or even twigs. Be a bit experimental with your stairs, but take care to consider the length of your riser and tread. You wouldn’t want stair steps that are too high or too narrow; too short or too wide.

3. Artistic Railings

While we are on the subject of uncanny staircase design, let’s delve in further to what completes the look of the staircase. We are referring of course to the handrails. You might be thinking, handrails aren’t really that interesting. Some stairs don’t even have them. We beg to differ. Most handrails, apart from helping to stabilize and support a person when climbing up the stairs, also defines the access point. But that doesn’t mean you have a boring railing. In fact, it gives you the opportunity to create a very unique railing for staircase design. You can try some of these ideas;

• French wrought iron – often seen in classic and contemporary homes, wrought iron is quite durable and can support and soften the look of your staircase, Apart from the typical straight cut bars and posts, you can also opt for scrolls and florals if you like or even geometric motifs. More often than not, this favored due to it being quite an affordable material.
• Glass – often seen in modern interiors, glass railings make for a clean and almost seamless look. Glass can make any modern staircase look timeless and gentle, however, you must be particular when selecting the glass for your railing. Go for tempered glass as they can withstand a particular weight. You can opt for either clear tempered glass, tinted or even frosted glass; depending on your preference. You can consult a specialist in glass fabrication and ask which type of glass would suit your railings, your budget and your overall look.

• Laser cut Railings – a very modern method for creating unique and beautiful railings is by having your design laser cut into the material of your choice. Laser cutting is a method that utilizes a laser and etches out a pattern on a particular surface. Two of the most popular materials for laser cut railings are wood and metal. When it comes to patterns, there are many patterns you can use in creating these railings. Some of the most popular patterns include geometric cuts, curved edges, florals and leaves and even minimalist dots.
• Stainless Steel – if wrought iron railings are not to your liking, there is also stainless steel railings. These are often associated with modern interiors and compliment glass railings as they are used as the glass’ frame. Because of its mirror like finish and clean, straight lines, stainless steel railings are ideal for modern and minimalist staircase design.
• Wood Railings – of course, you can never go wrong with the classic wooden railings. Especially if you have an affinity for the look and feel of natural wood. Apart from the usual use of mahogany, oak and Birchwood, there is also bamboo, teak and even ironwood railings employed in several contemporary homes.

When it comes to having a unique interior, many Singaporean designers will think out of the box and transform just about anything to make the interior pop and with these unique staircase design ideas constantly employed by both homeowner and designer, it is a sure fire guarantee that many Singaporean homes and interiors will be employing these uncanny ideas to make their interiors truly one of a kind works of art and design.

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  INTRODUCTION
  
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  1. BI-FOLD DOOR 101
  
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  2. Popular Design Ideas for Bi-Fold Doors
  

INTRODUCTION

In many homes and structures, you’ll notice that the size of the toilet and bath tend to be smaller than most bathrooms. So much so that the idea of having a door installed in the bathroom can be almost tricky since you will need an ample amount of space to move around when using the bathroom. Naturally, you will need a specific type of door that can provide both the privacy and space efficiency.

Most clients opt for a sliding door on the notion that it will create a seamless, concealed look. But even sliding doors can take up space especially if the size of the door is equal to the size of the space. Not to mention the possibility of it getting exposed to water and getting warped and damaged.

Fortunately, there is another type of door that is slowly becoming popular with many HDB bathrooms and even storage spaces. We are referring to the bi-fold door.

The bi-fold door, as its name implies, is a type of door that folds in the middle and can create an opening. It is also called folding sliding doors because it utilizes a track system that is roughly the size and length of the door width. They have the appearance of two thin doors attached to each other via special hinges that allow the panels to slide and fold neatly against each other.  

What makes the bi-fold door unique is the integrated, seamless look it has when it comes to creating the illusion of a concealed room. That being said, many designers often employ this type of door for small bathrooms, laundry spaces, wardrobes and even as terrace doors. Here are a few things you need to know about these doors and some of the most popular and unique design ideas for bi-fold door for toilet.

1. BI-FOLD DOOR 101

Before we delved into the application of the bi-fold door for toilets, let’s talk first about the basics of the bi-fold door and getting a good understanding of what it’s made of, it’s overall aftercare, its pros and cons and pricing.  

• Composition– Bi-fold doors are different in a way that while most doors have a standard thickness of 4cm to 5cm, the bi-fold door is at least 3cm thick. This allows the doors to fold easily without putting too much strain on the track. It also helps balance out the weight of some doors that incorporate glass in their design. A very interesting thing to note about bi-fold doors is that they feature multiple locking points as well as top of the line hinges that make the bi-fold door secure and sturdy.
• Materials– Some of the most popular materials used in bi-fold doors include wood and aluminum; the latter due in part to its strength and lightweight composition. Some doors also have different types of glass incorporated in the design to give a more light and modern look. Some of these glasses include frosted, clear, tempered and tinted glass. On occasion, some glasses can also have designs etched into them.

Let’s talk about the Pros of the Bi-fold Doors

• Maintenance– While most doors require careful maintenance such as oiling the hinges and wiping the dust and mildew accumulated by the dampness of the room, this particular door does not complex maintenance and is generally easy to clean, either with a damp cloth or a soft detergent.
• Easy to Install– Many designers and suppliers will agree that the bi-fold door, especially toilet bi-fold doors, are quite easy to install. It’s best to consult an expert on these doors when installing however, as it requires precision when installing the track system and the door itself.
• Easy to Open– Because bi-fold doors simply fold out, it is quite easy to open without having to apply that much pressure, thanks primarily to the track system.
• Various Openings– the best thing about the bi-fold door is that you don’t necessarily have to open it all the way. You can open it to a certain point and still be able to move about.

Like with most things, there is also a downside to it. The bi-fold door is no exception. Here are a few cons about it.

• Lack of Space– while we did mention the bi-fold door for toilets to be the most efficient and favorable door for small spaces, one must not forget that the bi-fold door is made up of two frames of equal halves that could easily obstruct certain parts of the space and make it even smaller.
• Potential Leaks– Most doors have a threshold , which is located at the bottom, that help conceal gaps to prevent insects and pests and potential water leaks entering the room. However, the bi-fold door omits having this in order for it to work. This could lead to potential infestations and quite possibly, water leaks from your toilet and bath. Most designers often suggest having an elevated threshold or a slightly sloped flooring to prevent this.
• Pricing– It is expected that bi-fold doors are quite costly. Most bi-fold doors would range from $218 to $368. This is due in part of the materials being used in making the door such as glass, aluminum and wood; the manufacturing of the signature track system and hinge and installing the finish product. Another factor that contributes to the cost of the bi-fold door is the design and size. There are some who opt to have two pairs of bi-fold doors installed; others also prefer having intricately carved doors as their bi-folds, etc. As with most building elements, it is advisable to consult with a specialist as they can advise you on what materials can be used based on your budget, preference and overall size of the room’s space.

2. Popular Design Ideas for Bi-Fold Doors

Now that we’ve tackled on the basic of bi-fold doors, you are now ready to try out some of the most interesting and otherwise beautiful design ideas when installing your own door.

• Paneled Doors– You can never go wrong with a classic paneled door. This is ideal for classic to contemporary interiors. When making your paneled door, remember that size is very important. To give off the illusion of a narrow door, make the panels tall and slim in order to elongate it. You can also apply this if you plan to make multiple panels.
• Shutters– This bi-fold door for toilets is quite popular as it gives off a contemporary and modern feel. It also provides the needed ventilation and privacy. Some popular finishes for shutter type bi-fold door include white, natural oak, walnut and occasionally black.
• Glass– This classic look gives off a modern feel. Many homeowners and designers have an affinity for glass doors because of its somewhat breezy and soft look. This is often associated with the industrial and cosmopolitan style. This is often accompanied with a slim aluminum frame in either black, white or metallic finish or a wooden frame with the wood being either beech wood, oak, walnut and even teak. You can opt for frosted glass, tinted glass, clear glass and even two toned glass. You can even make your frame have interesting patterns cut like diamonds, scrolls and window panels.

• Whimsical Patterns– This is a good idea to try if you happen to have children. Instead of having boring plain doors, why not paint a pattern or a painting in your bi-fold door. You can paint interesting scenes or even bright patterns such as swirls, florals and even geometric shapes. You can use pastel colors such as light blue, pale yellow or mint greens; cool colors if you prefer having a calming effect. You can also use this technique if your toilet is located in the hallway. You can have your bi fold door made to look like an accent wall with interesting prints and designs. You can make it look like a metallic chevron, a fretwork art, stripes, etc.
• Dual Drama– Now if you are fortunate to have a much bigger bathroom, but still want to use the bi fold door, you can do so by installing two pairs to make a unique toilet folding door. This can add a lot of classy drama by creating a door akin to a French door.
• Checker Board Panels– Another unique design for doors is making a checker board panel. This can be achieve in two ways. One wherein one panel will have two colors and the other panel having a mirrored image of the other panel. You can also elongate the panels and make it look like a monochromatic paneled door. You can even combine wood and glass so that it would have both light and ventilation for your toilet

In conclusion, when deciding on having a bi-fold door for toilets made and installed, always consider the pros and cons and consult specialists. Always think of it as an invested piece that will last a good long time. And when it comes to designs, there is no limit to your imagination. You can also ask a designer to help design a unique door that can make your toilet and bath a worthwhile conversation starter.

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  INTRODUCTION
  
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  1. Basic Structure
  
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  2. Required Provisions
  
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  3. Furniture and Accessories
  

INTRODUCTION

There is a saying that goes like this. “A happy person is a productive person.”

That is quite true, especially for those who come home to a hard day’s work and enjoy home cooking and a good night’s rest. But if we back track this, who usually cooks and cleans while your child is in school and you’re at work? Why, it is your house helper who maintains the cleanliness of the home and makes sure that there are meals prepared for the household. You might say they are an extended member of your family. As such, they work and live in your home and while it is convenient for both parties that also means that they have mandated needs and benefits.

And one of these benefits is having adequate accommodations and utilities. Fortunately, most hdb homes have small rooms and bathrooms built in close proximity to one another, making this the ideal place to construct and design the perfect room. That being said, here are a few tips and ideas for a small maid’s room design Singaporean designers employ when crafting the most adequate room for those wonderful household helpers.

1. Basic Structure

If you notice, some hdb homes will have more than enough space for a second kitchen and even and toilet and bath next to it. If your second kitchen doesn’t require additional cabinets, why not convert the remaining space into your maid’s room? Traditionally, most maid’s rooms are located next to the kitchen because the first task of the day is to prepare the breakfast. And with the toilet and bath conveniently located, you can actually connect the two rooms to create the much needed room.

If you’re one of the lucky few with a pre-existing maid’s room and bath, then all you need to do is to take note of certain requirements when it comes to making a Singaporean small maid’s room design.

Typically, a maid’s room measures around 2.0mx2.2m or roughly 4.4 sqm. Add the size of the bathroom, usually around 1.8mx2.0m or 3.6 sqm, and you have an adequately sized room for your household helper. Another interesting method is converting the bomb shelter into a maid’s room, in the event you don’t have an allocated room. However, you must make sure that the bomb shelter will have provisions required for a maid’s room. When designing the room, take into consideration the overall size, ventilation for natural air and light and the goal of keeping them comfortable and happy at all costs.

2. Required Provisions

We mentioned earlier about standard provisions and you’re probably wondering what these required provisions are. Like with any room, a maid’s room must have ventilation. Believe it or not, some rooms don’t have windows, which could be a problem health wise. Rooms need windows that can regulate the circulation of clean air and natural light and this principle is very important when making your small maid room design. Singapore designers have employed various methods such as placing vents and even placing a small window so that they can have a view to look at.

Another provision is privacy. Apart from having their own quarters, maids must also feel at ease in their personal space. This is often considered if there is more than 1 household helper employed. Make sure they have their own space to relax in.

Electrical provisions are also important. Especially for lighting and other appliances that will be used such as an electric fan. Make sure the room has enough sockets and conveniently placed so that they can easily plug the necessary appliance they will be using. Make sure it is well installed and uses materials of the best quality.

Finally, sanitation is very important. This is considered when constructing or renovating the toilet and bath. It’s important to use quality fixtures and make sure that you use quality fixtures and that the plumbing is well done.

3. Furniture and Accessories

Now comes the fun part where you can design and style your maid’s room. Just because it’s the maid’s room doesn’t mean you have to skimp out on quality items. As with most rooms, your maid’s room will need an adequate sized bed, linens, a wardrobe and if the space allows it, additional furniture like a desk and chair as well as space to move around.

• COLOR SCHEMES

Like with most rooms, the maid’s room must have a concise and uniformed scheme. As such, when choosing the color palette, take into consideration the size of the room as well as how the occupants will feel. If the room is small, as most maids’ rooms are, go for light colors that will make the room look bigger than it normally is. Light colors can be light neutrals, pastels and even muted tones such as gray and brown. Avoid using bright colors as they will overwhelm and make the room even smaller than ever. A go to palette for rooms is the neutral palette as well as the cool colors and the earth tones.

• BED

Choose a bed frame that is decently sized so that your maid will have a restful sleep. More often than not, a single size bed is often used. There are many bed designs you can go for ranging from simple box bed designs to beds with storage either in headboards or bottom portions. There will be instances when even a standard single size bed will not fit your maid’s room. Don’t worry, though. A good idea to try when making a Singaporean small maid’s room design is having the bed custom made to fit the space. There are companies that can custom make beds with built in storage. You can also use a sofa bed that can open out into a bed when needed.

You can get two beds if you have more than one household helper employed. Or you can opt for a bunk bed the space is restricted. Go for bunk beds that are of good quality and reasonably priced. Take note also of the height of the room. You wouldn’t want your maid sleeping so close to the ceiling, right?

• WARDROBE

Consider getting a good wardrobe. Your household helper will need space to store her clothes and even her personal belongings. A one door wardrobe would usually measure at 600mmx600mmx2100mm, but you can go a bit wider if the space allows it. Go for wardrobe cabinets made entirely out of melamine or laminate wood of the best quality.

• MATTRESS

When it comes to mattress, get a mattress that is both good for the back and well-priced. Most mattress used in maids’ rooms will be at least 4-6 inches high. Don’t go for mattress that are 2-3 inches high as they will immediately sink into the bed.

• DESK AND CHAIR

Some maids tend to spend their rest time either sleeping or watching something on their phones or TV. But there are some maids who also read or write on their spare time. As such, if the space allows, you can also place a small desk and a chair. That way, when they write or read, they will have a comfortable place to sit and work on. They can also store their important papers and documents there if needed.  

• LINENS

Linens are very important as they make for a more comfortable night’s rest. Shop for linens that are of a higher thread count and reasonably priced. There are many stores that provide bed linens in sets and linens that make the room a bit brighter. Avoid bedding sheets that are thin; you would not want your maid to be uncomfortable and shivering at the same time. You can opt for plain sheets and one accent or printed pillow case so as to break the monotony of the room.

• ARTWORK

Most designers will agree that having a framed artwork makes the room inviting as ever. You can make your maid’s room more comfortable by adding a few artworks on the wall. You can add one painting or even a set of 3 paintings above the headboard or even next to the wall. Consider also what makes them relaxed, so go for paintings of natural landscapes, the ocean, and a few modern views if you like and even subtle abstract art. You can go the extra mile and hang a painting or a framed photo of their favorite place or country.  Your household helpers will feel even more appreciated when they enter a room that makes them comfortable and at ease.

• LIGHTING

Let’s talk lighting fixtures. Most rooms will have that one centralized or general light to rely on, but that doesn’t mean it will be a light bulb. Instead of simply placing an ordinary lightbulb, go for a pin light or even a small ceiling washer. That way, it will still be a room. You can also place a small lamp if ever they need one and as much as possible, provide emergency lights in the event of a blackout.

In conclusion, when designing a small maid’s room design, Singaporean designers must always put themselves in the occupant’s shoes as well as the employers. They must consider the fact that most maids are far from their homes and will feel a bit homesick every now and then. It is important to make them feel like they are part of the family and that they are welcomed while they work. So, have fun creating your maid’s room design and you will find it will be both rewarding for you and your maid.

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  INTRODUCTION
  
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  1. NOT YOUR TYPICAL LAUNDRY ROOM
  
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  2. DIRTY KITCHEN
  
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  3. SMALL GARDEN
  
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  4. MAXIMIZED STORAGE
  
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  5. PRIVATE OPEN SPACE
  
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  6. GET PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
  

INTRODUCTION ABOUT HDB SERVICE YARD

When you’re looking at the floor plan of your new HDB home, you’ll notice a rather curious-looking space in the corner of the room.  You take a closer look and you notice that it’s significantly big and has enough ventilation and natural sunlight, thanks in part to the many windows and wide space. You then find out that this is the service yard or space, a unique and useful feature in many modern HDB homes.

In principle, a service yard or space is created specifically for laundry, pressing of clothes, and storing of tools and things. More often, it is designed to house a washing machine and occasionally, an ironing board and a clothes rack.

But as of late, many homeowners and designers are beginning to see a more creative aspect with the service yard. Most will agree that regardless of the intended purpose, the service yard is still a space within the confines of the property and like any space, can be converted into something unique and functional at the same time.

Here are a few ideas that homeowners and designers alike are employing in their HDB service yards.

1. NOT YOUR TYPICAL LAUNDRY ROOM

Let’s start with a standard laundry room. Most HDB service yards are designed specifically for laundry and clothes pressing. More often, there would be plumbing provisions for a washing machine. But just because it’s going to be a typical laundry room doesn’t mean you can’t spruce it up a bit. Invest in quality washing machines that can do multiple washes as well as a quality dryer. Position them in such a way that it is integrated into the whole design. You can achieve this by making a cabinet with a hard surface for ironing or folding clothes.

Some popular wood finishes for these cabinets include oak, white ash, wenge, walnut, and even marble. If there is space near the windows, consider placing a clothes rack for hanging clothes out to dry. There are many designs for clothes racks ranging from the typical movable rack to the folding rack that is mounted on the wall. You can also have a small cabinet where you can store your iron, your cleaning tools, and even your folded clothes before taking them to your wardrobe. 

Consider hanging some paintings or interesting artwork in your service yard. Just because you have laundry to do, doesn’t mean you can’t have a nice artwork to lighten the mood. You can also add a potted plant in the corner of your space for that natural feel and natural production of air.

2. HDB SERVICE YARD FOR DIRTY KITCHENS

Not all meals are cooked in one kitchen. In fact, if there is more than one cook in the household, you can be sure that your current kitchen will be as crowded and eventually full of dishes and mixed scents of spices and flavors. That being said, have you ever noticed how clean and often unused the main kitchen looks? This is because some households have what you call a second kitchen where the majority of the cooking and baking is done. This is called the dirty kitchen.
Now, just because it’s called the dirty kitchen doesn’t necessarily mean it’s dirty. It takes its name due in part to the fact that most of the cooking and frequently used cooking appliances are located at. Unlike the main kitchen, or show kitchen as it is called, it utilizes materials that are equally sturdy and cost-efficient. Some of the materials being used are laminates, wood, and quite recently, steel. You can place a sink and several stainless steel kitchen cabinets in your HDB service yard.
You can also use laminates and if you’re feeling up to it, you can create an extension of the kitchen by adding a counter and if you have a rather nice view, you can add a small breakfast nook there. After all, you would want a nice place to sit while waiting for your cookies to bake, right?

3. TRANSFORM YOUR HDB SERVICE YARD INTO A SMALL GARDEN

If there is one thing that most homeowners like to have, it’s a bit of nature. While some properties have garden plots or even community gardens to enjoy, not all HDB homes have provisions for a garden. But that should not stop you from having your own little patch of nature. Your HDB service yard, if you look at it, is quite perfect for having a little garden.

Apart from having a good source of natural air and light, you also have provisions for a source of water. Now depending on how big your space is and the kind of garden you would like, you can create just about any kind of garden you would like. If you’re into the tropics, you can create a tropical garden and get some tropical plants such as monstera plants, rubber plants, and even money plants. Opt for plants that are not only appealing to look at but also require less maintenance. Another cool idea to try is creating a garden wall with hanging pots for plants and flowers.

You can also add a small garden table and chair for that outdoor ambiance. If you’re more of a minimalist person, you can create a Zen stone garden with a small pond and some polished stones and pebbles. You can even have a bonsai plant placed in the center. Be sure to consult a gardening or landscape specialist who can help recommend the most ideal plants and arrangements for you to use.

4. USE HDB SERVICE YARD TO MAXIMIZE STORAGE

Regardless of what it is intended for, the service yard is first and foremost, a space in the home. In a home with space that is often limited, it is every homeowner’s prerogative to make the most out of every area in the entire unit. And perhaps the most important element is storage.

Storage is the most vital factor since most of us have things that need to be in their proper place without looking too cluttered and disorganized. Take advantage of the service yard’s overall space and create storage cabinets for seasonal things like Christmas decors, linens, umbrellas, housewares, towels, and even clothes and coats. If your service yard is near the kitchen, you can actually create a pantry where all your dried ingredients and food parcels are neatly stored.

You can also incorporate a large refrigerator to store your meats and perishables. If you are going to use the space as a laundry area, take advantage of all the wall space possible. You can install some shelves and cabinets to store soaps and fabric conditioners and just for that added touch, you can add a potted plant or two.

5. HDB SERVICE YARD SERVES AS A PRIVATE OPEN SPACE

A rather revolutionary idea to try in your service yard is making it your own personal space. If you’re the type who likes to meditate in the morning, you can create a small meditation room. Simply line your space with the appropriate flooring and place the necessary pieces such as a wall scroll showcasing Hindu characters, a Buddha statue or figure, some small potted plants, pebbles, and even some incense to have a more calming scent.

If you’re more of a physical type, you can actually create a mini gym in your service yard. Take into consideration the space and the kind of exercise you normally do. If you’re into boxing, make sure you have enough space for you to move around while doing your boxing. Install a sandbag or boxing bag in one corner of the room and some motivational quotes on the wall. Make sure to have appropriate flooring installed.  If you’re more of a weight lifter, you can have some barbells and weights placed near the area that has the most ample supply of natural air. You can also add small storage niches for the weights and equipment you won’t be using. It’s all about making a space that is both personal and invigorating.

6. GET PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

You might be thinking that with so many possible ways to reinvent and revitalize your service yard, you feel a bit overwhelmed at so many options. And with that in mind, you need to narrow down exactly what you want and how you want to achieve it. It’s highly advisable to seek professional services like designers and contractors who can help create the ideal design.

Check your local directory for designers and experts that are recognized and recommended by the HDB property, as they are familiar with the rules and regulations of the property such as what materials and appliances are permitted, what plants can and can’t be used, and above all, they are aware of the construction regulations. They will be able to provide several options for you to choose from based entirely on requirements, space, and budget.  They will help you decide on the colors, materials, and recommended appliances that can work for your space. What’s more, you are guaranteed the promise of a unique and original HDB service yard that will make even your neighbors want one.

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  INTRODUCTION
  
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  1. KNOW YOUR KITCHEN INTIMATELY
  
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  2. SHOW STOPPING COOK AREA
  
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  3. STORAGE IS ESSENTIAL!
  
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  4. PRACTICAL SIZING
  
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  5. ROLLAWAY ISLAND!
  
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  6. INTEGRATED DINING
  
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  7. WHEN IN DOUBT, IT’S OKAY TO ASK HELP
  

INTRODUCTION

When you think of kitchens, what comes into your mind? Most likely the following facts. It’s a place where food is prepared and cooked. It’s a place where you sometimes eat. It’s a place where people gather around and bond over cooking and the love of food. And you are quite right in those aspects. The kitchen has always been called the ‘heart of the home’, in a way that it nourishes and provides for the home. As time passes, the kitchen has since evolved from being a simple stone oven with a pot and firewood to a more elaborate and stylish series of cabinets and appliances, designed to make meal prep and cooking as efficient and delicious as ever,.

More often than not, kitchens have also developed into various arrays and configurations, each of which designed to fit to a specific room size as well as theme and style and one of these popular kitchen configurations is the island kitchen. Now, you might be thinking, what is an island kitchen?

As the name implies, it is a kitchen or rather a component of the kitchen that is separate from the rest where most of the cooking and prepping is done. The island kitchen is often located in the middle of the kitchen cabinets or in the open kitchen area, hence the name. 

Island kitchens are often seen in contemporary and modern interiors, particularly in large spaces. But, believe it or not, island kitchens have also been employed in smaller areas, making it one of the most versatile and efficient kitchen configurations ever. And in recent years, innovative and ingenious designs have transformed the modern island kitchen into unique kitchens that have more than one function, if not more.

Now, here is a question that many hdb homeowners ask designers. Can an island kitchen look good in an hdb home? Can it increase the value and aesthetics? And more importantly, will it take up too much space? Many designers will say that anything is possible if one were to think outside the box and look at the pictures. So, if you are thinking of having one, here are a few tips to consider as well as ideas for you to try when it comes to having your own hdb island kitchen.

1. KNOW YOUR KITCHEN INTIMATELY

Let’s start with the very first step. You want to have an island kitchen, but does your space allow it? Where do you plan to put it? This is where you need to familiarize yourself with the intended area and take note. See if there are provisions for electricity and water. Does your intended kitchen area have big enough space? Does it have a window or at least provisions for ventilation? It helps if you write down the measurements on a piece of paper so that you can plot out certain locations. Then, assuming you are going for integrated appliances in your hdb island kitchen, take note of the size and type of appliances you will be using.

Some hdb properties have certain rules on what kind of appliance is permitted. Some of the rules could include inductions cookers being permitted or inverter refrigerators only and some others. The reason that this tip must be considered is because as much as you want to have that picture perfect and complete island kitchen, not all island kitchens will have the exact same look because of these considerations. As such, there will be certain things that will be adjusted such as the size, the materials and hardware that will be used and perhaps overall location. But this doesn’t mean you won’t have that kitchen. In fact, it gives you so many opportunities to have a unique island kitchen that will stand out from the rest.

2. SHOW STOPPING COOK AREA

Now that you have an idea on what to do with your intended space and the materials you will be using, it’s time to create your perfect kitchen. Have you ever watched those cooking shows like Rachel Ray or Emeril Lagasse? If you have, you’ll notice that the kind of kitchen they use is an island kitchen complete with sink and cooktop.

So why do they use that?

Simple, they do what is called live cooking wherein the chef prepares and cooks the food in front of the diners and serves it straight away. Take a cue from this interesting conversation starter and apply to your island kitchen. A really cool and useful feature to add to your hdb island kitchen is a breakfast nook. This can be in the form of a cantilever shelf placed either lower than the island kitchen counter or a few centimeters higher; a narrow table top supported by thin legs or even a small extension of the counter itself. Pair it with some stylish and sturdy bar chairs so that your guests can sit comfortable while enjoying a live cooking in your home.

3. STORAGE IS ESSENTIAL!

We have talked about space efficiency and making the most of your area. The same can be said when it comes to your island kitchen. While the rest of the kitchen cabinets have storage space, why not apply that same principle to your island.

• You can designate the island kitchen storage for cookware that is frequently used so that when you are preparing your ingredients, it will be a lot convenient for you to reach for them.
• You can have either  doors or drawers installed on one side of the island kitchen A really cool idea to try out is placing open shelf cubicles on either side of the island where you can store condiments, jars of pasta and sauces and even cutleries.

4. PRACTICAL SIZING

Traditionally, island kitchens tend to be quite big and rectangular in shape. In terms of balance, they tend to be equally wide as the rest of the kitchen cabinets. However, not all hdb homes have big spaces for the kitchen. Sometimes, they have smaller spaces. Again, that should never hinder you when you’re creating your kitchen. The island, believe it or not, can actually be adjusted to sit your area. Depending on how you work in the kitchen, you can designate the island as the prep area or the dining area. You can have your island kitchen in a smaller size such as it being 1500mm long or even 1200mm.

A good way to make it seem smaller and lighter is by having one side of the island kitchen be supported by a singular post. This will actually make your overall kitchen look a lot more open and minimalist. You can even make a perfect square island measuring at 1000mm with a foldable countertop that can open out to a wider safe.

5. ROLL AWAY ISLAND!

What do you get when you combine functionality, portability and the island kitchen? You get a one of a kind island kitchen that serves as a prep station and when you need the kitchen floor space, simply unclip the wheel locks and roll the island kitchen to the sides and convert it into a buffet.

This idea makes the hdb island kitchen something of a convertible and versatile piece of furniture. Especially if your hdb home is quite small and the idea of having limited floor space is out of the question. You can even add an extendable or foldable countertop.

6. INTEGRATED DINING

While we are on the subject of maximizing space, most hdb homes have little space for a full dining set and more often than not, some opt to do away with having a full dining set. But what if you could incorporate the dining set to your kitchen island? As of late, that is what most designers and homeowners are doing. One side of the kitchen island jots out into a dining table. You can either make your dining area as low as 750mm or as high as 1000mm. 

You can use either regular dining chairs or even bar chairs depending on the height of your dining area. Your dining can also become your working area. This is quite popular with households that have children who often study together and often invite their friends over for either studying or having afternoon snacks; with the kitchen being conveniently close.

7. WHEN IN DOUBT, IT’S OKAY TO ASK HELP

You may have the idea in your head, but when it comes to executing the final look, you might hit a hard wall. Literally and figuratively. When in doubt, it is perfectly alright to seek professional services. There are many designers in Singapore who specialize in creating space efficient and spectacular looking island kitchens.

For hdb island kitchen projects, it is advisable to consult with property recommended designers as they are familiar with the property rules and regulations when it comes to renovation and construction. Apart from that, they have years of experience with other hdb properties and can apply those experiences when executing and creating your one of a kind island kitchen.

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  INTRODUCTION
  
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  1. LOUNGING LIVING ROOM
  
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  2. AL FRESCO DINING
  
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  3. COFFEE WITH A VIEW
  
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  4. A LITTLE GARDEN OF YOUR OWN
  
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  5. PRIVATE WORKING SPACE
  

INTRODUCTION

What is that one architectural feature in every home that often defines the house as a home?

• Is it the window?
• The door?
• Perhaps some interesting accent?

What if we were to tell you that one singular feature was none other than the balcony? That simple, outdoor space that allows natural light and a breathtaking view is perhaps synonymous with luxury and the contemporary classical look.

Mostly seen in contemporary and classically designed houses, the balcony has slowly made its way into several modern homes and eventually into some of Singapore’s many hdb homes and condominiums; with a few modifications.

Traditionally, the balcony is designed for many purposes, one of which is to act as an extra space for outdoor activities since many some homeowners, particularly those living in condominiums and hdb homes, have little to almost no space for a yard. It can also provide, as mentioned earlier, natural light and fresh air while being shaded from the sun. However many homeowners and designers alike are starting to see the potential of a balcony being more than what it normally is.

That being said, here are several balcony ideas Singapore designers employ in order to make the most out of the simple balcony.

1. LOUNGING LIVING ROOM

Let’s start with a simple idea which is a lounging space. If your balcony has a lovely view, you can create a lounging space. So that you or your guests can just sit around and enjoy the view over coffee or just chat.  There are many ways you can create a lounging space, depending on the style of your preference. You can opt to have rattan or wicker sofas placed in. This charming Singapore balcony idea employs the use of locally made pieces inspired by the tropics. You can use peacock inspired accent chairs or even chairs reminiscent of mid-century modern pieces like Saarinen’s egg and womb chairs. Another reason why some designers and homeowners prefer wicker and rattan furniture is due in part to the material being all weather proof, making maintenance quite easy.  

If you also noticed, most balconies have roofing, therefore giving you an open space to work with. And most balconies are located in the main space of the room which can also house both living and dining and occasionally, the master bedroom and the kitchen. If your space for a living room proves to be quite small to entertain, you can opt to have a second living room. Go for L shape sofas or even complete sofa sets. You can even have some blinds installed to serve as makeshift walls or shield yourself from the heat and glare of the sun. You can even place furniture pieces like buffets and cabinets to store additional knick knacks and tools. Since you have a beautiful view, why not make a space so comfortable and relaxing that you would actually spend more time lounging and staring at the view.

2. AL FRESCO DINING

What makes restaurants interesting and worthwhile?

• Is it because of the food?
• Perhaps, is it because of the rave reviews? Maybe.
• Is it the location?

You’re getting warmer. What makes restaurants interesting is due in part to the spectacular view it could offer its patrons. It is safe to say that diners would pay much to have dinner with a view. But what if you could have that view albeit, using your own balcony? One of the most unique balcony ideas Singapore hdb homes are adopting is having the balcony serve as an alfresco or outdoor dining room. A lot of hdb homes have views that are too amazing not to ignore and more often than not, they create another dining area.

Depending on the style you prefer, you can have either a garden style dining set up or a more formal intimate set up. You can start with the standard 4 seater set or if the space allows it, you can go for a 6 seater. Try experimenting with different styles. IF you’re into tropical dining, you can opt for all weather furniture. If you’re more of an eclectic type, you can opt to have a dining set from carved wood or perhaps a mismatched dining set. To set the mood for your al fresco dining room, hang some pendant lamps and you can even place a mini bar if you would like to provide drinks and have fun conversations with your guests.

3. COFFEE WITH A VIEW

One thing that makes cafés interesting is the fact that many cafes employ tall windows for patrons to have a view of the cityscape as well as tall bar tables and chairs to sit on. The same can be said for balcony space. What better way to have your afternoon coffee than with a spectacular view straight from your balcony.

This interesting Singapore balcony idea takes a cue from the modern café and relies heavily on creating a special place just for you. Place a tall bar table against your balcony railings and accentuate it with a unique bar chair. If your space is quite small, you can opt to have your table suspended from the ceiling. If you want a more space saving option, you can have a table custom made to look like a framed artwork and pulled down to reveal a fixed table that can be used for just about anything from enjoying coffee to even writing or doing other relaxing activities while enjoying a personal view.

4. A LITTLE GARDEN OF YOUR OWN

Not all condos and hdbs are blessed to have garden plots. While there are some who are fortunate, many homeowners do what they can to bring in a little nature into their home. A very unique balcony idea Singaporeans often try is creating pocket gardens. A pocket garden, just by the word itself, is a small garden that is usually small in size and has plants that are easily maintained and do not require large plots of land to cultivate. While most pocket gardens are located indoors, several of them can be seen in the balconies.

One of the most important things to consider when executing your balcony garden idea Singaporean style is understanding the kind of plants that you can use in your garden. And more importantly, if your property permits it.  You will want to consult with the property manager on whether having a garden is permitted. If it is, then you have nothing to worry about. There are some types of plants that are permitted in several properties, but you would want to have plants that are, as mentioned earlier, easy to maintain and requires less garden soil.

Some of the most popular plants making their way to hdb homes include spider plants, yellow palms, money plants,  aloe versa, air plants and of course, monstera plants. You can check for inspiration on sites like Google and Pinterest, but you can also consult with professional landscapers and gardeners who can give you advice on what you should place in your garden. A really cool idea to try out is having a wall covered completely in self-sustaining vines, giving the impression of a bush covered wall. You can even place a garden bench against it. Invest in plant stands and planters that are not bulky and can easily fit your balcony. Some of the most popular planters and plant stands are made out of rattan, bamboo, steel and of course, wood.

5. PRIVATE WORKING SPACE

Not all condos are big enough to have a private working space. While some opt to adopt a more minimalistic approach to working, be it on the laptop or desk work, you cannot deny that whatever task you encounter, you need an ample amount of workspace. And what better way to use the balcony for this. You can create a small working space by placing a worktable either against the railing or against the wall, the latter giving you the option to install some stylish shelves for storage.

With this idea, you can work and have a gorgeous and all natural source of air and light, making for efficient productivity at the comfort of your own home. An interesting condo balcony idea Singaporean designer’s use is installing a wall mounted table that can fold down into a daybed when you’re done with the table. These really unique Murphy bed like pieces combine the aspects of a personal lounging space and a working space. The most important thing you must consider is how creative you want it to look as well as how comfortable it will be.

When it comes to balcony ideas, Singapore homes and condos don’t require much construction and deliberation. It all falls down to how unique you are and how creative and efficient you want your balcony space to be. After all, you have a breathtaking view and room for you to enjoy. Take advantage of it without and create that space that will truly make your home one of a kind!

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  INTRODUCTION
  
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  1. TRADITIONAL BAY WINDOWS
  
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  2. BEDROOM BAY WINDOWS
  
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  3. BAY WINDOWS….FROM SCRATCH?
  
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  4. BAY WINDOW GARDENS
  
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  5. KITCHEN BY THE BAY
  
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  6. DINING ROOM WITH A VIEW
  

INTRODUCTION

What makes an interior look incredible? Is it the furniture? The wall paint? The use of blended textures and materials? Or perhaps it is something that serves more than one purpose.

Windows have often been employed as a means of regulating and allowing natural light and air, but it also serves another purpose. It gives the homeowner a view that helps them relax and feel good. In fact, the higher and wider the window, the more people are inclined to relax and sit next to it. And there is no window type that can offer this feeling than the bay window.

By definition, a bay window is a type of window that projects outward of the main structure to form a space. This type of window is quite iconic in San Francisco home, but as of late, a more modern variant is being employed in many Singaporean homes and condominiums. And if you happen to have a bay window in your interior, here are several clever bay window ideas you can employ to make your bay window stand out from the rest.

1. TRADITIONAL BAY WINDOWS

Traditionally, bay windows are often seen in the living room, family room or just about any place area in the ground floor. You can even see bay windows in dining rooms. In many traditional or classical interiors, bay windows have always been considered a staple in living rooms. A common, yet functional idea for bay windows in living rooms is by making a storage bench.

While it is a common bay window idea often employed as both a space saving and unique furniture piece, having a bench allows more storage for seasonal things like photo albums, linens and even treasure boxes. You even have the option to decide what kind of mechanism you want for your bench such as the classic hinged truck, drawers or even open shelf cabinets. You can also have a fully upholstered seat or a completely bare seat.

Speaking of benches and seating, if your dining room has a bay window, you can have a breakfast nook made. Simply have a bench built along the bay window and place your table in the center. Traditionally, breakfast nooks consist of a 4 seater table and 4 chairs.
However in more recent times, it has evolves into simply being a bench and 2 chairs. Take inspiration from this and make a cozy and intimate dining place.

2. BEDROOM BAY WINDOWS

Perhaps, the most interesting place for a bay window to be at would be one’s bedroom. The idea of having a bay window inside the bedroom has since been favored by those who’s who enjoy the comfort and security of their rooms while looking out at the view. Especially if view in question is quite stunning to say the least. Here are some bay window ideas for the bedroom.

• Desk by the window:
  There is nothing more stimulating than working or writing at a desk next to a window with a view. But what if you could have your own study/desk in a bay window? This interesting bay window idea combines both the allocated space for the bay window and outfitting a small study against it. You have the option to fit a pre-existing desk against it for a more eclectic look or have a custom fit desk fitted perfectly into the space. If the wall space allows for even overhead shelves or cabinets, you can hang some decorative shelves or even frames to make it more engaging.

• Lounging Bed:
  For some, staying in bed is akin to lounging, but would it not be better to have a lounging space in your bedroom? Like with benches being built for bay windows in the living room, you can also design a built in day bed or lounging bed of sorts. This is one of several popular bay window bed ideas that are often made with precision and client oriented consideration. Mainly because of the many sizes and styles that can be employed in making an intimate and personal element. You can add a small blanket or two and even some pillows since the bay windows can also be a sofa if you feel like it. As much as possible do whatever makes you want to be lazy. It is first and foremost your space and therefore you have full creative liberties. You can make your lounging bed. 

• Recreational Area:
  Your room is also your personal and private space. You can do just about anything here…with the right view and light source of course. If you like to sit and enjoy the view with a cup of coffee, you can do so by placing two arm chairs and a side table in between. If you like to play instruments, you can do so by placing your favorite instrument in the center such as a piano, guitar or drums. If you like to sew or craft, you can have a craft table made and placed there so that you can create things to your heart’s content while enjoying the view. If you like doing yoga or are into deep breathing meditation, you can create a small meditation spot by placing a yoga mat and some potted plants. You can go the extra mile by adding perhaps some incenses, as stated before, it is your room and you can do whatever you want with your space.

3. BAY WINDOWS … FROM SCRATCH?

Not all properties and condominiums have bay windows. In fact, the more contemporary and newly built ones only have the closest thing to a bay window which is wide windows. But did you know that you can make your own bay window…from scratch? You might be wondering, do I need to ask the property to do a reconstruction for me? You don’t really have to do some major reconstruction. It’s all about analyzing and working with the space you have.

Try and get the measurements of your room and if possibly, the space between your bed and your preferred bay window location. If the proposed area has enough space for it, then you can have some modular cabinets and benches made and installed against the wide windows, effectively making a bay window. This innovative bay window idea can also include a step platform and a false ledge if you want a place to put things on.

You can also make two column cabinets and put them on either side of the window and create a projected enclave while placing some accent chairs or even a bench or two if you would like to enjoy some reading or lounging.

4. BAY WINDOW GARDENS

For those who love to garden, but lack the necessary garden plot for it, worry no longer. You can actually create an indoor garden reminiscent of the old greenhouses or sun rooms that are popular in several European homes, using your bay window. You can adapt it to a Singaporean setting and have planters filled with your favorite plants like succulents and cacti and even some small flowering bushes. You can go the extra mile and hang some planters with air plants to frame your bay window. However, if you happen to live in a condominium, you might want to check with the property management if they will allow plants as some properties have a rule about certain plants. Consult with them on which plants they will allow and which ones are not.

5. KITCHEN BY THE BAY

Yes, you heard correctly. You can even place your kitchen along your bay window. Because the bay window is quite wide, it allows for both natural light and cool air to come in, thus making cooking and meal prep a lot more relaxed. Place your sink or prep station against the bay window for that much needed light and ventilation. Washing your dishes or prepping your ingredients while having a nice view to look at will make doing kitchen chores a thing to look forward to.

6. DINING ROOM WITH A VIEW

Have you noticed why most people like to eat at restaurants? No, it’s not just the food. It’s also the location. Specifically, if the location has a view. Most modern restaurants often have wide windows that offer breathtaking views to customers as they eat. You will notice that there are some tables and chairs next to the windows with breath taking views. By all means, take a cue from them and place your dining set in the center of your bay window. You can opt to use the space saving 4 seater set or If the space allows it, you can go for the 6 seater set. While the bay windows do provide natural light during the day, you can also hang an adequately sized pendant light to provide ample lighting at night. 

And if you still need more insight on the bay window ideas you want to try, you can always consult a designer or professional who can help narrow down the perfect idea to try out for that bay window. So what are you waiting for, go ahead and try out those ideas and have the best bay window there is.

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  TV Console Design Ideas
  
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  1. CHOOSING THE RIGHT SIZE
  
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  2. MATERIALS AND FEATURES
  
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  3. POPULAR CONSOLE DESIGNS
  
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  4. COMPARTMENTALIZING DESIGN
  
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  5. FUNCTIONALITY AND FORM AS ONE
  
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  6. WHEN IN DOUBT, CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL
  

TV Console Design Ideas

Ever since their invention, almost every living room or entertainment room has a TV. This iconic appliance has since entertained homeowners and guests alike and over the years, new designs and features are added to the television.

And just as new designs are added to the television, so comes new designs and schemes for mounting and displaying them. Television display consoles have come a long way from being a bulky wooden case to a sleeker, streamlined piece with numerous storage features and aesthetics.

And with the rise of minimalist living and smaller spaces, the TV console has never been more adaptable to sizes and stylings. But the thing is:

• How well do you know what kind of TV console you would like?
• What suits your interior? 
• What materials work well with?
• What size should you get depending on the TV?

When it comes to TV consoles, there is so much to consider and so many designs and innovations to explore. Especially when it comes to making your own, one of a kind TV console design. That being said, here are several tips and ideas to consider and try.

1. CHOOSING THE RIGHT SIZE

#10 TV Unit Design Ideas for The Living Room
As stated earlier, television units have come a long way from simply being a small, bulky box to a wide and slim screen that can produce the highest resolution you can possibly want

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One of the biggest changes the television has gone through is perhaps the size. The most common sizes in the market range from 14 to 52 inches to suit every client’s needs and preferences. However, when it comes to choosing the right size or length of your console, you need to think about several considerations when choosing the right TV console design and size. A rule of thumb for all TV consoles is that its length must be at least bigger by ¼ of the TV’s size. The most common console lengths range from 1.2m (120cm) to 1.6m (160cm); though there are some that can be as long as 1.80m (180cm) to 2.0m or (200cm), depending on your preference and space for it.

Another factor to consider is the space for the console. If you happen to have a wide enough space, you can go for a more elaborate console design. But if your space is smaller, your best option is to have a custom sized console. It’s best to take a tape measure and measure your TV and space. Take note of these measurements as these will be very important when choosing your console.

2. MATERIALS AND FEATURES OF YOUR TV CONSOLES

When it comes to TV consoles, an important thing to consider is the materials. As much as possible, you will need consoles to be made out of a solid and firm material. The most common materials in the market are solid wood and wood laminates; though there are some that are made entirely out of glass and steel. Wood is quite popular since it comes in different finishes and can easily fit any interior style. Go for woods such as mahogany, oak, teak and beech wood.  If you’re looking for a more cost efficient and sleek look, you can also go for wood laminates. Apart from having various textures and finishes in every color imaginable, it is also inexpensive and easy to install.

Choosing materials is one thing, what usually makes the TV console unique is perhaps the design features. These innovative features include compartments for remotes, speakers, movie players and even some books and frames. You can search for ideas on various sites like Pinterest or you can also consult experts who specialize in custom furniture design. They’ll be able to advise you on what appropriate size you ought to get based on measurements and preferences. You can even tell them the features you want and the materials and they’ll come up with options for you to choose from.

3. POPULAR CONSOLE DESIGNS

Not all designs for TV consoles are the same. In fact, the most popular TV console designs in Singapore range from Mid-century modern to Scandinavian and even Modern Contemporary.

• Mid-Century Modern/ Scandinavian – easily the most popular choice for interiors requiring minimal, yet bold pieces. Scandinavian design focuses entirely on the principle of functionality and form while incorporating youthful and playful colors to counterbalance the severity of wood. This style has since enjoyed a Rebirth of its own as of the late 2010s with the rise of condominiums and the need for minimal living with character.

• Modern – characterized by sleek straight lines and the use of modern materials like steel, metal, and even laminates, modern TV consoles are favored for their versatility and modular look. Most modern consoles utilize a two-color scheme to make it pop, similar to the Mid-Century look. Storage features include drawers utilizing a soft closing mechanism and hinges that keep door flaps in place when necessary. A cool feature that is making its mark is the use of movable surfaces that pivot or slide out to create a makeshift table. You can even go the extra mile and add LED strip lights to your TV console design.

4. COMPARTMENTALIZING DESIGN

As mentioned earlier, TV consoles have many sizes and designs to choose from. But that all depends entirely on both the size of the television and the space for it. In recent times, the rise of minimal and high-end living has also seen the rise of small spaces.  This is where custom design furniture comes in and one of the most frequently made furniture pieces is the built-in TV console. This can be seen in condos and HDB homes. Aside from the usual drawers and cabinet doors, the TV console design can also include an attached vanity table, storage cabinets, and even shelves for books. The built-in console can also incorporate other furniture pieces such as a foldable table and bench and even incorporate built-in lighting. All you need is a little bit of creativity and ingenuity.

5. FUNCTIONALITY AND FORM AS ONE

Two important factors to consider when designing your TV console are that it should serve its function while having a unique form of its own. TV consoles in the modern design style tend to exemplify functionality and form as one. It’s evident in the use of simple lines over complex curves as well as maximizing the most of an allocated space.

Also called modular design, this involves using pieces that can easily be installed and fitted to create a pre-fabricated furniture piece. Here are a few things you could incorporate in your console.

• Take advantage of the space above the television. You can also install overhead cabinets or open shelves. You can also display some frames and photos to make it look as inviting as ever.

• Try to make your console’s backdrop as interesting as your console’s. Go for pops of color, wallpaper patterns, and even textured walls to make it interesting. Some of the most common backdrops for consoles include red bricks, marble tiles, Scandinavian wallpapers, neutral paints, and even wood planks.
• Accessibility is also important, especially if you intend to place your television on top of the console instead of mounting it on the wall. A big nuisance for most homeowners is having the TV wires exposed and tangled all over the floor. Consoles have provisions wherein the wires can be threaded through and concealed without so much as exposing them out in the open.
• If you have children, make sure the edges of your TV console are curved so as to avoid any accidents and injuries. You can have it where the console’s body and doors have rounded edges, giving off a distinctly modern look.
• Apart from LED strip lights, you can also install small pin lights inside your console.

6. WHEN IN DOUBT, CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL

You might be thinking by now, that with so many things to consider and know about TV consoles, it’s almost impossible to get the best option, right?

Well, when in doubt, consult a professional. We mentioned furniture makers who can custom make your furniture piece, but in particular, go for those who specialize in modular fur nature. They have designers and professionals with years of experience and can even come up with solutions. Let them have an ocular inspection of the area and let them measure. Then have a sit down and discuss possible designs and features you would like for them to create.

They will also propose the materials they will use as well as mechanisms and hinges. This is designed so that when it comes to creating your unique TV console design, it is done efficiently and with fewer complications including revisions and back jobs. Their craftsmen are also skilled since they take it upon themselves to make sure the finished product passes all quality control without any defects that could result in potential future problems.

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  INTRODUCTION
  
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  1. What is Cement Screed?
  
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  2. What Can Cement Screed Do To My Floors?
  
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  3. The Ups and Downs of Cement Screed
  
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  4. How Do I Maintain It?
  

INTRODUCTION

This has probably happened to you the moment you enter your home or apartment. You start observing the walls and wondering what color paint or wallpaper you will use. You start creating a mental list on the kind of furniture you need like sofas and beds and chairs. You start thinking about the decors you will be using. You start walking around, visualizing your interior when your feet suddenly feel something really rough and hard. You look down and realize that the floors are still bare cement. You had completely forgotten about the flooring.

You start getting the total area and then you realize it’s going to cost you a lot on the tiling and even more on the installing. However, you noticed something about how some interiors retained their cement floors and how they seemed polished and clean. That’s when you learn that they had just applied cement screed. What’s more, it’s a lot less expensive that getting your floors tiled and even more so when maintaining it.                                      

There are many aspects about cement screed flooring and how it is used in many interiors. So let’s first tackle on what exactly it is and how to maintain it when applied to your home.

1. What is Cement Screed?

Before we delved into cement screed flooring, we must understand what exactly it is.

Cement screed is a mixture of cement, aggregates and water. It is then mixed to form a smooth paste of sorts, which is then spread across the cement surface. Once hardened, the end result is a hard and firm surface that is strong and durable.

Cement screed is often used as a top coat for interior floorings or helps provide a more leveled surface. What it does is that it acts like a varnish for bare cement, making it look as polished as any decorative surface. This gives off a type of raw and industrial aesthetic. Simply put, screed is a variant of cement that acts as the top coat of another hardened cement surface.

2. What Can Cement Screed Do To My Floors?

Some may say that cement screed can do so much to floors, but they are quite vague about it. Especially when applied to several cement screed hdb houses. So here is a breakdown of a few things it can do to your space.

What areas often use cement screed?

A few years ago, it was the singularly cost efficient option for spaces that had a lot of foot traffic such as schools, factories, offices and even industrial warehouses. In more recent times, this can be seen in many interiors adopting the industrial or minimalist aesthetic. Depending on the gradient of the screed finish, you can darker shades for a strong masculine look or lighter shades for a soft eclectic look.

What makes it so special?

While it looks naturally raw and beautiful, cement screed flooring can actually make your floors seamless and your space even more defined. Because it acts as a style anchor of sorts, this allows you to try out different materials that best complement the floor and wall altogether.

For example, if you’re into the Scandinavian look, you can use light oak furniture to counterbalance the hard cement look and create an inviting ambiance. Or if you like modern elements like chrome and steel, you can create an homage to the many innovations in modern design.

3. The Ups and Downs of Cement Screed

We’ve talked about how interesting and pretty cement screed flooring looks, but let us not forget that not everything is perfect. And like most building materials, it has its ups and downs. Understanding fully the material’s overall attributes fives you an idea on how to maintain it or what to expect from using it.

1. PROS

• • Strength and Durability: Because it is made entirely out of cement, both foundation and top coat, the overall structure is akin to the solid wall of a building, thus providing a sturdy and durable floor that can withstand scratches, floor traffic and even heavy furniture.
  • Cost Efficient: As mentioned earlier, this type of flooring costs less expensive than tiles, wood flooring and even mosaic flooring. Most tiles or other flooring materials will cost S$4 to S$70 per piece. Then you’ll have to compute how many pieces you will need per area. There’s also installation fee and additional materials such as tile grout and adhesive. Cement screed, on the other hand, costs at least S$14-S$28 per square feet. The only things you’ll be spending on is the cement and the aggregates. Upkeep and maintenance is also factored in the costs as it does not require expensive and meticulous processes to keep it polished and smooth.
  • Low Maintenance Upkeep: Since it is already polished, you can maintain this every 6 month or so by using a floor wax. If you have a particular cleaning agent you prefer like All Shine or Pledge, you can use that as well. Just check the label if it is for all surfaces. A cheaper alternative is by using a mop and water soaked with soap.
  • Design Flexibility: Aside from the typical gray look, you can actually employ other types of cement screed in different colors, textures and grains. While this is normally seen in industrial style interiors, in more recent times, this type of flooring has been used in other interiors and design schemes.

2. CONS

• • Slippery when wet: Any surface, particularly a glossy and polished surface, tend to be slipper when it gets wet. The same can be said for cement screed flooring. When it is wet, anyone can just slip and fall down, hitting the floor. This results in a lot of people getting hurt, especially since the floor is quite hard and strong. As much as possible, make sure that the floors are completely dry after mopping so as to avoid any accidents.
  • Possible Break or Cracks: While it may be durable and strong, like with most materials, if something hits it, there is a huge possibility that it will have a few cracks or breaks. Which leads to leaks and could potentially destroy your entire flooring. Cement, regardless of how strong it is, can also break if the right amount of force is applied to it. Another cause of possible breaks or cracks is the inadequate application of the cement screed. So as much as possible, check and see if your flooring is well polished and finished and if there is any cracks or breaks, it is important to have it fixed right away.
  • Molds and Fungus Growth: This is a potential hazard if you leave cracks and leaks unattended. If not treated right away, this could lead to the growth of molds and fungus which could affect your space’s structure as well as your health. Molds and Fungus like to grow in small damp corners such as niches and cracks, which are often hard to reach when cleaning. In order to prevent this from happening, make sure all cracks are dry and clean then seal it off completely.
  • Repairs can be a Hassle: Sealing off cracks or repairing any breaks is easier said than done. While replacing a broken tile or a loose floorboard can be difficult, considering you have to look for the exact same tile, fixing a broken cement floor is an entirely different story. This is because once a crack is seen, you need to apply the screed mixture not just on the crack, but the entire floor as well. This is done so that the finish is leveled with another. It can be a hassle, since you will have to move furniture away in order to do this. As much as possible, every once in a while wax and polish your cement floor.

4. How Do I Maintain It?

We talked about how easy it is to maintain the cement screed. But why do we need to maintain it if it’s just polished cement. The answer is simple. If you maintain your flooring, it will last you a very long time, thereby living up to its cost efficient and long lasting claim. So here are a few ways on how to maintain your cement screed.

1. Sweep the dirt and dust from your floors. For hard to reach places, use a vacuum cleaner,
2. Mop your floors with a wet mop and let it dry. You can also use a mop soaked with soap and mop it for a more thorough cleaning.
3. Consider using carpets and rugs to soften heavy foot traffic and cushion the weight on the flooring. It will further protect your floor and add more personality to your interior at the same time.
4. Invest in a good buffer in order to keep your floors polished and smooth. You can go for an industrial buffer or a hand held buffer.
5. If there are any cracks, immediately call for a professional to seal and repair it to prevent from developing more cracks and leaks.

In conclusion, cement screed flooring is perhaps one of the most unique flooring that is slowly gaining popularity among many hdb homes and interiors. And if you consider using this in your space, you are sure to find such an adaptable floor that can not only withstand any force, but perhaps time itself!

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• 
  INTRODUCTION
  
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  1. Subway Kitchen Wall Tiles
  
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  2. Mosaic Tiles
  
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  3. Tiles in Different Shapes
  
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  4. Classic Stone and Marble
  
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  5. Moroccan and Spanish Tiles
  
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  6. An ‘Oh Naturale’ Vibe
  
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  7. A BOLD Pop of Color
  

INTRODUCTION

One of the most interesting features that adds a bit of personality and charm to every kitchen is the wall tiles. While some opt to have their walls painted or wallpapered with just about any pattern or look. But in more recent times, designers and homeowners alike have noticed that by installing tiles on the wall, it makes the kitchen look more inviting as ever. It actually makes the kitchen more than a place where you prepare and cook your meals; it becomes a living space that can entertain and delight everyone who enters.

Tiles have slowly become one of the most versatile building materials owing to the fact that innovative designs and patterns are constantly being created to suit just about any interior style imaginable. Tiles provide a smooth, clean look and in a way compliments the rough feel of the solid and hard countertop.

So here are some of the most popular design ideas for kitchen wall tiles and what you can do to achieve this.

1. Subway Kitchen Wall Tiles

A popular choice because of its clean, modern industrial look, subway tiles give off a simple and polished look with its straight or beveled edges; smooth glossy surface and multiple color choices. Often coming in a standard 30x10cm rectangle, subway tiled backsplashes are a favored kitchen wall tiles method often seen in various styles like the Scandinavian look, the Minimalist look, the Industrial look and of course, the Modern Contemporary look.

Popular colors for subway tiles include the classic white, which is often used to provide a clean and polished look; blacks and grays for a more masculine aesthetic; reds and browns for an industrial look reminiscent of brick houses and even bold colors like teals for a daring take on the jewel tones.

2. Mosaic Tiles

When you hear the word, mosaic, the first thing that comes to mind is small pieces gathered together to make a bigger picture or artwork. The same can be said for mosaic tiles, although in this case, they are square tiles of a particular color palette, usually monochromatic or complementing, that are used to create a monochromatic tiled wall very reminiscent of Classical mosaic walls.

Mosaic tiles are another option for kitchen wall tiles as they are straight to the point and can cover a specific area in the wall without running the risk of wasting or cutting your tiles up. Popular colors for mosaic tiles include grays, bronzes, blues, and combinations of red and black or yellow and green and even browns.

3. Tiles in Different Shapes

Nowadays, employing the use of geometric elements in one’s interior is slowly becoming a trend on itself. One of the most popular tile shapes is the hexagon shape which can create a uniquely modern wall with these tiles. If you like how a honeycomb pattern looks like, you can use either the same colored tile or you can create a soccer ball like effect and combine two to even four colors of the hexagon tiles.

Apart from hexagon shaped tiles, you can also try out triangle shaped tiles for a Nordic take on the walls or even rectangular shaped tiles if you are still partial to a somewhat clean and orderly look. Trying out a tile in a different shape gives you the opportunity to have an uncanny and unique take on tiled walls.

4. Classic Stone and Marble

You can never go wrong with the classics. Especially if your kitchen happens to gravitate towards the classic style. But in today’s era where the past meets the present to create a new and improved take on the classics that it can also be categorized as the new luxury or Lux style.

While some classic kitchens would go for a traditional terrazzo tiled wall, other kitchens take a cue from its signature use of ceramic, marble and stone elements and incorporate them in modern kitchen walls. You will find some modern kitchens, with its use of straight lines and space saving accessories, have incorporated for its wall a stone or marbled tile finish. Sometimes, these tiles can help make an otherwise masculine looking kitchen into a gentle, sophisticated kitchen worthy of hosting 5 star dinners.

Classic stone and marble that showcase luxurious colors such as beige, gray, white and often times, gold or silver, are just some of the tiles used in many of these modern classic hybrids. The best thing about having these tiles is that due to its size, usually ranging from 60x60cm to 120cmx120cm, it could easily cover up the entire space with just a few pieces; all while giving off a smooth, glossy texture to the overall look.

5. Moroccan and Spanish Tiles

Another type of tile that is making its way into every kitchen wall is the Moroccan and Spanish tiles. And no, this doesn’t mean it comes all the way from the cultural cities of Spain and Morocco; but rather from how it is made and how it looks. Moroccan and Spanish tiles, also called ‘majolica’, are tiles made out of local clays and painted with unique designs that give off a bright, almost ethnic looking aesthetic.

These two tiles, though different in nature, each derive Arabesque motifs such as the Ogee and incorporate them into their designs. You will notice that not all tiles have the same repetitive pattern. Some even have variants that actually complement one another. Homeowners who have plain neutral kitchens tend to incorporate these colorful tiles and create an eclectic look that is both culturally diverse and a break from the usual.

Apart from these tiles serving as a kitchen’s backsplash, it can also serve as the kitchen’s accent wall.

6. An ‘Oh Naturale’ Vibe

If classic stone and marble is associated with classic and luxurious kitchens, then wood tiles are the go to piece for every simple and rustic style kitchen out there. It has long been observed that many people, regardless of their line of work, have always looked to nature for inspiration to relax. And what better way to relax than to bring a bit of nature indoors.

A good and subtle to bring in nature is by employing the use of wood tiles in your kitchen walls. Not only do they have many wood variants to choose from, they give off the right amount of raw nature while maintaining a more polished and well put look altogether. It also balances out the kitchen cabinets and the open space by providing a focal point in the form of kitchen wall tiles. 

Some of the popular wood tile variants include ash wood, mahogany, maple, oak, light oak, wengue, beech wood, ebony and so on. Apart from having them lined up, you can arrange your wood tiles in different arrangements like bricked offsets, zigzags and the ever popular chevron array. Try mixing up two different wood variants; you might actually like how it looks on your wall.

7. A BOLD Pop of Color

At this point, you might be getting overwhelmed with so many tile options to choose from. And this is true. Especially when you go to a store and you are met with piles upon piles of tiles that you can’t seem to decide whether you should get square tiles or wooden plank tiles or even tiles with interesting patterns and textures. But despite all that, there is another simple way of having the most creative and extraordinary looking kitchen wall.

Now what is this simple way, you might ask? Why, it’s employing tiles of the same color variant and putting them on your wall. Simple right? But here’s the catch; you have to pick a color that is bright, vibrant and will most definitely pop.

While some prefer to paint their walls instead, using tiles that are the same variant and color will make for a more durable, solid look that does not need repainting and requires little maintenance.

Some colors that are making their way to the kitchen walls include jewel tones with teal and gold being the most popular colors; followed by emeralds and even a few purples; then there’s the warm colors such as red, orange and yellow making their way into the kitchens in order to further brighten the room and then there’s the cool colors such as blues, greens and even light blues.

You can also try using neutral colors as they can also provide a cleaner aesthetic to your kitchen; try experiment with different hues and shades and see which works best.

And if you still can’t decide on which tile best fits your kitchen wall tiles, it’s best to consult with an interior designer, who can help you choose. With their many years of experiences, they can help narrow down your options based on your preference, the overall size of the space; as you don’t want your kitchen to look too big or too small because of the tiles, and of course your budget.

So when planning for your kitchen wall’s tiles, try to have a bit of fun as designing your perfect kitchen wall is something akin to dress up; only this time, it will be something you have no problem looking at for a while or so.

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  INTRODUCTION
  
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  1. Laminate Flooring vs Vinyl Flooring
  
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  2. Are Laminates Waterproof?
  
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  3. Quality over Quantity
  
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  4. Are There Suppliers of Laminates & Materials?
  
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  5. I Want To Install It Myself, Can I?
  
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  6. How do I Maintain the Flooring?
  

INTRODUCTION

The moment you encounter this particular type of building material, the first thing that comes into your mind is whether or not you ought to use this. It’s understandable at first, since you might be accustomed to using standard building materials like wood, tile or even steel. You’re probably wondering, am I getting the most out of this? Is this durable? What can I do with this? And so on.

In today’s modern house construction and interior detailing, perhaps one of the most innovative creations is that of the laminate flooring. Now while most will associate laminate with something that is entirely made out of plastic and is temporary, there is actually a more comprehensive side to it.

Laminate is an alternative material to the traditional wood flooring and comes in many designs, sizes and finishes to suit your interior needs. One of the reasons why it is an alternative choice to traditional woods is the fact that natural wood is quite expensive and rather costly to maintain in comparison to laminates. So here are a few things you need to know about this rather innovative building material.

1. Laminate Flooring vs Vinyl Flooring

Most people think that vinyl and laminates are one and the same thing. But there is a huge difference.

While they may be similar in certain factors, vinyl and laminates differ in terms of what it is made of and its overall application as laminate flooring.

• Vinyl is entirely synthetic. This means that everything about it is made up of layers of materials like felt backing, plastisol, print layer and plasticizer. It then gives off a slightly rough but polished surface. An interesting thing to note of vinyl flooring is that because of its thin structure, it is quite light and easy to install; requiring mostly tile adhesive and patience. 
• Laminates, on the other hand, are a different story all together. They are made of wood or often times, high density fiber board bonded together with melamine resin and décor paper. They are sturdy and come in many different textures and colors.

If one were to decide the overall outcome of laminate flooring vs. vinyl flooring, it would be practical to say that although they each have their pros and cons, laminate flooring is often favored for its appearance and due to its realistic look of the material being highlighted while vinyl floorings are favored for its heat resistant and water proof capability.

2. Are Laminates Waterproof?

Laminates, as defined earlier, are made out of wood and synthetic materials and a more cost efficient and popular choice for flooring. As such, many homeowners who are more comfortable with using tiles often ask if laminates are waterproof.

The answer is yes. In fact, there are laminate floorings that are waterproof and are often used in many interiors. Some of the benefits of waterproof laminate flooring include:

1. Moisture resistance: This is due in part to a particular layer of the laminate that is resistant to moisture. Therefore, it can easily withstand and resist the moisture build up; making it perfect in areas such as the bathroom, kitchen, and even outdoors.
2. Scratch resistant than vinyl: Believe it or not, this particular type of laminate has a thicker layer than vinyl making it completely scratch resistant, staining and even wear and tear. This makes it easy for furniture pieces to glide and move about without leaving any significant markings or stains from spillages such as water and condiments.
3. Cost Effective: Waterproof laminates may sound innovative and unique, but that doesn’t mean they are expensive. Far from it, they are quite affordable and inexpensive and are easy to install and maintain. This means that there are a lot of choices and options in terms of design, pattern and styles that can suit just about any interior flooring. Plus, they can last a good long time without any of the usual problems you would encounter in other flooring materials.

Having waterproof laminate flooring is something of an investment in your home and what makes it look timeless is how in the long run, you will see just how transitional and adaptable the flooring is.

3. Quality over Quantity

You might be thinking that all laminates are the same and that you can just use any type of laminate despite the cost. Not exactly. A rule of thumb for every homeowner and designer is to never settle for less and opt for quality products. The same can be said for floorings.

You will want nothing but the best for your floors. You wouldn’t want to have flimsy laminates give out or break away just because it’s a lot cheaper than most laminates. No. You wouldn’t. So go for the best quality when it comes to flooring. Especially since you will be walking over them every day.

You will need to invest in high pressure laminate floorings for your floors. These are laminates that have been pressed together under a machine and under high temperatures. The result is a solid and firm flooring board that is light with a polished surface. You may spend a little bit since laminate prices vary, but in due time, you will see just how well put together your floor will be.

4. Are There Suppliers of Laminates & Materials?

Source: One of Weiken suppliers: FloorXpert

Once you have an idea on what kind of laminate you want, the next thing to do is to find a supplier for the best laminate flooring. There are many suppliers and distributors who provide not only the laminate, but also the rest of the materials for installing the floor boards. Most laminates would be sold in many hardware and construction stores, but you can also check for specific suppliers who specialize in these items. You can search the internet or check your local directory.

5. I Want To Install It Myself, Can I?

Of course! When it comes to flooring materials, there is no material that is easy to install as the laminate flooring. This is due in part to the notches and grooves in these laminate boards that make it akin to a puzzle box. When it comes to installing laminate flooring, the first thing you need to do is prime your area.

Make sure you have a good clean surface to work with. Then compute how many laminates you will need so that you won’t run the risk of having either too many or too little tiles to use when you work. If you feel a little intimidated with how to start your installation, you can check out B and Q laminate flooring tutorials, the best thing about B and Q is that they provide comprehensive instructions on how to install your flooring in a way that you are confident with what you do.

And if all else fails, there is nothing wrong with asking for a professional to install the laminates for you. In a way, you’ll see first-hand how it’s done so that when you want to start on a new project, you will be at least familiar with the process and how to begin.

6. How do I Maintain the Flooring?

Maintenance and cleaning of laminates, as often mentioned above, is by far the easiest and does not require complex equipment or harsh solutions. Like with most tiles, the first thing you should do is to sweep the dirt away. If there are parts of the floor that are out of reach, you can simply use a vacuum cleaner in order to reach the corners and further clean the floor. Once that’s done, mop the floor or wipe it down with a wet cloth and let it dry.

If there are any stains, quickly wipe them away. As much as possible, avoid using tools such as steel bristle brushes and opt for a soft bristle broom or dust mop. You can also use soap and water as they are less harsh than regular cleaning materials, but take care not to use too much water, as it may cause your flooring’s overall integrity and durability to weaken and warp… Since it requires little maintenance, you can do this once a week.

If your laminates have a specific aftercare, take time to read and follow the steps. After all, not all laminates have the same maintenance steps and often times they vary.

Take the necessary precaution for external factors such as covering the legs of your furniture so that they won’t scratch the surfaces of your laminates, if you have pets who happen to like scratching surfaces, trim their nails. And perhaps the most important tip to know when maintaining your laminates is by making it a fun activity to do.

Now that you know the basics about laminate flooring, you are ready to embark on your journey to creating the most unique and perfect flooring for your interiors. And like with most interiors, its results will leave a beautiful impression on both you and everyone else who steps on them. 

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  INTRODUCTION
  
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  1. Vinyl Tile Flooring
  
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  2. Wood Tile Floor
  
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  3. Rubber Flooring Tiles
  
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  1. Ideal Tiles for Living Room
  
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  2. Ideal Tiles for Bedrooms
  
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  3. Bathroom Tiles are Essential
  

INTRODUCTION

The first thing you feel when you step inside your home for the first time is the rough unfinished floor. While most of the house will have the same unfinished surface, it is nothing to be worried about. Quite the opposite, in fact. This rough, unfinished part of the space gives you the opportunity to create a unique floor by choosing the appropriate tile and flooring material.

As with most building materials, there are many tiles and floorings to choose from as well as designs, motifs, textures and colors. But bear in mind that not all tiles for floor are similar and not all tiles are suited for a specific area. And more importantly, not all tiles are the same in terms of size and specifications. So without further ado, here are the different types of floor tiles and how you can apply these specific tiles for floors for each specific interior.

1. Vinyl Tile Flooring

Let’s start with a tile that is often seen and favored by many due to its cost efficiency, availability and overall installation and maintenance. Vinyl tile flooring is characterized by its smooth texture, its plastic foundation, its variety in terms of finishes and patterns and is considered by many as a popular and ideal choice for tiles for floors. Because of its durability, vinyl tiles are often used in areas that have such a high amount of foot traffic such as a shop or even a hallway.

As mentioned earlier, vinyl tiles require little maintenance in order to preserve its overall integrity. An inexpensive method is by sweeping the dust away and mopping the tiles with a wet mop. Vinyl tiles come in two sizes, the first being 40x40cm and the next being 30x120cm, the latter reserved entirely for planked flooring.

Vinyl tile designs and textures can actually mimic other tiles like marble and vinyl and what makes it a versatile option is that there are a lot of patterns and variants to choose from. What’s more, installing them in your floors is as easy as reciting your ABC’s.

2. Wood Tile Floor

Many homeowners love the look of wood inside their homes. It is a known fact that the presence of wood inside a house, be it the furniture or part of the building structure, is indicative of prestige, class, wisdom and wealth; the latter being especially true due to the fact that wooden pieces cost a pretty penny to make.

But one cannot deny just how pretty and classical a wood tile floor looks. There are many styles of wood tiles for floors, depending on your preference. There is the classic parquetry wood tiles, which is a type of wood flooring using different cuts of wood and arranged in a mosaic pattern; the rustic wood planks that are often seen in cottage and country style interiors and finally, the thoroughly modern laminated wood plank tiles for a more streamlined and polish look.

3. Rubber Flooring Tiles

If you’re the athletic type or simply someone who is active and likes to move around, you will notice that doing all sorts of exercises on an ordinary tiled floor is quite hard and often times painful; especially to your feet. The same can be said for interiors that deal with multiple foot traffic and activity such as schools, offices and even gyms. 

While vinyl tiles give off a more classy and solid feel, a more casual look is achieved when using rubber flooring. Rubber flooring tiles differ from conventional tiles because they come in two forms namely interlocking tiles, which are designed similar to a puzzle and are placed in order to form a unique patterned floor; and rolls which are often considered as the best option for commercial interiors like gyms and clinics. What makes the rubber flooring rolls interesting is that, as its name implies, it is a large piece of rubber that is rolled on top of the floors providing a seamless look. Rubber flooring is quite durable, economical, and lightweight. In terms of after care and maintenance, the best thing about this type of flooring is that it is easy to clean and easy to replace.

Now that you have an idea on the different types of floor tiles, it’s time to learn about which tile to install in which specific interior based on style, color, theme and above all foot traffic.

1. Ideal Tiles for Living Room

More often than not, the area that gives off the first impression for most people is the living room. While some homes will say that the foyer is what greets the guests, the living room is where most of the activity is done. Whether it be for movie night, enjoying refreshments or simply spending time with your loved ones, you cannot deny that the living room must be inviting and cozy to look at. The most popular styles for living room include rustic, modern contemporary, mid-century modern and of course classical. When it comes to choosing the right living room floor tiles, go for tiles that best fit each style.

For rustic interiors, go for light oak to ash gray wood floor tiles. It helps if these tiles have a bit of a grained texture for some authenticity. For classic and modern interiors, go for tiles ranging from neutral colors such as gray, beige, and white and finishes that are either glossy or matte; the latter being a favored choice due to it being smooth and slip proof. For contemporary floors, you can opt for tiles with a mixed texture or tiles that simulate specific patterns and looks. The most important goal when choosing your living room flooring is that you will achieve the sense of comfort and relaxation just by looking at them.

2. Ideal Tiles for Bedrooms

Bedroom flooring requires particular deliberation on the grounds that the bedroom reflects the homeowner’s overall personality and level of comfort. You wouldn’t want to pick tiles that are too glossy or shiny that you would slip. Or tiles that are too bright and shocking. While most homeowners opt to have their flooring tiled using one specific tile, some go for a different type of tile for their bedroom.

For bedroom floor tiles, the most popular choices are tiles that measure at least 60×60 to 120×120 and in varying neutral colors such as beige to white to grays or a more recent approach, taupe colored tiles. Some also go for wood tiles just to get a more natural feel while others go for cement finished tiles for that industrial feel, a look that is quite popular nowadays.

Another thing you must consider is who are using it. If the person happens to be around 60- 70 years old, you might want to consider the type of tile you will use. Avoid tiles that are too glossy or too bright, you wouldn’t want them to slip and hurt themselves right? Go for matte tiles; these are becoming quite popular as of late. Also go for tiles that are soft to look at such as light beige to light oak tiles, it will help reflect the natural light all as well as provide a calming effect.

3. Bathroom Tiles are Essential

When it comes bathroom tiles, this requires as much deliberation as the bedroom and living room. Nobody ever said that choosing tiles for floors was an easy job. This is especially true since most bathrooms tend to vary in size and the type and size of tile you choose can either make it big or small. But perhaps the most important rule of thumb to follow when choosing the appropriate bathroom tile flooring is that no one will slip and hurt themselves.

Let’s face it, out of all the places in the home, the bathroom is the one area that gets wet on an almost daily basis. As such you need to make sure that when you step inside, you won’t be slipping and sliding your way around. For bathrooms that are small, it’s best to go with smaller tiles such as 30×30 to 40×40. For bathrooms that are a big, particular the master’s bathroom, you can go for 60×60 tiles or even some 30×120 to help elongate or widen the space. Popular tiles for bathroom floors include white, beige and taupe for modern looks and wood tiles for an eclectic and rustic look.

If you’re still a bit confused on which tile you would like to use, it is best to consult a professional. Interior designers and contractors can help you decide which tile best fits your area based on its style, its specific tile type and the overall space requirement. They can also help you with how many pieces you will need and advice you on the overall aftercare of these tiles. And most important of all, they will make your experience with choosing tiles for floor memorable, hassle free and fun. After all, when choosing the right tile for your space, it should be something that charms you over and over again.

INTRODUCTION

Perhaps one of the most ingenious elements of a modern style house is the sliding doors. Apart from effortlessly defining one space from the other, it also serves as an unintended decorative element, as well as saves and maximizes the space; the latter evident in some homes favoring sliding doors over the traditional swing doors.

Taking its design cue from traditional Japanese Shoji screens, sliding doors have flexible designs and has since employed new and innovative materials and mechanisms since its early inception. In today’s slowly rising trend on minimalist and innovative home design, many Singaporeans agree that installing and investing in a well-designed sliding door is the way to go. So here are several ways to have a unique sliding door Singapore style and how to maintain it.

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  1. Glass Sliding Doors
  
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  2. Kitchen Sliding Doors
  
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  3. Wood Sliding Door
  
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  4. An Alternative Door for Small Toilets
  
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  5. Lighter Sliding Doors
  
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  6. A Balcony Door Unlike Any Other….
  
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  7. Maintenance 101
  

1. Glass Sliding Doors

Arguably a classic, sliding glass doors have been the preferred sliding door Singapore design for several years. This is due in part to homeowners admiring the look of glass doors serving as both window and door. The sliding glass door Singapore if often employed in patios, balconies and quite recently in container houses.

Tempered glass is highly recommended due to its heat resistant and shockproof durability, while also moderating light and sound distribution at the same time. Take care to choose the right size and right design that best fits your budget and interior. A rule of thumb is that the part that slides must always be inside rather than outside.

2. Kitchen Sliding Doors

Traditionally, kitchens have always been located along with the dining room or even in a separate room. But for today’s modern look, defining the kitchen space, especially in an open plan, requires creativity and ingenuity. Employing kitchen sliding door Singapore is one way to creatively separate the kitchen from the dining room.

This type of sliding door Singapore can be used either in one panel as a divider or two panels on either side as a window or glass wall. When using this particular sliding door, using heat resistant and moisture resistant glass is highly recommended. This is due to the fact that there will be a lot of cooking done and the steam and moisture could easily fog up the glass; you would want to have glass that requires little maintenance.  In terms of designs, you can have sliding doors styled like modern window panes or like one solid glass partition.

3. Wood Sliding Door

A popular style that is slowly making its mark in many modern homes is the rustic farm look. This style uses distressed aged wood, brass hardware and light natural paint. Apart from distinguishing elements such as white wooden planks and oak furniture, it can also be distinguished by one design element and that is the wood sliding door Singapore or barn door; as it is commonly referred to. This sliding door uses a solid hardwood door that is attached to a heavy duty, black brass hanger and glider. It is then accented with either bolts or a large handle, which make for an easy grip when sliding it open.

If you prefer a more traditional type of wooden door, you can opt for a traditional wooden door attached to the hangers and make for a beautiful transitional door. However, if you are going for this type of sliding door, you will need to use a door that is well sanded and treated. Don’t go for doors that are either too big or too small; always go for the right size and weight. The latter is essential, since the hanger and glider can support a specified weight and size.

4. An Alternative Door for Small Toilets

Nowadays, modern HDB homes and condos have rather small spaces for the toilets. This is due in part to most homes utilizing basic fixtures for the toilets. That being said, small toilets tend to be quite restrictive when it comes to doors. A good solution is by having a sliding door installed instead of the conventional swing door. Not only is it space efficient, having toilet sliding door Singapore has more than several applications apart from it being a door. It can serve as a hidden access concealed with either a mirror or a painting.

You can even have cladding like mirrors, wood or even a painted mural. The best thing about having a sliding door for your toilet door is that you can use just about any material imaginable. However, most experts often go for wood or frosted glass as the preferred material.

5. Lighter Sliding Doors

For design purposes, sliding door frames, especially those with glass, are often made out of steel, stainless steel, wood and even PVC plastic, which is often the most common material used in many sliding door Singapore HDB homes. However, another material being used in sliding door frames is aluminum. Now what makes aluminum sliding door Singapore unique is that aluminum is lightweight, weather resistant, and easy to manipulate and is considered cost efficient.

Apart from having the typical aluminum finish, it also comes with powder coat finish and even a wood finish look. The drawback of most aluminum sliding doors is that it may give off a different look and feel. However, with proper maintenance and clever detailing and design, you are sure to have a unique door feature in your home.

6. A Balcony Sliding Door Unlike Any Other….

During the early days of the balcony, the kind of door that was often use as an access was the ordinary flush door. But now, the trend of having a seamless looking window serve as the access to the balcony calls for a more suitable and artistic design element. This is where the sliding door comes into play.

Having a balcony sliding door installed is the epitome of modern luxury and innovation. You can see this particular look in many modern hdbs and condo units; particularly those with a rather beautiful view to look at. Most sliding door designs would vary from the simplest cut like panels to a more sophisticated look employing the very latest and innovative materials. You might be wondering how much would a balcony sliding door cost?

When it comes to costs, the balcony sliding door Singapore price varies depending on the size, the materials used and the installation fee. The average starting price for most sliding doors will range from $300 for basic designs to $1,600 and above for high end door designs. Again, this price range is an estimate and not all door suppliers have the same estimated price range. A good way for you to determine how much it would cost would be to have a door supplier quote and design your door. Not only do they provide an accurate quotation, they can also recommend materials that fit both your interior and budget.

7. Maintenance 101

Just because it is a sliding door doesn’t mean you overlook its overall maintenance. Believe it or not, sliding doors require a lot of aftercare and maintenance. And having sliding doors replaced, should they get damaged, would cost from maybe $2,000-$2,500. Pretty pricey, huh. So as much as possible, it is best to consider these basic maintenance rules.

While some glass sliding doors require basic cleaning like a soaked rag and soap, other types of glass require specific shine alls and cleaners to remove moisture residue and other types of dirt.

Aside from that, you will need to take care of the sliding doors’ gliders and other mechanisms. A common problem for most sliding doors is when the door panel dislodges from the glider; which can make it quite difficult to mount back again.

Another problem involves the track itself. As much as possible, the track must be well oiled and maintained on a weekly basis. Invest in quality machine oil and make sure that there are no obstructions in the track like dirt or dust.

And if this overwhelms you, you can always consult experts who specialize in sliding doors. As mentioned earlier, experts and suppliers can help you find the ideal type of sliding door for your interior based on the set requirements and budget. The best thing about sliding doors is that they help regulate the air and natural light that comes in as well as the overall acoustics inside the home. And there is no limit to how many panels you would want in your sliding door. You can have your basic one panel or two panel or even three to four panels that slide either way. It’s all about using your creativity and what exactly you need.

Having a sliding door Singapore installed is perhaps one of the best investments you can think of. Apart from having a clean looking, architectural element, it is perhaps considered a transitional structure that can adapt to just about any style be it contemporary, retro or even minimalist. And it makes your space look even bigger than it normally does; effectively making your home a modern marvel in its own right.

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  INTRODUCTION
  
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  1. BASIC REQUIREMENTS AND CONSIDERATIONS
  
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  2. COAT CLOSET
  
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  3. PANTRY
  
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  4. WALK IN CLOSET
  
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  5. HOBBY ROOM
  
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  6. GYM
  
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  7. PERSONAL NOOK
  

INTRODUCTION

Have you noticed that some HDB houses and properties tend to have additional rooms and spaces for a multitude of purposes? Some are designed for laundries, some for storage and some for the most usual purposes being an office or a hobby room. But perhaps the most unusual space that is part of every HDB home is little room located a little inches away from the main space. It may be small and almost unnecessary, but once upon a time, it had a very important purpose.

We are talking about the bomb shelter, a unique feature in every Singaporean HDB home. Now you might be wondering, what is a bomb shelter and what is it doing inside a house? And why was it constructed in the first place?

Let’s do a quick history lesson. The bomb shelter, also known as the household shelter, was designed and added to  the home as a means of protection from bomb blasts and air raids; the latter being especially true during the Japanese Occupation. By mid-1996, bomb shelters were now being considered a mandatory feature for every home.

So much so that when the Civil Defense Shelter Act was passed, almost every building and structure had a bomb shelter. As part of its mandatory inclusion, it also had to adhere to certain structural standards such as reinforced walls, ceilings and floorings as well as ample space for the entire household to occupy.

Now bomb shelters are all well and good to have, but think about it?

When will it actually serve its purpose?

Surely not during a time of peace and prosperity. It would just be another room that, if left on its own, will be a waste of space. And since you can’t have it omitted from the property, you might as well do something with it.

Luckily, there are more than a million creative ways you can redesign and repurpose your bomb shelter into something more unique and practical. So sit back and get inspired with these amazing HDB Bomb Shelter design ideas that are sure to make your space truly one of a kind.

1. BASIC REQUIREMENTS AND CONSIDERATIONS

The first thing that you must consider above all else is how big your bomb shelter is. Most bomb shelters will be at least 4.8 sqm. Which in itself is not quite big, but rather just right for sitting in with the household.

However, there are some bomb shelters which may be a bit bigger than the standard, so that can make a difference.

• Check if they have any existing electrical wirings.
• Check if those wirings are still alright or if it needs repairs. 

Take note of where your bomb shelter is located. Some bomb shelters tend to be located in the hallway leading up to the bedrooms while other locations include being close to the living room, the foyer, the kitchen or even the dining room. This is also important in determining what you will be converting the shelter into.

Another requirement you must adhere to is to retain the overall structure itself. No matter how much you want to knock down the walls to extend, you simply can’t do that. Apart from it being a mandatory feature, the walls are reinforced and is likely a load bearing structure. So as much as possible, retain it. Once you’ve gotten all the basics covered, you’re ready to begin your project.

2. COAT CLOSET

Whenever you have guests over, the most hospitable thing to do is to take their coats and hang them in a closet. And what better way to do so then by converting your bomb shelter into a coat closet. This HDB bomb shelter design takes a cue from the Western coat closets seen in many European and American homes. Apart from it being a place to store your visitor’s coats, it also stores spare umbrellas, house slippers and even some linens.

Install a hanging rack on one side of the wall for the coats and a few shelves on another side for the linens. Place a catch all bin at the entrance for the umbrellas. Your guests and visitors are sure to be impressed by your hospitality and consideration when they see this coat closet.

3. PANTRY

Your kitchen can only hold a limited amount of things and when it comes to storing food, you need more than just the refrigerator and the cabinets. A good HDB bomb shelter design idea to try is by creating your very own walk in pantry.

This works especially if your bomb shelter happens to be near the kitchen. Like how restaurants store their food ingredients in large walk in refrigerators, you can do the same but on a much smaller scale. Install some shelving on 3 sides of the wall, leaving the side with the door completely bare.

You can opt for industrial style racks or if you are feeling rusting, you can go for wooden shelves. Go the extra mile by keeping an index near the door so that you can keep track of what food is stored and when it was purchase and its expiration date. You’ll be glad to have an organized pantry and an even organized kitchen with this idea.

4. WALK IN CLOSET

Let’s face it. No one can have too many clothes and shoes; especially if they are for several particular occasions like a dinner, a company meeting, a gathering or even a wedding. And no matter how hard you try to organize and carefully arrange your clothes in your wardrobe, you still have a pile of them lying about.

A good and practical solution to this is by converting your bomb shelter into a walk in closet. The size is just perfect for storing clothes that are worn on special occasions as well as shoes. You can place a hanging rack and cubicles for your clothes and shoes as well as some drawers for other articles like coats and boots. For that added glamor, you can even install a mirror inside if you are keen on changing inside rather than outside.

5. HOBBY ROOM

This unique HDB bomb shelter design idea is what makes your home completely yours; especially if you enjoy certain hobbies.

• If you like to play video games or even computer games, you can create a gaming room complete with a table to mount your computer or gaming console, some comfy chairs and a shelf to display all your games and paraphernalia.
• If you’re a crafter who enjoys making handicrafts, you can create a crafting room with cubicle shelves and drawers to store your crafting materials and tools, a table for you to work on and even some sample handicrafts.
• If you’re a collector, you can even make a small museum dedicated to the things you collect like figurines, action figures, pop culture paraphernalia, decorative plates and much more. You can even install some track spot lights so that you can highlight your most prized piece.

6. GYM

You know what they say, health is wealth. And if having a gym membership is not part of your plan or you don’t feel comfortable with working out with other people, you can always have your own gym indoors. And you don’t necessarily need to get all that bulky equipment. Just perhaps a few pieces that you will use like a stationary bike or a yoga mat.

You can even simulate the look of the gym by hanging inspirational quotes on the wall and lining the floor with rubberize mat so that you won’t slip and fall when you work out.  Having a space to work out in promotes a healthy lifestyle both physically and in some cases, mentally.

7. PERSONAL NOOK

If your idea of relaxing involves lounging on a large sofa surrounded by books or music, then why not create your own personal escape. Have a custom made daybed installed in your bomb shelter and place several throw pillows; the more pillows, the cozier. Install some shelves and cubicles and stack all your books in an organized manner. Add a wall mounted reading lamp that can easily be adjusted to suit your needs and a unique lighting fixture to illuminate everything else.

If your bomb shelter is big, you can opt to have a small table and two chairs across your daybed if you want to spend your relaxation time writing or having coffee while reading your favorite book. You can also install some speakers if you want to listen to some songs play in the background. Or if you need a quick nap, but are too tired to make it to the bedroom, your personal nook can serve as a quick resting spot. Don’t forget to include your favorite decors such as framed works, photos and even figurines.

And above all, when creating your HDB bomb shelter design project, always leave space for it to serve its intended purpose for when an actual emergency arises. But regardless, when creating your personal space, what is important is how you use it and how it makes you feel!

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  INTRODUCTION
  
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  1. COVE LIGHTING
  
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  2. DROPPED CEILING
  
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  3. BEAMS AND COFFERED
  
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  4. COMBINATION OF COVE AND DROP CEILING
  

INTRODUCTION ABOUT FALSE CEILING DESIGN

Has this ever happened to you?

• You’ve finished placing your sofa in the living room and you’ve just laid the last throw pillow on top of it.
• Then you step back and take a good look at your new living room.
• But then you realize that something is missing. Or rather, your interior looks somewhat incomplete.
• You look once more and that’s when you come to the realization that you have an ordinary ceiling. In fact, your ceiling might even be a bit high than usual and the light can barely hit or reach your furniture.

You want to do something, but you don’t know where to start. Fret not, there are many creative and unique ways to address this dilemma. Believe it or not, an ordinary ceiling is just like any canvas just waiting to become a work of art. So what is the solution for designing an otherwise boring ceiling? By creating another ceiling. Specifically, a false ceiling.

Now, what is a false ceiling?

As the name implies, it is a ceiling that is not part of the original structure. Specifically it is a structural element that is added below the existing ceiling in order to balance or define the overall look of a room. This is often seen in spaces with very high ceilings or spaces that were constructed simply so as to avoid additional costs.

A plain ceiling may work if the overall height is within a specific standard, but if you are met with a room that is unusually high, it give you the opportunity to make something unique and completely yours!

So here are some of the most popular false ceiling designs that are sure to make any interior look just as spectacular as ever and how you can apply these in certain interior styles.  

1. FALSE CEILING DESIGN | COVE LIGHTING

Arguably the most popular false ceiling design in many modern homes, the cove ceiling comprises of a straight, rectangular slab that is placed a few centimeters below the existing ceiling. Now you might think that if you construct a false ceiling, you might be spending more; especially if you will add additional lighting fixtures and electrical wiring to your existing ceiling. But believe it or not, it will actually help you save money in the future. This is because with the cove lighting’s ability of effortlessly dispersing light, you won’t need to use more than one light source, thus saving you money. Call it a practical investments of sorts.

There are at least 4 ways you can employ the cove lighting look:

• Recessed Tray: This is your basic cove lighting in which a beam is attached to the wall. A pin light is attached to the point where the wall and beam connect with its light aimed directly at the existing ceiling in order for it to bounce off. This is often seen in many condos, especially condos that have very little sources of light. This is fairly easy to construct. To start, simply install either a T bar light or an LED strip across the point where the beam and wall meet. Make sure that when mounting the beam for your cove, there should be enough space for you to change your lights when it burns out.

• Crown Molding Cove Lighting: This is seen in contemporary classic interiors in which the cove lighting is concealed behind a crown molding. This would make for an almost luxurious looking interior; especially if you opt for warm white bulbs.

• L-Shaped Cove Lighting: As its name implies, it is a cove lighting that takes the shape of an L. This is often used in semi wide spaces. Similar to how an L shape sofa would maximize the space, so too would the L shape cove. In this case, it would actually give the illusion of an even bigger and well-proportioned room. Try experimenting with different orientations of the L shape and see which one suits your interior the most.

• U shaped Cove Lighting: This kind of orientation is often seen in small spaces such as condos and HDB homes. Similar to the basic cove lighting with the exception of it encompassing three sides of the room, leaving one side free as an accent.

• I Beam Coffers: This is a rather unique cove lighting in a way that it combines the use of coffers. It uses the grid frames of the coffer false ceiling as a cove with each side having a light source affixed to it. This is often seen in bigger and more elaborately designed homes. While applying it to a small home could make the space look even smaller, you can actually use it in a smaller scale as a focal or accent point. Apart from square coffers, try experimenting with other shapes like honeycombs, triangles and if you are bold to try, 3d squares.

2. FALSE CEILING DESIGN | DROPPED CEILING

While the cove lighting uses the edge or the wall, a dropped ceiling uses the center of the existing ceiling to create a false ceiling design. Also called a suspended ceiling, a dropped ceiling, as the name implies, is a structure that is directly supported by the existing ceiling through the use of metal frames. Many interiors, especially those that are of the industrial look, often use this technique as a means to conceal the exposed and raw ceiling in a more creative manner

While some often go for rectangular or square drop ceilings, others opt for more wavy and curved shaped ceilings. This kind of design is quite flexible as it offers a wide variety of shapes and motifs to use. Several popular motifs include waves, interwoven vines, overlapping blocks and even wooden planks. A rule of thumb when it comes to dropped ceiling is to make sure that any pendant light must be at least 90cm from the surface of any furniture. As much as possible, avoid pendant lights that are bigger than the furniture.

3. FALSE CEILING DESIGN | BEAMS AND COFFERED

This kind of design is often seen in classic and rustic interiors, but that doesn’t mean it won’t translate to other styles. Installing a beam is yet another creative method to making a false ceiling in a way that it partially conceals the existing ceiling and deters the attention towards it.

It is often made entirely out of wood; especially for rustic interiors. But it can also be finished in other colors and it can even have LED light strips installed along the top, giving off an indirect light source. The same can be said for coffers, which are beams that are formed into grids and installed below the existing ceiling. Just as with the cove and the drop ceiling, the coffer ceiling gives off a more centralized look. However, you must take care with how low you will install these and exactly how heavy they will be. Depending on the provided space height, you run the risk of actually making your room even smaller than it normally is.

4. COMBINATION OF COVE AND DROP CEILING

If you liked the first two, then you might want to consider employing both styles in one area. The combined cove and drop ceiling is often used in modern homes and can easily brighten up an interior, both metaphorically and literally. You can see this type of false ceiling design in spaces like the dining room where the dining set is balanced with an elaborate ceiling design that defines the space; the hallway leading up to the rooms; the living room and even in commercial spaces like restaurants and hotels.

You can achieve the look by doing either of these combinations. If your living room has a large sofa, you can construct a cove lighting system the size of the living room and install a drop ceiling in the center. You can install some pin lights on either the corners of the beams or along the beams itself. Accentuate the cove lighting with a complimenting pendant fixture and position your large sofa directly below it. You will be surprised at how big of a change it has become.

You can also try a suspended ceiling with cove lightings on each side and accented with a unique modern lighting fixture. You could also try making your drop ceiling have an interesting carved design, which will be illuminated by the covered cove lights. The possibilities are endless, but again, take care to consider the height and size of your room, as it could potentially make your room look smaller and congested.

And if you’re unsure of what false ceiling design best suits your space, consult a specialist. There are designers and companies who specialize in creating the perfect false ceiling. You can tell them what you would like to achieve and they can present you with options that best suit both your space and requirements such as your budget.

So what are you waiting for? If you’re tired of having the same boring ceiling, take a step back and unleash your creativity. After all, your furniture already has personality. Don’t you think your ceiling should have one too?

Introduction About Kitchen Open Concept

It stands to reason that the most used space in any home is the kitchen. With homeowners using it three times a day for almost 365 days a year, it’s no wonder why so many designers come up with various kitchen styles and designs to suit every homeowner’s preference and style.

Traditionally, the kitchen has always been situated in separate rooms. But recently, there have been developments in kitchen design and layout wherein having it situated in one open area has proven to be more luxurious and aesthetically pleasing to look at. It also allows for more socializing and interaction within the household.

This unique concept is called the open kitchen concept. From the name alone, it is characterized by doing away with the traditional wall partitions and making use of the space. This is often seen in many contemporary and modern interiors; particularly modern HDB homes and condominiums.

With so many designs and ideas out there, you’re probably not sure where to start. Here are some of the most popular open kitchen concepts Singapore homes often employ and how you can employ them in your kitchen.

1. BASIC REQUIREMENTS

The first thing that you must consider is setting your requirements for the kitchen. First, study the area.

• How big is it?
• Is it too big or too small?
• How wide is it?
• Does it have provisions for a sink and electrical wiring?
• Is it near a window or by the main door?

The reason for this is that there are some HDB properties that are often bare when it is fully turned over. Or that some existing fixtures and provisions need to be either repaired or replaced. So, take note of your area.

Then, the next is choosing the right material for your kitchen cabinet. Remember, you will be spending a lot of your time cooking and preparing your food. This means you will most likely be working with appliances such as a stove and an oven toaster. As such, you will want to make sure you have materials of the highest quality and durability to aid you in this task.

A very popular material for cabinets is HPL Laminates or high-pressure laminates. This type of laminate is made by pressing together sheets of wood into one piece and is designed to withstand heat and steam. You can also use MDF boards or, if you are the type who has no problem spending a little, you can go for treated hardwoods like red oak. Mahogany or even maple. Just make sure the woods are treated. Regardless if you are being careful, you are still using steam and water and if any gets into wood that is not properly treated, this will eventually warp and damage your cabinet; effectively damaging your entire kitchen.

Lastly, ask yourself if your kitchen will have any special mechanisms and features and if it will affect your budget. It is a lot to take note of, no? But you need to get your basic requirements ironed out so that during the whole design process, you will be able to incorporate all of these into your kitchen design.

2. L-SHAPE KITCHEN

Easily the most popular and frequently used layout in an open kitchen concept, the L-shape kitchen is comprised of cabinets laid out in an L shape. In the open kitchen, this can be done in two ways. One is where you line the base cabinet and overhead cabinets against a wall, with the L portion sticking out. The L portion could either be more cabinets or a breakfast counter. The other option is to have the L-shaped base cabinet as an island while your full cabinets and appliances like refrigerator or oven are set against a wall.

This kind of layout maximizes the allocated space, especially for small homes. When creating this kind of layout, take note of your kitchen appliance sizes such as your sink or even your stove top. As much as you would like to include everything in your kitchen, try to choose fixtures that will fit to your kitchen’ size without wasting space. You wouldn’t want to have too big a sink or too small a stove. Everything needs to be balanced.

3. GALLEY KITCHEN

Another kitchen layout you can try, especially if your HDB flat is a little narrow, is the galley kitchen. This type of layout involves aligning the kitchen cabinets on either side of the space, creating a small walkway in between the cabinets. This kind of layout is often employed in smaller kitchen open concepts for HDB homes; particularly if the space is practically spacious than the average HDB home.

When making this type of layout or any open kitchen concept, don’t forget to employ the kitchen triangle. This is how the three main kitchen elements namely the cooking area, the washing area and the refrigerator, help with the proper allocation. Rule of thumb is that the wash area or the sink must always be in the center of the triangle and the cooking area must always be further away from the refrigerator. And the galley kitchen is the best example of this kitchen triangle.

4. U-SHAPE KITCHEN

The U-shaped kitchen layout is something of a combination between the L-shape and the galley shape type. It derives its name from the shape it makes. What makes this layout quite interesting is that it is considered the ideal open kitchen layout as it utilizes the open space of any HDB home or condo this kind of kitchen is often seen in open kitchens for BTO homes with 4 rooms. Especially, if the property in question is playing host to a large household.

When using this layout, adopt the modern minimalist style which utilizes clean and straight lines in the cabinetry. You can also go for modular cabinetry since they come in various sizes for you to choose and adapt. A very good combination of materials and palettes for U-shaped kitchens are granite countertops and neutral-toned laminates.

5. ENCLOSED OPEN KITCHEN

If you are the type who likes to separate the kitchen without completely separating the kitchen, then this incredibly unique and modern take on partitions is perfect for you. Create the sense of a partition without completely covering your kitchen by having an open kitchen with a glass door. You can have this concept in many ways. One popular way is by creating a divider that looks like a window. Another option is to place sliding glass doors that open into both the kitchen and dining room.

You might be thinking, am I simply just making a room if I do this? The answer? Not at all. What you are aiming for is simply giving the impression that it is a separate room when it isn’t. Another reason for employing this technique is to help filter out the many scents and aromas accumulated during the cooking process; especially if you happen to have guests.

Take note of the glass you are using. Most people prefer to use clear glass so that they can easily see the kitchen, but if you prefer frosted glass, that is perfectly alright. As much as possible, go for tempered glass as it can withstand heat and is quite sturdy.

6. OPEN SHELVES OR CABINETS

To keep in line with the open kitchen concept, have your overhead cabinets be exposed. This will make your kitchen look spacious and breathable. You can even place your plates and bowls and even figurines as both a decorative element and an organized setup.

Aside from exposed cabinets, you can also have floating shelves in varying heights and finishes. A popular style is having exposed shelves made entirely out of laminated wood mounted on black metal frames, creating an industrial look that is both on-trend and clean.

This kind of shelf can even make for a unique accent piece in your open kitchen. You can even have tempered glass as the shelf base instead of wood.

7. ADDITIONAL DINING SPACE

As mentioned earlier, the benefits of having an open kitchen mean more socializing and communal interaction with everyone inside the home. And what better way of having communal interaction is by adding additional dining space; specifically a bar counter, a breakfast nook, or even a built-in dining table?

• For small kitchens that use the L shape style, turn the L portion of your kitchen into a bar or breakfast nook and place at least two or three bar chairs underneath it. The counter can also serve as a divider of sorts separating the kitchen from the dining room.
• For kitchens that are a bit big, you can have a small table built into it and place 4 chairs on either side. This will make for a more communal and semi-compartmentalized look. Additionally, if you want to have a unique open kitchen, you can even convert one drawer into pull-out chopping boards, prep areas, or even a dining area.

So the question now is this? Are you ready to start having your own unique open kitchen concept? By following these examples and tips, you can be sure to have the perfect open kitchen that you will be so proud of!

Out of all the spaces inside an HDB home, there is no space that is frequently used than the kitchen. From dawn to dusk, everyone spends at least 2-3 hours in the kitchen, cooking meals three times a day. But with the rise of numerous HDB houses and space slowly getting smaller, it is safe to say that one must make the most out of the space to have a stylish and functional kitchen.

Now when creating the perfect kitchen cabinet design, you must understand that there are so many things to consider, especially if it’s in a HDB house. More often than not, the kitchens in an hdb house or flat would lean towards these options; a warm and natural look or something of the sleek and minimalist look. Below are the several things you need to consider:

QUICK NAVIGATION

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  1. CHECK THE AREA
  
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  2. TYPES OF KITCHEN
  
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  3. KITCHEN CABINET MATERIALS
  
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  4. STORAGE IS PREMIUM!
  
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  5. LIGHTING
  

1. CHECK THE AREA

The very first thing you need to consider is the area of your kitchen.

• How big is it?
• Is it near the door?
• Is it located near the dining room?
• Is it near a window?

While some HDB houses will have kitchens built in, there are some that are practically bare and open for design. The first thing is to measure how big the area is and write it down on paper. You can also take note of the location of the provision of the sink and the electrical sockets. 

You can do the same for existing kitchens if you plan to improve or add to it. And if you are having doubts, you can consult a kitchen specialist and discuss with them on what kind of kitchen you would like to have. The benefits of consulting a specialist is that not only will they check the area, but they are also familiar with certain rules and regulations of the HDB property.

2. TYPES OF KITCHEN

There is no fixed look on the kitchen. In fact, kitchens are the most customizable area in the entire house. There are however types of kitchens that can work with practically any hdb house or flat.

• Wall Kitchen – This is often seen in smaller houses and is considered the most efficiently designed kitchen that doesn’t compromise both functionality and aesthetics. It comprises of upper and lower cabinets installed against a wall; with some of the appliances being incorporated with the cabinets. This type of kitchen provides various kitchen cabinet design combinations from open shelves to compartmentalized boxes.
• Galley Kitchen – This type of kitchen layout is characterized by having two rows of cabinets facing one another, creating something of a passage in between. This layout makes use of a narrow space and maximizes its overall storage potential.
• L-Kitchen – Often seen as the most feasible layout for both small and large kitchens, it takes its name from having two cabinets perpendicularly arrange to form an L-shape. This allows you to take advantage of the dead space in the corners and provides options for a bar or breakfast nook.
• U-Shape – If you have quite a huge space and would like to incorporate more storage and possibly bigger appliances, the U shape is perfect for you. Characterized by the orientation of the kitchen’s layout, this takes advantage of more

3. KITCHEN CABINET MATERIALS

Now that you have an idea on what type of kitchen you are going for, it’s time to consider the materials. Because the kitchen is the most used area of the house, it is only natural that you will invest in good quality materials in creating your kitchen cabinet design.  You would want materials that will ensure that they will last longer and can withstand both moisture and heat.

• Laminate boards are one of the most commonly used materials in making kitchen cabinets they are the most inexpensive choice and can come in a wide array of color and finish options. They come readily available with many suppliers providing them. However, one needs to be careful of spillage. If the laminates are not properly heat sealed during installation, chances are the boards will slowly disintegrate.
• Woods are also a good material as they are built to last and are quite durable. Popular wood species for kitchens include mahogany, maple, and teak, beech wood, oak and even walnuts. The use of wood gives you many options and combinations to try. However, depending on the wood, it can also be quite expensive.  
• Lacquer boards are new to the kitchen scene, but they already are favored due to its sleek and smooth look. Like the laminate boards, it comes in a variety of finishes and colors and is quite easy to maintain and clean. However, just like wood it can also be quite expensive and rarely comes in wood grain options.
• Steel is also a good material as it is durable and can be antibacterial. They are usually built in commercial kitchens since it can handle heavy usage, but can also be in hdb houses, especially if you favor a more modern masculine look. However, they are limited in design options and is not as versatile as the other materials.
• Granite is quite good for kitchen countertops, especially for modern luxurious kitchens. Granite stone slabs come in various colors ranging from black to light brown and is quite easy to maintain and clean. It can withstand heat and moisture and is scratch resistant. However, granite slabs are also quite expensive and tricky to mount. You will need to hire professionals who can easily and carefully mount the slab.

4. STORAGE IS PREMIUM!

If there is a universal truth of sorts, its’s the fact that the kitchen has more utensils, tools and appliances than any other area of the house. Therefore, one must never take storage for granted. Apart from making the cabinets and shelves, take into consideration even the small niches.

Overhead cabinets are perfect for your plates, bowls and other table wares. But if you would like full maximum storage, consider having tall, cabinet units incorporated in the design. These can make for good pantries and it can further be enhanced with storage mechanism like pull out trays, baskets and even rotating carousel trays.

Apart from your standard swing door cabinets, consider also having drawers to keep your utensils and cutlery organized. To make it even more unique, have specialized compartments made for the drawers. That way, your utensils and silverware can be organized in a neat manner.

Speaking of baskets, consider having built in trash bins in one of the bottom cabinets instead of having the trash bin out in the open. For the cabinet with the sink, have some shelf compartments made so that you can store and organize your cleaning supplies.

If you will employ the L shape kitchen layout, you will notice that the corner tends to be a wasted or dead space. Take full advantage of the space by employing rotating carousel trays that maximize the once wasted space. If you have a narrow space in your wall, you can use a full pull out shelf tray for either condiments, sauces or even pastas.

You can even add more space by creating a foldable countertop that disappears into one of the cabinets when not in use .The only limit in making your kitchen cabinet design is your imagination.

5. LIGHTING

Finally and perhaps the most important thing to consider is the lighting. Especially when you are cutting ingredients or cooking a full meal. It is important to have ample and suitable lighting that not only aids in your task, but also completes the look of your hdb kitchen. Cove or recessed lightings are quite popular, especially if you have tall ceilings. This kind of lighting can make your kitchen look bright and warm. For a modern ambiance, opt for bulbs that give off a bright daylight look and for a cozier feel, go for bulbs that give off a warm white feel.

If you’re employing the L- shape kitchen or island kitchen, try hanging drop pendant lights over one section of the kitchen. This will highlight your intended focal point; especially if the section is a bar or breakfast nook.

A really unique and functional idea is to have built in lights under your overhead cabinets. That way, when you work, you have light directed towards your work space. Opt for LED strip lights or small LED bulbs.

Having a unique kitchen in your HDB house or flat makes living there even more satisfying. Especially if you employ little bits of your preferred style and personality. But perhaps the most important tip to consider when you make your kitchen and the kitchen cabinet design is creating a look that is both timeless and can adapt to practically any period and style.

So there you have it. Having a unique hdb kitchen may seem a bit challenging at first, but like with many good recipes, all it takes is a few ingredients, some patience, a little bit of hard work and you have yourself a well-made kitchen to call your very own.

Most homes nowadays have small spaces and could cost quite a fortune. This is especially true in Singapore where owning a modern home or condo is considered the height of luxurious living. However, not many homes and condominiums fit a feasible budget for some. But there is one type of home that is as luxurious and equally glamorous as the above mentioned. And that is the maisonette.

(So, you might be wondering, what is a maisonette?)

Strictly speaking, a maisonette is a type of HDB house that has two floors of livable space or in today’s modern definition, a penthouse. Unlike the other HDB homes, the masionette’s ground floor has the living, dining and kitchen areas while the second floor, accessible by stairs, has the toilet and bath and bedrooms. They were considered a luxury during the early 80’s, but slowly lost its appeal in the late 90’s.

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Suffice to say, most of the maisonettes have been replaced with the executive condominiums. Although, there are a few houses that are the genuine maisonette. And the best part, the maisonette is just within every feasible budget.  If you happen to own a maisonette, or are considering owning one, you’re probably wondering how to make it look stylish and luxurious. Fear not, here are several ways to have that amazing and luxurious maisonette renovation.

QUICK NAVIGATION

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  1. THE BASIC REPAIRS
  
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  2. MAKE A CHECKLIST
  
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  3. TO TILE OR NOT TO TILE
  
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  4. IDEAL STYLES AND THEMES
  
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  5. BRING IN SOMETHING OLD
  
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  6. CLEVER STORAGE IDEAS
  
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  7. WINDOWS
  
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  8. LIGHTING
  

1. THE BASIC REPAIRS

Like with most houses, the first thing you need to consider when working on your maisonette renovation is if the maisonette needs repairs.

• If there are cracks in the walls, patch them up and then paint over with a paint primer.
• Check the electrical wires and see if they are frayed. If so, hire an electrician and have them replaced.
• If there are broken tiles either on the floor or walls, consider either replacing them or retiling them.
• How about your stairs? If you have stairs that are concrete, check if they are still sturdy and strong enough. Or if they are made of wood, check and see if there are any termites.

If there are, quickly call for an exterminator and afterwards, repair them. Check also your door and window hinges. Once you have done whatever repairs were needed, you can start your renovation project   

2. MAKE A CHECKLIST

Take the time to look at your maisonette and ask yourself:

• What would you like to have? 
• How big is your living or dining room?
• Do you want to change your kitchen or keep it that way?  
• Do you have tall windows or short windows?  
• Are your bedrooms big or small?  
• Do you need to add more lights or change your fixtures?

Make a list of what you want to do for your maisonette renovation. Start with the top priority be it either a kitchen or bathroom renovation.  You can even list down the furniture you need and where you can buy them. You can search online for your materials and suppliers. More importantly, you will need professional services. You can also search for electricians, contractors and even designers who can help with your project. They can also help with your budget and will give you their opinion on what is feasible.

3. TO TILE OR NOT TO TILE

Let’s start with the floors. Now, depending on the style you are going for, most maisonettes will have tiles that will fit your theme. Another thing to look out for is molds. Check and see if there are any molds and if there are any, then you must treat it right away before setting in some new tiles.

If you are considering retiling them, remember that the tiling works will take up most of your budget for renovation. Go for neutral colored tiles, specifically white or light grey tiles as they will give the illusion of a bigger space. If the existing tiles are still in good condition and can work with your intended style, all you need to do is mop it clean. The same can be said for the wall tiles in the kitchen and bath.

4. IDEAL STYLES AND THEMES

This is where you can try out several stylish looks to your maisonette. There are many schemes to try out and you will be surprise to see that you can emulate a particular look with your home. The most popular style is the Modern Minimalist look; especially if the maisonette has particularly high ceilings the look is quite clean and organized and can easily adapt to any kind of interior. The minimalist look can even make the space look even more luxurious. To achieve this style, opt for furniture pieces that have less and straight clean lines. Opt for design elements such as steel legs, glass table tops, leather upholstery, custom built in cabinetry and minimal decorations.

Another look to consider is the Scandinavian design, which has since been experiencing a rebirth of sorts since the early 2010’s. This style is characterized by the use of natural wood, neutral and pastel colors and the iconic simple and functional furniture. Go for furniture with soft straight lines and made of wood such as oak and teak. For sofas, you can go the extra mile and opt for sofas that have storage and can be converted into a bed or even add more seating capacity.

5. BRING IN SOMETHING OLD

Just because you are renovating an old maisonette doesn’t mean you can’t make do with something you own. Quite the contrary, this gives you the opportunity to incorporate something you currently own into your maisonette renovation project. It could be anything ranging from an antique bed to an accent chair to even some family heirlooms like a painting or a statue. This helps lessen the cost of furniture in your project. Another clever idea is by looking around many thrift stores for quality second hand pieces like a dining set or a cabinet. You can search online for the nearest thrift stores. And it’s not limited to furniture. You can bring in hand carved wall art, doors and even some figurines.

6. CLEVER STORAGE IDEAS

As with most homes, the most important thing that you should never forget is storage. It is important to always have storage to keep most of the things you own in place. And believe it or not, regardless of the style or theme, customized and built in storage fits perfectly. And there are many creative ways you can incorporate storage in your maisonette. You can build a small bookcase under the stairs or even a small cabinet. If you have spaces in your maisonette walls, you can even create hallway cabinets that can be concealed with well-designed doors or panels.

The same can also be said for bedroom cabinets. While some maisonettes have bedrooms with walk in closets, there are some that don’t have that. So take advantage of the ample space and create storage pieces that can help enhance the interior.

Invest also in furniture that can provide storage. Ottomans, coffee tables, buffets, even sofas and beds. It is a good idea to have pieces that can help enhance the look of your maisonette as well as provide storage. This is what makes the maisonette a uniquely luxurious home.

7. WINDOWS

Most maisonettes will have spectacular views, all thanks to their well-placed windows. The same can be said for natural light. Curtains and window treatments are the go to solution for regulating light and sound as well as providing privacy for everyone. If you have tall windows, you can opt to have roller blinds. They come in various colors and patterns, but for a more modern and uniform look, go for plain, textured blinds. If you have standard sized windows or doors that open to a balcony, you can use floor length cloth curtains that help regulate the noise or black out curtains that completely cover the interior.

8. LIGHTING

Last, but not least is lighting. Just because your maisonette is on the top floor, doesn’t necessarily mean it will settle for the natural light. On the contrary, you will need to provide ample and suitable lighting for your newly renovated maisonette. However, this would depend entirely if you have average or very high ceilings. For average or standard height ceilings, which tend to range around 2.6 meters or 260cm, you can have recessed lighting for that dramatic effect or employ pin lights to evenly distribute the light. Now if you have high ceilings, you can have a drop pendant light hanging from the ceiling. There are many designs you can choose from, ranging from modern lights to classical chandeliers.

Apart from ceiling lights, you can also have floor lamps that provide task lighting for your living room, wall lamps for your hallways and stairs and table lamps for your bedrooms and desks. As much as possible, you need to make your maisonette’s interior as homey and comfortable as possible and providing ample light can help that.

And there you have it. With this tried and tested tips, it is a sure fire guarantee that your maisonette renovation plans will go on without any problems at all. You will find that it is both a rewarding accomplishment for you when you create a luxurious and stylish home without even making a huge dent in your budget.

The Secret to Successful and Stylish HDB Toilet Renovations without Regrets.

There is nothing more satisfying than having a place to call your own. And like most homeowners, you can’t wait to get started on renovating your basic house into your own dream.

And the first area you start with is the toilet and bath. You want to have the most stylish looking toilet and bath and you start searching the internet for hdb toilet renovation ideas. You then encounter some’ horror stories’ about how others had the worse experience when it came to doing their own renovations.

And some of these stories seem to constantly repeat themselves one after the other that you suddenly start thinking twice about renovating your toilet and bath. Fret not, for here is a list of the 11 renovation mistakes to avoid and what you should do to avoid them.

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  1. MAKING RASH AND ON THE SPOT DECISIONS
  
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  2. FORGETTING TO CHECK THE AREA FIRST
  
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  3. SETTING A SKY’S THE LIMIT BUDGET
  
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  4. DOING BATHROOM RENOVATION IN SINGAPORE WITHOUT PRIOR APPROVAL
  
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  5. CHOOSING RANDOM MATERIALS
  
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  6. NEGLECTING PROPER VENTILATION
  
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  7. BUYING AND DISCARDING WALL AND FLOOR TILES.
  
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  8. COVERING THE EXPOSED PIPES
  
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  9. HIRING SO CALLED CONTRACTORS AND DESIGNERS
  
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  10. CHOOSING TRENDY DESIGNS AND STYLES
  
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  11. NOT WATCHING OVER YOUR RENOVATIONS
  

1. MAKING RASH AND ON THE SPOT DECISIONS

This is the most common mistake anyone can make when it comes to doing bathroom renovation in Singapore, be it a toilet or a living room. More often than not, people make “on the spot” decisions on what to do with their renovations because they feel it is the right choice or that they are in a hurry to move in. This results in spending more than what is needed or causing some unexpected damage to the toilets.

More important, there are some must-follow HDB policy, rules & regulations that will make you get penalized for violation. So, before you start, make sure to always get advice from a professional interior designer / expert on what are allowed and not allowed to do (rather than making careless & quick decision).   

2. FORGETTING TO CHECK THE AREA FIRST

Another mistake most homeowners make is when they don’t check the area first. You may have gotten the keys to your house now, but you would not have the faintest idea if your renovation can be possible.

Many people do not well plan their space, thus don’t have any clues how much space they will need to afford all the items they want to put in. Some HDB toilets come in different sizes, so there is a huge possibility that you won’t be able to have that double sink counter you always wanted.

Sometimes, you might find that there are a few problems like leaks or odors happening in your toilet even before you start your renovating. It is wise to check the area first for any faults or problems and immediately report it to property manager. As they say, early detection can avoid serious complications.

3. SETTING A SKY’S THE LIMIT BUDGET

While you may say “money is not an issue”, in actuality, it is. If changing the plumbing allocation or buying designer fixtures and tiles is part of your hdb toilet renovation plan, then be prepared to spend a huge bulk of money.

Plumbing works involve changing the orientation of pipes and the flow of water and that involves breaking the walls and looking for the main water line, etc. The same can also be said if you will purchase fixtures and tiles especially if you already a tiled room and working fixtures.  As much as possible, try to work with what you have and if you must spend, prepare a practical budget.

4. DOING BATHROOM RENOVATION IN SINGAPORE WITHOUT PRIOR APPROVAL

This is a very costly mistake anyone can make. Your house is one of many units inside the HDB building. As such, there are certain rules that homeowners must abide by (so remember to ensure HDB approvals & permits are applied for before starting your renovation).

For example, you would like to mount a towel rack by the shower. They will need to see where you intend to mount it and confirm if it will hit the hot & cold consume pipes or not.

Another example would be wherein you would like to knock down a wall in order to make your toilet a lot bigger. There are some walls that are designed to be load bearing walls and cannot be knocked down. It is very important to get their approval before you start. You don’t want to be paying fines and having your renovation plans put to a halt just because of that, right?

5. CHOOSING RANDOM MATERIALS

Of all the rooms in your house, your toilet is one of the most used rooms ever. It’s where you shower and wash after a long day. With that being said, it calls for you to give the toilet a personal touch. But that doesn’t mean you choose random materials on the notion that it’s stylish and expensive.

You need to consider several things. Tiles, for instance. If you get tiles that are too big, you will most likely make your toilet look small. If you get tiles that are slippery, you or anyone in the house could easily slip and have an accident when these tiles are wet. 

The same can be applied for fixtures. When it comes to choosing materials for your toilet, opt for materials that can last longer and can save you a great deal of money. Go for tiles that can make the most of your toilet and fixtures that won’t tarnish or rust for the next ten or fifteen years. You might be spending a good amount of money, but investing in quality materials will make your renovation a success.

6. NEGLECTING PROPER VENTILATION

Just because it’s a toilet doesn’t mean you scrimp out on the small details. When making your hdb bathroom renovation plans, don’t overlook proper ventilation in your toilet.

A toilet that does not have proper ventilation results in poor circulation of fresh air which can trap moisture and bad odors, which then causes mildew and molds to grow. This can become a health hazard to you and everyone in your house. As much as possible, consider proper air ventilation.   If your toilet does not have any windows, opt for an air vent that can extract the odor and moisture.

7. BUYING AND DISCARDING WALL AND FLOOR TILES.

This is another mistake that is just waiting to happen. Especially if you are a new HDB homeowner. If you’re planning on removing any of the existing wall and floor tiles and getting new ones to suit your design, you might have to reconsider doing that until after three years.

Most units come with the walls and floors already tiled. They also contain a waterproofing membrane designed to prevent water leaking through to your neighbor below. As tempting as it may be, you are advised not to remove your existing tiles after three years of moving in (warranty time). In short, HDB will cover you the waterproofing membrane for 3 years, that’s why they won’t allow you to hack wall & floor tiles.  

8. COVERING THE EXPOSED PIPES

If you’re the type that likes the look of a clean and sleek toilet and hates exposed pipes, that’s fine. We all want a sleek and clean looking toilet. But here is the clincher.

If there are problems in the plumbing, how can your plumber access your plumbing if the pipes are covered completely? That would mean demolishing whatever is covering it. And that would most likely disturb your neighbors, raise the attention of the property manager and if you’re not careful, you could end up destroying your main pipe line.

As much as possible, avoid covering your exposed pipes. They are exposed for a reason. If you really don’t like looking at it, don’t worry. There are many creative ways to hide your exposed pipes without covering them completely. You can have removable storage cabinets or if your style is industrial, you can just leave it as is.

9. HIRING SO CALLED CONTRACTORS AND DESIGNERS

You might have heard your friend tell you about this ‘professional’ who can make your renovation plan a reality without so much as costing you a fortune. You might have also read about ‘professionals’ who have done more damage than good when it comes to renovating an HDB house.

As much as possible, when looking for a designer or contractor to work on your renovation, hire the ones that have been approved and recognized by HDB. The reasoning for this is because they are familiar with how the unit is constructed and the rules of the property. Another reason for hiring them is because they have undergone training & have got many years of experience to do these all stuffs, that enable them to meet with the standards the property demands and give you the assurance that they know what they’re doing.

10. CHOOSING TRENDY DESIGNS AND STYLES

Like with most homeowners, you will be enchanted by the notion of having a toilet that follows the latest design trends like Pantone walls or the latest HCG toilet and so on. However, this might also be a very costly mistake on your part.

Trends come and go and as time passes, your toilet will have a rather dated look, prompting you to conduct yet another renovation, which means getting the approval once more, finding the approved designer and setting aside an even bigger budget. Instead of choosing trendy styles, opt for a style that doesn’t look dated and can easily adapt to any design. You can find different designs that will look timelessly stylish.

11. NOT WATCHING OVER YOUR RENOVATIONS

This is, by far, the biggest mistake anyone can make when doing bathroom renovation Singapore. While some will leave it to the contractors or the foreman, more often than not, the foreman isn’t always around and the workers, without someone to guide them, could easily make mistakes along the way or disturb the neighbors with the loud sounds. And once this reaches the property manager, you will be answerable to whatever fines will be implemented.

Take the time, even if it’s one hour a day, to oversee how the renovations are coming. You can even converse with your contractor on the progress. Regardless, this is your renovation project and you have to be present to see how it goes.

So, there you have it. These are the most common hdb toilet renovation mistakes that can happen. This is not to say that you will make the aforementioned mistakes when you start renovating.

However, it does help to understand how things works and what to do and not do. And by understanding them, you are on your way to having a smooth and hassle free toilet renovation that will leave you feeling both relaxed and relieved.

When you think of Japanese style, one word will come to mind. Zen. While the culture of the country may be firmly rooted in millennia of history, modern Japanese interior design revolves around clean lines and minimalistic living. A fine balance between pieces of cultural significance and the clean, sleek lines of modernity, let’s take a look at some ways you could incorporate Japanese style into your home.

1. Nature

You don’t have to be growing a mini jungle to bring nature inside. Traditional Japanese plants can add a subtle touch of the style without being overwhelming. Go for a bamboo plant, orchid, palm or a bonsai tree; the key here is to keep the plant sleek and luscious green.