Latest Interior Design & Renovation Articles
Kickstart your renovation journey with these our most informative reads. Our editorial content helps homeowners get up to speed with the latest renovation insights and experience.
How To Design a Home That’s Perfect For Hosting
In Singapore, where apartment spaces are limited, designing a home for hosting requires strategic planning. However, with the right design choices, even a small apartment can be transformed into a welcoming and practical space for all kinds of gatherings.
Luxurious Renovations: Here’s What $100k Will Get You When Renovating
The cost of renovations are getting higher and higher, and we’re seeing budgets slowly creep upwards.
Of course, your renovation budget depends on your objective as well. If you’re intending to make this your “forever home”, you’ll definitely be more willing to spend on your renovation as compared to if you want to move out after your MOP period.
How to Design and Renovate a Mezzanine Unit in Singapore
Mezzanine units are unique, often rare spaces that offer additional floor area through a split-level design. They appeal mainly to specific demographics, such as young professionals or individuals who value an open, loft-style living area.
Given their limited availability, mezzanine units attract those looking for an unconventional space that maximizes high ceilings while providing a cozy, private upper level for various functions.
Renovate Without Breaking The Bank: Home Renos Under $30k
In this day and age, can you really get your home renovated for under $30,000?
The answer is a resounding yes!
Designing Kitchen Counters: Your Ultimate Guide
Creating a functional, beautiful kitchen counter design is key to a productive and enjoyable cooking space. Whether you’re working with a large kitchen or a compact layout typical of many Singapore homes, this guide covers everything from choosing the right layout to organizing cabinets and customizing fittings.
6 Best Interior Designers To Revamp Your Landed Home
If you’re looking for an interior designer to work on your landed home, you’re in the right place! These designers are experienced in handling landed property renovations, and can help you transform your home.
How to Maximize Your Balcony Space and Create a Seamless Flow
In Singapore, space is at a premium, and that includes the often-overlooked balconies in HDB flats and condominiums.
While these small outdoor spaces may seem limited, with the right design approach, they can be transformed into functional and aesthetic extensions of your living area.
Designing a Dream Home: Creative Ideas for Your 5-Room HDB Flat
If you’re renovating a 5-room flat, you’ve got so many possibilities.
Do you want to open up your kitchen, or keep it enclosed?
Do you want to knock down one bedroom for a living space?
How to Allergy-Proof Your Home: Tips for a Breathable Environment
Living in a densely populated city like Singapore, where homes are often small and humidity levels are high, poses unique challenges when it comes to maintaining a breathable, allergy-free home.
Allergens like dust, mold, and pet dander can significantly affect your indoor air quality and lead to discomfort, especially for those with respiratory sensitivities.
Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take to reduce allergens in your home.
Elevate Your Space: Inspiring Design Ideas for a 4-Room HDB Flat
A 4-room flat isn’t the largest of spaces, but it’s versatile enough.
There are plenty of ways to play around with your layout or reconfigure rooms to design your dream home.
How to Renovate Without Actually Renovating (Renter Friendly!)
Living in a rental home doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or comfort.
If you’re renting an HDB flat or condo in Singapore, making the space feel like home can be challenging without permanent renovations. Luckily, there are countless creative and non-permanent ways to refresh your rental without violating your lease agreement.
6 Vintage-Inspired Homes That Prove That Old Is Gold
Are you an old soul? This one’s for all the old souls out there who firmly believe that old is gold.
The Ultimate Guide To Setting Up Your Space For Your Home-Based Business
Starting a home-based business (HBB) in Singapore offers flexibility and freedom, but it also comes with unique challenges – especially when it comes to creating a functional workspace without spending a fortune on renovations.
6 Minimalist Homes That Will Inspire You To Declutter
Minimalist homes are simple, and never showy.
And the best part? There’s less to clean 😉
Maximizing The Value Of Your Rental Property: Renovation Strategies For Higher ROI
In Singapore’s competitive rental market, maximizing the return on investment (ROI) of your rental property is crucial.
Whether you’ve purchased a resale property that requires significant upgrades or a new launch that needs just a few finishing touches, the right renovation strategies can help attract tenants and increase rental income.
Cozy and Stylish: Design Ideas for Your 3-Room HDB Flat
Who says you can’t do much, design-wise, with a 3-room flat?
Yes, you have less space – so it’s all about using that space wisely, and finding ways to streamline.
The Ultimate Guide to Sensory-Friendly Renovations: Designing Spaces for Comfort and Calm
Creating sensory-friendly spaces is becoming an increasingly important aspect of home design, particularly in busy, urban environments like Singapore.
Whether you’re renovating to accommodate specific sensory sensitivities or simply want to create a more peaceful living space, sensory-friendly design focuses on reducing overstimulation and enhancing calm.
6 Contemporary Homes For Those Who Are All About The Modern Look
If you’re not 100% sure what contemporary home design entails, this features clean lines and neutral colours, plus whatever style is currently on trend.
Contemporary design is not something that’s set in stone, but rather, something that’s constantly evolving.
7 Common Renovation Myths, Debunked
Deciding whether to sign up for the Housing & Development Board (HDB) Optional Component Scheme (OCS) is an important consideration for many new homeowners in Singapore.
6 Dopamine Decor-Inspired Homes That Maximalists Will Love
Ever heard of Dopamine Decor?
This basically refers to a maximalist home decor style, where you adorn your home with all things fun and colourful.
6 Homes That Master the Art of Quiet Luxury
If you love getting home decor inspiration from TikTok, you might’ve heard of the Quiet Luxury trend.
Simply put, Quiet Luxury is about making your home look luxurious, but in an elegant and understated way.
How To Design A Home That’s Sustainable And Low-Maintenance
As urban living continues to evolve, the importance of sustainability in home design has become increasingly apparent, particularly in densely populated areas like Singapore.
A sustainable home not only benefits the environment but also contributes to a healthier, more comfortable living space. When combined with low-maintenance features, these homes can lead to long-term cost savings and reduced environmental impact.
6 Inviting Bedrooms That Make You Want to Stay In
A cozy bedroom is a non-negotiable.
After all, your bedroom is your sanctuary – it’s where you retreat after a long day for some much-needed R&R.
What To Expect And Prepare Before Meeting Your Interior Designer
Meeting with an interior designer is a crucial step in transforming your living space.To ensure your project is a success, it’s important to be well-prepared before meeting your interior designer.
6 Stunning Herringbone Tile Designs to Elevate Your Home
When it comes to tile options, you have an endless array to choose from.
If you’re looking for something with a little personality, we suggest… herringbone tiles!
Revamping Your Kitchen: Latest Trends and Practical Tips
The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, a place where meals are prepared, and memories are made. Revamping your kitchen can significantly enhance its functionality and aesthetic appeal, making it a more enjoyable space for you and your family.
Illuminate Your Space: 6 Genius LED Strip Lighting Ideas
What does LED strip lighting do for your home? Loads.
This doesn’t just serve a functional purpose – it’s also great for adding atmosphere and mood.
Should You Sign Up For HDB Optional Component Scheme (OCS)?
Deciding whether to sign up for the Housing & Development Board (HDB) Optional Component Scheme (OCS) is an important consideration for many new homeowners in Singapore.
Avoid These Newbie Mistakes That Will Make Or Break Your Renovation
Renovating your home can be an exciting yet daunting task.
In Singapore, where space is often limited and costs can quickly escalate, it’s crucial to approach renovations with careful planning and realistic expectations.
Perfecting Your Space: 6 Roller Blinds Ideas For Every Aesthetic
Roller blinds and roman blinds weren’t a popular option, say, a decade ago…
But they’ve been growing in popularity in the last few years.
If you’re a fan of roller blinds or roman blinds, you’re in the right place.
New to BTO? Here Are the Top 5 Questions Answered
If you’re new to the concept of Build-To-Order (BTO) flats, you might feel overwhelmed by the process and the decisions you need to make.
BTO flats are a popular housing option for first-time homebuyers in Singapore, offering affordability and modern amenities.
All You Need To Know About The New HDB BTO White Flats
The Housing and Development Board (HDB) in Singapore has introduced a new type of public housing – the BTO White Flats.
This exciting development promises to offer prospective homeowners a fresh, modern living experience with innovative features and amenities.
Transform Your Bedroom Dresser: 6 Ideas To Keep In Mind
A bedroom dresser is just a bedroom dresser… right?
Well, not quite.
From the placement to the type of dresser that you use, there are many ways to switch it up and create a new look for your space.
5 Maisonettes That Are Giving Landed Living Vibes
Maisonette flats, also known as executive flats, are in a class of their own.
They give you all the space of a landed property, but at significantly lower cost.
Sweat in Style: 6 Ideas for the Perfect Home Gym Setup
If you’re a gym junkie, it might just be worth investing in your very own gym.
Yes, you’ll have to pay for the cost of the equipment, but you’ll never have to wait to use the rowing machine again.
Plus, you get to save on that much more time when you gym from the comforts of your own home.
Maximize Your Space: 5 Clever Carpentry Ideas for Your Home
Living in Singapore often means dealing with limited space, making it essential to find creative solutions to maximise every square meter.
Clever carpentry can transform small and awkward spaces into functional and stylish areas, enhancing both the aesthetics and practicality of your home.
Break Free from Boring: 5 Unique Wardrobe Design Ideas
Looking for some wardrobe ideas? You’re in the right place.
Wardrobes come in many shapes and sizes – and you don’t necessarily need to get something that’s standard or cookie cutter.
Renovate Right: Crucial Components to Renovate in a Resale Flat
Renovating a resale flat is a unique challenge compared to renovating a Build-To-Order (BTO) flat.
While BTO flats offer a blank slate with minimal hacking or removal needed, resale flats require a more nuanced approach.
Small Space, Big Style: Interior Design Magic For Compact Homes
If you’re looking at inspirational pictures on Pinterest, chances are, you’ll be looking at larger-than-life homes with expansive kitchens and luxuriously large bedrooms.
These are 3-room HDB flats that we’re looking at, with a modest size of 60 to 68 square metres – but they’re still big on style!
Post-Renovation Checklist: These Are The Things You Shouldn’t Miss
Renovating your apartment in Singapore can be an exhilarating experience. Whether it’s a simple refresh or a complete overhaul, the end result often brings a sense of satisfaction and relief.
However, amidst the excitement, it’s crucial not to overlook the importance of thorough post-renovation checks.
Kitchen Design Through The Years: The Evolution Of Kitchen Design Trends
From humble outdoor spaces focused solely on functionality to modern hubs blending style with efficiency, kitchens have undergone a fascinating evolution in design.
Each era brought its own unique trends, reflecting the societal, technological, and cultural shifts of the time.
Renovating With Purpose: Incorporating Mindfulness Into Interior Design
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to overlook the impact our surroundings have on our well-being.
Our homes, where we spend a significant portion of our time, should be spaces that promote mindfulness, tranquility, and a sense of connection.
Renovation Etiquette: How Interior Designers Can Navigate Client-Designer Relationships With Grace
In the world of interior design, it’s not just about having an eye for aesthetics or a knack for turning spaces into works of art.
While these skills are undoubtedly crucial, there’s another aspect that often goes overlooked but is equally, if not more, important – soft skills.
How IDs Can Value-Add To Their Clients And Go Above And Beyond
In the world of interior design, the role of an interior designer or ID extends far beyond simply transforming spaces.
As an ID, your purpose goes beyond creating aesthetically pleasing homes.
Should You Splurge On A 6-Figure Renovation?
These days, we often come across home tour videos showcasing beautifully renovated spaces that seem straight out of a design magazine.
These renovations aren’t cheap – it’s not uncommon to see home reno tours on YouTube with pricetags of $100,000 and beyond.
Renovation Insights: A Comprehensive Guide For Homeowners In Singapore
Embarking on a home renovation project can be both exciting and overwhelming.
A home renovation is also something that’s worth putting in the time and effort to get it right.
To help you navigate the renovation process effectively, we’ve curated a collection of insightful articles specifically tailored for homeowners in Singapore.
How To Use Customer Reviews To Build Your Online Reputation
For ID firms, building a positive online reputation can be a powerful tool for attracting new clients and retaining existing ones.
One of the most effective ways to enhance your online reputation? Customer reviews!
Have A Negative Review For Your ID Firm? Here’s What You Should Do.
So, here’s the million dollar question – if you own an ID firm or you’re an ID designer, and you get a bad review, what should you do?
Do you ignore it?
Do you post a response so that you can defend yourself?
Do you contact the person privately and ask them to take it down?
The Painful Lessons We’ve Learnt From Reading Renovation Reviews
If you’re thinking of sprucing up your home, hiring an interior designer can be a great option. However, it’s important to do your due diligence before engaging anyone.
One of the best ways to evaluate an interior designer is? By looking at their reviews.
A Guide To Building Your Online Reputation For Interior Design Companies
Interior design companies can benefit greatly from a strong online presence and a well-defined branding strategy.
If you’re working in an ID firm, it’s important to leverage the power of the internet in order to build your reputation, and attract new clients.
How To Minimise The Risk Of Renovation Delays
For some reason, it seems like renovation delays happen more often than not.
In this article, we’ll walk you through some common causes of renovation delays, and teach you how to minimize the risk of delays.
How A Couple Transformed Their Spacious 5-Room Flat Into A Space Perfect For Hosting
After spending 4 months renovating their apartment, with their renovations costing $67,000 in total, we get an inside look into how Arif and Zee transformed their spacious 5-room flat in Tampines into a space perfect for hosting.
How To Manage Rising Renovation Costs In Times Of Inflation
With rising mortgage rates, high property costs and inflation, it’s more expensive than ever to own property in Singapore.
In this article, we’ll share a few tips for homeowners on a budget to keep in mind.
How To Find The Most Suitable Interior Designer For You
So it’s your first time renovating, and you’re trying to decide which interior designer you want to hire.
What should you look out for when evaluating an ID? How do you know if an ID is reliable?
Should You Install A False Ceiling In Your Home?
Some homeowners are big fans of the false ceiling, and others not so much.
In this article, we break down the pros and cons of a false ceiling, so you can decide if it’s a good fit for your home.
Balconies Are A Waste Of Space… Or Are They?
Some folks regard balconies as an integral part of their home, some think that these are a waste of space.
In this article, we discuss the pros and cons of having a balcony at home. Read on to find out more!
Automated Laundry Racks vs Dryers: What Works Better?
Should you get a dryer, or one of those automated laundry racks that are all the rage these days?
In this article, we break down the pros and cons of each option. Read on to find out more!
Showers vs Bathtubs: Should You Buy A Bathtub?
Showers are the default – and more practical – choice, but bathtubs definitely give you an *upgraded*, more luxurious experience.
Should you go for a shower, or a bathtub? Read on to find out more!
Dining Table vs Dining Banquette: Which Is Better For Your Home?
Dining nooks, booths, or banquettes are all the rage these days.
Are these the right choice for your dining room? Or should you stick with a traditional dining table? Read on to find out more!
Dark vs Light Colour Scheme: Which Is Better For Your Home?
Light colour schemes have always been the default choice for homeowners in Singapore. But for those who don’t want to go the cookie-cutter route, dark colour schemes might be more up your alley.
Read on to learn about the key considerations between a dark vs light colour scheme, so that you can decide which is more suitable for your home!
Vinyl vs Ceramic Tiles vs Porcelain Tiles: What’s The Best Flooring Option?
When it comes to planning a renovation, one of the big decisions you’ll have to make is with regards to your flooring. Should you go with vinyl or tiles? Are ceramic tiles better, or porcelain ones?
In this article, we discuss the pros and cons of each option, so you can decide which to use in your home.
Cove Lights vs Recessed Lights vs Track Lights: Which Is Perfect For You?
When it comes to lighting, you have many options. There are cove lights, recessed lights, track lights, and many more.
In this guide, we walk you through the different types of lighting, and point out what to keep in mind for each option. Read on to find out more!
Wallpaper vs Paint: Which Is Better?
Updating your wall colour can make a huge impact on your space – but which should you opt for, wallpaper or paint? In this article, we share the pros and cons of both.
Quartz Vs Laminate vs Stone: Which Is Better For Your Kitchen Counter?
Renovating your kitchen? One of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make will be the type of material you use for your kitchen countertops.
In this article, we break down the difference between quartz, laminate, stone, and other countertop materials, and help you figure out which is the best fit for you!
Open-concept Kitchen vs Closed-off Kitchen: Which Is Better?
Open concept kitchens are highly popular these days, as homeowners prefer to have fluid spaces that are conducive to interacting. But what are the cons of having an open concept kitchen? Could a closed kitchen be more suitable for you? In this article, we discuss all these, and more!
Blinds vs Curtains: Which Is Better?
Small details and finishings, such as your window treatment, can make a huge difference in the overall look and feel of the home. In this article, we discuss the pros and cons of curtains vs blinds, and give you all the information you need to make a choice for your home.
Built-in Carpentry vs Loose Furniture: Which Is Better?
So you’ve got the keys to your place, and you’re excited to get in there and start renovating. But before you do, there’s one important decision you’ll have to make… do you want to opt for built-in carpentry, or loose furniture?
In this article, we walk you through the factors to consider, so you can decide which options work best for you.
Professional Inspector Tan Wee Kwang on How Homeowners Should Deal With Renovation Defects
Hometrust met with Absolute Inspection’s director Tan Wee Kwang to discuss the topic of renovation defects. As a veteran in the building industry, Wee Kwang is no stranger when it comes to construction defects. From inspecting newly-released BTO flats to creaky old houses, he has the undoubted expertise and practical experience when it comes to managing home renovation defects.
