Embarking on a home renovation project can be both exciting and overwhelming.<\/p>\n
A home renovation is also something that\u2019s worth putting in the time and effort to get it right.<\/p>\n
After all, home renovations don\u2019t come cheap, and in your renovation, you\u2019ll be making decisions that you\u2019ll have to live with for years to come.<\/p>\n
To help you navigate the renovation process effectively, we\u2019ve curated a collection of insightful articles specifically tailored for homeowners in Singapore.<\/p>\n
In this roundup, we share key takeaways from these articles, providing you with a comprehensive resource to enhance your renovation experience.<\/p>\n
The first thing you\u2019ll need to decide in your home renovation journey is\u2026 do you want to hire an ID, or a contractor?<\/p>\n
Generally speaking, it\u2019s more affordable when you work with contractors, and more expensive when you work with an ID.<\/p>\n
This is because an ID\u2019s scope of work is larger – they don\u2019t just renovate your home for you, they also work with you on the ideation and design process, and they act as a project manager to help you manage the timeline and supervise the contractors who do the work.<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18724″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”][\/spb_image] [spb_text_block animation=”none” animation_delay=”0″ simplified_controls=”yes” custom_css_percentage=”no” padding_vertical=”0″ padding_horizontal=”0″ margin_vertical=”0″ custom_css=”margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;” border_size=”0″ border_styling_global=”default” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n
Now, there are some ID firms which will tell you that they don\u2019t charge a fee for the ID work – they say that they get their revenue from partnering with the contractors that they work with instead.<\/p>\n
While this might sound good to homeowners, the fact is that you\u2019re still paying a fee – it\u2019s just that it\u2019s already built into whatever contractor fees you see in your quotation.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re not sure whether a fee that you\u2019ve been quoted is expensive or not, take your list of requirements and shop it around to different IDs. It\u2019s completely fine to get a few quotes and then decide which ID or contractor you want to go with.<\/p>\n
For more resources: read our guide on all you need to know about hiring an ID<\/a>, and check out the 4 things you should consider when choosing between DIY and engaging an ID<\/a>.<\/p>\n Assuming you\u2019ve decided to proceed with an ID, the next step is to find the most suitable ID for your renovation.<\/p>\n You can use platforms like Hometrust to find and shortlist IDs – remember to read their past reviews, so you can get a sense of their working styles.<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18725″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”][\/spb_image] [spb_text_block animation=”none” animation_delay=”0″ simplified_controls=”yes” custom_css_percentage=”no” padding_vertical=”0″ padding_horizontal=”0″ margin_vertical=”0″ custom_css=”margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;” border_size=”0″ border_styling_global=”default” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n Here, it\u2019s important to start early so that you give yourself enough time to shop around.<\/p>\n You don\u2019t want to start searching for an ID last minute, and have to rush into making a decision.<\/p>\n For more resources: read our guide on how to find the most suitable interior designer for you<\/a>, and the painful lessons we\u2019ve learnt from reading renovation reviews<\/a>. Plus, we\u2019ve also got a guide on what to keep in mind when working with an ID for the first time<\/a>.<\/p>\n Because renovation scams are on the rise, you\u2019ll also want to make sure whichever ID you choose is properly certified and accredited. Here are 5 accreditations you will find in ID firms and what they mean for homeowners<\/a>.<\/p>\n A good ID can make or break your home renovation, so make your decision wisely!<\/p>\n Before getting into the nitty gritty of the planning, it\u2019s a good idea to decide on the theme of your renovation.<\/p>\n The theme basically informs your look and feel.<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18726″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”][\/spb_image] [spb_text_block animation=”none” animation_delay=”0″ simplified_controls=”yes” custom_css_percentage=”no” padding_vertical=”0″ padding_horizontal=”0″ margin_vertical=”0″ custom_css=”margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;” border_size=”0″ border_styling_global=”default” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n If you\u2019re going with a Scandinavian theme, for example, you can expect to use a lot of warm whites and wood tones in your home, and you\u2019ll probably be going for a cozy, Hygge feel.<\/p>\n But if you\u2019re going for an industrial theme, you might opt for exposed brick walls, metal accents, and a more raw, edgy aesthetic.<\/p>\n To start off, read our article on Scandinavian vs Modern vs Mid-Century: The Ultimate Guide To Interior Design Styles<\/a>. This will give you an overarching idea of the different styles that exist.<\/p>\n From there, check out these articles for inspiration:<\/p>\n What if you and your partner have different themes that you like, and you can\u2019t settle on one particular theme?<\/p>\n You can also go with a hybrid of two themes – check out our article on How To Combine Different Interior Design Styles In A Cohesive Manner<\/a>.<\/p>\n Now that you\u2019re aligned on the overall look and feel that you want, it\u2019s time to start planning your renovation!<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18727″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”][\/spb_image] [spb_text_block animation=”none” animation_delay=”0″ simplified_controls=”yes” custom_css_percentage=”no” padding_vertical=”0″ padding_horizontal=”0″ margin_vertical=”0″ custom_css=”margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;” border_size=”0″ border_styling_global=”default” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n Regardless of whether you\u2019re renovating your whole home, or just a room or two, you should use the same planning process.<\/p>\n At a high level, consider what you want to use each room for and who will be using each room, then plan accordingly based on your lifestyle and needs.<\/p>\n Here are some of our renovation guides, broken down by the different rooms:<\/p>\n We also have \u201cdesign idea\u201d articles for HDB flats, broken down by the size of your flat:<\/p>\n And if you want to do some research on flooring, walls, and other materials, check out these articles:<\/p>\n While you\u2019re planning for your renovation, also keep in mind that certain works require a permit.<\/p>\n This includes hacking of floors, hacking of walls, changing your staircase (for maisonette flats), replacing your windows, and bathroom works.<\/p>\n For more details, check out our article on Renovation Permits: What You Need A Permit For And How It Works<\/a>.<\/p>\n Finally, remember that the goal of the renovation is to make your space livable for the entire family – that includes any older or younger family members that you live with.<\/p>\n We\u2019ve got a couple of articles that talk about this as well:<\/p>\n We\u2019ve added this as step 4b instead of step 5, because planning for your renovation and budgeting really comes hand-in-hand.<\/p>\n Here, think of what you\u2019re willing to spend on your renovation, and figure out if you need to eliminate any of the items that you previously wanted to include.<\/p>\n We have a guide that can help you with this – check out Saving On Renovation: How To Create (And Stick With) A Budget When Renovating<\/a>.<\/p>\n Of course, in an ideal world, you would have a limited budget to work with. But here\u2019s the thing – you can still create a beautiful home on a budget, as long as you work smart.<\/p>\n Check out these articles for inspiration:<\/p>\n Need to save cost on your renovation? This article on How To Manage Rising Renovation Costs In Times Of Inflation<\/a> will give you some tips.<\/p>\n In the article, we talk about prioritising, working with your ID, and also tell you how you can reduce the amount of carpentry or build-ins in your home to keep costs low.<\/p>\n That aside, here are more tips that you can use to save costs while renovating:<\/p>\n Firstly, consider DIY-ing certain things. If you\u2019re not sure where to start, one of the easiest things to DIY is painting your walls. Check out our Ultimate Guide On How To Paint Your Rooms<\/a>.<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18728″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”][\/spb_image] [spb_text_block animation=”none” animation_delay=”0″ simplified_controls=”yes” custom_css_percentage=”no” padding_vertical=”0″ padding_horizontal=”0″ margin_vertical=”0″ custom_css=”margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;” border_size=”0″ border_styling_global=”default” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n Another thing that you can do is to thrift for furniture – that means buying secondhand furniture instead of new items.<\/p>\n Now, people assume that secondhand furniture is worn and\/or not in good condition\u2026 but that\u2019s not necessarily the case.<\/p>\n People do sell plenty of secondhand furniture that\u2019s brand new or looks brand new. For example, expats who live in Singapore for two years before moving for work might list almost brand-new items on Carousell.<\/p>\n To learn more, check out our Ultimate Guide To Buying Secondhand Furniture<\/a>.<\/p>\n Finally, a good way to save money is to make sure that you\u2019re purchasing furniture that\u2019s durable and long-lasting.<\/p>\n If you buy a ton of cheap furniture but have these break down on you within one year or so, this means you\u2019ll need to spend money to replace said furniture – and that completely defeats the purpose.<\/p>\n So, you\u2019re not just looking for affordable – you\u2019re looking for affordable AND good-quality.<\/p>\n Not sure how to do this? Check out our guide on How To Pick Out Furniture That\u2019s Durable, Long-lasting, And Worth Your Dollar<\/a>.<\/p>\n So you\u2019ve planned your renovation, talked to your ID or contractor, and finalized all the details.<\/p>\n Next, it\u2019s time to prep for your renovation, so that you can enjoy a seamless renovation process!<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18729″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”][\/spb_image] [spb_text_block animation=”none” animation_delay=”0″ simplified_controls=”yes” custom_css_percentage=”no” padding_vertical=”0″ padding_horizontal=”0″ margin_vertical=”0″ custom_css=”margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;” border_size=”0″ border_styling_global=”default” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n This includes things like managing your family\u2019s expectations, informing your neighbours, and organising your contracts and receipts.<\/p>\n For more details, read our guide on How To Prepare For A Major Renovation<\/a>.<\/p>\n Think your job is done once you\u2019ve completed your renovations?<\/p>\n Not quite – there are still some final touches you need to do in order to make your space more livable.<\/p>\n For example, you might want to set up a smart home system so that you can control your home remotely.<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18730″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”][\/spb_image] [spb_text_block animation=”none” animation_delay=”0″ simplified_controls=”yes” custom_css_percentage=”no” padding_vertical=”0″ padding_horizontal=”0″ margin_vertical=”0″ custom_css=”margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;” border_size=”0″ border_styling_global=”default” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n On a basic level, you\u2019ll be able to do things like turn off your bedroom light via an app on your phone (rather than having to get out of bed and turn it off using the switch).<\/p>\n On a more advanced level, you can also use automations to set certain \u201cscenes\u201d. For example, you can set a \u201cgoodnight\u201d scene that automates certain actions like turning off the lights, drawing the curtains, and turning on the air-conditioning in your bedroom.<\/p>\n To learn more about smart homes, check out our guide on How To Set Up A Smart Home That Works For You<\/a>.<\/p>\n Another thing that you can do to spruce up your home and make it more livable is to add plants to the space.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re a newbie to plants, check out our article on How to decorate with plants in Singapore.<\/p>\n This covers everything you need to know, including how to choose the right plans for your space, how to incorporate plants into your existing decor, creating a vertical garden, and we even give you recommendations on low-maintenance plants that you can buy.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t have green fingers? Check out our article on Keeping Your Houseplants Alive: Tips to Create a Concrete Jungle in your HDB<\/a>.<\/p>\n Renovating your home is a big deal, and having all the information you need can make a huge difference.<\/p>\n We hope this roundup has given you some useful tips and ideas for your renovation in Singapore.<\/p>\n Remember to check out the linked articles for more detailed info on each topic, and visit https:\/\/www.hometrust.sg\/<\/a> for more inspiration or to search for IDs.<\/p>\n Good luck with your home makeover!<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_divider type=”thin” text=”Go to top” top_margin=”0px” bottom_margin=”30px” fullwidth=”no” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”] [spb_text_block animation=”none” animation_delay=”0″ simplified_controls=”yes” custom_css_percentage=”no” padding_vertical=”0″ padding_horizontal=”0″ margin_vertical=”0″ custom_css=”margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;” border_size=”0″ border_styling_global=”default” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\nStep 2: Finding The Most Suitable ID For Your Renovation<\/h2>\n
Step 3: Deciding On The Theme<\/h2>\n
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Step 4a: Planning Your Renovation<\/h2>\n
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Step 4b: Budgeting For Your Renovation<\/h2>\n
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Step 5: Prepping for your renovation<\/h2>\n
Step 6: Final touches<\/h2>\n
A Final Word On Renovating Your Home<\/h2>\n