Experienced Singapore interior design professionals spend a lot of time on the kitchen because it happens to be the most functional part of the apartment. Every single design element should be chosen carefully and it should ensure the practical appeal of the space.
A modern and functional kitchen has to follow the requirements of the property owner. At the same time, there are certain rules and guidelines that have to be followed in order to optimise the kitchen design.
Use Light in Both Practical and Aesthetic Ways
One of the cleverest things interior designers do to create a modern kitchen is introduce different types of light.
Recessed lights are ideal for kitchens. They are perfect for placement under cabinets and over countertops. In addition, recessed lights positioned strategically can have some of the light bouncing off the glossy surfaces in the kitchen.
Lights should be placed over the areas where work is to be done. In addition, they can also point the attention towards the interesting details in the kitchen. A beautiful chandelier over the kitchen island or a kitchen table will also create a bit of comfort and result in a space that the entire family can gather in to share pleasant moments.
Some designers will take it even a step further and opt for mood lighting. If you plan to have romantic encounters and special moments in the kitchen, such lights will be the perfect choice for setting the right ambiance.
Kitchen design for HDB apartments will usually go towards one of the following – warm and natural or clean and minimalist.
You will discuss the option that you’re drawn more to before the project execution begins. Make sure that your interior designer is acquainted with the vision. The more information you provide in advance, the closer the project is going to be to what you’re looking for.
Warmth in the kitchen is usually accomplished through the right colour selection and the use of natural wood. Cabinet doors, cupboards, the kitchen table and the island can all be made of wood or they could feature decorative wooden panels. A coat of varnish on top will provide sufficient protection for the natural material.
Alternatively, you can opt for stainless steel appliances and white cabinets. Minimalist and clean kitchens have a modern, trendy appeal. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that white items and furniture will need a bit more upkeep than natural wood.
Storage Space Planning is of Utmost Importance
This claim is particularly true for a small HDB kitchen. In order to make it functional, you will have to do some careful consideration about storage unit placement.
Kitchen cabinets, a built-in pantry and even the kitchen island could be used for storage purposes.
Cabinets offer a lot of versatility when it comes to size, shape and placement. Your designer will take a look at the kitchen to let you know how you can organise the cabinets effectively. Corners and spaces that can’t be used for the placement of anything else are ideal for storage.
The same applies to the kitchen counter.
If possible, have a deeper countertop. This way, you will be provided with enough room for the placement of smaller appliances like coffee machines, blenders, toasters, etc.
Finally, talk to your designer about the selection of the right appliances. There are many minimalist options on the market that don’t occupy a lot of space. Such appliances will create the illusion of additional space even in a tiny HDB kitchen.
A Vintage Kitchen is Also a Great Idea
Vintage inspiration can give you a beautiful, distinctive kitchen. Because of the charm and the cosy appeal of such design, vintage is becoming more popular throughout Singapore.
Choosing the right fixtures, cabinets and accessories will give you a beautiful, charming, old-school kitchen. The same applies to a backsplash made of the right material and tiles that feature a polka dot pattern, for example.
There are both vintage items you can incorporate in the design and modern products that are crafted to replicate genuine vintage pieces. Going for one option or the other depends on the authenticity that you want to accomplish and the renovation budget.
Add a Bit of Personality with the Backsplash
The backsplash is one of the most exciting kitchen elements in design terms. It provides a lot of creative freedom and can easily turn into an accent piece.
If you’ve done a bit of online research, you’ve probably seen the dozens of colourful and exciting backsplashes out there.
Classic appeal is one of the options. Tiles, stone and granite are all traditional and practical options for the kitchen backsplash. Alternatively, you can do something a bit more eccentric. Mirrored tiles, mosaics, brick, cork, stainless steel and even beautiful pebbles can be utilised to set the theme and tie the entire kitchen design together.
The options are numerous and you can easily get lost in the diversity. Still, take some time to conceptualise the ideal kitchen. Try making a sketch or create a scrapbook on the basis of your internet research. Showing these ideas to your residential interior design service provider will save a lot of time and give you the outcome you’re hoping for.
If you don’t know what direction is right, you shouldn’t worry. An experienced design professional will come up with an overall concept for your Singapore apartment and the kitchen will fit nicely in the chosen theme.
Do you need some assistance with redesigning or creating the perfect kitchen? The Home Guide team is here to help. We’re HDB-licensed and highly experienced professionals who specialise in the areas of both residential interior design and commercial interior design. Kitchen renovations are one of our fortes so don’t hesitate to contact us and let us know a bit more about the work you intend to do in your apartment.