Out with the old and in with the new – we’re about to welcome 2024 and the cool new interior design trends that come with it!

While many interior design styles are timeless classics, colourful new opportunities arise with each year. Technological developments, social trends and lifestyle changes all contribute to a bright and exciting interior design world that has a lot to offer. Here are some of the 2024 interior design trends that are going to dominate the landscape.

Smart(er) Homes

The concept of smart homes is nothing new, and countless homeowners are already quenching their thirst for comfort, efficiency, and innovation with myriad cutting-edge technologies within their households.

However, the ground-breaking trends forecasted for 2024 suggest our homes could become far smarter than we currently could imagine.

The future of technologically advanced residences is set to feature innovative options such as integrated smart devices that amalgamate numerous appliances, the next-phase of artificial intelligence capabilities, resident-helper robots to carry out a range of chores, extensive automation at home, and enhanced security measures via high-definition cameras and AI-powered algorithms for incisive data interpretation.

Whilst these possibilities might seem like scenarios straight out of a science fiction film, they’re not just a reality, they’re literally around the corner. Better yet, as we head into 2024, most of these solutions are set to become more wallet-friendly, opening the gateway for a larger chunk of homeowners to relish the broad offerings of smart home technology.

Technology-Free Homes

The allure of tech-free spaces is growing amidst increasing digitisation.

Whilst automatic gadgets and smart devices have made day-to-day life easier, there’s a growing demographic of people who miss the serenity of a time when technology didn’t permeate our living spaces.

Interfaces and digital screens scattered around the house can often detract from the homely atmosphere that many yearn for after a long, strenuous day. Many of us are feeling overwhelmed by tech intrusion and this sentiment will significantly shape our home interiors in the upcoming year.

Hence, expect to see a rise in homeowners opting for traditional, elaborate aesthetics, such as grandpa chic and cottagecore. As we advance rapidly into the digital age, the yearning for simpler, bygone days will only grow stronger.

Bigger and Bolder Colours

In the past, bold and considerably solid colours were used sparingly. They were typically applied to small, selected areas, adding interest to a space without making it appear overpowered.

The palette is shifting dramatically, however. Expect the widespread use of rich and deep tones, creating compelling ambiances. Prepare to encounter rooms entirely designed in vibrant pink, profound oceanic blue, or strikingly bright green.

This emphasis on colour is a nod to the aesthetic of the 1990s, but with an updated twist. Back in the day, monochromatic schemes opted for subdued, neutral tones. For 2024, think of this concept, but taken up a notch, embracing a spectrum of saturated, vibrant shades.

Interior designers are becoming increasingly creative, aiming for impactful and dramatically visual themes. In an evermore uniform world, there is a pressing need for spaces that exude joy and individuality. Hence, the well-known rule of using accent colours only is one of the many about to be overruled in 2024.

The Home Office Will Become a Permanent Fixture

The Covid-19 pandemic brought to light the essential need for a dedicated workspace within one’s home. This need propelled the concept of the home office to the forefront of many interior design plans.

Industry insiders foresee that by 2024, the home office will have evolved from a luxury to a necessity in all modern design schemes. With a shift towards a hybrid style of work that combines both home and office environments, the emphasis on constructing a bespoke workspace within a residential setting will likely continue to grow. Therefore, it’s logical to expect the home office to figure comprehensively in upcoming renovation blueprints.

Comfy Fabrics in Places Where You Don’t Expect Them

The pandemic-induced lockdowns have sparked a growing interior design trend – the pursuit of comfort. This craving for a cosy environment has managed to endure post-lockdown, leading designers to devise a multitude of novel and intriguing solutions.

One such strategy designed to maximise homeliness and comfort is the implementation of soft materials in places they’re usually absent.

Recently, the application of unique wallpaper that mimics fabric finishes on walls has gained significant popularity, and this trend is set to continue its ascend in 2024.

This fabric-driven approach could equally be utilised for doors, enveloping the entire room in a soft, ambient aura with a lustrous finish.

Although this option may not be the flavour of the month for everyone, one can’t deny the incredible transformation power of such wallpaper. It can swiftly change a sterile, minimalist setting into a welcoming sanctuary that most would love to spend time in.

In essence, this trend is shaped by maximalism, a design approach that many are growing increasingly accustomed to. It serves as a potent antithesis to minimalist design philosophies sometimes viewed as devoid of charisma and individuality.

2024: A Thrilling Year for Interior Design

As one can anticipate, 2024 appears to be a thrilling year when it comes to home interior design in Singapore. The coming twelve months will celebrate the juxtaposition of varied stylistic elements in interior spaces. A plethora of options await you, enabling you to tailor your home to reflect your unique persona.

If you’re uncertain about harmoniously integrating these promising trends into your existing decor, don’t worry. Simply get in touch with Home Guide. Our seasoned home renovation contractors are ready to bring your vision to life, laying emphasis on both aesthetic appeal and practicality.

Tucking a few storage containers underneath the bed gives you easy opportunities to get better organised in a small flat but that’s not the only option.

Living in a small flat can be difficult, especially if you run out of space for your stuff. To create a brand new storage area, you’ll have to get creative.

Under-bed storage can work realty well, especially if you use the power of clever home décor to make the most of the available area.

Choose the Right Bed and Go Higher

The amount of space you’ll have for storage underneath the bed depends entirely on the height of this piece of furniture.

A standard bed doesn’t give you a lot to work with.

To optimise the storage area, consider getting a bed that’s a bit taller. It can be very convenient and easy to get in, especially for individuals dealing with some mobility impairments. In addition, a taller bed will allow you to fit much bigger storage units underneath.

A good alternative would be a bed mechanism that pulls up and allows you to access the storage area from the top.

If you feel that the bed is way too tall for it to be convenient, a few built-in steps will work just fine.

You may worry that you’ll need to get a custom piece of furniture to execute this idea but it may be worth the investment. A small flat will usually be difficult to fit perfectly with commercial furniture. Custom pieces will give you more usability, more space and better value in the long run. All you need to do is find the right carpenter for the execution of the project.

Sliding Storage Units with Wheels

The biggest problem resulting from the use of under-bed storage units is difficult accessibility. This is especially true for bins and baskets that you stack in front of each other. Reaching the ones that are in the back becomes mission impossible, meaning you’re not going to be using these pieces too often.

As an alternative, you may want to choose larger sliding drawers that have wheels.

Under-bed drawers on wheels are easy to find in home décor stores, as well as online. They’re available in many sizes and shapes, so you’ll easily find at least a few designs that are just perfect for your bedroom.

Pull-out drawers could be visible, especially if your bed is taller. Oversized linens and duvets will give you a good choice to conceal the drawers if they don’t match the colour of your bed. Alternatively, you can choose a bold and interesting design that will complement your bedroom without needing to be hidden.

Store a Bed Underneath the Bed

A  bed that slides from underneath the bed is the perfect idea for the creation of a guest bedroom if your flat is lacking one.

You can employ this clever trick in your child’s room or the second bedroom (in case your flat has one). All you’ll need is a minimalist sliding frame and a mattress on top of it. Pulling that contraption from underneath the bed will give you a room with two beds in it.

There are beds with a built-in second frame underneath the first one. If you’re going to be buying a bed right now, consider this option. Alternatively, you’ll need solely the sliding frame and a simple mattress on top of it to make the magic happen.

Colourful Toy Boxes

A child’s bedroom can easily become the messiest place in your flat. Lacking the space to put storage units inside it will contribute to even bigger chaos. Let’s face it toy bins and a few boxes aren’t going to cut it when it comes to keeping a nursery organised.

Colourful storage boxes built into the bed frame provide a cool opportunity to create an area your child is actually going to enjoy using.

Something as simple as bright and funky plastic boxes that fit inside the frame will be enough to provide enough storage for toys, books and art supplies.

Repurpose Old Suitcases

It’s very easy to get creative and come up with something funky to give your under-bed storage area some uniqueness.

Repurposing old suitcases (the more vintage they are, the better) is probably one of the most original ideas you can employ to give your under-bed storage some chic vibes.

Leather suitcases are a great choice because they look expensive and sophisticated. Additionally, these suitcases are very long-lived – they’re virtually indestructible. Since they are closed tightly, these suitcases will be ideal for the storage of clothes, linens and other belongings you don’t want to get dust on.

Under-Bed Shoe Organisers

Do you lack the space for a walk-in closet or a proper shoe display? Worry not! The under-bed area gives you the perfect chance to keep your shoes properly organised.

Wooden organisers are perfect for proper shoe storage. You’ll even find DIY ideas online that can be executed easily.

Adding glass or clear plastic lids to the wooden shoe boxes will give you a good look inside, allowing you to pick the ones that you’ll need that particular day.

These are just a few of the simple but clever things you can do with your under-bed space. If you’re seeking additional opportunities to optimise storage in a small flat, contact Home Guide today. We are renovation contractor that can create a bespoke solution that’s perfectly matched to your space and your lifestyle.

Stress has so many negative consequences and we’re finding it increasingly challenging to overcome everyday pressures in an effective way.

A home that’s peaceful and serene provides the best opportunities to unwind and get those batteries recharged.

Certain design elements have the biggest impact when it comes to creating a peaceful atmosphere. Here are a few of those choices that you can easily add to your home interior design.

The Right Colour Scheme

We have stressed the importance of colour selection numerous times in our blog posts. That’s because colours can provoke an immediate emotional response, be it a positive or a negative one.

Something as simple as changing the paint colour in your rooms can make your home feel more relaxing.

Subdued tones, pastels and natural colours work best. On the other hand, bold and aggressive colours like bright red can have an over-stimulating effect. Choose greens and blues if you’d like to experience quality relaxation after a busy day at the office.

Warm tones like pastel oranges, yellows and pinks are cheerful and optimistic. These are the colours that will put a smile on your face and get you eager to spend more time at home with your loved ones.

Plants and Greenery

A 2015 study suggests that gardening and even taking care of indoor plants can have positive mental health effects while also reducing stress effectively.

We need to feel connected with nature in order to balance mood and overcome negative emotions. Unfortunately, that can be difficult to achieve in urban settings.

You may be thinking that the ownership of plants isn’t the right choice for you – being busy and having no gardening knowledge whatsoever increases the likelihood of killing those plants as soon as they enter the home.

The good news is that various sturdy species exist. Here’s a list of easy to care for plants that can thrive even if you water them once a week.

Warm, Subdued Lights

Choosing the right lights provides additional opportunities to impact your mood in a positive way.

Natural light is always an amazing choice and if you can do things to maximise it, you should definitely go for such projects. A brighter, sunlight homes will put a smile on your face, whether you’re enjoying a delicious cup of coffee or doing your job in the home office.

Next, consider the types of bulbs and fixtures that result in a serene ambiance in the evening.

Warm tones and subdued lights give illumination without being aggressive. They’re also gentle and romantic in a feel-good way.

When doing lights, always start with a first layer of functional illumination that enables the performance of various tasks and activities in a certain room. A second layer of soft lights, also known as “mood lights” can be added to make the space appear peaceful and inviting. These lights are gentler and they can be dimmed to make the settings a bit more intimate.

Soft layered lights in the bedroom are equally important. Switch to those an hour or so before going to bed and you’ll quickly notice the stress leaving your body.

Tactile Textures

It’s a great idea to have something stimulating to the touch that you can get your hands into when you sit on the sofa or lay on the bed.

Tactile textiles can help you calm down whenever you feel very stressed. Velvets, plush fabrics, silk and suede will all do an amazing job.

Have fun and explore different textures when shopping for throw pillows, rugs, bed covers and tablecloths. The appearance of these items is important but they’ll also be touched often. Look for textures that feel good and cosy.  Softness and having something plush to dig your hands in will bring you back to your childhood days when you used to have a favourite teddy by your side at all times.

Art and Family Photos

The eye needs something beautiful to look at and feel inspired by. You can approach this aspect of interior design creation in several different ways.

Choosing art for the living room will give you a sense of inspiration. This is where you can go truly wild. A pop of bright colour against a more neutral background will liven up the atmosphere, create a focal time and also give you the mood boost that you may be in desperate need of when you get home.

An alternative approach would be to display family photos and souvenirs from the trips you took together or the activities you enjoyed in the past.

Family pictures will take you back to times of happiness and places that you enjoyed immensely. Happy memories will always put a smile on your face. They are a testament of love and togetherness that we all need in our lives.

Think about an entire gallery wall whether you’re working with framed or unframed photos. Positioning a gallery wall in the hallway is also a great idea as it will greet you immediately when you get home.

Your home should be a safe haven from everyday stress, anxiety and worries. Let us help you create this little oasis in your Singapore flat. Contact Home Guide to have your home upgraded and personalised by a experienced and reputable renovation contractor.

Camouflage kitchens break the rules and change the narrative when it comes to functional executions. The aim here is to conceal just about everything, resulting in minimalism and lots of pristine, clutter-free kitchen spaces.

A camouflaged kitchen uses smart solutions and folding panels to visually get rid of many elements that are static and always present. Some of the executions go as far as even hiding the sink.

The concept can work for many Singaporean homes and if you’d like to find out more, just keep on reading.

What’s a Camouflaged Kitchen?

Kitchen camouflage creates the illusion of clean, appliance and fixture-free surfaces.

Also known as a concealed kitchen, the trend puts emphasis on the quality of materials and the beauty of furniture lines. In a sense, this execution is minimalistic but the trend itself isn’t about minimalism per se. That’s because items and furnishings aren’t eliminated from the equation. Rather, they’re tucked neatly inside the smart kitchen furniture and can be pulled out during any moment of need.

Camouflage kitchens are characterised by simple shapes, high quality materials and cleared lines. This design allows the beauty of materials like marble, granite and solid wood to shine through. Because there’s so little to engage the eye in visual terms, every single element needs to be impeccable and chosen purposefully.

When Is a Camouflaged Kitchen a Good Choice for Your Home?

Every home can rock a concealed kitchen because it’s so cool and sophisticated in appearance.

Functionality-wise and in terms of strategic interior design choices, camouflaged kitchens are an excellent choice for small flats and tiny kitchens.

The clean lines and the absence of appliances creates the illusion of more space. Such a kitchen can also be organised better, which increases its usability. A single surface can double as a work area and a storage solution, bringing the clever concept to a whole new level.

Tips and Tricks to Make Kitchen Camouflage Happen

While a camouflage kitchen is all about simplicity, achieving such perfection isn’t easy.

The first and the most important thing you and your interior design team will need to think about is integrating appliances into cabinetry.

That usually means getting custom pieces that fit the size of your kitchen and that are also designed in a way to accommodate for items (both small and large) like a coffee machine, a stovetop, an oven and even a fridge. Yes, some of the most sophisticated camouflage kitchen executions can conceal large items like the refrigerator and even the pantry. In fact, some interior designers take on the challenge of concealing the entire kitchen area, making solely the dining area visible whenever food isn’t being prepared.

When planning the cabinetry, you’ll also need to decide how appliances and items are going to be pulled out upon need. Folding panels, roll-up doors or just regular cabinets can work for the various essential elements in the kitchen. Just make sure the opening method you choose guarantees easy access and also maximises safety.

It’s a good idea to have few larger panels incorporated into the cabinetry project, as well. Do you intend to conceal the entire sink area, for example? You’ll need a big fold-up panel for the purpose. It needs to match the cabinetry in terms of material, colour and texture. That’s why such solutions are best when executed by one and the same carpenter.

Do keep in mind that such panelling systems can be quite heavy depending on size. That’s why they need to be custom-executed by experienced professionals. The hardware installed is also going to be important to guarantee smooth, easy and safe opening and closing of the mechanism.

There’s one more camouflage kitchen element that you may want to consider and that’s a countertop. If it’s made cleverly, the countertop can feature lids capable of concealing a few kitchen elements or creating some cool storage space.

Be mindful of the fact that most countertops are crafted from heavy materials like stone. So, if you’re going to have opening lids, you’ll need to think about the weight and the mechanisms that will need to be installed to make opening easier.

A final tool in your arsenal is panelled doors or a screen that fits well with the cabinetry and the rest of the furniture. Such a screen often resembles an armoire and creates the illusion of yet another piece of furniture. It can be used to hide large items like the fridge, a dishwasher or an entire food prep area in the kitchen. The benefit of this solution is that it’s fairly simple to execute in comparison to some of the custom panelling. The result is also going to be seamless and well-integrated in the camouflage concept.

Sleek cabinetry and wall-to-wall storage solutions bring the camouflage kitchen to life, giving you modernity and usability.

Executing the perfect concealed kitchen can be a more labour-intensive and costly process than just choosing some furnishings. If you are looking for proper space optimisation and ease of maintenance, this beautiful and modern concept makes a lot of sense.

Home Guide’s team of experienced designers has a lot of know-how in the realm of executing innovative kitchen concepts. Check out our portfolio or contact Home Guide right now to bring the perfect modern kitchen vision to reality.

Fairy lights deliver one of the most flexible and versatile decorative solutions, which is why they tend to be incredibly popular during the holiday season. Available in numerous varieties, fairy lights can be hung on the Christmas tree or they can be incorporated in your home décor in numerous alternative ways.

If you’re not too keen on employing other Christmas decorations this year, prioritise elegant fairy lights and pendants. They will give you that warm, festive sensation while also adding to the cosiness and beauty of your home.

Hang Fairy Lights on the Ceiling

Putting lights on the Christmas tree is an obvious choice but it’s not the only option you have.

Fairy lights are affordable and super easy to install – two features that make them perfect for the creation of larger installations.

Obviously, the more illumination you have, the brighter and warmer your space is going to be. Which is why we suggest hanging fairy lights from the ceiling to transform your living room into a magical holiday village.

To thoroughly enjoy the installation, think about how you’re going to position the lights and what pattern you’d like to create. Will you go for a zig-zag? A ceiling outline? Or maybe you’d like to create a certain shape (a star, a heart, anything else that tickles your fancy)?

The easiest installation involves adhesive hooks that stick to the ceiling and secure the fairy lights in place. When you get those, you’ll simply be left with choosing the shape and colour of the lights that will create the most festive mood.

Faux Fire in the Faux Fireplace

Fire always adds warmth and holiday sentiments to an inner space. Unfortunately, Singaporean flats lack an actual fireplace that you can throw a few logs in.

The good news is that you can use fairy lights and something as simple as a fireplace poster to somewhat enjoy the sensation of having an actual fireplace inside.

If you have a niche or a wall recess in your home, you can even put a few actual logs in there and drape them with red and yellow fairy lights. The effect is going to be really charming, especially in the evening.

Adding a few candles to the installation is another good idea you can employ if you’d want to enjoy the appearance of actual flames in your “fireplace.”

Decorate Your Pendants

The good thing about pendants is they give you a fairly big surface area you can decorate to experience a Christmas home décor transformation.

Wrapping a few green branches and pine cones around your neutrally coloured pendants screams Christmas. You can also add a few ribbons or mistletoe, as long as you have enough space for the decorations not to look cluttered.

A pendant light can also support actual Christmas decorations. If you decide to hang baubles, choose ones in the same colour. Having too many different kinds of décor hanging from the lamp will look messy rather than classy. For an even better effect, choose glass baubles and decorations. These will sparkle when the light is turned on, giving you even more brightness and cheerfulness.

Fairy Lights in Lanterns

Empty lanterns are very easy to find in home décor shops and they are inexpensive. Just like fairy lights, these pieces are incredibly versatile and can be used to create some festive atmosphere without entering the realm of Christmas clichés.

Put some fairy lights inside each of the lanterns and place those in the hallway. This is an especially good idea if you have a long hallway that tends to appear somewhat gloomy and lifeless in the evening.

If you have stairs, you can also put a lantern on each one to illuminate the way up. The old-school appeal of lanterns will give you that fairy tale surreal sensation both you and your children will have so much fun with over the holidays.

Doorway Drapes

Cascading lights that frame doorways and arches in your home will drive the fairy tale message further home.

This is another super simple DIY approach that lets you bring holiday cheers inside without needing to embrace traditional Christmas decorations. Doorway light drapes can also look very stylish, as long as you choose the right colour and you make sure that you have an abundance of lights to give you a rich effect.

A similar approach can be employed towards window decorations. These window light drapes will be fun to create, plus they’ll be noticeable from the outside, as well. You will get the warm, excited sensation as soon as you head home from work and spot the window lights from the street.

Bring the Magic in Your Bedroom

The magic of holiday fairy lights and pendants can be brought in the bedroom, as well. It’s one of the spaces that few people take the time to decorate, creating an immense missed opportunity.

A cascade of lights hanging down the bed frame will give you a beautiful canopy that can inspire and deliver a sense of peace when you decide to call it a night.

Lights and pendants can also create warm and soothing wall accents, especially if you don’t feature a lot of art in the bedroom.

Light can transform your inner space through its colour, shape and design aesthetic. Let us help you choose the right lights to match your interior design concept and add value to your domestic space. Contact Home Guide now if you’d like to experience the metamorphic power of appropriate light selection in home interior design.

Your surroundings will determine just how festive your mood is going to get as Christmas approaches. The holidays are just around the corner and if you haven’t decorated yet, the time has come to consider the addition of some celebratory elements to your flat’s interior design.

Christmas décor doesn’t have to be too lavish or kitschy in order to convey the right message. You can easily find (or DIY) pieces that fit your aesthetics and make you feel warm inside.

Christmas Lights and Candles

If you’re tired of decorations that have already become so cliché (Christmas trees, wreaths, elves and reindeer figurines), you can always count on Christmas lights and candles to create a festive, elegant décor.

The best thing about lights and candles is that you can find all colours, easily matching the overall palette in your home. There are also blinking lights, wide-angle LED lights, icicle lights, colour changing lights and many other specialty products. If you have kids, they will be thrilled by all of the colour and the illumination. If you don’t, you can pick a sophisticated monochromatic light set that will feel like Christmas and look impressive.

Candles are great to put on coffee tables, window ledges, in the kitchen and in the bedroom. Scented or not – it’s really up to you. You can choose candles in the same colour (go for different shapes and sizes to create some layers) or go completely wild with different tones, patterns and designs that feel somewhat naïve and bring back the festivities you enjoyed during your childhood.

DIY Wreaths

Commercially manufactured wreaths often have that cheap synthetic feel to them. The good news is that a natural DIY wreath is so easy to create. It will give you uniqueness and you can choose natural materials to get a more exquisite look.

Pinterest and other social media can give you dozens of ideas and tutorials on wreath making.  In most cases, you’ll need a wire frame that’s used for the tying of the decorative elements. Speaking of which, you can easily gather materials like moss, pine cones, all kinds of natural greenery and branches, ribbons, beads, dried flowers, Christmas decorations, lights.

The rest depends on your original concept and dexterity. A wreath is great to place on the front door and it can even be used as a coffee table centrepiece in your living room. If you put it on the table, a candle can be housed inside the frame for an even more festive mood (just be careful and make sure that the creation doesn’t pose fire hazard).

Vintage Christmas Décor

To stay away from commercial Christmas décor you’ll find in just about every store, try to find authentic vintage pieces.

Many vintage festive decorations are handmade or crafted from high quality materials. Delicate and intricate, these decorations look much more like pieces of jewellery than something you’d hang on a Christmas tree.

Various Singapore vintage stores will give you access to glass Christmas toys, Christmas prints and wall art, wooden figurines, garlands, vintage lights and tabletop decorations. Discovering such treasures will take some time and an eye for detail. Doing a scavenger hunt right before the holidays, however, can turn into a fun family activity that will get you prepared for the upcoming celebrations.

Transform Your Dining Table

To complete the festive settings, consider new pieces for the dining table. The right setup is going to have a massive transformative effect you’ll get to enjoy each time you sit together for a meal.

A tablecloth and festive linens will quickly transform the area where you have breakfast, lunch and dinner. A statement centrepiece, as well as a candelabrum will also make sense. If you want to, bring out your favourite silver or gold-plated utensils for an added degree of opulence.

When in Doubt, Go for Gold

If you don’t like traditional Christmas colours like red and green, you can easily opt for an elegant alternative like gold.

Gold harmonises effortlessly with most colour palettes and it can match just about any interior design concept. Not only does it look elegant, gold adds warmth and shimmer to each room for an immediate uplifting effect.

You can feature gold in the form of Christmas tree ornaments, garlands, candles, embroidered textiles (throw pillows, blankets), gift wrapping and wall décor pieces. To create some balance, you can pair the gold elements with a few white pieces that add a neutral touch and let the room breathe.

Finally, don’t forget to bring your personality in the festive picture. You don’t need a holiday setup that looks like it’s been taken out of an interior design magazine. The little personal touches are the ones that will maximise enjoyment. So, don’t be afraid of hanging your kid’s Christmas art everywhere or painting a few baubles as a family. While these aren’t going to look perfect, they will give you the special sentiment needed to create a magical Christmas.

If you’d like to get some professional input and assistance on transforming your home this December, contact Home Guide now. We’d love to create a Christmas wonderland that will give your home décor that distinctive feel.

New technologies have made the impossible possible in many areas, including interior design. One of the most versatile and practical new tech solutions is 3D printing. We’ve touched upon its potential in home décor but we haven’t discussed specific executions yet.

With 3D printing, customised home décor is becoming more affordable and much easier to create. There are many clever ideas that are already a thing in the world of interior design. If you’re thinking about the incorporation of this technology in your brand new project, here are some possibilities.

All Kinds of Art and Statement Pieces

The thing about statement pieces is that they simply can’t look generic in order to stand out. In other words, the posters and prints you find in a home décor shop will never stand the test of time.

With 3D printing, however, you can create outstanding artistic pieces that are original and very often – unique.

You can look for online inspiration. There are entire Pinterest boards dedicated to 3D printed art.3D printed letters, geometric shapes and even entire sculptures can add some modernity to the artistic aspects of your home décor.

Many artists already use 3D printers to put together their new pieces in a modern, unexpected way. If you have an idea, you can also commission to creation of such a statement piece. With 3D printing, you can be as bold or as intricate and elaborate as you’d want to be. There are absolutely no limitations, meaning your statement pieces will be a perfect match to the style tone you’ve chosen.

Lamps and Light Fixtures

Lightweight and modern light fixtures are also being 3D printed instead of manufactured using other technologies.

The cool thing about 3D printed lamps, chandeliers and fixtures is that they can be executed in any style. At the same time, the technology makes such pieces much more affordable than an original vintage item belonging to a certain era.

3D printed lamps and fixtures are lightweight and very easy to install. They’re suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. With 3D printing, you can also see the introduction of textures and details that can be very difficult to accomplish when other materials or construction methods are being utilised.

Vases, Plant Holders, Flower Mounts

Tradition and modernity come together with 3D printed plant holders. Gardening is such a traditional craft and most of the pots used for the purpose have a fairly classic look.

With 3D printing, plant holders have been fast forwarded to the next century.

Minimalist, honeycomb designs and even self-watering pots are very easy to make using the technology. In fact, numerous furniture and accessory designers are already employing this kind of printing to make their vases and plant mounts.

The material used in 3D printing is fully waterproof, a characteristic that makes it ideal for the intended use. its lightweight nature also makes the containers made of it very easy to mount on a wall or outside on a balcony.

Storage Units and Solutions

We can’t ignore some of the larger, more practical home décor elements that can be constructed via 3D printing.

Storage is usually a big problem in an urban flat. Many HDB homes tend to be small, lacking enough space for the use of traditional storage solutions.

Luckily, 3D printing comes to the rescue.

3D printed storage can be custom-created to match the needs of a homeowner and the size of the flat. Very often, these storage units are foldable or stackable to increase their practical appeal even further. additionally, if you have an oddly-shaped space that you’d like to have your storage units contained in, 3D printing will be the best technology for you. It can be used to create virtually any shape or size of a container.

Modular Units and Accessories

Modular solutions are the rage right now because they allow for so much personalisation. With 3D printing, the creation of modular units has become a lot more affordable and faster than it’s been in the past.

One example of such a creation is a modular kitchen backsplash. The individual tiles fit into each other and you get to decide how big and tall the backsplash is going to be. Given the modular nature of the design, you can also create unusual shapes that look more artistic or that deliver more practicality than regular backsplashes.

Stackable modular drawers, modular geometric planters and even modular 3D printed furniture are also readily available on the market.

All Kinds of Kitchen Accessories

From a salt shaker to measuring spoons, refrigerator organisation boxes, coffee pod holders and paper towel dispensers, 3D printing can be used to create most of the popular/practical kitchen accessories every household needs.

Even gadgets are already being made using the 3D printing technology. The market already has a 3D printed citrus press, juicer, garlic press, egg cracker and even an intricate sushi maker.

The technology has a massive potential and new solutions created via 3D printing will continue popping up all the time.

Concrete is unobtrusive, predictable and even a little bit boring. It’s definitely the last material that comes to mind when you’re thinking of a sophisticated home upgrade.

Many interior designers, however, have been experimenting with concrete on the execution of modern, clean and stylish home renovation projects. There are various reasons why the demand for the material has grown. Let’s examine a few of those, as well as some of the fun ways that concrete can be incorporated in your home upgrade.

The Benefits of Using Concrete in Interior Design

Concrete is a material that brings a number of distinctive merits to the table.

The first important benefit is versatility. Concrete is strong, flexible and lightweight in comparison to many other materials. As a result, it can be used in places and projects that will make heavier materials impractical or even impossible to employ.

Concrete can also be cast in any shape and colours can be added to change its appearance. Artisan concrete can even replicate the appearance of more expensive materials, which increases the range of applications even further.

The material is suitable for any room – from the bathroom to the kitchen and even the bedroom. It is stain-resistant, it’s customisable and it happens to be a sustainable material. Adding a reasonable price tag to the mix justifies the use of concrete throughout the home even further.

Some Ways to Use Concrete Elements in Your Home

There are many standard and unorthodox uses of concrete in your home’s interior design.

In the past, concrete use was limited to industrial design. With new casting technologies and ways to pour concrete, it can now be a part of much cosier interior design styles and trends. Furthermore, the material can be paired with warmer choices like wood. These combos result in even more balance and they can give you some fun juxtaposition for the creation of visual interest.

Concrete is a particularly great choice for floors and walls. It can create panels, arches, recesses and even built-in shelving solutions that are seamless and clean.

In the kitchen, concrete can be used to create custom and fairly affordable countertops. It is a heat and scratch-resistant material that will perform really well for work surfaces. The lightweight nature of modern artisan concrete turns it into a great choice that will make the casting of any countertop shape an easy task.

Kitchen backsplashes crafted from concrete can also be really fun, especially when it’s paired with a more exciting material like glass or small tiles that will create a beautiful mosaic.

Bathroom dividers and partitions made of concrete also tend to perform really well. There can be various other applications in wet spaces because concrete is such a splash-resistant material.

A few other home décor options include concrete light fixtures, art pieces and sculptures and even textured walls that will serve as interior design accents. Concrete can also successfully recreate the elegance of more expensive materials like marble or even some metals. The addition of dyes and stains turns this chameleon of a material into something much more expensive-looking than it actually is.

A Few Design Tips That Will Help You Make the Most of Concrete Elements

You can easily come up with multiple ways to incorporate concrete in your home’s interior design. If you’d like to make the concept and the execution cohesive, however, pay attention to the following tips and rules.

Start by planning the use of concrete in its natural state. The material is available in various shades of grey, turning it in a perfect neutral. Originally, it was an important part of industrial and brutalist home interiors. Contemporary designs, however, are becoming more eclectic than ever before. So, before thinking about staining concrete, try to work with the material in its purest form.

If you are worried about concrete elements being too cool and sterile, start out with a few small accent pieces. Little touches of concrete here and there can create some visual interest without overwhelming or taking over the design concept.

Decorative concrete pieces are readily available in home stores. If you don’t like any of those pieces, you can have some custom-ordered. Microcement is a great alternative that you can actually employ in DIY projects. Its ability to adhere to any surface and any material makes it incredibly easy to work with.

Finally, don’t shy away from bigger concrete installations and statement pieces. There are actually concrete pieces of furniture like coffee tables, lamp stands and even concrete chairs. These are a great choice for the people who aren’t afraid to think outside the box. Don’t be fooled by the rigidity of concrete – furniture made of this material can be as comfortable and ergonomic as their counterparts made of lightweight or more traditional materials.

Concrete gives you many chances to try something new and do that without breaking the bank. It’s an easy material to work with and the customisation potential is limitless.

If you’re thinking about the use of concrete or you’re wondering about the materials that make the most sense for your project, contact Home Guide. We are an experienced interior design company happy to guide you through the options, acquainting you with the strengths and potential of each.

Like many other disciplines, interior design has its rules and guidelines. These dictate space planning, colour selection and many other aspects of creating the perfect décor.

Luckily, the world of interior design isn’t static. Society changes and so do our lifestyles. With these changes, modifications to the rules of interior design are also inevitable. Here are some of the tenets that used to be written in stone but are now generally being disregarded.

The 60-30-10 Rule

The 60-30-10 rule used to be one of the main guidelines for colour selection in each of the rooms. According to it, the main colour in a scheme has to be used in about 60 per cent of the room’s décor, followed by a secondary colour (30 per cent) and an accent colour (10 per cent).

The rule aimed to make things easier for non-professionals, as well as for interior designers who’d adopt an analytical approach towards colour and furnishing selection.

With such a rule, however, come a lot of limitations. The problem with this guideline, just like with most others, is that it results in fairly formulaic outcomes that sometimes lack creativity and inspiration.

Interior designers today are putting intense, accent colours in the spotlight much more often. They’re also starting to use more than one accent colour. Such an approach brings intensity and power to a living space. Yes, it’s possible to go overboard with too many accents but having a professional handling the project is usually going to produce balanced, aesthetically-pleasing outcomes.

While using the 60-30-10 rule as a general guideline can make things easier, you don’t have to adhere to it 100 per cent. If you feel that adding more of an accent to a space will make it shine better, go for it! What matters is enjoying the end result and being in harmony with it.

Furniture Scale

As a general rule of thumb, the scale of furniture has to match the size of the room it’s being placed in. in other words, putting an oversized couch in a tiny living room is only going to make the space feel more suffocating.

This rule is another good guideline for non-professionals who may find it difficult to select good proportions. Interior designers today, however, are disregarding the guideline very often when working on small spaces.

Using only small scale furniture in a small room can achieve the exact same effect as the overstuffed couch – it will highlight the &tininess of the space.

One larger, accent piece that’s distinctively stylish and well-made will deliver some dynamics needed to let the room breathe. Don’t be afraid of fitting a sofa instead of just getting a love chair (if you have enough space for it, of course). Such a choice will create layers and also give you the comfort needed to enjoy your home.

Scale isn’t the only thing you should be concerned with. It needs to be examined in the context of placement. In other words, deciding where each piece of furniture is going to sit will be as important as making sure the size is right.

Matching Everything

The homes of days gone by used to look impeccable and way too matchy-matchy for comfort. Good thing is that the rule has been thrown out the window.

Matching everything will only result in a sterile, somewhat fake environment. Such choices are very easy to make (just buy an entire collection and you’re good to go) but they lack charm and personality.

Mixing materials, patterns and textures makes interiors more interesting. While doing layering like a pro can be very difficult, it’s the only way to give your interior design much-needed depth and sophistication.

Neutral Colour on the Ceiling

How boring is this rule? And how often do you see homes/offices that are bright and colourful but featuring only neutrals on the ceiling?

White, beige and grey are all typical ceiling paint colours. They’re safe but they are completely lifeless.

Today, ceilings are often called the “fifth dimension” because they provide enough space for an interior design statement. Slapping some neutral paint on a ceiling is simply not enough to make the décor astonishing all the way through.

Putting wallpaper on the ceiling is a fun little experiment that some interior designers have embraced in an attempt to add visual interest to that neglected space. Ceilings can also benefit from metallic finishes or even the placement of art for a nice surprise very few people will be expecting.

Matching Wood Stains

You’re probably seeing a pattern here already. Most outdated interior design rules focus on matching elements, be it colours, patterns or materials.

The rule extends to the finishes and stains used on wood colour throughout the home. The old-school guideline is to always use matching wood tones in an attempt to achieve cohesiveness throughout.

We recommend disregarding this rule and having a bit of fun.

Wood, just like all other elements inside the home, doesn’t need to match. In fact, different stains can be used to create interesting accents and direct attention towards the most impressive parts of the décor.

You can also play with finishes, making some shiny while keeping others matte.

If you don’t know how to bring eclectic fun into your home, contact Home Guide now. We enjoy ambitious, fun projects filled with quirkiness and character. Our residential portfolio is diversified enough to make us comfortable with most styles and modern possibilities the world of renovation enables today.

Bright, exciting, bold, delicate – colour can be used to convey so many emotions and have a striking impact in the world of home décor. Just like other aspects of interior design, colour has seen massive transformations through the years. What was considered especially refined and trendy a decade ago is already frowned upon by the most popular and sought-after interior designers today.

Colour trends have changed for various reasons – lifestyles, social and cultural trends, functional considerations. Let’s check some of the popular colours of the days gone by and the reasons why they were considered such an attractive option.

The Decadence of the 1920s and 1930s

Art deco was at its height during the 1920s and 30s. With it came lots of luxury, elegance and sophistication.

As far as colour schemes were concerned, they prioritised bold and saturated rich tones. Yellows, cadmium red, jewel tones like purple and jade green dominated the home décor landscape. These were the decades during which bright colours capable of making a powerful statement were embraced unconditionally for the first time.

The 1920s and 1930s were linked to growth, economic prosperity and stability. All these important socioeconomic factors got reflected in home décor choices. Just think of The Great Gatsby and the lush home interiors featured in this masterpiece. You’ll quickly get a detailed visual of the prominent interior design elements, as well as the colour schemes chosen to accentuate and enhance all of the opulence.

Practical Naturalism during the 1940s

The prosperity and lavishness of the 1920s and 1930s came to an end in the 1940s. War and the crises linked to it changed the general outlook on life and the way people approached their home décor.

During the 1940s, primary and natural colours gained a lot more prominence than the lavish tones that were adored just a decade ago.

Muted colours and traditional, practical colour schemes came to the forefront of interior design and home decorations. Greys and other neutral tones started popping up in homes across the world more frequently, as well.

The 1940s were a sombre period for humanity and the prominent colours of that decade stand as living proof of the claim.

Regaining Optimism in the 1950s

The end of war brought on new sentiments and a wave of optimism that swept across the globe to transform the solemn mood of the decade gone by.

People started dreaming big and daring to consider the creation of their dream home. Most were hoping for long-term stability and as a result, they were prone to invest in brand new furnishings and décor pieces.

Colours were chosen to set a positive tone and enhance mood at home.

Splashes of pink, orange, blue and mint green all gained popularity. Home owners and designers also gained the courage to experiment with more eclectic colour palettes and choices that were considered a big no-no in the interior design rule book before.

The Hippie Revolution of the 1960s

This decade is the one that saw the most dramatic change in colour trends from beginning to end.

Interior designers believe that the 1960s didn’t have a prominent colour scheme of their own. That’s because the decade was characterised by lots of turbulent change. The hippie movement had a definite influence and the same applies to the “mod” sub-culture. Vibrant shades, even confrontational colour choices were embraced to create unique, outstanding and sometimes even shocking home decors.

One thing is clear – all of the colours from this decade are bright and unapologetic. As far as particular tones being prioritised over others, pinks, greens, blues, purples and neons were all highly present.

All Natural in the 1970s

The desire for closeness to nature influenced colour scheme selections throughout the 1970s.

Some of the most prominent tones utilised in home décor over this decade include greens, yellows, beiges, muted oranges, browns and pastel blues. People started rejecting the “synthetic” look of many bold colours that used to dominate interior design a few decades back. As a result, interior designs started appearing a bit more tame and balanced.

Shining Bright in the 1980s

One word that can be used to describe the colours of the 1980s is contrasting.

The natural, gentle tones disappeared and bold choices replaced those docile colours. Fluorescent colours, neons, metallic tones and textures – all of those got embraced to make a statement and celebrate life.

The 1990s and 2000s: A Little Bit of Everything

Just like it has happened before in history, the 1990s caused a complete shift from the boldness of the previous decade. The contrasting, aggressive colour choices were replaced by more natural and functional palettes. Natural tones, especially those of the forest returned to a world that had become increasingly urbanised and hectic.

Through the 2000s, people continued experimenting with all kinds of combinations. Neutrals paired with a bolder accent tone, eclectic designs, colour explosions – all of those got embraced.

Today, interior design colour palettes can be anything you envision. From the gentle and romantic to the aggressively unorthodox, you have the freedom to choose whatever makes you happiest.

We’re here for this freedom and we’re eager to become a part of your home transformation journey. Contact Home Guide right now if you’re considering an interior design upgrade and you’d like to benefit from the approach of highly experienced and reputable professionals.