In December 2018, the Housing and Development Board (HDB) announced that a total of 15,000 new build-to-order (BTO) apartments will be launched during the coming year. The number is similar to the range for 2018 – 15,800 BTO flats.
A wider selection will be offered across various types of estates like Sengkang, Kallang Whampoa and Jurong West. Diversification is required as the housing needs of Singapore real estate seekers are becoming more varied.
Anyone who is interested in the acquisition of a new property and HDB renovation will be pleased to find out that the waiting times for some of the new BTO flats will be decreased.
As per the official announcement, 2,000 of the flats to be supplied to the market in 2019 will be located in the new Tengah complex and they will have a much shorter waiting time than the other BTO flats.
Those interested can expect to enter their brand new Tengah BTO flat in anywhere between two and three years from the application. This is a significant decrease from the typical waiting time of three to four years.
A first batch of BTO flats characterised by a shorter waiting list was already made available.
The offer revolved around Sembawang, Yishun and Sengkang properties and was launched in November 2018. So far, the HDB has received 3,300 applications for the 1,100 short waiting time BTO flats.
Anyone who is interested in applying for an HDB BTO flat will need to acquaint themselves with the official procedure (outlined on the official HDB website).
Once the announcement is made, potential homebuyers will need to make sure that they’re eligible to buy from the HDB. The eligibility requirements include being a Singapore citizen (or permanent resident), being at least 21, falling within the set income ceiling and having no other overseas or local property. People who have already bought n HDB flat cannot apply for another BTO flat.
If the eligibility requirements are met, the prospective buyers will have to apply for either a HDB or a bank loan and make sure they’re capable of covering the multiple expenses related to a BTO flat purchase. Only then can an application be submitted successfully. Keep in mind that receiving financial assistance, regardless from the source, will also come with certain conditions and eligibility requirements all applicants have to fulfil.
HDB makes regular announcements about the release of new properties in various projects. Once an announcement is made, people who are interested in HDB properties can commence the application process.
In November 2018, HDB reported that 7,214 new flats will be made available during the month. These were released under both the BTO and the sale of balance flats (SBF) exercise. Once again, the range of possibilities was significant to meet the needs of different potential residential property buyers.
The flats were located within five projects in Sengkang, Sembawang, Yishun, Tengah and Tampines.
The project in Tengah Town (Plantation Grove) was the first BTO project in the area. Plantation Grove is the first of five housing districts to be developed within Tengah. The development is characterised by rustic charm, green living and community infrastructure developments aimed at ensuring a high standard to the residents.
Apart from announcing the upcoming sale of the 2019 BTO flats, the HDB provided information about several other important changes to anticipate in the coming year.
One of the key changes is the fact that first-time buyers will now be eligible for an 80,000-dollar housing grant that is made up of an up to 40,000-dollar Additional CPF Housing Grant and an up to 40,000-dollar Special CPF Housing Grant.
First-time buyers who are interested in a resale flat will be capable of applying for a housing grant of up to 120,000 dollars. The increase is 50 per cent in comparison to grant levels from three years ago.
Apart from the potential grant, resale flat buyers will also benefit from a streamlined property acquisition process.
Earlier in 2018, the HDB launched its brand new HDB Resale Portal. The aim of the website is to provide convenience to both resale buyers and sellers. Through the use of the portal, the transaction time can be brought down from 16 to eight weeks.
HDB also announced that it will continue monitoring the housing needs of Singaporeans closely in the future. Based on this information, the number of newly available flats will be calibrated to ensure an adequate supply.
Are you planning the purchase of a BTO flat from the HDB in 2019? If so, you may need some professional assistance in home interior design to create the home of your dreams.
Partnering up with an experienced HDB interior design Singapore company will enable you to personalise the flat as much as possible within the HDB guidelines. Remember that there are certain limitations pertaining to what you can and cannot do. A licensed HDB interior design company will guide you through the process and pinpoint the activities that will result in maximum impact without causing regulatory problems.
Home Guide is one such team.
We are a reputable interior design company that is HDB registered. Over the years, we have worked on multiple residential home improvements and renovations. We know what it takes to ensure comfort and personalisation without going overboard on the HDB requirements or the renovation budget of the brand new owner.
Contact us today if you have a BTO flat that you’d like to modify and renovate in 2019. We will be more than happy to outline the possibilities, understand your goals and execute the project that will give you access to your dream home.
Singapore Residential property safety has long been one of the primary focus areas for the Singapore Housing and Development Board (HDB). The board has undertaken numerous initiatives to maximise safety and the EASE programme is one of them.
In December 2018, HDB announced an expansion of the programme aimed at even more effective residential property safety measures.
Starting December 5, 2018, the HDB will be offering ramps for the residents who live in older flats that feature staircases and multi-step entrances.
The ramps will be provided under the Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) programme – a part of the Home Improvement Programme (HIP). The improvement items installed in a flat or a building through EASE aim to increase comfort and safety for senior residents and also – to enhance their mobility.
Before the new announcement, the EASE package consisted of three possible improvements.
The first one was the use of slip-resistant treatments on existing floor tiles. The scope of application is up to two bathrooms or toilets.
Another improvement under EASE is the installation of grab bars made available in a set of two varieties – one set of up to 10 grab bars to be used within one toilet or through the apartment and a second set of six grab bars for installation in a second toilet.
A final fixture under the programme was up to five ramps available for installation within a flat, as well as at the building’s main entrance.
EASE is a highly subsidised programme. Participants have to pay for only a small portion of the property improvement costs. Depending on the specifics of the flat and the applicant’s eligibility, the programme can cover up to 95 per cent of the residential renovation cost.
More contemporary HDB flats are created with safety and senior mobility in mind.
Older residential properties constructed in the 1970s and 1980s, however, all feature multi-step entrances. A wheelchair-bound individual will find it virtually impossible to get in or out of the building without assistance.
According to HDB statistics, nearly 170,000 HDB flats in Singapore have multi-step entrances. The design is needed to ensure the privacy and the security of those living on the first floor. At the same time, however, it poses issues to those dealing with mobility challenges.
Under the EASE expansion, both a portable and a customised ramp will be made available. Both of these are suitable for installation in apartment buildings that feature a multi-step entrance.
Portable ramps are a good choice for the buildings that have a corner entrance, for example. The ramp can easily be dismantled and removed when it’s not being used.
Customised ramps are built to meet the configuration of the specific apartment building’s entrance. These are great for places that feature space constraints in front of the unit. Units located alongside corridors can also benefit from the installation of a customised ramp.
Those whose apartments are undergoing an HDB renovation under the HIP programme will be offered EASE improvements in conjunction. This is when the ramps can be installed for added convenience and speed.
If a flat renovation isn’t taking place under HIP, a direct EASE application can take place.
An application can be submitted via the programme’s e-service. By following the link, potential applicants will get more information about the documentation that will be required to qualify for EASE improvements financial assistance.
A functional assessment report has to be submitted during the application process for Singapore property owners whose household has at least one member aged between 60 and 64 and requiring assistance for one or more activities of daily living.
A qualified assessor has to endorse the report for it to be accepted by the HDB. The Singapore Medical Council is one example of such an entity that can act as a qualified assessor.
People over the age of 65 or property owners who live with at least one family member in that range can also apply for the programme expansion, if the senior citizen is a wheelchair user.
Once the application is received, the HDB will respond within seven business days. HDB staff members or an appointed contractor will get in touch with the property owner to discuss a possible installation date.
Usually, the entire process takes approximately a month (from applying to having the respective EASE item or fixture installed).
HDB has announced one final programme possibility that will apply to HDB buildings where a ramp cannot be installed.
A lightweight mechanical wheelchair lift that is suitable for HDB estates will be installed in such buildings under a separate pilot programme.
Keep in mind, however, that the lift is a lot costlier to install and it also requires professional maintenance. Thus, if a ramp solution is not feasible at all, a separate application outside of the EASE programme will be required.
For Singapore citizen households, the government will subsidise half of the lift’s cost. The balance and an annual service fee will have to be covered by the HDB apartment’s owner.
Making HDB residential spaces safer and more accessible for seniors does not have to be challenging or incredibly costly.
Partnering up with the right team will give you access to smart, cost-efficient solutions that can result in greater mobility, convenience and safety. For the purpose, however, you will need to partner up with a team that has a lot of experience with HDB renovations and the selection of tailored solutions for residential problems.
Home Guide is one such Singapore interior design team with a lot of experience in renovations and interior design of HDB apartments.
Over the years, we have renovated multiple HDB apartments to address the specific needs of the owner. We know what it takes to offer personalisation, safety and readily accessibility, and we have the appropriate licences to do so.
Contact us today if you would like to make your residential property much more senior citizen friendly.
It’s the beginning of yet another year and the time is right to organise your apartment. Whether you live in a large flat or a smaller HDB space, you can find ways to make the most of what’s available. Reorganising things and enlisting the help of a Singapore interior design company will show you the full capacity of your property.
Freeing up space in the apartment doesn’t have to be a complex or expensive project. A few very simple changes will give you the opportunity to start 2019 in the best possible way.
Many stores feature bins, boxes and clever contraptions you can use to store most items and get them in some sort of order.
Ikea is one of the stores known for the cool organisational items but it’s not the only one.
If you have a pantry, you can use bins and boxes with labels on them to bring similar items together, group them and make them easier to retrieve. Clear bins are an ideal choice because you’ll get to see what’s stored inside of each.
Clothes that you’re not using at the time being can be stored in vacuum-sealed bags. You need a simple vacuum cleaner to get the air out and to shrink the size of the bag. Vacuum storage reduces the volume significantly, especially if you have bulkier items like coats, knitted clothes, blankets and duvets you’re not using.
Living in a smaller HDB flat means that you don’t have a whole lot of horizontal space.
Horizontal storage options aren’t a good choice for you. Instead, opt for vertical alternatives. The more levels you can add to the wall (and even to the ceiling), the better.
Simple shelves are ideal because they’re space-saving. Cabinets give you a chance to hide things inside them but if you don’t have a lot of space, it’s not really a clever thing to place a bulky cabinet in the respective part of the home.
The interior designer you’re working with will help you create a personalised vertical storage solution for your home. These professionals know what it takes to utilize the nooks and the crannies that aren’t suitable for any other purpose.
The prevalence of smaller living spaces in Singapore over the past few years has contributed to a brand new furniture trend.
Smart furniture is usually multi-purpose and it can either be transformed or it featured a hidden storage compartment.
Such pieces are ideal for a home that’s to be reorganised in order to free up space. A bed that has a storage unit underneath or a similar coffee table can enable you to tuck many items inside. If you’re using the space underneath your furniture, you’ll be free from having to clutter the operational surfaces inside the home.
There are many types of smart furniture on the market. Even if you can’t find a piece addressing your needs, such an item can be custom-created for you.
While custom furniture is more expensive than ready-made items, it will be an ideal choice for your home and your storage needs. In addition, custom furniture can be crafted with more attention to detail – a characteristic that will potentially increase its lifespan.
Do you feel that you simply don’t have enough closet space? Even if your closet is a relatively small one, there’s still space inside it you’re not using.
You can rely on several clever hacks in order to make the most of the available closet.
Hanging a few bags on the inside of the closet door is a great choice for storing smaller items like scarves, accessories, hats and other things that don’t belong on the shelves.
You can also tuck a wicker basket underneath the rack. Choose the right size so that it doesn’t stand in the way of the hanging clothes. A basket is a great choice for dealing with closet clutter, especially if you cannot be bothered to put things back where you found them in the first place.
The kitchen is the most functional part of the apartment, which is why it features numerous utensils, appliances and knick-knacks. If you cook and enjoy meals at home, chances are that the kitchen space isn’t enough.
Here are a few things you can try to optimize the kitchen space in 2019.
Once again, put vertical space to good use. Magnetic racks and spice jars are a great choice. They look beautiful, they’re incredibly practical and they take items off the countertop.
Narrow vertical cabinets that are custom-made for your kitchen will also be a wonderful opportunity for the utilization of space that’s not readily accessible. Such cabinets usually slide out and they can be used to store cooking oil, trays, cutting boards, baking pans and other things you want to get quick access to.
Space dividers inside the cabinets are inexpensive and a great choice for better organization and for the fitting of more items inside.
The most important thing to remember is that you shouldn’t opt for universal storage hacks. Instead, consider the specifics of your living space and the organization ideas that will make the most sense for you.
Experienced interior designers will help you understand your living space better and enhance its storage capacity.
Home Guide’s team has carried out multiple home interior design projects throughout Singapore. We understand the challenges that the owners of small flats deal with. We also work hard to offer each customer a tailor-made solution that’s specific to their case, budget and needs.
Don’t hesitate to contact us today in order to transform your living space in 2019. Just because your flat is small doesn’t mean you have to live in a cluttered environment. We have the knowledge and the skills to give you more space, order and cosiness.
We completed this home interior design and renovation project for a HDB resale flat in Bishan Street 22. This is the letter and testimonial from the client describing the journey from start to finish.
Throughout my lifetime, home has always been an extremely precious place to me. I love spending time at home, it’s a deep sort of affinity that I identify with dearly. For almost all my life, I lived in a 5-room HDB in Bishan, and I especially loved the corner that I slept in – even after I had moved out and my family renovated the place, I would sometimes think about the corner when I spent much of my life awake at night, pondering the meaning of life as I drifted off to dreamland.
After getting married in January 2017, my wife Linh and I looked for a resale HDB, in, to nobody’s surprise, Bishan. As a true lover of the heartland where the yellow and red MRT lines intersected, I often mentally mocked the sorrow of our dear brothers AMK and TPY for whom fate decided not to grant the Circle Line to. So close, yet so far. After securing the place, the search for an interior designer begun. My wife and I were very aligned on the vision for our home. We both loved pandas, and wanted our home to be cosy with slight touch of minimalistic. We also really liked wood, and valued deeply an open and spacious concept. Cosy, open, wood would be the three key words.
I learnt about Home Guide from a good friend of mine – her Dad was the owner of the company. While this was a pull factor, we wanted to choose the best firm for the job, so we searched intensively over a period of 4 months. We contacted over 20 firms and met about 10 from a variety of sources. This took a toll and there were times where we got tired of meeting new IDs and judging them based on their proposals and interactions. Yet we pressed on, because our intent was to live in this home for the rest of our lives (that’s probably another 60 years).
We don’t intend to move or upgrade in future, so we really only had one shot to get this right, thus we were extremely particular about the person we would work with – I think it is safe to say that our eventual designer Wanting must have felt pretty exasperated with us at times because of how demanding our requirements were. We got involved in every single detail possible (some of which mattered little, others more so), things like grouting colour all the way to innovative ways to box up toilet and air conditioning pipes. In most creative work, there is a constant battle between what is functional and what is creative.
Most creative ideas may not be functional or lack usability, whereas most functional ideas tend to be dull and boring. We ignored this rule of thumb and demanded both in our vision. As dreamers, we started off with creative, incredulous ideas, and then demanded that we find out a way to make it functional simultaneously.
A couple of examples would make this apparent. For the design phase, we didn’t work with just Wanting from Home Guide. While I really liked her thoroughness and attention to detail, I valued the creativity from another designer named Gerard from another firm, therefore we engaged both and our design meetings were with two designers providing two differing perspectives. Whereas most other projects typically take a couple of months for the design, we took an arduous 9 months, recycling over 10 layout design ideas and countless others such as reading nooks, secret, hidden doors, arched doorways and replacing walls with full-panel glass.
We would take our floor plan, erase all the walls we could hack down, and re-imagine how we could reconfigure the space altogether. You can imagine this took a lot of patience on Wanting’s part, and at times we would pivot an idea after she had prepared a drawing or 3D rendering, meaning she had to go back and redo the entire piece. I think we overshot the number of reiterations we had for 3D rendering as well.
Through it all, Wanting was patient with us and Jack, the owner, was supportive in journeying with us at critical points of the renovation process. For instance, normally people choose their wardrobe laminate colour and design based on a sample catalogue small enough to carry around in one hand.
However, knowing how painstakingly meticulous we were, Jack and Wanting went the extra mile and invited us down to the actual factory itself to decide based on the massive chunks of laminate so that we could get a more realistic feel of the designs.
The workers were surprised to see us and commented that rarely do customers go to such extents. As such, I am immensely grateful to both Jack and Wanting for adjusting and adapting to our rigorous needs.
3D Rendering of the proposed final work,
In our modern culture of Instagram and Facebook, we know that pictures are always edited and re-edited to portray the best image possible, to showcase the person or place in the best light. As such, when the 3D rendering for our home design came out, we were impressed with the artist’s work, but we knew that reality wouldn’t match up to it and lowered our expectations accordingly.
Fast forward several months and our renovation was coming to a close. As you might imagine, we were there every week at the beginning and as the various fittings were put into place and the final touches dusted off the shelves, almost every night after work. If you would ask me the one thing which I am most impressed with the final product, it has got to be the quality of execution.
Imagine my surprise when the built-in wardrobe and wood-frame-laminated glass panels looked almost exactly like the 3D rendering! It was a like-for-like match and I was thoroughly impressed at the quality workmanship and appearance. If you don’t believe, take a look at it yourself. The pictures don’t lie, and this really stood out for Linh and I. A brilliant concept is only as good as the quality of its execution, and oftentimes creative ideas fall short not because of the intent, but the implementation.
In terms of improvement, I can only think of one, which is perhaps specific to our project as well. One of the things I really value is a consistent barrage of innovative ideas to bounce off and discuss, debate, and explore. Creativity without boundaries is easy, but creativity within boundaries such as a 2.6m ceiling is challenging. While many ideas were customised and highly specific, I still felt more could have been done in terms of pushing the limits and peering out for rare insights. This may involve ideas such as creative linkage and integration of futuristic trends such as technology and the Internet of Things into traditional designs.
The journey of renovation was a deeply personal one for my wife Linh and I, involving not just calculations and concepts, but our entire being, heart and passion poured into the project. We left no stone unturned, and expected Home Guide to do the same. After visiting our home, many people ask Linh if she would consider being a designer because she came up with many of the most innovative ideas in our home. She said no, because she didn’t think she could do this again due to the mental and emotional energy required.
We are deeply grateful to Wanting, Jack, Home Guide and our other designer Gerard for journeying with us through this process. There were many moments where we weighed pros and cons, debated or reset ideas completely. It was frustrating and stressful, and I’m sure Wanting probably wanted to pull out her hair at times even though she always put on a calm, professional front. Probably she complains about our project to her colleagues over lunch. Yet not once did we falter or downsize our vision, but kept our eyes fixed on the end goal through it all. And it is a testament to Wanting and Jack for not only their stellar ability to execute, but the fluid adaptability to meet our consistent demands as a couple heavily invested in a project which will last us a lifetime.
Thanks be to Wanting, Jack, and all from Home Guide who worked on our home. May it be that years later, when I walk into the master bathroom and turn on the tap to see water droplets streaming into the Villeroy & Boch water basin, that I recall the time we shared together. We richly enjoyed this journey, and we hope you did too.
Singapore has recently been undergoing a green revolution and the architectural and design worlds have been particularly involved in the change. The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) aims to make 80% of its buildings green by 2030 and part of the plan has included making green building mandatory since 2008. If you’re moving into an existing apartment, there is not much you can do to change the building’s green rating from an architectural perspective, however, it is possible to ensure the residential interior design incorporates environmentally friendly materials, which will help your pocket and your health, and contribute to the city’s green aims.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are in most synthetic items, and especially at the start of a product’s lifetime these chemicals are released into the air around them via a process called off-gassing. These chemicals have been proven to negatively affect your health so having a home filled with VOCs is far from ideal. Although we know choosing your colour scheme is one of the most important steps in the design process, paint and floor finishes can be the biggest contributors of VOCs in the home. It is important to not only select aesthetically pleasing options but make eco-friendly choices as well, that won’t off-gas harmful chemicals into your space. Other culprits include new furniture, window treatments and accessories. To avoid VOCs, choose products that have a high green rating and have been ecologically produced. When it comes to selecting furniture, another cost-effective and sustainable option is to select vintage items that were either made before these VOC heavy chemicals were used in furniture production or that are old enough to have ceased the off-gassing process.
While solid timber floors are currently popular, flooring that has been made from responsibly harvested timber and produced using eco-friendly resins and sealants should be the only choice; not only is it better for your own health, it also helps avoid deforestation. A sound alternative is bamboo flooring which is sustainably grown, or stone or ceramic tiles which last well and are natural products, so don’t release chemicals when breaking down at the end of their lifecycle. When choosing occasional rugs or carpets, opt for those made from natural fibres like sisal and wool that have not been chemically treated, to avoid VOCs.
Heat and humidity are specific issues that need to be considered in Singapore’s interior design. When planning the HVAC system, a smart thermostat will help save energy by learning the movements of the residents of the home. This means the AC will only be activated when necessary, conserving precious energy and money on energy bills. Also, block out blinds or curtains can reduce solar heat by 33%. Alternatively, temperature controlling windows can also perform this function if you are able to replace your glazing. By limiting heat coming into the house, temperatures remain more constant and your home requires less energy to cool, saving even more money. It is important to note that window treatments block the sun by reflecting heat rays. This can lead to the materials literally cooking in your home all day so, it is especially important to select materials that are chemical free, to avoid the high VOC release rate that is possible.
Select furnishings that have green accreditation, to avoid VOCs as well as items that have been made using non-sustainable sources. Also, selecting items produced in Singapore promotes local industry and reduces the carbon footprint of your renovation which improves the eco rating of your home overall.
Green residential interior design and product design have evolved so significantly that it is now possible to find an eco-version of nearly every fitting and furnishing in the house. Appliances are being created with smart technology which helps them to calculate the exact energy/water requirement for the specific job on hand and thus avoid excess use, which was an issue with older models. Also, technological advancements have led to new ways of achieving the same results. For instance, LED lighting uses approximately only 20% of the energy required by incandescent bulbs and new energy efficient refrigerators will use half of the power those that are 12 years or older. According to a recent appliance comparison, if you replace your top 8 energy-heavy appliances, you can save 123 USD (approximately 170 SGD) per year on your energy bill. Not only will these devices re-coup their purchase cost, but they will also reduce your total energy requirements over their lifetime.
While a completely green renovation is not always possible due to factors like product availability, building requirements, timeframes and budget, simply selecting one of these options will make a positive impact in your life. At Home Guide, we always work with our clients to create an interior design solution that perfectly suits their needs. Should you wish to begin a green renovation or a completely new build, we would be happy to discuss the options with you, to create your perfect space.
Homeowners who have started small with green renovations often find that the benefits outweigh the added effort/cost and they then become driven to make even more green improvements in their lives. If a choice has to be made, start with a structural change, as the soft furnishings are easier to change individually down the line. It is also important to add that changing a product before it has reached the end of its usable life can offset the positive effects of the new product’s green rating. It is important to be aware of how old items are to be disposed of and to research how to recycle or donate as many items as possible to avoid unnecessary waste. If each individual chooses to make a change, great improvements will be seen, and Singapore can remain one of the top 10 cleanest cities in the world.
Making a new apartment feel like home will necessitate some customisation. After all, you want to see and feel your signature in every room that you go to. There’s a lot of freedom when it comes to redesigning an HDB apartment but you should still be aware of the legal limitations.
A Singapore interior design company has to follow the Housing and Development Board (HDB) regulations when it comes to redesigning and remodelling residential spaces. Here are a few of the things that qualify as a no-no in the execution of such projects.
While there isn’t a complete moratorium on changing the level of the floor in an HDB apartment, serious modifications are not permissible.
According to HDB regulations, you are not allowed to change the floor level by more than five centimetres through the use of concrete. There’s a simple reason why – this is a structural change that could impact the entire building and as such, it’s not permissible.
Your interior design services provider should know this regulation and provide alternative suggestions for a temporary modification. If you manage to change the floor level without having to lay additional concrete, you will get away with the remodelling.
Platforms can be added to the interior of the apartment but the construction of such an add-on should be crafted out of a material like timber.
Fans of spa experiences know just how relaxing little pools and Jacuzzis can be. If you’re considering the addition of such a luxury to your HDB apartment, however, you should be aware of the fact that limitations apply in this area.
A tub or a premade pool can be installed in the bathroom but you can’t construct one from scratch.
Bricks, concrete and other construction materials can’t be used to add a larger bathtub to your HDB apartment. Pre-made tubs and Jacuzzis have to weigh less than 400 kilograms in order to comply with the HDB regulations.
As you can see, a trend is being established here. Significant structural changes will generally be impossible in an HDB flat. If you want to carry out a significant structural modification, you will need to find an HDB licensed Singapore interior designer that can come up with a creative solution. Such a solution will enable you to meet your goal without violating any of the regulatory prerequisites.
Some HDB apartment redesign projects may necessitate altering the façade of the building. Unfortunately, such renovations cannot be carried out.
Even if you want to change a small detail like the colour of the paint around the window ledges, you will still lack an HDB permission to carry out such a modification. No matter what you do, the façade integrity has to be maintained.
Every fan of open space design dislikes walls and columns sticking in the middle of the interior. These sore thumbs would be best eliminated but such a change cannot take place.
The aim of structural columns is to support the building and its weight. Their removal will eventually compromise the structural integrity of the entire building and lead to disasters down the line. As a result, HDB has issued a strict ban on the removal of structural columns.
When you can’t get rid of something, however, you can turn it into an integral part of the home through clever interior design.
A structural column can easily turn into the perfect canvas for holding art. Turning it into a focal point will actually increase the visual appeal of the design and create a point of interest that will tie the entire concept together.
The logic here is similar as the one that applies to the structural columns. Structural beams are located on the ceiling and they are once again needed to hold the weight of the construction materials and increase the strength of the building.
Even if you want to create the illusion of higher ceilings, you cannot get rid of the reinforced beams. Interior designers, however, can do a couple of fun things with them.
Structural beams can be painted in a certain colour to match the rest of the design. Alternatively, they may be left exposed to give the apartment a slightly rougher, more industrial and edgier look. If you’re a fan of trendy urban designs, such an approach will give you the best possible results.
The beams can also serve as a nice frame for a glass partition or a separation panel. If you want to create a private lounge or a chillout area in the apartment, this will be the approach to use.
Maisonette owners will be disappointed to find out that they can’t alter the staircase or move it to another location. Its placement and appearance are both non-negotiable.
If there’s a lot of space underneath the staircase that’s just empty and hollow, however, you can place a custom-made storage unit there. Alternatively, your interior designer may use the underneath area to create a private nook that will be great for reading or it will turn into a wonderful play area for your kids.
HDB limitations aim to keep residential buildings safe. While you may feel disappointed at first, such restrictions should be seen as a chance to exercise a bit of creativity in terms of interior design. If you’re supported by the right professional, you can get an outcome going beyond your wildest expectations.
Home Guide is one such professional team. We look for out of the box solutions and we base our designs on our past experience and the preferences of our clients. Contact us today to learn a bit more about the HDB apartment restrictions and the vest ways to go around these regulatory frameworks.
Colours affect many aspects of our existence – how relaxed we are, our concentration level and even our mood. This is why colour psychology is often taken in consideration during the execution of interior design projects. One place in the apartment that will be most heavily impacted by the selection of the right colours is the bedroom.
A bedroom is a place for relaxation, recharging our batteries and finding a refuge from the hectic everyday existence. This is one of the main reasons why professionals offering Singapore interior design services put a lot of emphasis on colour choices for the bedroom.
There are many choices to go for and each one will have its specific impact. If you’re dreaming of the perfect bedroom for your HDB apartment, you may want to think about the following colour choices.
Before moving on to the best residential interior design tone picks for the bedroom, let’s spend some time on the concept of colour psychology.
Colour psychology is the study of different hues and the manner in which these affect human emotions. Colour does influence our perceptions. Brighter and more aggressive colours can have an uplifting effect while pastels tend to be soothing.
While the effects of colours do vary from one person to the next one, multiple studies have been carried out to determine if the theory of colour psychology is a viable one. Numerous studies confirm similar responses to tones. Colour psychology is so powerful that the packaging decisions major corporations make are influenced by it.
The psychology of colour may have an evolutionary component. Studies suggest that most people tend to pinpoint blue and green as their favourite tones. The simple explanation for this preference is the habitat that our predecessors used to live in.
Since studies show that colours do impact moods and our levels of relaxation, the choice of the right tone for a bedroom becomes an important task.
In residential interior design, blue is perceived as the colour of serenity and tranquillity. This is one of the main reasons why many people prefer blue hues for their bedroom.
The coolness of ocean water and the vastness of the sky are both linked to the colour blue. As a result, most people will feel immediately soothed by it. Blue works especially well in combination with crisp white bedsheets, bedspreads and curtains.
To recreate the feeling of the beach, blue can be combined with golden tones and wooden accessories.
For most people in Singapore and across the world, the bedroom is a sanctuary. As such, it should be kept clean and free from external influences.
A neutral colour scheme turns the bedroom into a little island of peacefulness and serenity amid intense informational clutter and sensory overload. Some of the best tones include white, beige, brown and soft yellow or orange. These natural colours bring on a peacefulness that most of us would want to enjoy in the end of a hectic day.
Neutral colours in the bedroom do not have to be boring.
Visual appeal can easily be created through the selection of the right textures and patterns. Metallic elements are an excellent example of decorations that can stand out in a neutrally-coloured bedroom without breaking the palette.
Bright red is typically not a good choice for the bedroom because the colour is considered to be too aggressive and stimulating. As a result, an experienced interior design company in Singapore will avoid this bold shade in rooms aimed at encouraging relaxation.
Dark, deep and rich red, as well as pink shades, however, can be used to create a truly romantic atmosphere in the bedroom.
The key to making the interior pleasant here is moderation. Too much red and pink will appear garish rather than enjoyable.
These colours are great for accents. They will work really well with neutral choices like white and black. The intensity of the tones can be modified to meet personal preferences and creamier varieties will always look good.
Yellow and gold tones have already been mentioned as good choices for the bedroom but they can create such a cheerful environment that they deserve an individual entry.
A yellow bedroom is becoming increasingly popular in the world of trendy residential interior design.
Yellow is a colour that you can play around with. It can be bright and cheerful or a bit more subdued. It works incredibly well for people who spend many long and challenging hours at the office. Most offices are known for their sterile appearance – greys, blacks and navy blues are dominant. The bright and cheerful yellow comes in sharp contrast with these tones and it can instantly bring a smile to one’s face.
For many centuries, purple has been recognised as the most regal colour of them own.
If you want a sophisticated and incredibly stylish bedroom, you should opt for purple hues.
Purple is suitable for elegant spaces. It’s not such a great choice for trendy, modernist and minimalist apartments (of course, experienced interior designers can create a sunning exception).
For the best possible bedroom design, combine purple with other regal tones like gold, turquoise and ruby red. Moderation is once again essential. All of these colours are bright and bold. If you overdo it, you will be entering into kitsch territory.
If you’re still hesitant and you can’t make up your mind about one colour, you’ll definitely need to get in touch with an experienced interior design team. Home Guide has decades of experience in the field of Singapore residential interior design. We have an extensive and diversified portfolio that we’re proud of and would love to share with you. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have questions about the design of your bedroom or you’re ready to begin work on the project.
Statistics suggest that the average cost of a four-room HDB apartment renovation is set at 55,000 dollars (including demolition, electrical and plumbing repairs, floor changes, painting, carpentry and the purchase of new appliances). If such extensive work isn’t going to be taking place, a project can be completed for about 15,000 dollars.
For some families, these amounts may be unachievable. Fortunately, home interior design renovation projects can be completed for less. An experienced residential interior design professional can provide suggestions aimed at giving excellent results while still maintaining a tight budget.
One and the same thing could come with significant price differences from one store to the other. Whether you’re looking for fixtures, electrical switches or paint, you should always explore the multiple possibilities that the market has to offer.
Smart shopping does require time and research but in the end, it will save a lot of money.
It’s a good idea to look at products side by side and explore their characteristics. Once you pinpoint the one you’re interested in, look at different retailers and compare their prices. While the differences could be insignificant for certain product categories, other home renovation supplies may cost a lot less when you opt for a specific supplier.
You should also look for discounts and promotional deals. Home renovation suppliers may offer such opportunities on occasions and these will be worth waiting for.
Finally, ask your HDB interior design Singapore professional for a recommendation. Interior designers work with various suppliers and they know how the prices compare. You will get information about the items worth purchasing and the amount you should be prepared to spend on those.
The scope of the home renovation will be the one factor that’s most determining for the overall cost.
Let your designer know what you’re looking for and how much you can spend on it. Based on this information, they will work on a concept that satisfies the criteria.
Unfinished and minimalist executions tend to be less expensive than more ornate interior renovations. Exposed bricks, for example, eliminate the need for painting and hiring people to do such finishing work.
A minimalist or unfinished interior is also going to be trendy and fairly easy to maintain. These are added benefits that have practical appeal and that will also decrease the cost of freshening things up or cleaning the property.
So many old items and supplies can be utilised effectively in the execution of a new project.
Reusing and repurposing is good for the environment, as well as for your wallet. Just think about all of the possible old supplies you can turn in your own furniture. A simple crate can become a coffee table. Storage units and shelves are also easy to make from scratch.
If demolition has to take place, old bricks and other construction materials can be preserved and turned into something new.
Be creative and inventive. Older tiles, wood, slates and glass are materials that can be used time and time again without losing any of their durability or integrity. Even if old tiles have lost some of their original impeccable appeal, they can be renovated and restored. Once again – your interior designer will provide suggestions for such materials and the professionals to hire for the restoration project.
Sometimes, spending a bit more on the renovation can help you save a lot of money in the long run. This is something to keep in mind when making the calculation.
Water conservation features, window panels that maintain a constant temperature and energy efficient appliances will reduce your utility bills. You will save money on water and electricity and the investment will pay itself off in a relatively short period of time.
If you can, do spend a bit more on energy efficient and conservation options. They are more expensive than their regular counterparts but there’s a reason why. Online calculators can be used for the purpose of determining how much money you’re going to save. Do the math and base the final purchase on this calculation.
Even when you really want to carry out a thorough HDB apartment renovation, current finances could make such a project impossible to carry out.
Smart design can be used to hide the things you cannot modernise.
An old sofa can easily be covered with cushions or it can be reupholstered. This way, you will eliminate the need for a new purchase and you will still get a pretty fresh item. The same rule applies to all other old items. An old photo frame can be painted or lacquered. Such a modification will preserve the item in good condition and also improve its appearance.
Art and accessories are excellent tools. These, however, should be used sparingly. Otherwise, you’ll end up having a lot of visual clutter that will take away from the cosiness of the overall execution.
Adding new lights to rooms can immediately transform their appearance.
Lighting projects rank among the relatively inexpensive renovations. Even if you have to purchase new fixtures, these will cost a fraction of what other supplies are charged for. In addition, there are dozens of possibilities to explore. These make it easy to bring any interior design concept to reality.
Just like in the case of smart appliances, you can shop for energy efficient light bulbs. These are a bit more expensive but they last a longer period of time and they will also reduce your electricity consumption.
HDB interior design can be modified in a few simple steps. To accomplish such a goal, however, you will have to rely on the right professional team.
Home Guide is an interior design company in Singapore committed to understanding your needs, your ideas and the parameters of the project. Based on this information, we will determine a personalised solution that will be just right for your HDB home. Contact us today to find out more.
The backsplash in the kitchen is highly functional but its aesthetic appeal should also be considered. After all, this is a relatively large surface that will affect the appearance of the whole kitchen. It should fit the interior design concept you’ve chosen for your Singapore HDB apartment and it should also pop on its own.
There are dozens of possibilities when it comes to backsplash design. To choose one option or the other, you should focus on your budget and on the practical considerations linked to the selection of every single material.
The traditional backsplash is located behind the kitchen countertop and it reaches the cabinets. To shake things up a little bit, you can have a backsplash that goes up to the ceiling.
In a sense, you will be creating an accent wall that will be different from the others in the kitchen. Making this project happen is all about contrast and choosing colours/textures that are completely different.
The shiny tiled surfaces will be a nice contrast to matte, painted walls. The same applies to metallic shine or ceramics. You can even have an entire backsplash that features a mosaic pattern. A bigger surface will allow you to carry out a more elaborate project. An entire wall in the kitchen can effortlessly be transformed into a work of art by your interior designer.
Exposed brick is an essential component of industrial interior design. Its use in the kitchen, however, is not that common.
Having a kitchen backsplash made of exposed bricks or a material that is painted to resemble the appearance of brick will once again enable you to achieve the visual contrast all great interior design solutions need.
You can get a similar result by going for bare, unfinished stone. There’s no need for the addition of varnish or coating on it. A glossy film will take away from the authenticity of the material. Natural stone comes in many colours and the textures will vary. This is a perfect choice for a rustic rather than industrial kitchen.
Stainless steel and other metals are preferred in the kitchen. They are easy to clean and maintain in an ideal condition. In addition, metallic surfaces are very long-lived and their appearance will remain unchanged through the years.
Metallic finishes are glossy and bright. They will reflect light if you have recessed bulbs placed underneath the cabinets for the purpose of illuminating the kitchen countertop. The same thing applies to mirrored backsplashes – another popular trend in kitchen design.
If you don’t want actual stainless steel on the countertop, you can opt for kitchen tiles that have a metallic finish. When made from quality materials, these tiles resemble actual metal. They will look expensive and sophisticated, just ask your Singapore interior design service provider for a product recommendation.
Can you imagine a backsplash made entirely of wine bottle corks? It looks beautiful and elaborate. This, however, isn’t the only option if you want a pattern or an interesting shape behind the countertop.
Tiles in different colours are also a great choice to “paint” on the kitchen wall. The shapes and graphic elements can be simple (geometric shapes) or elaborate. The smaller the tiles, the more you can accomplish in terms of pattern complexity.
Graphic prints on vinyl are also becoming popular. The material is waterproof and durable. It can be wiped clean and it will remain in tip-top condition for many years to come. If you want to be extra-bold in terms of kitchen design, this is the one option to pursue.
Glass tiles are gaining prominence as a material for the creation of kitchen backsplashes. There are several reasons why.
Glass tiles are a great choice for classic black and white kitchens. They will once again create contrast – you already know its importance in the field of interior design.
Just like other materials that make sense for the kitchen, glass tiles are long-lived and easy to maintain. All that you have to do is wipe them clean regularly and you’ll enjoy their unchanged appearance for years.
You don’t consider the backsplash the best and most elaborate choice for your kitchen? Luckily, there are other ornate projects you can execute.
You’ve probably seen the penny flooring videos that went viral on almost all social media. The exact same concept can be used for the creation of a one of a kind backsplash.
A backsplash made of coins benefits from the metallic shine and from the small size of every single component. Patterns can be formed, especially if you alternate between different kinds of coins.
The addition of a finishing coat is essential for such projects to seal the coins in place and to simplify the cleaning of the backsplash.
This backsplash project is more expensive but it will guarantee you a dazzling outcome.
Engraved marble backsplashes can be personalised as much as you want them to be. A pattern is easy to engrave in the natural material. The same applies to text or even a picture.
Laser etching allows for the carving of patterns into the hard stone. This way, you can have images or slogans of personal significance in your kitchen.
Sky is the limit when it comes to kitchen interior design and countertop selection. You may want to look for inspiration online or talk to your interior designer for the purpose of getting suggestions. A professional in the field will base the recommendations on your budget, preferences and the overall interior design concept you have in mind.
Are you ready to begin transforming your kitchen? If so, don’t hesitate contacting the Home Guide team. We have worked with multiple Singapore apartment owners with their home interior design projects and personalisation is our primary goal. We’ll work hard to learn what your dream home looks like and to bring it to reality.
Are you a perfectionist? If so, you want every little element in your apartment to be flawless. The desire will certainly expand to exterior spaces like the balcony. There are things you can do to enhance its appearance and turn it into a pleasant spot for your morning coffee or for a quiet book reading session in the afternoon.
An experienced Singapore interior design company knows what it takes to offer comprehensive residential solutions. The balcony can be transformed into a number of ways and here are a few suggestions that will help you accomplish the transformation you’re looking for.
The balcony railings are very important because they maximise safety. This is a primary concern and certain standards have to be followed by builders for the purpose of choosing the right railings.
The providers of interior design services can help you transform the standard balcony railings in a couple of great ways. The attachment of flower pots or containers is one of the simplest and most cost-efficient possibilities. Adding greenery to the protective hardware on your balcony will instantly make you feel like you’re spending time in your own little outdoor haven.
If you have young kids and the railings aren’t high or effective enough, you may want to also consider design changes. Some people decide to close off the balcony entirely. It’s up to you to determine whether you’d like to have an additional room-like space or if an open balcony is a better idea.
Most balcony spaces are not utilised for a certain purpose. It really doesn’t have to be this way. If you have an idea for the creation of a certain outdoor space, you should definitely go for it.
A trendy interior design concept right now is the creation of a balcony bar.
All that you have to do is opt for a countertop that’s positioned right next to the railing. Bar stools or comfortable chairs will complete the picture. Obviously, the aim of this creation is to make as much use as possible of the cityscape.
If you are not certain that this is the sole purpose you’d like to use the balcony for, you can have temporary and removable bartending equipment.
Alternatively, turn the balcony into a vegetable and herb garden. The size of the space will obviously be determining for the types of plants you could grow. Make sure that the interior designer is aware of the idea. A professional interior designer will look at the space to think of the best arrangement and making the most of the terrace that your apartment has.
While balconies can be transformed in so many cool ways, some HDB apartment owners worry about their privacy. After all, everything taking place on the terrace will be visible for the entire neighbourhood to observe.
Interior design choices can be made for the purpose of boosting privacy.
Outdoor plants are once again the easiest and most inexpensive option to go for. An entire curtain can be crafted out of strategically-placed greenery. On top of giving you privacy, plants are also an excellent choice for climate control. They will shade the balcony from the sun and even keep the apartment cooler during the hot summer months.
Balcony shutters may also be chosen as a more practical, year-round solution.
Shutters and screens come in all shapes and sizes. They can be crafted of various materials, which means that they’ll serve a certain purpose and they will also look good. Ask your designer about such an option to gain more insight into the types of shutters and how they’re going to fit in your balcony concept.
The perfect apartment outdoor space is equipped with comfortable furniture for relaxation.
You may want to invest in a beautiful coffee table, a couple of chairs or lounges and even a sofa. Once again, the space will be determining for the size and the placement of furniture.
While such pieces will be taken inside or covered for storage, they should still be somewhat weather-resistant. Materials like glass, metal and even rattan are preferred for outdoor furniture because of their durability.
The ease of maintenance of outdoor furniture is another important consideration. It’s best to opt for streamlined pieces that don’t have too many ornaments. Such items will be much easier to wash and maintain clean. Storage will also be simplified when furniture isn’t too bulky. If you can find foldable chairs and tables that you like, you will be even happier when the time comes to bring everything inside.
Even if your idea appears to be too out there, you shouldn’t be afraid to pursue it.
Who says you cannot have an outdoor gym on the terrace of your Singapore apartment. All that you have to do is choose a treadmill, a fitness station or a bike that’s conveniently sized. If you think this is the perfect spot to exercise in, you should definitely consider the realisation of the idea.
Picking the right Singapore home interior design company to work on the execution with you will also be important. Look for a team that is creative and forward-thinking. A company’s portfolio can shed a lot of light on whether these professionals can bring your idea to reality.
Take your time to do some research and once you shortlist a few experts, carry out a test consultation and ask all of the questions you have about outdoor space design.
Home Guide is a team that has decades of experience in the field of Singapore residential interior design. We are not afraid to experiment, work hard and perfect the vision our clients have. If you want a modern, unique apartment that also features a beautiful balcony, contact us today to get the process started.