A Modern Myriad of Design Styles

The My Nice Home Gallery is back with a bang! Featuring 5 refreshed showflats decked out in the latest design themes, there is inspiration abound for everyone.

Here is a quick spoiler of what you can expect, when you come by the HDB Hub to check them out for yourself.

A Classic Ensemble

Prefer a classic look for your home? Snag ideas on how to put together a modern Victorian interior at the 5-room showflat, where a curated display of furniture and furnishings exude stylish excellence.

Minimalist

If you believe in the philosophy of less is more, you will love the 4-room showflat and its clean minimalist aesthetic. Check out clever storage solutions, and learn how you can convert your flat into a smart home with Google Home.

Industrial Flair

Concerned that an industrial decor theme might make your home feel cold and unwelcoming? Think again! The 3-room showflat is a prime example of how you can weave rich brown hues together with industrial accents to create a warm and cosy space.

The Good Old Days

As the saying goes, old is gold – home owners keen on a vintage design theme should check out the 2-room Flexi (36m²) showflat, which tastefully combines contemporary design icons with retro elements for the perfect nostalgic vibe.

Resort Bliss

Do you and your spouse enjoy traveling? The resort-inspired 2-room Flexi (45m²) showflat might just be the decor theme of your dreams. Use light-toned wood furniture and touches of greenery to turn your home into the ultimate sanctuary, and feel like you are on vacation all the time!

MyNiceHome Concept Space

Last but not least, the latest addition to the My Nice Home Galleryisan Instagram-worthy concept space where you can take photos for memories, and pick up specially designed postcards and magazines to complete your visit!

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

5 Tools to Child Proof Your Home

Toddlers and young children are filled with a sense of wonder, eager to explore and learn about the world. Unlike older children though, they are not always aware of the safety hazards in their environment. To parents and parents-to-be out there, here’s a list of essential tools to make your home child-friendly and a safe haven for the young ones.

Safety gates

Install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs, the entrance to the kitchen, balcony or any other places in your home that may be unsafe for children.

Plug socket covers

Conceal electrical outlets with plug socket covers so that young children will not stick their finger or any other objects in the outlets.

Bumper guards

Cover up the edges of tables, wardrobes, drawers and chairs with bumper guards or foam – this prevents injuries from happening if your child were to trip and fall at home.

Door stopper

Attach door stoppers to the door frame to reduce the loud noise and potential injuries that may occur from the doors slamming shut.

Electrical tape

If your electrical appliances and its wires are within reach of young children, consider taping the wires to the wall to prevent accidents from happening. Alternatively, unplug your appliances and wrap the wires neatly.

Got any other useful child proof tips to share? Tell us via our social or leave a comment below!

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

Designing a Japandi Home

Because pure Scandinavian décor is so 2018. Everyone seems to have a Scandinavian-inspired home now. But word on the street is that Japandi is the latest interior design trend! Fusing the clean and bright aesthetics of Scandinavian and Nordic design with traditional elements of Japanese styles, Japandi is a perfect marriage of 2 minimalist aesthetics which creates spaces that are both elegant and warm.

Want to get the style? Here are some tips to get a Japandi home:

Less is More

(Photo Credit: Decoration Channel)

At their core, both Japanese and Scandinavian styles are about keeping it simple. Be sure to keep clutter at bay, and avoid putting big statement pieces. Let the furniture speak for themselves. If you would like to make your space a little cozier, add linen cushions or fuzzy rugs in plain colours.

Embrace Your Dark(er) Side

(Photo Credit: Decoration Channel)

While pure Scandinavian designs tend to be brighter and airier, Japandi homes integrate warmer, earthier colours into the mix. Think darker woods with red undertones and touches of black to get a modern but cosy look.

Have the Best of Both Worlds

Take inspiration from hallmarks of both styles. Consider including Japanese classics like low-lying platform beds, or elegant vases. You can also throw in Nordic-inspired furniture that is lighter in colour and more angular in shape. Don’t be afraid to mix the two styles together – you’d be surprised by how well they can come together.

Go Green (But Not Too Green)

Be sure to introduce some greenery, but don’t go full-on Studio Ghibli either. Remember, stick to the first principle – minimalism. Let that potted plant sit quietly on your dining table, or place it in a corner to add that touch of green to the room.

Though Japandi is a relatively new design trend, its minimalist yet cozy style lends a timeless quality to it. Hope you feel inspired to spice up your scandi rooms now!

Already ahead of the trends, and want to flaunt your Japandi style home? Drop us a message at our social – we’d love to take a look!

Terrazzo: The 70’s Trend That’s Back

Here’s how to get that retro look – bell bottoms optional.

Like fashion, interior design trends often disappear for decades, only to reappear in full force as the latest must-have craze. This year, that design trend is terrazzo, the colourful mix of marble chips and concrete that you might associate with the 70s. According to Pinterest, saves for “terrazzo” were up by a whopping 316% in 2018 – so if you want to be ahead of the crowd, read our tips on how to get some of that retro goodness in your home!

Terrazzo Flooring

If you dread boring looking concrete and parquet flooring, why not try terrazzo flooring or tiles? Depending on the type of pattern you choose, it can add a punch of spunky and fun into your home without being overwhelming. It’s also a practical option – terrazzo flooring requires little maintenance and can withstand wear and tear.

(Photo credit: Home Adore)

Terrazzo Table Tops

Terrazzo is also a fun pattern to apply on your furniture! Kitchen tops and side tables are particularly popular choices, and it’s not hard to see why – incorporating terrazzo can help add pops of colour into an otherwise drab room.

(Photo credit: Italian Bark)

Terrazzo Wallpapers

Not sure if you’re ready to commit to entire sets of flooring or furniture? Fret not! Wallpaper can be a budget-friendly way to add some terrazzo to your home.

Terrazzo Accessories

And if you’re still not feeling the hype, you can always start from somewhere small. There are loads of subtler ways to add terrazzo to your home – from tables lamps to candle holders, we’re sure you’ll find something you like.

Already have some terrazzo pieces in your home? Send us photos at our social or hashtag #MyNiceHome on Instagram!

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

Mid-Century Modern Style

Get the Mad Men look with this interior design trend.

If you’ve watched old American movies (or you’re a Mad Men fan), you would notice that their homes have a distinctive look. Chances are, they are done up in the mid-century modern style that encompasses smooth lines, earthy materials, and quirky accessories.

What is Mid-century Modern Style?

This style is based on earlier European design influences such as Bauhaus and the International style.

After World War II, many European designers and artists migrated to America, bringing with them their eye for design that places equal focus on form and functionality. As technology improved rapidly after the war, these artists were able to turn their ideas into mass-produced pieces – many of which soon ended up in homes across American suburbs.

Clean Lines, Functional Shapes

Geometric shapes and smooth lines are mid-century modern essentials. Furniture are simple and clean, not ornate and heavily-embellished. To help get the look, consider buying pieces that are decidedly vintage – like an egg chair!

The egg chair is an iconic mid-century modern piece.

(Image Credit: Inspiration Design Books)

Mix Materials and Textures

Wood is a staple of the style, but you can also have furniture made from materials like glass, vinyl and acrylic. Mix these materials within the room to get the classic mid-century modern look.

Pro-tip: Up your mid-century modern style game by getting furniture that mix materials. Check out that wooden coffee table with its glass top!

(Image source: Better Living Socal)

Play with Colours

Feel free to combine white and pastel tones with bold and colourful accents – these could come in the form of furniture pieces, textiles, or even a bold graphic print on the wall.

Why not make the best use of your wall space add some bold prints to it?

(Image Credit: Recently The Blog)

Open and Airy

Mid-century modern homes should have an open and airy feel, so go for an open-plan layout where possible. Do also make sure to have blinds or drapes that you can easily pull aside to let in natural light.

Let in some natural light to complete your mid-century modern home!

(Image Credit: Nonagon Style)

You don’t have to travel back in time to get a vintage look in your home. Already have the style? Send us a photo at our socials – we’d love to take a look!

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

Designing A Spanish-style Home

Bold and Beautiful – these are the two words that best describe Spanish architecture and interior design. If you have a penchant for a majestic or modern elegant look, the Spanish interior style is right up your alley.

Photo credit: Decoist.com

Here are some tips to achieve the aesthetic in your home:

Colour Me Vibrant

There’s no room for blacks and greys in a Spanish-style home… only bright colour palettes please! Pick from warm oranges, yellows and reds, or cool blues and whites for the walls of your home.

Photo credit: SavvyInteriors.com

Tile It Up

Add a touch of Spanish flair with tiles—hardwood and red tiles are hot favourites for flooring in Spanish-style homes. For a different look, try mosaic patterns on either your floor tiles or your kitchen backsplash!

Photo credit: Impressive Interior Design

Mix and Match

Another key trick is to have an eclectic mix of tone and textures in your décor. Don’t be afraid to match different fabrics, colours, and genres to create that Spanish contemporary look.

Photo credit: Coral Images

Wooden Accents

Spanish décor usually includes leather and dark wood furnishings. From accent tables to cabinets, wooden furniture will add an ornate yet rustic element to your home interior.

If you’ve already got a Spanish style home – we want to see it! Leave a comment below!

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

All About That Space: Multifunctional Living Room Ideas

In making the most of our homes, many of us are not afraid to get creative. From building a workspace to putting together a workout corner, here are some multifunctional living room ideas for you to live the urbanist dream with!

1. Living Room + Workstation

Having a workstation in the living room means that you can work and lounge at the same time. Depending on the layout of the room, you can dedicate an unused corner of the living room for your workstation. Otherwise, consider placing a small desk beside or behind the sofa as opposed to a bookshelf or coffee table. Add a swivel chair, a desk lamp and voila, you’ve got yourself the perfect home office in the living room.

Ching Kai worked out this combination successfully in this 3-room flat

2. Living Room + Bar

Photo credit: West Elm

If you have guests around a lot, you’re going to love this one. Not only can a drinks bar be seamlessly integrated into the living room, the bar is also a conversation starter as well . All that’s required is a low cabinet to house your favourite sodas, juices, or alcohols.

Or, instead of the conventional dinner table, opt for a countertop/high table that doubles up as a bar counter and dining table. You can even add some shelves to display your mugs, glasses, and drinkware.

3. Living Room + Workout Corner

While gym machines may be a stretch (pun intended), exercise equipment such as dumbbells, skipping ropes and stability balls can be easily accommodated in the home.

Photo credit: Higashifushimi

Similar to the home office, make the best of an unused corner of the living room for the workout station. Wall shelves and grids are great ways to keep your equipment organised.

4. Living Room + Play Area

Catered for the little ones, a play area can be easily carved out from the living room. All you need are some toy boxes to contain the clutter and a play mat to protect them from tumbles.

Photo credit: Dog Milk

For the furkids, a cosy corner with your pet’s essentials can also be a great way of keeping organised. Plus, you can now work/ lounge in the living room in the company of your pets.

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

A Guide to a Modern Monochrome Home

Practical yet stylish, it’s no surprise that monochromatic homes are climbing up the popularity ranks. Monochrome just refers to different shades of a single colour, but despite the endless possibilities, the grey monochrome palette seems to be the most popular.

Grey is one of the most popular monochrome palettes

So if you’re looking for some ‘reno inspo’, here are 4 tips to design your very own Kinfolk-ish home.

Play with Textures and Patterns

Picture frames are great for adding dimension

An all-black, white, and grey interior can look a little flat. Don’t be afraid to break the monotony with texture, such as a woven rug, patterned wall-paper, framed paintings, or even zebra prints. Add some character and dimension to your home with curvy furniture (think couches and coffee tables).

Start Subtle

Photo Credit: Pinterest

While an edgy charcoal grey room may be tempting, the dark hue can be slightly overwhelming in large amounts. Consider painting most of your walls a light, warm grey and save the intense shade for an area that you wish to highlight, such as a feature wall.

Pro tip: Paint generally turns out darker on walls than in the can, so if in doubt, choose the lighter shade.

Strike a Balance

Photo Credit: Pinterest

While an all-grey décor can look sophisticated, look to mixing in neutral colours such as cream, beige and brown to balance the colour palette and avoid monotony. The room can still look elegant and chic.

Include Contrasting Accents

Going monochrome doesn’t mean you can’t liven things up. Be versatile and complement your white walls and black furniture with a pop of colour in the form of furniture or accessories, such as rugs and centrepieces. You can also throw in accent materials such as wood, to add interest to your décor.

Have more tips of your own? Share your monochromatic home with us by hashtagging your photos with #LeposhDesign on Instagram!

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

10 Unique and Stylish HDB Common Bathrooms

Running out of ideas on how to renovate your bathroom? Here are 10 stylish HDB bathroom projects to give you some inspiration!

1. With the right fittings (clean and sleek) and ideal lighting (subtle yet modern), you can easily achieve the luxe hotel look for your own bathroom. This HDB bathroom is actual proof — the all-white interior lends a touch of sophistication, while the dark marble wall serves as a beautiful standout contrast.

Interior Firm: ELPIS Interior Design

2. Incorporating a floating vanity provides the illusion of a bigger space.

Interior Firm: Versaform

3. Quirky tiles are the key design feature in this bathroom as they help to add a ‘wow’ factor. To avoid a clash of patterns, everything else is kept clean and simple.

Interior Firm: Chapter One Interior Design

4. Natural wood adds warmth to this bathroom, which even comes with a full-sized bathtub. The wooden basin is a welcome change from the typical white porcelain sink. The use of wood panels for the walls creates a traditional Japanese bathhouse vibe.

Interior Firm: Control Space Design Studio

5. This cosy bathroom emulates the classic English-cottage bath concept perfectly — with its wooden walls and vanity, and potted plants in all the right places. The green-meets-white palette exudes a calming vibe, while floral tiles add a retro twist.

Interior Firm: Hall Interiors

6. This bathroom definitely makes a statement with its black and grey colour palette. The black marble shower area is ultra-luxe, while the sleek, long vanity makes for a perfect centrepiece (it’s also a great way to maximise all the space).

Interior Firm: Bowerman

7. Coloured mosaic tiles are subtle, but pack a punch! The black marble and gold detailing on the vanity also add a touch of class.

Interior Firm: Fatema Design Studio

8. The kind of bathroom we like – sleek, simple, minimalist and industrial. Grey bathrooms are so on-trend now. Chrome accessories provide a striking contrast against white fittings and fixtures. And that small potted fern nestled in the corner? The perfect finishing touch.

Interior Firm: Dan’s Workshop

9. Less is more in this monochrome bathroom. A streamlined design is the key to achieving a sophisticated look.

Architect: PROVOLK

10. We love wooden concept bathrooms, but this homeowner took it one notch up by matching it with trending grey hues. It pulls off the Muji-meets-industrial look so effortlessly!

Interior Firm: The Local INN.terior

This article was contributed by Qanvast, Singapore’s go-to renovation platform. Whether you’re embarking on a major overhaul or a simple refresh, Qanvast can connect you to the right professionals for the job.

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg