7 Carpentry Ideas To Minimise Your New Home’s Upkeep
Maximise storage space with these built-in features!
From keeping clean to getting organised, there’s a lot more to home maintenance than one might have imagined. But what if we told you that you can keep household tasks to the minimum, with these hacks?
Whether its maximising space or creating storage solutions, listed below are some built-in ideas to minimise the upkeep of your new home.
The idea of having a recessed dry kitchen in a tidy home is great, and it gets better when it comes with a sliding door that conceals the entire space when it’s not in use.
By using a near-identical wooden laminate, the designer of this easy-on-the-eye HDB home was able to create an almost seamless facade with the master bedroom en suite’s entrance and an adjoining wardrobe. Closing the bathroom’s door completes the illusion of a continuous wraparound, while conveniently hiding anything you deem unsightly.
3. A TV Feature Wall that Doubles Up as the Bedroom Entrance
Much like the example above, hiding the master bedroom of this small but clever 3-room HDB flat behind a TV feature wall guarantees privacy while satisfying the need for a visually cleaner home.
Pocket doors fronting a baking counter and black cabinets hide both fixtures from plain sight. The same goes for the entrance to the wet kitchen which can be closed off during heavy cooking.
It’s nifty, space-saving, and guarantees less clutter – what’s not to love about a foldable ironing board that is hidden within the wardrobe? From the easy accessibility to no longer having to assemble the ironing board, this design feature makes ironing much more manageable.
With a set of well-placed pocket doors in the right colour, it’s possible to make everything (read: shelves, kitchen appliances, and even one half of a galley kitchen counter layout) blend into the surroundings. Just check out the rest of this 38-year-old HDB flat’s 180-degree makeover.
The design of this master bedroom’s slatted wood walls is definitely noteworthy, as it’s able to completely conceal a dresser, mirror and all, right beside the bed! Not only is it convenient, it also perfectly conceals any wardrobe-related clutter.
Fun & Functional Kitchen Island Ideas for Your HDB Flat
Open kitchens are a popular choice these days, including in HDB flats. Here’s a list of our favourite kitchen island types!
With the versatility and aesthetics that a beautiful kitchen island provides, it’s little wonder why most home owners dream of having one in their new home. Here’s a list of our recommended kitchen island types for your HDB home!
A standalone island can be an interesting focal point in your kitchen, with the use of contrasting colours and materials to help it stand out. Decorate with key pieces and keep it clutter-free for maximum visual appeal.
By extending your countertop and adding bar seating, you can combine your kitchen island with your dining table to save space. This layout offers plenty of flexible options – use the area to work, for quick meals or even extra seating when guests come over. It’s also the perfect hang out spot for the whole family as you prepare and enjoy your meals!
If you’re looking to separate your dry and wet kitchens, consider having an island to act as a divider between the dry kitchen and your living room. You might even be able to incorporate a utility sink in the divider. This way, you’ll always have a washing area as you prepare your morning coffee or a mid-day snack.
A kitchen trolley is a smart solution, offering extra utility space for cooking or even entertaining. You’ll have ingredients and materials within easy reach, and you can serve out a big meal from the kitchen to the dining area by wheeling it out. Plus, it can be easily put away to create a bigger communal space for hosting purposes.
Storage Island
Storage is always welcome in extra doses. Building them into the kitchen island means more space for your ceramics collection and quicker access to them! For some out-of-the-box ideas, consider a wine rack cabinet or even a mini bookshelf for your culinary reads.
4 Questions to Ask Your Potential Interior Designer
Find out if your interior designer is right for you!
Your new house is like a blank canvas – full of possibilities, and ready to be transformed into a masterpiece. Think of your interior designer (ID) as an art director who helps to mould your space into the home of your dreams. With so many interior design firms around, it might be overwhelming to pick the right ID.
Here are 4 questions you should ask your potential ID to see if he or she is the right one for you.
1. Can I see samples of your past work?
We’re assuming you’ve already done your homework, and checked out the design firm’s portfolio and online reviews. Still, you should ask for the designer’s past works to get a better sense of their style. This is especially as individual designers may have their own specialties, which could differ from their firms’. Check if their work aligns with the vision you have for your future home.
2. What is your working style like?
It’s equally important to understand how the designer works. Having this conversation early ensures everyone involved is on the same page before works begin. You may want to break this question down further, for example:
How will you present your proposals? Should I be expecting ideas to be presented in mood boards, 3D visualisations or other formats?
What would be the best way to contact you throughout the project – via text messages, phone calls, or face-to-face meetings?
How regularly can I expect updates on the project?
3. What does the budget for this project look like?
Money talk might make you sweat, but the last thing you want to do is burst your renovation budget! Do also check when and how payment should be settled, and budget for this in advance. If the quotation happens to exceed your budget, evaluate which items are absolutely necessary and which are things you could live without.
4. What is the expected timeline for the project?
After all, time is money (your ID will surely agree). Highlight all the factors your designer may want to factor into the timeline. Can works on your flat only begin after a certain start date? Are you hoping to move in by a specific date?
It would also be great if you and your ID can draw up key project milestones. Do check if they have other projects that they’re working on at the same time as well, and ask if these projects will affect the progress of your renovations.
With these four simple questions, you should get a sense of whether the interior designer is The One for you.
Going Green: Tips for Designing an Eco-Friendly Home
There are many ways to lead a greener lifestyle, and James Tan decided to do it in a big way—through the design of his eco-friendly home. James, who moved into his new BTO flat with his family last year, is a huge advocate of sustainable living. Thus, ensuring his 5-room flat was fitted with green features was a priority for him.
From energy-efficient lights to green-certified paint, James shares the benefits and tips for designing an eco-friendly home.
Open Spaces, Cooler Temperatures
Most of us would turn to the air conditioner when it comes to beating the tropical heat. It may be the quickest way to do so, but it’s not the most energy-efficient. While fans are the next best alternative, ensuring cross-ventilation can also help keep the rooms cool.
“When designing our eco-friendly home, we adopted an open concept for the communal area to allow better ventilation within the flat, to help keep the temperature of the house relatively low,” James explains. “Deliberately keeping the design of a home minimal can also maximise ventilation.”
Going Green, Literally
Did you know that house plants can help with keeping the ambient temperature cool? Not only that, introducing greenery into your home can improve the surrounding air quality and amp up your home’s aesthetic factor.
In addition to using house plants such as peace lilies to improve air quality, James uses an environment monitor is used to track the indoor environmental quality (IEQ)
Adopt Energy-Efficient Features
An energy-efficient feature that home owners might be familiar with is LED lighting. These light bulbs last longer and are relatively more durable. Other features include motion-sensing lights and water-efficient fittings, all of which are found in James’ home.
“Not only is a green-enabled home beneficial for the natural environment, it enhances home owners’ overall living experience and well-being. Additionally, going green and being energy-efficient also allows us to enjoy utility savings,” James says.
Use Green-Certified Materials
When renovating his eco-friendly home, James ensured that all materials are certified by the Singapore Green Building Council (SGBC) where possible. These include paint, carpentry laminates, floor screed and tile adhesive that comprise low levels of toxic substances and emissions.
For instance, the carpentry laminates used in the bathrooms are fabricated from marine grade wood, a material with low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause adverse health effects
“If you’re looking to use eco-friendly materials, do incorporate them from the start, as making changes would be challenging and costly once renovations works are completed.”
Furnish Sustainably
There are a few ways to furnish sustainably. When furniture shopping, consider the source of the materials. In addition to being ethically sourced, James advises to purchase pieces with eco-friendly components, to ensure the minimal presence of VOCs.
Instead of brand new furnishing, opting for vintage furniture or repurposing an existing piece are also sustainable alternatives for an eco-friendly home.
5 Bicycle Storage Ideas Cycling Enthusiasts Will Love
Over the past few years, more people have taken up cycling as a leisure activity. However, storing the bicycles at home, while maintaining the overall aesthetic, can be quite a challenge. Here are 5 functional bicycle storage ideas that also look good.
One of the common bicycle storage ideas is to install a bicycle pole rack. This fuss-free solution lets you store two bicycles for the floor space of one, while making for an eye-catching statement. This flat for instance, has a painted wall in a contrasting shade to draw attention towards the display.
Unlike the pole rack, wall-mounted brackets blend in more seamlessly. These slim brackets allow your bicycles to take the spotlight without looking too out of place in your home. It’s no wonder that this bicycle storage idea will be a great fit for virtually any interior style.
Displaying your bicycles on your feature wall involves the use of wall-mounted brackets. However, as feature walls require planning and design work, do discuss this bicycle storage idea with your interior designer beforehand.
This unique pegboard-style feature wall comes with frosted glass sliding doors, enabling home owners to keep the doors open to display their bikes, or keep them closed to minimise dust.
While it doesn’t provide absolute privacy, this out-of-the-box design idea lets you stow your bicycle away while ensuring that your home still feels bright and breezy.
5. Built-In Carpentry
An easy way to keep your home neat is to opt for built-in carpentry.
If you want to integrate your bicycles as part of your home décor, take a page from this HDB flat. This full-length cabinet with its wood-like laminate shows off up to two bicycles, while blending seamlessly with the Scandinavian aesthetic of the home.
Alternatively, if you prefer storage ideas that help you access your bicycles more easily, you could opt for a half-height storage cabinet! Collapsible doors take up little space while keeping your bicycles dust-free!
This article was adapted from a version first published by Qanvast.
Customising your HDB front gate may not be on the top of your renovation list, but don’t close the door on the thought just yet. There are plenty of gates which can offer added convenience and safety, while letting your flat stand out. Get a handle on these unique HDB front gate ideas!
Digital locks are fast becoming a top choice for home owners who are looking for security with convenience. Whether it’s thumbprint, number or smartcard access, they remove the hassle of bringing a bunch of keys around while providing technology-enabled security. Combined with a simple wrought iron gate for added durability, this HDB front gate idea is more than a step up from the traditional ones. Planning on designing a smart home? Read our list of must-have devices to equip your flat with.
2. Mesh It Up
Photo: Pinterest
For pet owners, a wire mesh gate is a practical yet stylish choice. This HDB front gate idea prevents your pets from accidentally escaping from home, and can be a perfect complement to industrial-themed home decor.
For owners who are looking for a unique and modern entrance, consider a glass gate that can allow maximum sunlight to enter the house. If a glass gate seems like a counterintuitive choice for an entrance, opt for tinted glass to safeguard your privacy without compromising on the visual spectacle.
Fancy changing up your HDB front gate design based on the occasion and event? The panels on these wall art gates can be easily switched up to transform the look of the flat!
Display your favourite photo or a symbolic design proudly on a laser cut gate for a truly one-of-a-kind HDB front gate design! While this may not be the cheapest option, it’ll definitely speak volumes about your personality as a home owner.
Lighting Ideas: Choosing the Right Lights for Your Home
Lighting plays a crucial role in your home. Besides illuminating various spaces, lighting also enhances the interior design while setting the mood and ambience of the room.
We’ve put together a handy guide to help you navigate the blinding (pun intended) range of different lighting ideas, designs and functions for the different spaces within your home!
The living room is where you unwind after a long day at work, and ambient lighting can create a cosy, relaxed ambience that will help you achieve a state of zen. Ambient lighting comes in many forms – it can be recessed lights installed in the ceiling, track lighting, or even a pendant light that doubles up as a statement piece in the living room. Find out more about the different lighting fixtures here.
Lighting is vital to a fully functioning kitchen, and more than one type of light fixture is typically used. One of the more common lighting ideas is ceiling lights which brightly illuminate the space. Track lights and under-cabinet LED light strips are often installed as task lighting, to eliminate shadows cast by cabinets.
Just like the living room, dining rooms should be kept warm and cosy, yet bright enough to see the food on your plate! Pendant lights are commonly installed in the dining area – not only do they provide sufficient illumination, they also act as a bold visual element to the space. The best part? This lighting idea comes in an array of designs and styles so you are sure to find one to complement your flat’s aesthetics.
Brainstorming for lighting ideas for the bedroom can be complicated as we require a range of light intensities for different activities. For example, dim lighting before bedtime, bright lighting when dressing or putting on makeup, and warm lighting for light reading. The trick to a well-lit bedroom? Layered lighting which seamlessly combines the various types of light required.
Popular bedroom lighting ideas include ceiling and pendant lights that are adjustable in terms of light intensity, as well as cove lights. Task lighting such as bedside or dresser lamps can also be added for a more comfortable experience.
Nothing beats natural light streaming in from the windows to the study, but we think that ceiling lights and table lamps are good to have just in case the study room gets too dark. Ceiling lights instantly brighten up the room, while table lamps are useful when working on specific tasks such as writing or working on your laptop.
Bathrooms usually have one or at most two light fixtures installed, with ceiling or recessed lights being the most common. If you prefer lights with a softer glow, consider cove lighting which hides lights behind mirrors, shelves, or false ceilings.
With a better understanding of the different lighting ideas, you can design and plan the lights for every space within your dream home. If you have any novel light fixtures in your home, tag us on Instagram @MyNiceHome – we’d love to see them!
Open concept layouts often result in bright and airy homes – an interior design idea that has grown increasingly popular. Open concept designs for HDB flats also allow more versatility, as home owners can better mould the space to cater to their lifestyle needs. However, you must get a permit before knocking down the walls in your flat.
Listed below are 6 open concept layouts, to get you inspired!
Love the openness but desire some privacy? There are simple budget-friendly workarounds such as installing a set of suspended sheer curtains to demarcate a flat’s communal area, which consists of a sunny living space and an adjoining bedroom-turned-home-office, such as the abode pictured above.
Not a fan of curtains and the maintenance that come with them? Opt for folding partition doors instead and easily switch between two different home settings: a living area with excellent flow or a private patio that’s perfect for kicking back with a book on the weekends.
Because of their seamless flow and spaciousness, open concept designs for HDB flats are perfect for hosting. It is also ideal for spending quality family time – whether it’s movie or game night. Additionally, the open area makes it easy to keep an eye on the younger ones.
What differentiates this HDB open concept design from the rest on this list is the flat’s long and (once) narrow layout. The open-concept space helps make the flat feel less confined – a task accomplished by demolishing the walls between the living area and an adjoining bedroom that’s now a home cinema.
In addition to a reading nook and pool table, this eclectic home also features an airy ‘cinema nook’ that comes with a projector and theatre chair. Adding a touch of whimsy and functionality are the roller shutters that can be used to section off the kitchen when cooking.
Its take on a semi-open space is likewise simple and elegant: a home office, separated from the rest of the flat by a chic transparent glass divider at the side and a blond wood sliding panel on the front that offers privacy when closed.
Read more about open concept designs for HDB flats in Design Ideas, or embark on Home Tours for more interior design inspiration!
This article was adapted from a version first published by Qanvast.
You’ve done the hard work of finding the right TV for your home. Now comes the even harder part— deciding the furniture that goes with it. If you’re not sure which TV console design might work for your home, here are some tips to help you get started!
1. Free-Standing TV Cabinets
The simplest way to house your TV is with a freestanding TV cabinet, which you can readily buy off the shelf at a wide range of price points and designs. This TV console design typically takes up less space than built-in ones.
Another big plus is that a freestanding TV cabinet gives you more flexibility to rearrange the furniture in the space. If you’re someone who likes having the option of doing over your living room, this TV console design might just be right for you.
2. TV Consoles with Storage Solutions
What if you want your TV to be the centrepiece of the living area? Built-in consoles are a great way to get bespoke furniture that’s tailored to the layout and aesthetic of your home. Plus, custom TV console designs often come with more storage space than freestanding options. If you are looking for a big statement piece that can do double duty as a storage option, consider a built-in console.
Not the biggest fan of closed carpentry? Opt for TV console designs that come with open shelving. That way, you can have more storage space without compromising on your preferred aesthetic.
If you’re a fan of the minimalist look, consider trading storage space for style, with a sleek wall-mounted floating TV console. This TV console design might be a good option if you already have storage options elsewhere and want to keep the space as clean as possible.
Whether you’re looking to purchase a flat or have just got the keys to your new home, visit My Nice Home Gallery to find out more about different flat types, their layouts and interior inspiration.
The Gallery has undergone an interior refresh, so keep an eye out for the latest fittings and finishes for the 2-room Flexi, 3-room, 4-room and 5-room flat types.
Read on to find out more about the showflats for each flat type:
If you’re a fan of the soft ‘blush’ interior look, this 2-room Flexi showflat at the My Nice Home Gallery is perfect for you.
The 2-room Flexi showflat is relaxing and chic
The main colour palette comprises a soft pink hue, as well as shades of white and greys. White is used to create a clean aesthetic while the darker grey tones help to create depth. Grey and pink tones are used strategically in the showflat – such as on the feature walls in the living room and bedroom. A variety of patterns and textures also tastefully jazz up the interior.
The whites in the kitchen brighten up the space
The showflat shows how to maximise space using multi-functional furniture. The extendable dining table is a perfect example – when not in use, it can be shortened to free up floor space, and doubles up as a work desk. Additionally, the bed frame has storage compartments to keep items that you rarely use.
Create a work nook in the living/ dining area
As the living room is adjacent to the bedroom that is separated by sliding partitions, consider incorporating a television which can be rotated 180°. That way, you can choose to watch your shows from either room!
Incorporate a rotating TV to maximise space
2-Room Flexi (46 sqm): Mid-Century Modern
The mid-century modern aesthetic is characterised by simplicity and functionality. What sets this style apart is its focus on sleek lines with geometric forms, and the use of contrasting materials.
View from the living area
The earthy colours and wooden furniture in this showflat make the entire space cosy and intimate. The most striking element is the geometric-patterned feature wall in the living room that complements the mid-century modern look.
Senior-friendly armchairs are provided in the living room to provide residents with better mobilityThe vanity area in the master bedroom can double up as a work space
This 2-room Flexi showflat features a layout that includes a space for caregivers, and an open kitchen which allows for greater mobility. It’s an ideal home for active seniors to live in comfortably and safely.
Flexible space for a caregiver, which can double up as a workspaceThe kitchen features pull-out drawers that double up as additional countertop space
3-Room: Retro Fun
Step into this showflat and be greeted by a refreshing mix of fun colours and prints that effortlessly serve up retro vibes and add visual interest. The 3-room showflat provides inspiration for fun-loving young families looking to liven up their space.
The living area is decked out in pops of colour that add vibrancy to the space
Colours such as turquoise, mustard and pink were iconic a few decades ago, when they found their way into everything from fashion to furniture.
Statement furniture such as the lounge chair can be used for visual interest
Beyond colours and prints, home owners who are space-conscious will also find some inspiration. In this living room, a play area demarcated by the playmat is set aside for the young ones. An extendable coffee table and TV console can be rearranged to provide more room for play, while the latter also doubles as storage space.
A notable feature of the showflat lies in the kitchen, which has been combined with the utility area to form an enlarged area that will please any cooking enthusiast. The kitchen adopts an open concept that flows seamlessly into the living room, giving a sense of spaciousness to the living area.
The open kitchen is seamlessly connected with the dining area. Versatile furnishings such as the extendable dining table and stackable dining chairs help to maximise space and can be neatly stowed away when not in use, to reduce visual clutter
The child’s bedroom features more storage solutions such as underbed boxes and wall niches. These wall niches also visually break up vertical spaces while adding a touch of modernity and vibrancy to the rooms.
Underbed boxes and wall niches are used to provide additional storage space in the child’s bedroom
4 Room: Nordic Silhouette
With their timeless yet contemporary aesthetic, it’s little wonder why Scandinavian homes are a popular source of inspiration. Love the idea of a Nordic-inspired nest for yourself? The 4-room showflat at the My Nice Home Gallery offers wallet-friendly design ideas for both young couples and families.
Decked out in the Nordic theme, the 4-room showflat features pinewood complemented with harmonious shades of green, white and grey.
The 4-room showflat adopts an open floor plan.
The use of white and light-coloured carpentry and furnishings complement the neutral palette. With a spacious common area as the heart of the home, a family can gather comfortably on the plush sofa or around the dining table to spend quality time together.
In the combined living and dining space, green chairs and cushions add a pop of colour.
The green dining chairs help to add a pop of colour
A study nook in the living area is also a great spot for children to indulge in their creative hobbies, or for adults who need to get some work done at home.
A workspace carved out from a corner
While Scandinavian design might be minimalist in nature, the master bedroom shows how to achieve a cosy personal sanctuary. Details matter – add curves through a round mirror or rounded lampshade for a gentle touch, and put soft furnishings like luxe bedclothes on your shopping list!
A smart wall-hung speaker, with customisable panels can be changed to complement any décor
If you have always wanted a smart home, you will enjoy the master bedroom in the 4-room showflat. Be sure to check out how you can control smart appliances such as lights and blinds through a tablet, to create your ideal environment. You can also find a smart wall-hung speaker, with customisable panels that can be changed to complement any décor.
When designing your children’s bedrooms, it’s possible to achieve both style and function. For instance, a bunk bed instantly carves out space for a study right beneath, providing ample space for their favourite books and toys.
Bunk bed with a study nook
A bed with storage beneath is practical and will serve your child well throughout their growing years. Instead of built-ins, movable furniture can be replaced as and when needed to meet the child’s changing needs.
Maximise storage space with underbed pull-out drawers or boxes
Keep things simple but not plain, with unique design elements such as floral light fixtures and surface decals.
5-Room: Tropical Luxe
Decked out in a tropical theme, the 5-room showflat features a colour palette of turquoise and white, with splashes of greenery, as well as black and wood accents. At the same time, a hint of gold fittings as well as geometric lines and textures add to its luxurious vibes.
The living room is decorated with splashes of greenery, wood accents and gold fittings to bring out the interior theme
In creating a larger common area, the dining area is designed to be within the living room. Instead of conventional dining chairs, a long, built-in bench is used for seats. Not only does it add to the aesthetic, a bench offers more seating while doubling up as storage. Speaking of maximising space, the nested tables at the entryway, and side table with a pull-out stool beside the sofa are also handy multifunctional pieces.
The dining room is designed as an extension of the living areaThe built-in bench doubles up as a storage area
This showflat also features a small workspace near the kitchen. For more flexibility, the worktable is designed to be easily stowed away when not in use and can be converted into an exercise space or children’s play area.
The versatile worktable can be easily stowed away
To demarcate the spaces, a half-wall partition topped with a black-framed glass panel is used.
The half-wall and half-glass kitchen partition has become increasingly popular amongst home owners
For families who indulge in heavy cooking, this type of kitchen partition also come in handy as it helps with keeping the fumes within the kitchen while allowing a full view of the living area—useful for supervising the little ones!
Inspired by hotel suites, the master bedroom is designed to be luxurious yet cosy. Cove lights are used to create a welcoming atmosphere, while lines and textures on the wardrobe and feature wall create a subtle statement.
The design of the master bedroom is inspired by that of a hotel
More space-saving solutions can be found in the bedrooms. For instance, the common bedroom features a flip-up dresser that doubles up as a writing desk, while the kids room has a pull-out study table that can be easily stowed away to create a bigger play area.
The dressing table features a flip-up mirror that can be easily kept awayto double up as a writing deskSimilarly, the pull-out study table in the children’s room enables the area to be used more flexibly
The showflat also showcases the smart home features that can be incorporated into your new home to make it more comfortable and convenient. These include temperature and humidity sensors, as well as smart lighting, air conditioners and voice activated smart controls.
Features such as light and air conditioning can be remotely controlled via a smart systemOne example of smart lighting is the motion-sensor activated lights in the bathroom
