Blog

Modern styling takes precedence in this well-appointed BTO unit at Alkaff Vista at the new Bidadari estate. The design is fluid and light to heighten the connectivity of space and keeping the living and dining areas as open as possible. Here, natural tones like wood, beige and grey reign to provide a sense of collected calm. Metallics are introduced to lift the overall profile and give the décor a poised, lustrous touch.

 

To keep the same open, yet obscured when needed, the designer creates a kitchen counter that can be opened or closed off with sliding windows. This setup is ideal for the homeowners to indulge in casual dining overlooking the kitchen, but yet with the option to shut the windows to keep the noise and grease within the kitchen when heavier cooking takes place. Demarcated with a glass door and sliding windows, the setup possesses a sense of transparent quality that does not interrupt the sense of seamlessness conjured throughout.

 

In the rooms, floor area is maximised with custom floor-to-ceiling wardrobes and cabinetry – each space carefully tailored to fit the homeowner’s lifestyle and needs. Here, the pairing of white and light wood contributes to a soothing ambience conducive for rest.

 

Modern-day kitchens have to balance functionality, sustainability and aesthetic. Given that kitchen makeovers can be laborious and expensive, it is important for us to choose a countertop that is durable to handle heavy-duty cooking, easy to maintain for fuss-free upkeeping and timeless so that our kitchen design endures the test of time.

 

    

 

Enduring qualities of KompacPlus

Crafted out of high-density composite panels made in Italy, using innovative and rigorous engineering techniques, KompacPlus countertops are made from layers of kraft paper and resin, pressed between decorous papers at high pressure and heat to produce a sleek and compact 6mm thick countertop layer, yet proven to be extremely resilient against wear and tear.

Qualities that make KompacPlus stand out are that it is scratch-resistant, non-porous and water and steam-resistant. In fact, KompacPlus’ dense construct and waterproof ability make it perfect for bathroom vanity tops too – enduring water and steam to stay in shape after a long time.

You can even leave hot pots and pans on the counter as it possesses low flammability. What’s more, it is easy to clean with a simple wipe.

 

 

 

Hassle-free installation

KompacPlus is great for out-dated kitchens as it can be mounted over existing countertops to give your kitchen an invigorated look. In fact, this material is so versatile that it can even be used on floors and walls – which makes it a suitable backsplash-and-countertop option to achieve a seamless look that demonstrates flow.

 

Modern Aesthetic                                                              

There is a design for every coveted look. Sleek and elegant, KompacPlus’ range of solutions speaks for itself. Whether it’s distressed wood, concrete, marble-like, warm woodgrains or plain solid colours, there is surely a stylized finish to fit your theme and design aspiration to create an enviable aesthetic.

 

The bathroom is one place in your home that requires some tender loving care. Unlike other places in your home, like the living area or bedrooms, the bathroom is one area where you simply cannot introduce new furniture or textiles to update it – yet it is the one place you spend a fair bit of time each day. As such, it is worthwhile renovating your bathroom if you just bought a resale, or just gotten the keys to a BTO. In the long run, you’ll realise it’s money well spent.

 

Plan

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. This piece of advice might seem obvious to most. But sometimes, we can get overly excited over the new place that we jump at the first thing we see in shops – too eager to get started. Do not make this first-homeowner mistake. Instead, shop around and check out the latest bathroom furnishing. Browse online for bathroom inspiration to get you started.

Do you need a mirror with storage above your vanity? Do you have space to hang a towel rack or a shelf for toiletries? And if so, would your door be able to open fully? These are factors that you need to plan for right from the beginning. It is also wise to bring in a contractor or renovator who can advise on matters such as plumbing and electricity if you are installing new light sources, as well as the cost involved. It pays to plan ahead before committing to any purchases in case they do not fit or they no longer fit into your vision of your bathroom. Essentially, a well-planned remodelling is the first step to saving you money and time.

 

Call in the professionals

Unlike a bed, you might not have the expertise to put together a vanity top as it involves plumbing work. In every bathroom remodelling, a certain degree of plumbing work is needed. So the safest option is calling in the professionals to help.

 

Keep to the budget

So you have a budget planned out. But part of having a budget is keeping to it. Run through items you’ll need to purchase for a bathroom remodelling and work out how much it’ll cost you to remodel your space. Bring in a plumber and electrician to discuss how much the remodelling cost. If you’re engaging a renovator or interior designer, discuss your budget with him or her, and share any constraints. Do not assume that your renovator is on the same page as you in terms of costs. This will determine the extent of your bathroom makeover.

Again, shop around for alternatives to seal cheaper deals, while not overtly compromising on aesthetic and function. Having said that, be prepared to spend a little above the budget, as renovations can sometimes be riddled with hiccups that end up costing you more.

 

Take care of lighting

When it comes to a bathroom remodelling, we’re often too transfixed on choosing the right tiles, vanity top design and even shower head, while conveniently neglecting lightings. Even though a bathroom is typically the smallest room in the house, multiple light sources is preferred, as you want to light it up sufficient at the vanity and shower, and stylishly while at it.

As a general rule, opt for three layers of lightings, namely an ambient light as a general light source, task lighting for activities like shaving or applying make-up, and finally an accent light to enhance the space. When outfitting a bathroom with task lights, consider side-mounted wall sconces on either side of your mirror above the vanity or cove lightings if you have a custom mirror cabinet. Apart from functionality, consider the aesthetic too – so stick to a similar style or finish on all three types of lights to achieve a coherent look. If your budget does not allow for multiple light sources, use a single ceiling light source, and mirrors with integrated touch lighting above the vanity to achieve a similar effect.

 

Measurements

The bathroom is usually the most space-constrained area in a house, yet packed with the bath, toilet bowl and vanity to get you all ready for heading out. Check your measurements, leaving no room for error, so you do not end up purchasing a sink that would not fit into the vanity, or a toilet bowl that is a misfit with the plumbing.

Also ensure that your vanity top and towels racks are placed at your preferred height. If you have children, you might want to factor this in when deciding on where your fixtures are placed for easy reach.

 

Ease of cleaning

Everyone loves a picture-perfect bathroom, but they are not always pleasant to wash on a regular basis. For instance, white grouts with black walls tiles may exude the muted, industrial look you’re after, but it can be a chore cleaning out the dirt that accumulates and stains between tiles. So it’s wise in the long haul to take into consideration the amount of up-keeping that goes into your bathroom remodeling decisions.

You spend about one-third of your life asleep. As such, our mattress can greatly affect your sleep pattern, which in turn impacts your health in many ways. Having a good night’s rest will no doubt leave you feeling rejuvenated the next morning and throughout the day, and the foundation to having a rested night is a comfortable mattress that is just right for you. On the other hand, a poor-quality sleep leaves you tired the next day. In the long run, it could have adverse effects on one.

Did you know that as a general rule of thumb, you should change your mattress every eight years? If you experience stiffness and aches or pains, or feel that your quality of sleep has deteriorated, it could be a sign that you need to replace your mattress. If your mattress is showing visible signs of wear and tear, sagging or lumpy at certain areas, then the mattress ought to go too.

Different types of mattresses

No two persons are alike – it is important for you to find a mattress that meets your criteria for a good sleep – providing you adequate comfort and support. A good mattress, for instance, will gently support your whole body and keep your spine in a neutral position regardless of your lying position. Without good spinal support, poor spinal alignment can cause long-term problems like chronic body pains.

There are six main types of mattresses. The majority of mattresses are spring mattresses where springs serve as the core of support. Factors that contribute to the spring construction, such as wire gauge, coil turns, coil numbers and spring height impact the tension and weight distribution capability of the mattress.

Spring mattresses use three main types of springs, namely consitious spring or superlastic spring, bonnel spring and pocket spring. Among the three, pocket spring is considered more superior, and hence more expensive in used in high-quality mattresses. They work independently of one another as they conform and adjust to body contours.

Different types of filling

Spring mattresses use different fillings, which affect the durability, flexibility, resilience and ability to absorb moisture. Examples of fillings used in spring mattresses include polyester, felt, 3E coconut fiber and foam. And examples of foam are PU foam, latex, memory foam and gel.

Latex foam

Of which, eco-friendly latex foam, derived from sap of rubber trees, offers natural elasticity so that the shape of the mattress immediately recovers when pressure is removed. Latex foam mattresses also offer better distribution of pressure, are durable, and have anti-microbial properties ideal for those with allergies. It leaves one with a fresh, cool sensation – more so when compared to memory foam mattresses. So latex foam is ideal if heat or odour is a concern.

Memory foam

Memory foam has good pressure-relieving properties, thereby providing better support and contour. This mattress is ideal if your partner’s movements interrupt your sleep.

Gel foam

Gel foam is known for its cooling thermo regulatory properties, which facilitates breathability and promotes good body support.

By and large, memory foam and latex foam are superior choices that appeal most.

Other considerations when choosing a mattress

1. Sleeping posture

One of the key considerations is the firmness of a mattress – ranging from firm, medium and soft. Typically, firm mattresses are ideal for back sleepers as it keeps the spine aligned, while soft mattresses are perfect for side sleepers as it supports the contour of the body. Having said that, comfort is subjective and differs from person to person.

2. Size of mattress

When deciding between a queen- or king-size bed, consider the space between partners. As a general rule of thumb, you and your partner should be able to lie beside each other with your arms behind the head and elbows out without touch each other at all. And it should be 15-cm longer than the taller person. So finding the right mattress has a lot to do with your weight, height and build.

3. Height of mattress

Thicker is not always better. A mattress that is too thick can lead to larger body impressions and more sagging over time. Generally, any mattress that is more than 15-inch thick is considered overly thick.

A reigning white dresses this home with striking modernity. Streamlined designs contribute to a fluid, uninterrupted visual that rests easy on the eye. The decor pops with wooden accents, warming up otherwise stark, white surfaces, offering dimension that sharpens the overall composition.

In a white space like this, less is often more. Keeping the design pared-down and uncluttered goes a long way in giving it a modish appeal that thrives on minimalism. Simple detailing grace the walls to make the space appear more lavish. This adds a hint of classicism to add interest and character. A combination of undershelf lights and sconces casts a beautiful glow.

 

The simple beauty of the dining area adds to the overall vocabulary to provide a touch of modern splendour. A single, large artwork is sometimes preferred over a gallery wall to provide visual impact. This instantly adds colour and make the space pop with contemporary interest.

Similarly, a heavy dose of white looks stunning when paired with inviting wood accents in the bedrooms. Shades of grey gradations are infused to offer more depth. This hue is again paired with beautiful wall trims to claim sophistry. Otherwise, furniture showcases simple, concise forms that are beautiful and practical.

This home is proof that white does not have to read boring, perfect for those who wants to strip the home of frivolous pretentiousness and desire elegant simplicity.

 

A home that looks straight out of a magazine is possible even on a budget. Achieving the high-end look is no longer achievable with the trained eye, with some useful tips to transform your space from drab to fab.

 

Use metallic accents

Nothing spells luxury like some metallic magic. Adding some glitz and glam is always a sure recipe for a classier, curated interior, using copper, brass, gold and rose gold on furniture, lighting or hardware to command attention. These accents exude a refined look that resonates with classy contemporary interiors. High-gloss paint also does the trick.

 

Use classical curves

Every classic-inspired interior is adorned with decorous pieces that bring out the beauty of European culture. Introduce rounded shapes and ornate curves instead of hard lines to conjure reminiscent of classic references. Channel classicism with the occasional frills and details. Consider an accent chair with winged sides or rounded backs or light pendants that showcase organic curves. You’ll find that the right amount of curves will give nod to an understated classic design.

 

Not forget clean lines

While some curves are needed, too much can overwhelm a space. Veer away from an over-the-top traditional space by leaning towards a transitional look, balancing modern with tradition by juxtaposing curves against the purity of straight lines. Using strong vertical and horizontal lines lends structural height and width to a room. They help to visually expand space and convey a sense of stability.

 

Create a gallery wall

Every space could do with some artwork. They not only enhance an aesthetic, but also add a personalised touch to a room. So dressing up walls with multiple artwork is surely the way to go. Choose meaningful artwork that picks up on prominent colours in the interior to create a cordial mood. Choose from ornate frames with curves or mix with simple squarish or rectangular frames for a fun ensemble. Using gold-tinted frames is also an inexpensive way to bring in lustrous accents.

 

Choose dark colours

Surprisingly, dark colours can conjure a classy feel when well-paired with other colours and elements in the room. Dark grey, green and even blues are great options for giving your room a dreamy, classy feel with a note of importance. Dark furniture can also have the same effect in a room.

 

Multiple light sources

Think a mixture of overhead lights, recessed lights, cove lightings and sconces. Instead of having a single, bright light source, make room for multiple light sources – incorporating task and accent lighting to give your interior a nuanced, muted luminance that enriches the atmosphere. When on a budget, choose from affordable table lamps and floor lamps to give your space variance and interest.

 

Use faux marble

It is an undisputable fact that marble lends classicism and an elegant touch to any interior. If real marble is too costly and even difficult to maintain, consider faux marble as a budget-friendly option that is also beautiful and practical.

 

Dress walls with mouldings

These are great additions that immediately create interest and add interior architecture – drawing one’s attention to otherwise inconspicuous walls. They also set the tone for a classy appeal. Even though they look high-end, they can be installed affordably. In fact, you can even DIY wall mouldings in your room. The best part is you don’t have to apply them throughout, but on one or two select walls for visual impact.

Style your interior a soft mien with underlying muted monotones and nude or blush tones that offer a palest hint of pink. Already invading the world of fashion and make-up, these tones are emerging as trendy, irresistible colours in the interior design scene, giving creamy white interiors a light, airy and calm feel.

 

Nude walls and decorative nude accents give go-to neutrals much-needed punch. Introduce a nude-tone curtain, bedspread or even sofa throw to update your space. Bring to life a design theme with style-appropriate pieces. This works well with modern Parisian, Victorian classic and contemporary homes. They can be replaced from time to time to reflect newer trends, but are otherwise great all year round. The space will feel natural with a laid back charm.

 

 

Earthy, unobtrusive nude tones also go hand in hand with a pale blue, beige, terra cotta or brown. Extremely versatile, you’ll find that nudes blend well with different materials such as rustic wood for an informal touch. This contrast will warm up the space, injecting some cheerfulness. Another curated look is melding nudes with high-end marble for a look more elegant and poised.

Fancy more colours? Usher teal accents or potted greens. Alternatively, throw in metallic bronze hues to offer glitz and drama for an over-the-top look. Layering nudes with stronger colours like a bright pink is another viable option. Many palettes will work well with nudes to create an ethereal sanctuary overflowing with global appeal sophistication. Taking cue from interior design magazines, nude tones can surely transform an otherwise inconspicuous home into a polished, enviable abode you’ll be proud to showcase.

 

Wood is a staple element in modern homes. Warm, timeless and beautiful, wood goes well with any design direction. Equally striking is the use of concrete, another foundation element in homes to create a raw, edgy outlook. When these two elements converge, like in this home, we find ourselves in a modern sensual home that engages on a different level.

In this home, it is important for the designer to foster a sense of visual flow and consistency in line with open floor plans. To do so, materials from the same family are tied together closely to create wondrous effects. Wood, for instance, is applied generously to create a recurring theme in this modish home.

 

 

Here, flawless modern design is sealed using a gradation of wood blended ever so seamlessly. The choice of lighter wood on the floor makes the space appear visually larger, while darker wood is used on wall paneling and custom cabinetry to offer contrast. Focal points are created using laminates laid to position wood grains at invigorating angles for an on-trend look.

What truly stands out is an unfinished concrete wall that brings to mind conservation shophouses, in place of the regular walls. Paired with black-framed glass, these walls add a subtle yet sophisticated touch, demarcating a room to create impact. Cold, grey concrete works well against warm modern wood to create a sensual combination overflowing with history and character.

On the ground that every space could use with a touch of black, light pendants and furniture also reveal black outlines to claim a sophisticated and calm nuance. Against a neutral palette, black catches the eye and sharpens the composition.

 

 

In the kitchen, the tone of the design shifts further as black takes predominance. Here, a black kitchen emerges as a visual anchor in this open floor plan home, unifying the living and dining areas, yet standing out as a social nucleus for better connectivity when entertaining. Black is offset with a glossy white countertop. To lift the monotony of too much bark, colours and patterns are injected using interesting wall and floor tiles. This instantly lends a more amicable, welcoming note to the space.

 

 

In the bedroom, wallpapers in concrete-like greys help create a uniform look that rests well with the eye. Wood is used to frame the bay window and serve as a headboard to align with the design theme in the living room. On the whole, this home appears collected and harmonious.

Wall mouldings are all the rage now as they add an upscale note to your interior. Elegant and classy, wall mouldings blend well with different design styles to transform an otherwise plain room into a masterpiece. They add a touch of traditional charm and architectural character – instantly bringing to mind gorgeous Parisien apartments.

How to use wall mouldings

They can dress any wall in your home, from the living room, bedroom, kitchen and even bathroom. These decorative mouldings instantly infuse a more formal note and can be used throughout to facilitate continuity, or applied to a single wall to create a focal point.

 

 

Opting for picture frame wall moulding, for instance, immediately adds height to your space. With trims that extend from floor to ceiling, the space appears more deliberated and formal. A taller top trim also lends proportion to the room and is often used in areas like living rooms.

 

 

White-on-white wall mouldings are very popular, with white trims set against white walls. This look befits modern contemporary homes that veer towards simplicity and understated beauty. Subtle trims on walls lend interest to the space without disturbing the underlying calm.

 

 

For a more formal or traditional look, two-tone wall mouldings such as white trims placed against darker coloured walls create a more dramatic profile. What is trendy is pairing white with a light grey or pale blue-grey.

 

 

 

Placing dark grey trims against light grey walls is another popular way to bring emphasis to ornate wall accents that lend elegance. In this dining area, crown moulding around the ceiling, as well as an ornamental ceiling medallion and statement pendant complete this evocative look.

 

 

Wallpapers can also be used to accentuate decorous trims on walls. In this living room, geometrical patterns on wallpapers echo the silhouettes of a stylish pendant light to create a cohesive look.

 

 

Instead of applying the style throughout, mix up your style to create a focal point. In this gorgeous bedroom, for instance, a grey wall with white trims add depth and interest to the overall design, offering contrast to a predominant white elsewhere.

 

 

Mouldings placed midway, also known as baseboard moulding serve also as an ornamental trim – albeit a little less prominent. Traditionally, baseboard moulding protects the lower portion of walls from the splash of wet mops. Here, grey baseboard moulding or wainscoting serves almost as a visual anchor with a crisp white on the upper portion of walls.

 

 

True to classic homes, mouldings with deep profiles and elaborate trims add more punch to an interior – which is the case in this bedroom. Here, the use of trims on custom grey wardrobes is a clever way to mirror the trims on walls to facilitate consistency and flow for a harmonious, put-together look.

Love colours but don’t know how to use them in your space? Ditch your fears of colours with these little ways to introduce them in your home to enliven an otherwise lackluster interior, without overwhelming, and watch how you’ll immediately warm up to your improved home.

Paint a wall

Punctuate your space with interest with a wall in a bold, contrasting colour from the rest of the room. Opt for a darker shade on this feature wall to create a focal point where attention gravitates towards. Alternatively, play up a room with wallpapers that make your space pop. Consider dressing your walls with a bold wallpaper to really make a style statement.

Bring in artwork

Colourful artwork is great for adding colour accents to your space. They are also an easy way to showcase your personality. What’s more, they can be replaced at whim to reflect your latest interest.

Use colourful textiles

Brighten up uninspiring sofas with cushions that inject colours, dress up windows with attractive curtains, plush up beds with pillows or throws that exhibit streaks of patterns and colours. You can also contrast colours and prints on rugs to accentuate a colour palette. This instantly lifts your space when the overall scheme is carefully curated.

Veer away from plain tiles

Forget neutral tiles if you want an impressionable space. Visually demarcate your space and add a splash of colour and personality with patterned tiles. If you have an open floor plan, switching up tiles could make a big impact. A different-coloured backsplash in the kitchen is one way to make your space pop.

Dress up furniture

Add a pop of colour with even with single piece of furniture in a totally different colour. And instead of opting for monochromes, jazz up custom cabinetry with expanses of colours. Even a choice like dark blue ­– not too loud or distracting – can be a great option just to add some character and personality.

Using interesting displays

If you have a open-shelf bookcase, consider colour coding the spines of books to create colour blocks that stand out. Arrange decorative pieces like vases and even kitchen peripherals in the same colour to make a cohesive display that stads out with style.

If having too many colours in your space is daunting, choose up to three dominant colours to be applied generously, and then throw in different tones of these colours throughout. Alternatively, use a fourth colour as an accent colour best applied on your peripherals.