The Beginner’s Guide to Interior Design in Singapore

Small spaces present a unique challenge for interior designers, but with the right approach, you can make even the tiniest room feel spacious, airy, and inviting. Whether you’re dealing with a compact apartment, a small bedroom, or a cozy living area, clever design tricks and thoughtful choices can help you maximize the space and make it feel much larger than it actually is.

Here are some expert tips on how to create the illusion of a bigger space in your home.

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1. Use Light Colors

The color scheme you choose for your small space has a significant impact on how spacious the room feels. Lighter colors, such as whites, light grays, pastels, and soft neutrals, have reflective properties that help bounce natural and artificial light around the room, creating a sense of openness.

• Neutral shades: White, beige, and soft grays are ideal for making a small space feel larger.
• Accents: If you want to add some color, go for subtle accent walls or accessories in soft tones. Bright colors like pale blue, mint green, or soft peach can still inject personality without overwhelming the space.

By keeping the palette light and airy, the space will feel more expansive, regardless of its actual size.

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2. Opt for Mirrors and Reflective Surfaces

Mirrors are one of the simplest and most effective ways to visually enlarge a room. By reflecting light and the space around them, mirrors can make even a small room feel much larger.

• Strategic placement: Hang a large mirror on one wall or use mirrored furniture and accessories to amplify the feeling of space. Positioning a mirror opposite a window will maximize natural light and enhance the sense of openness.
• Reflective furniture: Incorporate glass, metal, or glossy surfaces in furniture pieces. Items such as glass tables or metallic finishes reflect the environment, tricking the eye into perceiving more space.

These reflective elements will not only brighten the room but also provide a sense of depth, creating a visually expansive feel.

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3. Keep Furniture Proportional

One of the most common mistakes people make in small rooms is overcrowding the space with oversized furniture. Choosing appropriately scaled pieces is crucial for maintaining a sense of openness.

• Scaled-down furniture: Choose pieces that are compact and multifunctional. For example, a small sectional sofa or a coffee table with built-in storage can provide functionality without overwhelming the space.
• Avoid heavy furniture: Light, airy furniture with slim profiles and raised legs can give the illusion of more floor space, whereas bulky, heavy pieces make the room feel more cramped.
• Consider furniture with a low profile: Low-rise furniture creates an open line of sight to the floor, giving the room a more expansive feel.

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4. Maximize Vertical Space

When floor space is limited, it’s important to look up. Use vertical space creatively to add storage and decorative elements that don’t take up valuable floor space.

• Vertical shelving: Install shelves on the walls for books, plants, and decor. This maximizes your storage without making the room feel cluttered.
• Tall furniture: Opt for tall, narrow furniture instead of wide, low pieces. Tall bookcases or cabinets can store items without taking up much floor space.
• Hanging lights: Instead of bulky lamps, consider pendant lights or wall sconces to keep the floor area open.

Maximizing vertical space creates the illusion of height, making the room feel larger and more expansive.

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5. Use Multi-Functional Furniture

Furniture that serves multiple purposes can be a game-changer in small spaces. Multi-functional pieces help you maximize every inch of the room while keeping the space organized and practical.

• Sofa beds or fold-out furniture: A sofa that transforms into a bed or a dining table that doubles as a desk can save a significant amount of space without sacrificing style or comfort.
• Storage solutions: Look for furniture that includes hidden storage, such as ottomans, coffee tables, or benches with compartments. These pieces allow you to store items out of sight, reducing clutter and keeping the space feeling open.

By incorporating multifunctional furniture, you can optimize your space without compromising on functionality.

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6. Limit Clutter

Clutter is the enemy of small spaces. Excessive items, even if they are stylish, can make a small room feel chaotic and cramped. Keeping the space tidy and streamlined is essential for maintaining a sense of spaciousness.

• Declutter regularly: Keep only essential items and store away unnecessary belongings. Consider minimalistic décor and only display items that add value to the space.
• Concealed storage: Invest in furniture that allows you to hide away clutter, such as under-bed storage, storage ottomans, or hidden cabinets.

By minimizing clutter and focusing on keeping the space organized, you’ll create an environment that feels calm, open, and more expansive.

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7. Use Vertical and Horizontal Lines

Both vertical and horizontal lines can trick the eye into perceiving more space. The right pattern or design element can draw attention to the dimensions of the room, making it feel more open and airy.

• Vertical lines: Wallpaper or wall panels with vertical stripes can give the illusion of height and make the space feel taller.
• Horizontal lines: On the other hand, horizontal lines, such as a low-profile sofa or a horizontally-oriented rug, can make the space feel wider and more open.
• Linen or curtains: Hanging curtains high on the wall and allowing them to drape to the floor adds vertical lines that make a room appear taller.

Both techniques help you create a sense of depth, making the space feel larger and more harmonious.

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8. Choose the Right Flooring

Flooring plays an important role in the perception of space. Dark floors can make a small room feel closed off, while light-colored floors help reflect light and open up the space. Additionally, the type of flooring you choose can also impact how expansive the room feels.

• Light-colored wood or tiles: Opt for light-colored flooring such as white oak, light bamboo, or light tiles to create an airy feeling.
• Consistent flooring: Using the same type of flooring throughout the home or space can create a sense of continuity and make the entire area appear larger.

The right flooring can tie the room together and enhance the feeling of openness.

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9. Create Open Sight Lines

In small spaces, it’s important to create clear sight lines across the room. Avoid blocking the view between different sections of the room, and keep the layout as open as possible to make the space feel more expansive.

• Open shelving: Rather than bulky cabinets, opt for open shelving that allows the eye to travel through the room without interruption.
• Furnishing layout: Keep furniture away from walls and avoid obstructing doorways. This encourages flow and movement throughout the space, preventing it from feeling confined.

Open sight lines can provide a visual sense of freedom and space, enhancing the overall feel of your home.

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Conclusion

Making a small space feel bigger is all about clever design choices and utilizing space efficiently. By focusing on light colors, strategic furniture choices, vertical and horizontal lines, and minimizing clutter, you can make any room feel open, airy, and comfortable. These small changes can make a significant impact, ensuring that your space not only looks bigger but also feels more functional and inviting.

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This article is part of DreamR’s ongoing series on transformative design and living spaces.

Choosing the right wall color for your home is a critical decision that affects the ambiance, mood, and overall aesthetic of the space. With so many shades and tones to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether you’re tackling a full renovation or just updating a single room, understanding the dos and don’ts of wall color selection will ensure you make choices that enhance your space.

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The Dos

1. Do Consider the Room’s Purpose

When choosing a wall color, it’s essential to consider the function of the room. Different colors can evoke different emotions and moods, which can impact how you feel in a space.

• Living rooms and lounges: Opt for warm, inviting tones like beige, soft yellows, or calming blues. These shades create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
• Bedrooms: Soft pastels, muted tones, or serene blues and greens can promote relaxation and restful sleep.
• Kitchens: Warm tones like off-whites, light greens, or muted reds can stimulate appetite and promote a lively environment.

Understanding the room's purpose will help you select a color that not only looks good but also supports the desired mood and functionality.

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2. Do Test Paint Samples First

Before committing to a single color for an entire room, always test small sections of the wall with paint samples. The lighting in your room can drastically alter how a color looks, and the natural light throughout the day can change its appearance.

• Consider light: North-facing rooms tend to be cooler, so warm tones like beige, tan, or soft yellows work well. South-facing rooms benefit from cooler shades like soft blues or muted grays.
• Try multiple shades: Even within the same color family, different shades can dramatically impact the space. Always test several swatches on different walls before making your final decision.

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3. Do Complement Your Existing Furniture and Decor

Wall color should complement the rest of the interior design, not clash with your existing furniture, flooring, or decor. If your furniture has bold patterns or colors, it’s better to go with neutral or subtle wall colors that allow your decor to stand out.

• Neutral colors: Light gray, taupe, and whites serve as versatile backdrops, making your furniture and decor the focal points of the room.
• Accent walls: If you’re working with a more vibrant color scheme, you can use an accent wall to add depth and contrast without overwhelming the room.

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4. Do Use Color to Create Contrast

If you want to highlight specific areas or features in your home, use color to create contrast. Lighter shades can make a room feel bigger and airier, while darker colors create a more intimate and cozy vibe.

• Ceilings: For a more spacious feel, paint the ceiling a lighter color, like white or soft pastels, to reflect light and make the room appear taller.
• Trim and Doors: A contrasting color for trim and doors can help define the architectural features of the room.

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The Don’ts

1. Don’t Overlook Lighting

Lighting plays a significant role in how colors appear in a room. A color that looks great in one room may look entirely different when exposed to different lighting conditions.

• Artificial lighting: Warm lighting can make colors appear richer and softer, while cool lighting can make them seem more vibrant or stark.
• Natural light: Be mindful of how natural light enters the room and the time of day it’s most prominent. It’s advisable to observe how your selected paint color looks in various lighting before finalizing.

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2. Don’t Rely Solely on Trends

While it's tempting to follow the latest color trends, it's important to choose colors that reflect your personality and work with the overall style of your home. Popular colors like Pantone’s “Color of the Year” may not be suitable for every space, and they may lose their appeal over time.

• Timeless over trendy: Opt for colors that stand the test of time. Neutral tones, such as grays, whites, and muted pastels, can complement a variety of design styles and won’t look outdated in a few years.
• Personal preference: Your home should reflect your tastes. Don’t choose a color because it’s trendy if it doesn’t align with your personal style or the mood you want to create.

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3. Don’t Be Afraid of Dark Colors

While dark colors may seem intimidating, they can add sophistication and drama to a room when used correctly. However, it's essential to balance dark tones with lighter furnishings or accents to prevent the room from feeling closed in.

• Create balance: Dark shades like navy blue, charcoal gray, or deep plum can make a bold statement, but pairing them with lighter furniture, artwork, or accents can prevent the space from feeling too heavy.

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4. Don’t Forget to Consider the Flow

When selecting wall colors for different rooms in an open floor plan, it's important to maintain a sense of flow and cohesion. Rooms that are connected should have complementary colors or seamless transitions to avoid jarring contrasts.

• Color continuity: Choose a palette that harmonizes across rooms. For example, a neutral base like soft white or beige can create continuity, while subtle variations in accent shades can introduce depth and character without feeling disjointed.
• Flow between spaces: Use colors that create a natural transition from one room to another. For instance, you might choose one dominant shade for the hallway, living room, and dining room and then introduce contrasting accent walls for a unique touch.

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Conclusion

Selecting the right wall color is a vital part of creating a comfortable, aesthetically pleasing environment. By considering the purpose of each room, testing paint samples, and balancing your color choices with the overall design of your home, you can achieve a space that reflects your personal style while enhancing the functionality of the space.

Remember to avoid relying solely on trends, and don’t shy away from dark tones or bold contrasts. With thoughtful planning and a clear understanding of how color interacts with your space, you can choose the perfect hue to transform any room.

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This article is part of DreamR’s ongoing series on transformative design and living spaces.

Home renovations can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you're updating a single room or embarking on a full house transformation, planning your renovation is key to ensuring a successful outcome. A well-thought-out plan helps you stay on track, manage costs, and avoid unnecessary stress. This step-by-step guide will take you through the entire process of planning a home renovation from start to finish.

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1. Define Your Goals and Vision

Before diving into your renovation project, it’s essential to define your goals. Are you looking to improve the functionality of your space, increase its aesthetic appeal, or enhance its value? Understanding the purpose behind your renovation will help guide your decisions throughout the process.

• Functional Goals: Do you need more space? Consider expanding or reconfiguring rooms.
• Aesthetic Goals: Are you aiming for a more modern, traditional, or eclectic look? Determine the style and design you prefer.
• Investment Goals: Is your goal to increase your home’s resale value? Focus on renovations that will enhance the appeal of the property.

Once you have a clear vision of your goals, create a mood board or inspiration folder that includes images, colors, and designs you like. This visual aid will help you stay focused as you move through the project.

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2. Set a Realistic Budget

One of the most crucial steps in planning a home renovation is setting a realistic budget. Costs can quickly add up, and it’s easy to underestimate the expenses involved. When setting your budget, consider the following:

• Construction Costs: This includes labor, materials, and any structural changes.
• Design Fees: Hiring an interior designer or architect might be necessary, depending on the complexity of your renovation.
• Permit Fees: Some renovations may require permits, so factor in these costs.
• Contingency Fund: Set aside 10-15% of your total budget for unexpected expenses or surprises.

Be realistic about what you can afford and prioritize key renovations if necessary. A good rule of thumb is to keep your renovation budget under 20% of your home’s current value.

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3. Hire the Right Professionals

Finding the right team is crucial for a successful renovation. Depending on the scope of your project, you may need different professionals, such as:

• Interior Designers: They can help bring your vision to life, ensuring that the design is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
• Contractors: These professionals handle the construction work, whether it's building new walls, renovating a kitchen, or upgrading plumbing.
• Specialized Trades: Electricians, plumbers, and HVAC specialists might be necessary for specific tasks like wiring, installing new plumbing systems, or updating heating and cooling systems.

When hiring professionals, be sure to check references, ask for quotes, and confirm their credentials. Trustworthy contractors will communicate openly and provide realistic timelines and cost estimates.

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4. Obtain Necessary Permits

In some cases, your renovation will require building permits, especially if you’re altering the structure of your home, adding plumbing or electrical systems, or making significant changes to the property’s footprint. Without the proper permits, your renovation could be halted or fined.

Your contractor or architect should be familiar with local building codes and zoning regulations. Work with them to secure the necessary permits before starting work. This ensures your renovation is compliant with local laws and codes.

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5. Create a Timeline

A timeline is essential for ensuring your renovation stays on track. Discuss realistic timeframes with your contractor, factoring in project complexity, weather, and availability of materials. Here’s a general breakdown of the timeline:

• Planning and Design Phase: 2-4 weeks (depending on the project complexity).
• Demolition and Construction: 4-12 weeks (depending on the scope).
• Finishing and Detailing: 2-4 weeks (includes painting, flooring, etc.).

Be prepared for delays, and remember that flexibility is key. Unexpected challenges such as supply chain issues or weather delays can push back your timeline.

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6. Plan for Temporary Living Arrangements

If your renovation affects major parts of your home (e.g., kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom), you may need to make alternative living arrangements. If your renovation takes several months, renting an apartment or staying with family might be necessary.

Plan ahead for these accommodations and factor the costs into your renovation budget. If possible, try to keep the work zone contained to avoid disruption to your daily life.

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7. Select Materials and Finishes

Choosing the right materials and finishes is one of the most fun and rewarding parts of the renovation process. The materials you choose will directly impact the final look and durability of your space. Some key materials to consider:

• Flooring: Hardwood, tile, or vinyl? Consider both durability and style.
• Countertops: Marble, quartz, or granite for kitchens and bathrooms?
• Paint: Selecting the right color is crucial for setting the tone of the space.

Remember to balance aesthetics with functionality. Choose materials that suit your lifestyle—if you have children or pets, opt for durable materials that are easy to clean and maintain.

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8. Monitor Progress and Stay Involved

As your renovation progresses, stay involved and communicate regularly with your contractor and design team. Regular site visits allow you to see how things are going, catch any potential issues early, and make sure everything is being done to your satisfaction.

It’s important to stay flexible and be prepared to make small adjustments as necessary, but avoid making last-minute changes to the design or materials unless absolutely needed.

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9. Final Walkthrough and Quality Check

Once the renovation is complete, do a final walkthrough with your contractor to ensure everything is finished to your satisfaction. Check that all work is completed, including touch-ups, installations, and any final details. Pay attention to the quality of the materials and finishes, and ensure everything functions properly.

It’s also helpful to ask your contractor about the maintenance of new materials or systems, so you can care for your space long after the renovation is finished.

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Conclusion

Planning a home renovation involves careful consideration, budgeting, and coordination with professionals. By defining your goals, setting a realistic budget, and assembling the right team, you can ensure your renovation project is a success. Follow these steps to create a beautiful, functional space that reflects your personal style and enhances your home for years to come.

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This article is part of DreamR’s ongoing series on transformative design and living spaces.