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/
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Best Interior Design Hacks for Renovating Small Homes in Singapore

Written By
Stephen Chan
Date Written:
22/10/2024
A Scandinavian HDB by Style Elements Studio
A Scandinavian HDB by Style Elements Studio

Renovating a small home in Singapore can be a challenge, but with the right interior design hacks, you can make even the most compact spaces feel functional, stylish, and surprisingly spacious. Singapore’s homes are infamously known for being on the smaller side, whether it's an HDB flat, condo, or compact apartment. Regardless, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or style. Here are some of the best hacks from top interior designers to help you get the most out of your space, without needing you to resort to galvanised steel and screws borrowed from your aunt.

Hack 1: Maximise Vertical Space

A Modern Contemporary condo by Commute Design Studio
A Modern Contemporary condo by Commute Design Studio

When you’re working with limited square footage, it’s time to think vertically. Walls are not just for paint and pictures—they’re valuable real estate for storage and design.

Use Tall Shelving and Cabinets:

Opt for tall, slim shelving units that stretch upwards towards the ceiling. Not only does this provide extra storage, but it also draws the eye upward, making the room feel taller and more spacious. Tall kitchen cabinets can also help you utilise every inch of available space, while still maintaining a sleek and organised look.

Install Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are a minimalist’s dream. They’re perfect for storing books, decor, and other items without taking up floor space. Plus, they give you an opportunity to showcase personal items without cluttering surfaces like tables or countertops.

Hang Pegboards

A pegboard is a versatile tool that can be used for hanging kitchen utensils, office supplies, or even decorative plants. It keeps things off the countertops and tables, creating a more open and functional workspace.

Hack 2: Use Multi-Functional Furniture

In a small home, every piece of furniture should serve more than one purpose. Multi-functional furniture not only saves space but also adds convenience to your daily life.

Sofa Beds and Murphy Beds

Invest in a sofa bed or a Murphy bed if you need your living room to double as a guest room or bedroom. These beds can easily be tucked away during the day to free up space for other activities.

Extendable Tables

If you enjoy hosting guests but don’t have space for a full-size dining table, opt for an extendable table. These tables can be expanded when needed and retracted when not in use, allowing you to save space without sacrificing functionality.

Storage Ottomans

Ottomans with built-in storage are perfect for small homes. They provide a place to rest your feet, additional seating, and hidden storage for blankets, magazines, or other items you want to keep out of sight.

Hack 3: Embrace Light and Mirrors

A Mid Century Modern HDB by Visionary Interior
A Mid Century Modern HDB by Visionary Interior

One of the most effective tricks for making a small space feel larger is to play with light and reflections. Strategic use of mirrors and lighting can make a huge difference in how spacious your home feels.

Mirrors to Create Depth

Mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of depth, making small rooms appear larger than they actually are. Consider placing a large mirror on one of the walls in your living room or dining area to create this effect. You can also experiment with mirrored furniture, which can add a touch of luxury while serving a practical purpose.

Maximise Natural Light

Whenever possible, let natural light flood into your home. Avoid heavy, dark curtains that block sunlight. Instead, opt for sheer curtains or blinds that allow light to pass through while still providing privacy. Natural light makes any space feel more open and welcoming.

Layered Lighting

Incorporate multiple sources of lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ceiling lights, floor lamps, and under-cabinet lighting can all work together to illuminate the space and eliminate shadows that make rooms feel smaller. Pay attention to lighting in areas like kitchens and bathrooms, where good visibility is essential.

Hack 4: Create Zones within Open Plans

A Modern Contemporary HDB by Style Elements Studio
A Modern Contemporary HDB by Style Elements Studio

Open-plan living is common in small homes, but without careful planning, it can leave your space feeling chaotic and undefined. Creating distinct zones for different activities helps maintain order and ensures every square inch of your home is utilised effectively.

Use Rugs and Furniture Placement

One of the easiest ways to create zones in an open-plan space is by using rugs to delineate different areas. For example, a rug under your coffee table and sofa can define the living room, while a separate rug under your dining table sets that area apart. Similarly, the placement of furniture can act as a natural divider between spaces.

Room Dividers

For more separation, you can use room dividers, like screens or shelving units, to break up the space. Open shelving units are especially useful as they allow light to pass through while still creating distinct zones for living, dining, or working.

Ceiling Treatments

Using different ceiling treatments like drop ceilings or beams in various zones can add visual separation between spaces. Pair this with pendant lighting in specific areas to further define the purpose of each zone.

Hack 5: Opt for Minimalist Design

A Modern HDB by Ethans Interior
A Modern HDB by Ethans Interior

When space is tight, clutter can quickly make your home feel cramped and overwhelming. Adopting a minimalist design approach helps you keep things streamlined, functional, and visually appealing.

Declutter Ruthlessly

Start by getting rid of items that you no longer need or use. Less really is more in a small home. Keeping surfaces clear and furniture to a minimum allows the room to breathe, giving the illusion of more space.

Choose Simple, Clean Lines

Incorporate furniture with simple, clean lines and avoid overly bulky pieces that dominate the room. Opt for sleek, contemporary designs that take up less visual space while still serving their purpose.

Neutral Colour Palette

A neutral colour palette works wonders in small homes. Light colours like whites, beiges, and soft greys make the space feel airy and open. You can always add pops of colour with accessories like cushions, artwork, or plants, but keeping the overall scheme neutral will prevent the room from feeling too busy.

Hack 6: Make Built-Ins Your Best Friend

A Scandinavian HDB by Ace’s Design
A Scandinavian HDB by Ace’s Design

Built-ins are a game-changer when it comes to maximising space in small homes. Custom cabinetry, storage benches, and built-in desks can be designed to fit perfectly in your home, utilising every nook and cranny.

Custom Closets and Wardrobes

Built-in wardrobes can be customised to fit your space, maximising storage without eating into your square footage. Consider adding built-in drawers, shelves, and hanging spaces that suit your lifestyle and storage needs.

Storage Benches and Window Seats

If you have an awkward corner or unused space under a window, consider adding a built-in storage bench. These not only provide extra seating but also offer hidden storage for items like shoes, blankets, or books.

Built-In Desks

For those working from home, a built-in desk can save space while still providing a dedicated work area. Integrate storage above and below the desk to keep the workspace tidy and functional.

Bringing It All Together with EZiD

Renovating a small home in Singapore doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right hacks, you can make your space work harder for you while still feeling stylish and welcoming. At EZiD, we specialise in connecting homeowners with the top interior designers in Singapore, who have been carefully vetted for their expertise in maximising small spaces. Our matching system ensures you’ll find the perfect designer to help bring your vision to life, no matter the size of your home. Reach out to us today and let’s create a home that’s perfect for you—big or small.

Share this article
Articles
/
Guides

Best Interior Design Hacks for Renovating Small Homes in Singapore

Written By
Stephen Chan
Date Written:
22/10/2024
A Scandinavian HDB by Style Elements Studio
A Scandinavian HDB by Style Elements Studio

Renovating a small home in Singapore can be a challenge, but with the right interior design hacks, you can make even the most compact spaces feel functional, stylish, and surprisingly spacious. Singapore’s homes are infamously known for being on the smaller side, whether it's an HDB flat, condo, or compact apartment. Regardless, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or style. Here are some of the best hacks from top interior designers to help you get the most out of your space, without needing you to resort to galvanised steel and screws borrowed from your aunt.

Hack 1: Maximise Vertical Space

A Modern Contemporary condo by Commute Design Studio
A Modern Contemporary condo by Commute Design Studio

When you’re working with limited square footage, it’s time to think vertically. Walls are not just for paint and pictures—they’re valuable real estate for storage and design.

Use Tall Shelving and Cabinets:

Opt for tall, slim shelving units that stretch upwards towards the ceiling. Not only does this provide extra storage, but it also draws the eye upward, making the room feel taller and more spacious. Tall kitchen cabinets can also help you utilise every inch of available space, while still maintaining a sleek and organised look.

Install Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are a minimalist’s dream. They’re perfect for storing books, decor, and other items without taking up floor space. Plus, they give you an opportunity to showcase personal items without cluttering surfaces like tables or countertops.

Hang Pegboards

A pegboard is a versatile tool that can be used for hanging kitchen utensils, office supplies, or even decorative plants. It keeps things off the countertops and tables, creating a more open and functional workspace.

Hack 2: Use Multi-Functional Furniture

In a small home, every piece of furniture should serve more than one purpose. Multi-functional furniture not only saves space but also adds convenience to your daily life.

Sofa Beds and Murphy Beds

Invest in a sofa bed or a Murphy bed if you need your living room to double as a guest room or bedroom. These beds can easily be tucked away during the day to free up space for other activities.

Extendable Tables

If you enjoy hosting guests but don’t have space for a full-size dining table, opt for an extendable table. These tables can be expanded when needed and retracted when not in use, allowing you to save space without sacrificing functionality.

Storage Ottomans

Ottomans with built-in storage are perfect for small homes. They provide a place to rest your feet, additional seating, and hidden storage for blankets, magazines, or other items you want to keep out of sight.

Hack 3: Embrace Light and Mirrors

A Mid Century Modern HDB by Visionary Interior
A Mid Century Modern HDB by Visionary Interior

One of the most effective tricks for making a small space feel larger is to play with light and reflections. Strategic use of mirrors and lighting can make a huge difference in how spacious your home feels.

Mirrors to Create Depth

Mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of depth, making small rooms appear larger than they actually are. Consider placing a large mirror on one of the walls in your living room or dining area to create this effect. You can also experiment with mirrored furniture, which can add a touch of luxury while serving a practical purpose.

Maximise Natural Light

Whenever possible, let natural light flood into your home. Avoid heavy, dark curtains that block sunlight. Instead, opt for sheer curtains or blinds that allow light to pass through while still providing privacy. Natural light makes any space feel more open and welcoming.

Layered Lighting

Incorporate multiple sources of lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ceiling lights, floor lamps, and under-cabinet lighting can all work together to illuminate the space and eliminate shadows that make rooms feel smaller. Pay attention to lighting in areas like kitchens and bathrooms, where good visibility is essential.

Hack 4: Create Zones within Open Plans

A Modern Contemporary HDB by Style Elements Studio
A Modern Contemporary HDB by Style Elements Studio

Open-plan living is common in small homes, but without careful planning, it can leave your space feeling chaotic and undefined. Creating distinct zones for different activities helps maintain order and ensures every square inch of your home is utilised effectively.

Use Rugs and Furniture Placement

One of the easiest ways to create zones in an open-plan space is by using rugs to delineate different areas. For example, a rug under your coffee table and sofa can define the living room, while a separate rug under your dining table sets that area apart. Similarly, the placement of furniture can act as a natural divider between spaces.

Room Dividers

For more separation, you can use room dividers, like screens or shelving units, to break up the space. Open shelving units are especially useful as they allow light to pass through while still creating distinct zones for living, dining, or working.

Ceiling Treatments

Using different ceiling treatments like drop ceilings or beams in various zones can add visual separation between spaces. Pair this with pendant lighting in specific areas to further define the purpose of each zone.

Hack 5: Opt for Minimalist Design

A Modern HDB by Ethans Interior
A Modern HDB by Ethans Interior

When space is tight, clutter can quickly make your home feel cramped and overwhelming. Adopting a minimalist design approach helps you keep things streamlined, functional, and visually appealing.

Declutter Ruthlessly

Start by getting rid of items that you no longer need or use. Less really is more in a small home. Keeping surfaces clear and furniture to a minimum allows the room to breathe, giving the illusion of more space.

Choose Simple, Clean Lines

Incorporate furniture with simple, clean lines and avoid overly bulky pieces that dominate the room. Opt for sleek, contemporary designs that take up less visual space while still serving their purpose.

Neutral Colour Palette

A neutral colour palette works wonders in small homes. Light colours like whites, beiges, and soft greys make the space feel airy and open. You can always add pops of colour with accessories like cushions, artwork, or plants, but keeping the overall scheme neutral will prevent the room from feeling too busy.

Hack 6: Make Built-Ins Your Best Friend

A Scandinavian HDB by Ace’s Design
A Scandinavian HDB by Ace’s Design

Built-ins are a game-changer when it comes to maximising space in small homes. Custom cabinetry, storage benches, and built-in desks can be designed to fit perfectly in your home, utilising every nook and cranny.

Custom Closets and Wardrobes

Built-in wardrobes can be customised to fit your space, maximising storage without eating into your square footage. Consider adding built-in drawers, shelves, and hanging spaces that suit your lifestyle and storage needs.

Storage Benches and Window Seats

If you have an awkward corner or unused space under a window, consider adding a built-in storage bench. These not only provide extra seating but also offer hidden storage for items like shoes, blankets, or books.

Built-In Desks

For those working from home, a built-in desk can save space while still providing a dedicated work area. Integrate storage above and below the desk to keep the workspace tidy and functional.

Bringing It All Together with EZiD

Renovating a small home in Singapore doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right hacks, you can make your space work harder for you while still feeling stylish and welcoming. At EZiD, we specialise in connecting homeowners with the top interior designers in Singapore, who have been carefully vetted for their expertise in maximising small spaces. Our matching system ensures you’ll find the perfect designer to help bring your vision to life, no matter the size of your home. Reach out to us today and let’s create a home that’s perfect for you—big or small.

Share this article