When it comes to renovating homes in Singapore, certain materials like ceramic tiles, quartz countertops, and laminate flooring dominate the scene. However, there is a world of lesser-known materials that can give your home a unique edge, improve functionality, or even be more sustainable. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your flooring, walls, or kitchen countertops, stepping out of the mainstream can be a rewarding choice. Let’s dive into some materials that are uncommon in Singapore homes but deserve your attention.
1. Cork Flooring Cork is a natural and eco-friendly material that has been gaining traction in other parts of the world. Derived from the bark of cork oak trees, it offers a soft, cushiony feel underfoot. This makes it perfect for areas like bedrooms or kids' playrooms. It’s excellent for soundproofing, which is why some recording studios utilise this material.
2. Terrazzo Flooring While terrazzo is commonly used in commercial spaces, it’s relatively underutilised in Singaporean homes. Made by embedding chips of marble, quartz, or glass into a cement or resin base, terrazzo is both durable and visually striking. It’s extremely customisable, highly durable and low-maintenance at the same time, however because of the skill needed for installation it can be very pricey.
3. Bamboo Flooring Bamboo is another sustainable material that’s not widely used in Singapore. Fun fact: despite its woody appearance, bamboo is technically a grass, and it’s harder than many traditional hardwoods. Take note that bamboo is susceptible to water damage if not properly sealed, so keep them out of wet areas.
1. Venetian Plaster Venetian plaster is a luxury wall finish that mimics the look of polished marble. Made from lime and marble dust, it’s applied in thin layers and polished to create a smooth, reflective surface. Its breathable nature helps prevent mould growth in humid environments. This timeless aesthetic comes with a hefty upfront cost, as it requires skilled application.
2. Reclaimed Wood Panels Reclaimed wood is not just sustainable but also lends a rustic, cosy vibe to interiors. It can be used for feature walls, adding warmth and character to your living space. Perfect for homeowners who love a touch of nature indoors without compromising on sustainability or style.
3. Concrete Panels Concrete is often associated with industrial design, but it can be a versatile choice for modern interiors. Precast concrete panels can be used as an alternative to traditional tiles or paint. They pair beautifully with other materials like wood or metal, making it ideal for contemporary homes.
1. Stainless Steel Countertops While stainless steel is a staple in commercial kitchens, it’s rarely seen in residential spaces. However, it’s a fantastic option for the professional home chef seeking a modern, industrial look.
2. Soapstone Soapstone is a natural material that’s resistant to heat and stains, making it a great choice for kitchen countertops. Its soft, matte texture gives it a unique, understated elegance. Its natural aesthetic complements a variety of interior styles, from modern to rustic. While they can be prone to scratches, we say embrace it and make it uniquely yours.
3. Paper Composite Countertops Made from recycled paper and resin, paper composite countertops are a sustainable and lightweight alternative to traditional options. Its sleek appearance suits minimalist interiors, and its environmental benefits align with growing sustainability trends. However, be warned that they can be less durable than stone options.
1. Plyboo (Bamboo Plywood) Plyboo is an engineered bamboo material that’s both durable and aesthetically pleasing. It’s a great alternative to traditional plywood for cabinetry and furniture. Perfect for green-conscious homeowners.
2. Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) While ACP is typically used in exterior cladding, it’s an excellent material for custom cabinetry and even feature walls. It’s lightweight and available in a wide range of colours and finishes. Because it’s typically used for exteriors, this material is incredibly durable and water resistant.
3. Richlite Richlite is a paper-based composite material that’s incredibly durable and versatile. It’s often used for countertops, but it can also be adapted for carpentry projects like cabinets or shelving. Its unique, modern look pairs well with contemporary interiors.
In a market saturated with conventional choices, exploring uncommon materials can set your home apart while catering to your unique needs and preferences. Whether it’s cork flooring for added comfort, stainless steel countertops for a sleek finish, or bamboo plywood for eco-conscious carpentry, these materials open up a world of design possibilities.
At EZiD, we’re committed to helping you discover innovative materials and designs that align with your vision. By connecting you directly with trusted IDs in Singapore, we ensure transparency and cost-effectiveness for your renovation journey. Ready to transform your home with something truly unique? Let’s make it happen!
When it comes to renovating homes in Singapore, certain materials like ceramic tiles, quartz countertops, and laminate flooring dominate the scene. However, there is a world of lesser-known materials that can give your home a unique edge, improve functionality, or even be more sustainable. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your flooring, walls, or kitchen countertops, stepping out of the mainstream can be a rewarding choice. Let’s dive into some materials that are uncommon in Singapore homes but deserve your attention.
1. Cork Flooring Cork is a natural and eco-friendly material that has been gaining traction in other parts of the world. Derived from the bark of cork oak trees, it offers a soft, cushiony feel underfoot. This makes it perfect for areas like bedrooms or kids' playrooms. It’s excellent for soundproofing, which is why some recording studios utilise this material.
2. Terrazzo Flooring While terrazzo is commonly used in commercial spaces, it’s relatively underutilised in Singaporean homes. Made by embedding chips of marble, quartz, or glass into a cement or resin base, terrazzo is both durable and visually striking. It’s extremely customisable, highly durable and low-maintenance at the same time, however because of the skill needed for installation it can be very pricey.
3. Bamboo Flooring Bamboo is another sustainable material that’s not widely used in Singapore. Fun fact: despite its woody appearance, bamboo is technically a grass, and it’s harder than many traditional hardwoods. Take note that bamboo is susceptible to water damage if not properly sealed, so keep them out of wet areas.
1. Venetian Plaster Venetian plaster is a luxury wall finish that mimics the look of polished marble. Made from lime and marble dust, it’s applied in thin layers and polished to create a smooth, reflective surface. Its breathable nature helps prevent mould growth in humid environments. This timeless aesthetic comes with a hefty upfront cost, as it requires skilled application.
2. Reclaimed Wood Panels Reclaimed wood is not just sustainable but also lends a rustic, cosy vibe to interiors. It can be used for feature walls, adding warmth and character to your living space. Perfect for homeowners who love a touch of nature indoors without compromising on sustainability or style.
3. Concrete Panels Concrete is often associated with industrial design, but it can be a versatile choice for modern interiors. Precast concrete panels can be used as an alternative to traditional tiles or paint. They pair beautifully with other materials like wood or metal, making it ideal for contemporary homes.
1. Stainless Steel Countertops While stainless steel is a staple in commercial kitchens, it’s rarely seen in residential spaces. However, it’s a fantastic option for the professional home chef seeking a modern, industrial look.
2. Soapstone Soapstone is a natural material that’s resistant to heat and stains, making it a great choice for kitchen countertops. Its soft, matte texture gives it a unique, understated elegance. Its natural aesthetic complements a variety of interior styles, from modern to rustic. While they can be prone to scratches, we say embrace it and make it uniquely yours.
3. Paper Composite Countertops Made from recycled paper and resin, paper composite countertops are a sustainable and lightweight alternative to traditional options. Its sleek appearance suits minimalist interiors, and its environmental benefits align with growing sustainability trends. However, be warned that they can be less durable than stone options.
1. Plyboo (Bamboo Plywood) Plyboo is an engineered bamboo material that’s both durable and aesthetically pleasing. It’s a great alternative to traditional plywood for cabinetry and furniture. Perfect for green-conscious homeowners.
2. Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) While ACP is typically used in exterior cladding, it’s an excellent material for custom cabinetry and even feature walls. It’s lightweight and available in a wide range of colours and finishes. Because it’s typically used for exteriors, this material is incredibly durable and water resistant.
3. Richlite Richlite is a paper-based composite material that’s incredibly durable and versatile. It’s often used for countertops, but it can also be adapted for carpentry projects like cabinets or shelving. Its unique, modern look pairs well with contemporary interiors.
In a market saturated with conventional choices, exploring uncommon materials can set your home apart while catering to your unique needs and preferences. Whether it’s cork flooring for added comfort, stainless steel countertops for a sleek finish, or bamboo plywood for eco-conscious carpentry, these materials open up a world of design possibilities.
At EZiD, we’re committed to helping you discover innovative materials and designs that align with your vision. By connecting you directly with trusted IDs in Singapore, we ensure transparency and cost-effectiveness for your renovation journey. Ready to transform your home with something truly unique? Let’s make it happen!