Considering quartz as a surface material? Industry experts, Aurastone, Cosentino and Stone Amperor field your questions on this popular kitchen countertop material to help you make a better decision.

What is quartz made up of exactly, and how are they made?

Known also as an engineered stone, quartz is formed by combining varying amounts of grounded natural quartz (quartzite)—around 90%—with polymer resin and pigment. These are bounded together in vacuum using a large press and an intense vibration and pressure to compact the mixture, resulting in an isotropic slab with very low porosity. The slab will then be transferred over to a polishing machine to give it a nice and consistent finishing.

Where can we use quartz?

One of the most popular applications for quartz is as a kitchen countertop. Aurastone notes that this is because of the material’s resistant to heat, stain and scratches, crucial characteristics for a hardworking surface that is constantly exposed to high temperatures.

Design: Minimo

Some quartz, like Aurastone’s or Lian Hin’s, have also obtained an NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) certification, a third party accreditation that ensures products meet stringent standards for public health protection. This makes NSF-certified quartz surfaces unlikely to harbour bacteria, providing a more sanitised surface to work on.

While quartz is conventionally used on kitchen countertops, they are actually suited for use in numerous other applications. Highlighting quartz’s low porosity and minimal maintenance requirements, Ivan Capelo, the Asia Quality Manager at Cosentino, recommends having them in bathrooms as well, suggesting that they are suited as shower trays, basins, vanities, flooring or cladding.

Design: Inspire ID Group

Other applications our experts mentioned include kitchen backsplashes, drawer panels, TV walls, dining and coffee tables as well as door frames.

Is there any place we should not be using quartz?

Mr Capelo advises against using quartz on outdoor applications or areas that will be exposed to UV light, as this exposure will cause quartz to fade or discolour over time.

Do they come in standard sizes?

Most quartz slabs come in the following sizes:

Standard: 3000 (length) x 1400mm (width)
Jumbo: 3250 (length) x 1550mm (width)

They also have a variety of thickness. According to Stone Amperor’s founder, Jasmine Tan, the most commonly used ones in the market are 15 mm and 20 mm thick. However, there are also thinner ones at 10 mm/12 mm and thicker ones at 30 mm available.

Design: 0932

How thick you go for depends on the look you are trying to achieve. Aurastone recommends getting a thinner slab if you are after a sleek and minimalist design. Mr Capelo says the thickness you choose should also be dependent on your application. “For instance, a thicker slab would be preferred for kitchen countertop applications, whereas a thinner slab would be more ideal for flooring or cladding applications.”

Design: Summerhaus D’Zign

A thicker slab does not mean it has a better quality, asserts Aurastone. Conversely, thinner slabs are harder to manufacture. The expert recommends checking with your quartz supplier on the Mohs hardness of the quartz you intend to get—the higher it is on the Mohs scale, the harder and more compact your quartz is and therefore of better quality.

What do they cost? In terms of pricing, how do they compare against other surface materials?

The cost is dependent on size, colour, finish, design and the type of edging that you choose. Our experts estimate that prices for quartz in the Singapore market can range anywhere from $100 per foot run to $450 per foot run.

Design: Project Guru

In comparison with other surface materials, quartz can be on the expensive side, costlier than materials like laminate or solid surface. They have a similar price range to granite, but are cheaper than natural marble.

Can quartz be moulded into different shapes?

Conventionally, quartz cannot be moulded due to its composition. However, with new techniques and technologies, there are ways to shape them into various forms. Do note that not every supplier or contractor has the means to do so yet, so best to enquire beforehand.

Fans of trending curvilinear counters rejoice, as quartz can now be moulded into curved shape using a thermoforming method, says Aurastone. “By reducing the quartz thickness to 2- to 5-mm thin and by employing a hot water treatment to break the resin bond, you can bend the quartz to form a curve.”

Design: Three-D Conceptwerke

There are also various edging options available for quartz slab. Options include bullnose, chamfer, dove chest and sharknose. Our experts share that the most common ones are the square edge and the mitred edge.

What are some care and maintenance tips for quartz surfaces?

Because of its low porosity, quartz surfaces don’t require very much maintenance. They also do not require regular waxing or sealing to maintain its appearance. A simple wipe-down with a soft cloth and clean water will suffice for day-to-day cleaning.

If you are using cleaning agents, make sure it’s diluted and mild—that is, non-bleaching and non-abrasive. Aurastone cautions against using chemical-based or high alkaline cleansers on quartz surfaces.

While quartz is stain-resistant, it is not stain-proof. Be sure to wipe up spills immediately, particularly when exposed to certain staining foods and liquids such as wine, vinegar, soya sauce and lemon juice.

Design: Design 4 Space

Likewise, avoid using sharp knives or scissors directly onto quartz surfaces, and always use a trivet or heat pad before placing hot pots and pans onto your quartz countertop.

Are there new or upcoming technologies for quartz we can look forward to seeing?

Cosentino’s Silestone, the Spanish company’s brand of quartz, has recently incorporated N-BOOST, a technology that prevents the adhesion of liquids, enhances shine and intensifies colour on their quartz surfaces.

Aurastone predicts we might be seeing woodgrain quartz really soon. “With today’s technology advancing so quickly, textured wood quartz might soon become a thing!”

Still got burning questions on quartz? Hit us in the comments and we’ll ask the experts for you.

Original post Ask the Experts: What You Need to Know about Using Quartz as a Surface Material appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

The flat selection process can be nerve-wrecking. To help make your decision easier, we show you some of the better units to pick at Tampines GreenSpring, which was launched in the Nov 2019 BTO sales exercise.

Don’t want to live in the East? Read our analyses for the Tengah BTOs or Yio Chu Kang Beacon instead, which were also launched in November 2019.

A brief word about the site

Taken from the bus stop along Tampines Ave 5, right in front of the future Tampines GreenSpring

Two words: Fabulous location. Unlike most BTOs with crappy localities, Tampines GreenSpring is already surrounded by amenities aplenty. Situated along Tampines Ave 5 and sandwiching the Masjid Darul Ghufran mosque, it’s less than a 10-min walk to Tampines MRT (which is an interchange for both the East-West and Downtown MRT lines) and its nearby shopping centres.

Check out the amenities surrounding the site.

It is also located just behind the site of Our Tampines Hub, which comprises a library, hawker centre, an array of retail and food outlets, as well as a sports complex. Tampines GreenSpring is one of the better BTOs launched this time, so competition will definitely be stiff.

Taken from the spot right across from commercial building Hitachi Square.

Unit Analysis: What to look out for, what to avoid?

1. I can’t stand traffic noise

If you take a look at the site, some of the stacks are facing Tampines Ave 5, which is a considerably busy road with lots of buses passing through, thanks to the bus stop located right outside Tampines GreenSpring.

Stacks facing Tampines Walk can also be an issue, since it leads into the drop-off point for Our Tampines Hub, which can get quite busy. Avoid stacks facing the roads for some peace and quiet.

Avoid
858C: 103, 101
859C: 139
859D: 165, 167, 169
860C: 191, 193, 189
860D: 195, 197, 203, 205

2. I want to be located near the amenities

So anywhere on the site will get you to the nearby amenities (malls, MRT, the hustle and bustle) without taking too much time, but if you really want the surrounding amenities to be literally at your doorstep, stacks at these blocks will ensure minimal walking.

Go for it
858C
858D
859D

3. I want unblocked views

Tough luck. You won’t get a unit that is completely unblocked as the entire site is surrounded by structures and other buildings. But there are some stacks that are located some distance away from the next tall piece of concrete, so you might get relatively decent views.

Go for it
859C: 139
859D: 185, 173*, 171*, 165, 167, 169
860C: 189, 191, 193
860D: 203, 205, 195, 197, 199

*These stacks are facing the carpark, which isn’t a very tall structure at five storeys high. Pick a unit on the higher floors for relatively unblocked views.

4. I want a home that feels cool

For a home that feels cooler, avoid stacks that face the hot afternoon sun, which in Singapore, comes from the northwest or southwest directions, depending on the time of the year, during the late afternoon.

The heat from the sun often gets trapped, leaving your home feeling like a baked oven when you return home in the evening. You will want pick a flat that does not have the living room and bedrooms exposed to the western sun, which are areas where you will hang out most often. To be extra sure which flats will be facing the afternoon sun, check out the BTO model at HBD hub when you head down to choose your flat.

Avoid
858C: 101, 103
859C: 137, 139
860C: 189

5. I want my privacy

If you value your privacy or just not that sociable a person, you might want to select a flat that won’t have nosy neighbours poking their heads in while walking through the HDB corridors. Pick corner units and ensure they are far away from the lifts and rubbish chutes.

Go for it
858C: 117, 119
858D: All stacks
859C: 151, 153
859D: 177, 179
860C: 187, 191
860D: 203

Extra note to take note: Stacks in close proximity to areas within the site that see more human activity e.g. mosque, pavilion, carpark, playground and fitness stations might feel less private and can be noisy.

All site maps are courtesy of HDB

Browse through the list of Interior Designers, their reviews and portfolios at http://www.renonation.sg/professionals/interior-designers/

Submit your renovation enquiry:

Original post Nov 2019 BTO: Tampines GreenSpring Unit Analysis appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

Marble is prized for its unique natural pattern and texture. It is a popular flooring and wall material among homeowners.

On the market, there are natural and artificial marble. The price corresponds to the quality and manufacture processes.

How do you discern the quality of these marble materials? Deco-Man’s got you covered, read on!

Strengths and weaknesses

Strength

• High strength and wear resistance
• Can withstand acid and alkali
• Oil application not needed
• Does not attract dust
• Simple maintenance
• Long lifespan
• No warping and magnetising
• Moisture resistance

Weaknesses

• Lacquering is the only maintenance available
• Smooth surface makes seeped-in water and oil hard to clear away
• Not as beneficial to health as solid wood

Pay attention to the material upon purchase

Natural material

Natural marble has a beautiful pattern. After polishing, both lustre and density are excellent. Natural marble’s wear resistance and anti-corrosiveness are higher than artificial ones.

Natural marble is also relatively pricier.

Artificial material

Artificial marble comes in various shades. It has a good flexibility and hardness, which make the material popular among younger people. Artificial marble is also more affordable than its natural counterpart.

Design: Fatema Design Studio

Checking for quality

Lustre

Marble with a vitreous lustre tends to be of a higher quality.

Appearance

Upon purchase, you should first check the appearance of the marble. Since the marble is naturally formed, physical defects are inevitable. Fine marble should have a delicate and even structure.

Sound

The sound of quality stone knocking against each other is crisp and pleasant.

If there is a slight crack in the stone, or the contact between the particles becomes loose due to weathering, the resulting sound is coarse and rough instead.

Ink test

Drop a small amount o ink on the surface of the stone. If the ink begins to feather out, this means the grain of the stone is loose, or there are gaps present in the material.

If the stone has a high quality, the ink should not feather out.

Choice of pattern

One of the reasons for marble’s popularity is the wide range of colours and pattern.

However, simple and plain colours are more likely to withstand the changes of the home owner’s taste. Plain-coloured marble is usually pricier as a result.

Design: Team ID

Reminders from Deco-Man

Most stone materials are radioactive, but since the amount of emitted radiation is very low, it hardly causes a reaction in the human body.

The reason marble is sometimes said to be hazardous is that artificial marble contains petroleum derivatives in which formaldehyde and benzenes are present.

Some unethical manufacturers might try to raise the profit by introducing other harmful additives to the raw material of manufactured marble.

This explains the public’s concern towards manmade marble’s impact on health.

Design: Fatema Design Studio

HKDecoman, now going global as Deco-Man, is a Hong Kong-based renovation platform which provides professional consultancy services and pioneers in the development of A.I. homeowner-engineer matching. We aim at educating the public about the art of home renovation and have our eyes on transforming the traditional renovation industry, bringing standardisation, transparency, convenience and automation to the business.

Original post How to Choose Your Material: Marble appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

#1. Go as Seamless as Possible

Design: Linear Space Concepts

For the floor and walls, the number of grout lines is determined by the size of the tiles. In recent years, homogeneous tiles in sizes of 60 x 60 cm have become mainstream. Therefore, you should choose either bigger tiles of at least 80 x 80 cm or even 60 x 120 cm in size to minimize the number of grout lines. In addition, bigger sized tiles made your home interior look much more luxurious too. Aside from choosing larger profile tiles, you can also consider alternative materials, such as laminate or concrete screed, which come with minimal or no gaps.

#2. Opt for Ceiling to Floor, Closed Carpentry

Design: Starry Homestead

Gaps in between the floors and walls trap dirt and stain very easily. Hence, minimizing such gaps will mean less cleaning of these crevices. When the surfaces of the furniture such as the cabinets, cupboards and wardrobe are exposed, dust, dirt and stray objects get trapped in the gaps between the ceiling or the floor. Hence, sealing up such gaps with ceiling to floor, closed (instead of open shelves) carpentry helps to keep these undesirable particles away. In addition, you will get extra storage to keep the clutter at bay!

#3. Avoid Design Elements which makes the Surfaces Uneven

Design: Free Space Intent

Similarly, any surfaces which are rough or uneven will encourage dirt and dust to either get trapped or accumulate over time. As a result, you will need to dust and vacuum more often to keep these places clean. Hence, steering clear of textured wall surfaces, tiles, laminates, 3D wall panels, fancy cabinet designs or any design installations with recessed or protruding edges, will mean that only light cleaning routine is needed to keep them looking fresh!

#4. Trade Wallpapers with Washable Paint

Design: DSOD Interior

Washable paint is your best friend when it comes to getting rid of stains, spills, marks and scuffs with ease. In fact, high gloss washable paint finishes are usually the easiest to clean, using only soft sponge with warm soap. Hence, they are recommended in high traffic areas such as the kitchen and bathrooms. While semi-gloss paints are less reflective as compared to high-gloss paints, they are fairly resistant to most stains too. Hence, such paints are good for hallways and playrooms where young children roam. In contrast, wallpapers require much more maintenance care and effort; they have to be vacuumed with a soft brush attachment and a wallpaper dough is sometimes required to remove the stains. For waterproof sheet vinyl wallpapers, extra care is still needed to ensure that water does not seep under the wallpaper seams and compromise the wallpaper glue.

#5. Use Durable Material that requires Low Maintenance for Kitchen and Bathroom

Source: Caesarstone

There is this saying that while the kitchen is the workhorse of the home, the bathroom is the most used and sometimes, the most abused place! Hence, equipping these areas with tough durable materials, which require little cleaning effort, should be your top priority. For flooring, Vinyl, or commonly known as Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVF), is recommended since this man-made engineered material is almost impervious to tough stains, dents, damage, and even water seepage. In fact, its water-resistant properties make it ideal for higher-moisture areas such as bathrooms. Furthermore, LVF comes in many finishing such as wood, stone or concrete, or even metal at just a fraction of a price and does not need to be sealed to make it water and stain-resistant. Similarly Quartz, an engineered stone, is recommended for kitchen countertops and vanity tops since it is non-porous, chemical, scratch and stain-resistant.

#6. Upholster with Leather

Design: Edge Interior

Unlike leather,  fabric needs to be treated to make it water resistant. In addition, fabric upholstery requires more maintenance; it usually needs to be cleaned with a steam cleaner since it traps dirt, dead skin cells and even mites. On the other hand, the leather upholstery usually requires periodic wipes with a leather cleaner.  Lastly, fabric upholstery sheds fur, loose fibres and this leaves the room dusty and filled with unsightly fuzz balls.

#7. Minimize the use of Glass as much as possible

Design: Box.ID Studio

Glass has found its way into the modern homes due to its versatility; it has a unique ability to make a place visually spacious, bright and airy, while keeping the area physically partitioned at the same time. Furthermore, its sleek, reflective surface brightens up the dark corners instantly and inject a luxurious appeal. As a result, the use of glass proliferated and it can be found almost anywhere in the home; from cabinet doors, dining tables, doors, bathroom vanity top, glass walls to shower glass partitions! Unfortunately, glass is also a magnet for oily fingerprints and tough to remove water stains. Hence, limiting the use of glass in the home by opting for open spaces, will greatly reduce your effort in keeping the place clean and fingerprint free!

Do you love what you’ve seen? Contact us for a non-obligated consultation now.

Original post 7 Easy Design Hacks for a Stylish Home that Requires Minimal Maintenance appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

Check out these 7 Instagram worthy apartments which we are totally captivated with! Yes, these photos capture a picture-perfect moment, immaculately done up with carefully matched colours, aesthetically pleasing interior decoration and furnishings! Without further ado, here are our favourite picks!

#1. A Whimsical and Ethereal Creation

Design: Icon Interior Design

Seemly out of this world, this surreal fantasy-meets-reality oasis is a retreat for its occupants with childlike flair., where they can enjoy an afternoon of make-believe and fun activities!

Design Tips: Be bold, daring by using unusual, vibrant décor to capture the whimsy in your home interiors. Experiment with fanciful wallpapers to incorporate vivid designs and communicate your desired imagery to your home guests.

#2. Modern Zen Chic

Design: Linear Space Concepts

Heavily Muji inspired, this apartment is clad in characteristic pale timber, which is set against white wooden panels and grey cement screed walls. The bespoke apartment, which has been tailored made to be functional with no excess frills, evoked feelings of serenity and calm. In addition, a comfy reading nook which is constructed by the window, also incorporates deep drawers for extra storage space.

Design Tips: The secret to achieve the minimalist look, is to cater large amount of  storage. By having sufficient storage, you can liberally edit and remove the excess frills in the home interior design and make do with exposing only the necessary elements. In addition, make the room look much bigger by leaving an ample amount of empty space between objects.

#3. Zany Hexagon Vibes

Design: Absolook Interior Design

There is certainly something about the honeycomb tiles, which made most interior designers fall madly in love with. In fact, the honeycomb trend is set to take home interior design by storm; so push the boundaries of the design rules by mixing and matching hexagon tiles with other floor treatment designs!

Design Tips: The secret to beautiful honeycomb tiles is to embellish it with different contrasting grout colors, as this will emphasize the beautiful hexagonal shapes!

#4. Arch Appeal

Design: Dots ‘N’ Tots Interior Design

Archways never fail to inject a timeless, elegant vibe in any home. In fact, the Archways are the surest way to elevate an apartment’s aesthetic appeal, while providing an unexpected architectural twist!

Design Tips: The half-circle Archway is somewhat synonymous with the famous Greek island; the pristine white, sun-drenched picturesque Santorini island, is which surrounded by clearest, bluest ocean. Hence, to emulate the idyllic island, you should keep an all-white aesthetic and incorporating deep blue accents and light wood, while keeping the décor to the minimal.

#5. Masculine Undertones

Design: Sujonohun Concept & Design

The warmth and strength of this room are conveyed through the woody dark, no-nonsense clean lines with an absence of clutter. This elegant, yet masculine look is completed with the polished natural stone such as Granite.

Design Tips: Soften the masculine undertones with ivory-colored carpet and strategic placement of big leafy plants.

#6. Pastel Dream Farm House

Design: Weiken

Cheerful, pastel hues complement this whimsical, countryside themed apartment.  Ceiling hung wire basket and wooden crates usher in the rustic farmhouse vibe, while providing plenty of practical storage for homeowners.

Design Tips: A modern farmhouse is still about traditional necessities (such as a gas stove) and eschews modern design conveniences (such as a sleek, touch panel induction hood and hod).  In addition, nothing should be too fanciful nor ornamental and the best decorative pieces are nostalgic finds from the flea markets or antique stores.

#7. Hotel Getaway

Design: 9 Creation

A hotel themed home interior is all about comfort and luxury; while maximizing the limited space with creative glass dividers partitions and open-concept spaces.

Design Tips: Aside from the aesthetic appeal of sight, do not forget the appeal of smell too.With the help of aromatherapy, you will have a very soothing and relaxing experience in your very own private enclave.

Original post 7 Insta-worthy Homes You Should Not Miss appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

Despite the small size of Singapore flats, a balcony is quite often present in the general flat design.

Although these balconies are not incredibly spacious, their functions are numerous.

Here are some points of consideration for you concerning how to design and plan the space of balcony. Don’t miss them, read on!

Design: Ehka Studio

Safety first

Since the balcony is in close proximity with the exterior, the quality of the renovation material for the balcony is very important.

When purchasing windows and railings for the balcony, quality and durability are your top priority.

For the floor, opt for anti-slip tiles to lower chances of accidents.

Design: Icon Interior Design

Small balconies

Use a lighter colour for a small balcony. Match the design of the balcony with the living room. This can create an illusion of visual extension and relieve any feelings of claustrophobia.

Thoughtful use of glass materials

To increase light exposure, add a generous amount of glass material to your balcony. This boosts the balcony’s airiness and serves to physically partition the space.

Design: Luova Project Services

Remember to waterproof

Since the balcony is exposed to the elements, waterproofing the structure is key to keeping it safe.

Especially for the monsoon seasons, waterproofing the balcony is indispensable.

To waterproof your balcony well, remember to use professional airtight windows. Also, piping should be completely sealed. The degree at which the floor slopes should be carefully considered.

Between the balcony and the living room, always install a doorsill to prevent water from the outside to enter the house.

Design: Fuse Concept

Increasing storage space

A well-planned storage space on the balcony can largely increase the level of comfort in the interior.

If your balcony leans on the large side, purchasing cupboards as storage on the balcony is a great way to free up space in the living room where you can move about more freely.

For decorative purposes, purchase house plants and florals to brighten up the balcony and give it a breath of life!

HKDecoman, now going global as Deco-Man, is a Hong Kong-based renovation platform which provides professional consultancy services and pioneers in the development of A.I. homeowner-engineer matching. We aim at educating the public about the art of home renovation and have our eyes on transforming the traditional renovation industry, bringing standardisation, transparency, convenience and automation to the business.

Original post How to Design a Balcony appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

When it comes to decorating your space, don’t forget the fourth dimension—smell. How your home smells like will play a part in how your overall space feels. One of the best ways to scent your space? Scented candles. They are relatively affordable, easy to use, and come in a wide variety of fragrances that will suit all sorts of occasions and moods.

We got in touch with candle connoisseurs Amy from Sally’s Room, who specialises in soy candles, and Nicole Su, founder of home-grown candle label Hush Candle to help us with the following visual guide on scented candles. Jump in on the home fragrance wagon and get a whiff of this:

Original post Ask the Experts: A Visual Guide to Scented Candles appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

In the grand scheme of things, lighting your dining area might not seem the most important facet of your renovation, but it’s worthwhile to take extra notice. After all, your eating space should be a comfortable place, and lighting plays a big part in creating a cosy environment. Here, we put together an easy guide to see what to look out for when sourcing for your dining room light. From the height to hang your pendants to the brightness levels of your fixtures, here’s what you need to know.

Sizing and Shaping Things Up

When choosing the shape of your lighting fixture, a safe bet is to go with like for like. Round pendants such as a drum-shaped pendant for round dining tables and linear or larger oval fixtures for rectangle or oblong dining tables. A cluster of pendants that take the shape of your dining table will work as well e.g. two round pendants lined side by side over a rectangle table.

Design: Icon Interior Design

Proportion is important. Don’t get a fixture that is bigger than your dining table or a one that is a lot smaller. A good rule of thumb is a lighting fixture that is about half to three quarters the width of your dining table.

Design: Schemacraft Interiors

If you have a really long table, two lighting fixtures side by side will help create a more even glow, while also being visually proportionate. And here’s a pro tip for small spaces: For smaller dining tables, a single, central piece of lighting will work better visually than a tiny one.

Hanging Height

To avoid bumping your head, you will want at least a 30cm clearance between where you are sitting and the edge of your lighting. As a general guideline, hanging your dining light at least 75cm above the top of the dining table is a good estimate to start with. However, it really depends on your ceiling height, what sort of light you are going with, and the mood you are trying to convey.

Design: StyleMySpace

For example, if you are looking to create a more intimate mood, try to hang your lighting lower. In another instance, a sleek, minimalist pendant can be hung a bit lower compared to an ornate chandelier as the former won’t interfere as much with your line of sight while dining. To get a better feel, sit down on your dining chair while your electrician is there installing your fixture.

Design: D’ Initial Concept

Design: ArtistRoom

How Bright? Warm or Cool?

Always get LED bulbs for your dining room light, which are more energy efficient and will last a longer time than traditional incandescent bulbs. For LEDs, brightness level is determined by lumens. To illuminate your dining table, calculate the size of your dining table. Approximately 30 lumens per square foot is sufficient. So a 90 x 180 cm dining table will require a LED bulb with 500 – 600 lumens. Do note that if you’re painting your walls a darker colour, you might need to get more lumens to illuminate your space as darker hues tend to absorb light.

Design: Fuse Concept

Dining areas should be kept warm and cosy, so opt for LED bulbs with colour temperatures in the range of 2400 – 2700 K that will offer you the traditional incandescent look. If your dining room is a multifunctional space that is used for more than just having meals, consider getting a dimmer that lets you adjust the brightness level depending on the occasion.

Dimmers can also help to reduce glare since you get the option to dial down the brightness. Otherwise, get light fixtures that can help diffuse light such as drum-shaped pendants with frosted glass panels on the top and bottom if you are worried about glare.

Design: Design 4 Space

Style Tips

Pendants work well in open floor plans, since they are able to create a focal point for your dining area and can help demarcate the eating zone from the rest of your communal spaces. For multipurpose dining spaces, consider layered lighting e.g. coupling a statement fixture with recessed or track lights or even wall sconces that can provide more illumination and versatility in the use of space.

Design: Minimo

Besides conventional pendants, there are other lighting options to consider for your dining room. An arc floor lamp that stretches over your dining table will also create a statement piece and will help you save some wiring costs.

Or maybe your dining area is more of a casual, functional zone or you only have a low ceiling height to work with. Flush or semi-flush mount ceiling lights are a good option in these instances. As their name suggests, they are flushed to the ceiling rather than hung down low like pendants, so they don’t call out for too much attention.

Design: Space Atelier

Original post An Easy Guide to Choosing the Right Light for Your Dining Room appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

If you are looking to make an impression in your kitchen, consider taking the road less travelled with your backsplash choice. Because it’s a relatively small aspect of the cooking space, an unconventional option is relatively risk-free.

Think beyond tiles or glass, both of which while popular and practical materials for a kitchen backsplash, can be somewhat predictable. To get you inspired, we pulled together these unusual backsplash ideas that are definitely not your usual suspects.

1. Faux Brick

A brick backsplash can add plenty of textural interest and rustic character to your kitchen, and we love them for cottage or farmhouse themed homes. Because homes in Singapore are rarely constructed using bricks, peeling away the drywall to reveal a characterful brick wall underneath isn’t going to be an option.

You can consider installing genuine bricks, but they can be expensive. A much cheaper alternative is to use brick veneers or stucco, both of which are also much thinner than real bricks, thus taking up less space. As they are porous, they will need to be regularly sealed if you are using them as a backsplash.

Design: DistinctIdentity

2. Mirror

Nothing expands a space visually like mirrors, and using a mirrored backsplash in your kitchen is one way to open up your petite cooking space. It’s also a great way to let in more light, particularly if you are struggling with a corner kitchen that doesn’t get enough sunlight. If you want a more elegant look, consider tinting the mirror.

Design: Collective Designs

3. Concrete Screed

Looking to save on your renovation budget? A kitchen backsplash made from concrete screed is an affordable choice. The pared-back design works best in minimalist or industrial style kitchens, but it’s not one for fussy homeowners as the porosity of concrete screed means it is highly susceptible to stains. Sealing is a must, but stains can still show up nonetheless, especially if left untreated for too long. You will also have to be prepared for the inevitability of hairline cracks over time.

Design: Eightytwo

4. Terrazzo

This comeback material is making its way back into Singapore homes, and we loving seeing it everywhere, including the kitchen backsplash. Terrazzo is a composite material that is made from chips of different types of stones like quartz or marble as well as other materials such as glass that are then set in concrete or epoxy resin. It works very well as a kitchen backsplash because of how hardy it is, but terrazzo does require sealing to prevent penetration of liquids.

Design: The Scientist

5. Copper

Add a little shine into your cooking space with a copper kitchen backsplash. When exposed to moisture, natural copper will develop a green-ish patina over time, which can look beautiful to some. But if you prefer to maintain its original warm hue, consider getting a copper sheet that is mixed in with other metals such as tin or stainless steel. Or have your copper backsplash sealed periodically to prevent it from developing a patina.

Design: Chapter One Interior Design

6. Green Wall

Bring the nature indoors with a kitchen backsplash that is an actual green wall. It’s a great option for dry kitchen areas or a cooking space that receives plenty of sunlight. Avoid using them behind the stove though for safety reasons.

Grow kitchen herbs so you can pluck them fresh for your cooking endeavours and get a self-watering or irrigation system in place to reduce maintenance. No green fingers? Do up a green wall using artificial plants for the same visual effect without all the fuss.

Design: Urban Habitat Design

7. Embossed Metal Sheet

For an industrial flair, try for a kitchen backsplash made from an embossed metal sheet, preferably made from stainless steel as the material is very durable and can withstand high heat and is resistant to moisture. To create a more polished look, the designer chose to have the embossed sheet painted black in the kitchen below.

Design: Space Sense Studio

8. Pegboard

Double up your kitchen backsplash as storage by going with a pegboard backsplash that lets you hang up your cookware and utensils. Not only does it free up countertop space, it also makes it easier to reach for what you need while cooking.

Design: WY-TO

Do you love what you’ve seen? Contact us for a non-obligated consultation now.

Original post 8 Unusual Kitchen Backsplash Ideas that are Not Tiles or Glass appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

When deciding a colour for painting the walls, first you should consider your requirements of functionality and aesthetics.

Besides, you should also consider the nature of the space and the specific decorations there will be.

As a general rule of thumb, the colour of the bedroom and the dining room should be warm and soft. For the living room, choosing vibrant colours can brighten up the space. For the study, elegant and harmonious tones are more conducive to fostering a peaceful environment for concentration.

Design: KNQ Associates

Choosing paint colours

According to the shape of the room

Colours can considerably change our perception of the shape of a space. For example, cool tones can make a low ceiling look higher, and visually widen the room. Using a dark colour on the far side of the room creates an illusion that the room is shortened.

Light colours for the top and bottom portions of the room

Dark colours tend to look heavy, while light colours communicate an airy atmosphere.

When painting a room, the normal sequence is from top to bottom, from light shades to dark shades.

For example, use white and other light shades for the ceiling and walls, and dark colours for shirting boards. This makes the room look sturdy and stable.

Avoid using dark colours on the top portion on the room since this might visually shrink the space and create a claustrophobic feeling.

Design: Eightytwo

According to the function of the space

The function of the space tends to direct the atmosphere you want to foster in the space. Living rooms which experience a lot of traffic should be bright, comforting, warm and relaxing. Dining rooms can be darker by a fraction to create a romantic atmosphere.

In the kitchen, there should be more light shades, while warm tones should be used sparingly.

Since corridors and hallways are only passages, you can be more adventurous with the palette.

As to bedrooms, designs might vary according to personal taste. Therefore, there are no standard palettes for this space.

Design: Three-D Conceptwerke

According to which direction the room is facing

East-facing rooms are the first rooms to receive sun exposure in one day. They are also the first rooms to darken as the sunsets. Therefore, light shade in most cases is the most suitable colour.

South-facing rooms receive the longest hours of sunlight; in this scenario, cool tones are more suitable.

Westward rooms receive very intense sunlight at dusk. A cool, dark colour can counterbalance the heat of the sunlight.

Since north-facing rooms do not receive any direct sunlight, a light, warm colour is the go-to shade.

HKDecoman, now going global as Deco-Man, is a Hong Kong-based renovation platform which provides professional consultancy services and pioneers in the development of A.I. homeowner-engineer matching. We aim at educating the public about the art of home renovation and have our eyes on transforming the traditional renovation industry, bringing standardisation, transparency, convenience and automation to the business.

Original post How to Choose Paint Colours for Each Space in Your Home appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

So you want a home that sparks joy. Start by conquering the clutter. A clutter-free home reduces stress and promotes a sense of tranquillity. You will feel lighter, healthier and ready to welcome the new year. Ready to purge? Grab the trash bag and let’s get started.

At the entryway

Avoid overstuffing your shoe compartments when storing your shoes.

Design: Starry Homestead

1. Loose keys that you can’t remember open to what door. Do a check around the house before you toss them out. Check your window grilles as well as any locked drawers first to see if the keys fit there.

2. Shoes that have worn soles or have started peeling, as well as shoes you have only worn once because they were too uncomfortable.

3. Socks with holes in them.

In the kitchen

Tend to buy dry foods in bulk? Transferring them into clear containers with labels lends for better organisation

Design: Metier Planner

4. Expired foods hiding in the back of your cupboards or refrigerator. If you can’t find the expiry date or you’ve already tossed the original packaging, do a smell and taste test before throwing them out.

5. Appliances you haven’t used for over six months. That waffle maker you thought you might use for weekend brunches until you realised you don’t do early mornings? Well, it needs to go.

6. You don’t need 20 cups or 10 pairs of chopsticks for a family of four. And you don’t need that many Tupperware boxes. Keep a couple of extras for when you have visitors, but give away the rest.

7. Chipped or broken wares as well as burnt pots and pans that cannot be salvaged.

In the living room

A dedicated bookshelf like this doubles your tomes as display.

Design: Three-D Conceptwerke

8. Old magazines and newspapers – you don’t want to be yesterday’s news.

9. Books, DVDs and CDs. For books, unless you are displaying them properly or refer to them regularly, it might be time to give them away. If you are getting your entertainment fix from channels like Netflix or Spotify, it’s probably time to donate your DVDs or CDs too.

10. Holiday paraphernalia like gift boxes, gift wrappers, and decorations.

11. Bits and bobs like old remote controls, used batteries, rubber bands and Allen keys. You probably have a junk drawer that stores these. Declutter the drawer and incorporate internal compartments to organise the knick-knacks.

In the bedroom

Display stands and baskets help to organise your fashion accessories.

Design: Fuse Concept

12. Makeup as well as haircare, body and skincare products that have passed the recommended shelf life or don’t work for you. If you are unsure, check the smell and see if the texture is off. It’s also best to do a patch test before you use them again.

13. Clothes that you haven’t worn for the past year because they itch, are out of date, or they no longer fit. Don’t convince yourself you will wear them in the near future (because you won’t) or that they will come back in fashion (because they won’t).

14. Fashion accessories that you don’t wear anymore. Things like jewellery, hats, glasses or watches.

In the bathroom

A combination of open shelves and closed cabinets help to keep the clutter at bay in this bathroom.

Design: Urban Habitat Design

15. Old towels. No better time than the new year to replace your old towels that are torn or stained.

16. That scented candle or diffuser that is always sitting there but never gets used and has since collected a thin film of dust.

17. Travel-sized bottles that you collected from your holidays. Use them or toss them because they are cluttering up your bathroom.

In the study

Get a proper filing system going to keep your workspace free from paper clutter.

Design: Icon Interior Design

18. Old bills and paperwork. Subscribe to e-payments and e-statements to cut down on paper clutter. File the important documents, but throw the ones you won’t need.

19. Stationery that are no longer useful. Think dried up pens, rulers with faded markings, and 2019 calendars.

20. Old laptops and computers.

Where to donate or recycle your stuff

Fulfil someone’s wish list

Pass It On is a great initiative that helps facilitate the process of giving away your unwanted, but still useful, items to the needy. Their website features a comprehensive wish list, showcasing what items are needed. These can range from anything such as a laptop to a blender.

Recycle old electronics

For old e-waste that are no longer in use, recycle them through the various recycling points found in Singapore. Find them here.

Bless migrant workers with your preloved clothes

Consider donating your second-hand women’s clothing to H.O.M.E, a charity dedicated to empowering and supporting migrant workers who are victims of human rights violations and suffer abuse and exploitation.

Donate your children’s books

If you have children’s books that are still in good condition, donate them to Blessings in a Bag who are dedicated to support low-opportunity, under-resourced youth through literacy-focused programmes.

Do you love what you’ve seen? Contact us for a non-obligated consultation now.

Original post 20 Things to Throw Out of Your Home Before 2020 (and where to toss them) appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

A lot of homeowners overlook the importance of base-coating their walls. In fact, base-coating your wall has more functions than you’d imagined.

The base coat seeps into the pores on the wall, attaches itself to the wall surface and adheres the topcoat tightly to the wall. In other words, it is the bridging element between the topcoat and the wall surface.

Also, the base coat seals the wall surface and prevent the alkaline salt in the cement to permeate through. It lowers the amount of topcoat paint you will have to use.

To actualise the functions of base coating, the paint has to be oil-based, and applied evenly, skillfully.

The topcoat is what you see, so its application requires highly-skillful, professional hands.

Determine whether the base coat is completely dry before applying the topcoat.

The topcoat has to be done on one go, so that the resulting colour of the wall is uniform and even throughout.

Do not add water into the topcoat paint, especially not for dark-coloured paint. If the amount of water you add for each can of paint varies, the resulting wall will have a range of colour variations too! Yikes.

Different applications for different types of paint

White paint

Choose white paint with high adhesive power. Paint it over instead of spraying it on, so as to avoid wasting paint. Do not dilute the paint too much.

After three to four coatings, buff the surface with water to smoothen the coating.

Topcoat

Before painting, apply a few layers of spackling.

The first layer of spackling has to be thick so that the adhesion is strong and the coating substantial.

For the second layer, lower the amount of adhesive in the paint. And for the third, it depends on the professional workers’ judgement.

For cement walls, add white latex to the first layer’s coating. This is not necessary for the second and third layer.

For ordinary refurbishing of old buildings or flats on the lower floors, use an alkali-resisting primer to base-coat the walls. This is because walls of the old building are prone to discolouration, while the high humidity of lower floors leads to mould growth.

Design: Black N White Haus

HKDecoman, now going global as Deco-Man, is a Hong Kong-based renovation platform which provides professional consultancy services and pioneers in the development of A.I. homeowner-engineer matching. We aim at educating the public about the art of home renovation and have our eyes on transforming the traditional renovation industry, bringing standardisation, transparency, convenience and automation to the business.

Original post Base Coats and Primers in a Paint Job: Why Are They Important? appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

In Singapore, like the rest of the world, there has been a lot of talk about the global climate crisis, and an even louder voice calling for greater efforts to combat climate change. As individuals, it’s important that we don’t think this issue is too big for us. We can make a difference by adapting our behaviours and reducing our carbon footprint, and there’s no better place to start than at our home. Start slow, and gradually ease into these habits so that they eventually become second nature to you.

1. Use energy-efficient appliances to cut down on reliance of fossil fuels. When getting appliances such as refrigerators or air-conditioners, get the ones that have a higher number of ticks in the NEA Energy Efficiency Label.

Design: Fineline Design

2. Similarly, for washers and water fittings, make sure you opt for water-efficient ones that have a higher number of ticks. For washing machines, front-loaders rather than top-load washers are more energy-efficient.

Design: Charlotte’s Carpentry

3. When washing your clothes in the washer, consolidate your laundry and run fuller loads to save water. But avoid overloading as it will use more energy. Use a lower temperature to reduce the electricity needed to heat up the water. Plus, washing in a cooler temperature will avoid your clothes shrinking in the wash.

4. Where possible, hang your clothes out to dry rather than throw them in the dryer.

Design: Aestherior

5. According to PUB, showering takes up the largest percentage of water consumption in Singapore’s households. To reduce water consumption, cut down your shower times and switch off the tap when shampooing and lathering up.

6. Regularly check for leaking pipes and taps.

7. If you have yet to do so, switch to LED bulbs when your incandescent ones blow. LED bulbs are more energy efficient and they last longer. They are also available in a variety of colour temperatures so you can recreate the warmth and feel of traditional incandescent bulbs.

Design: Hygge Design

8. Rather than always relying on cooling devices, make use of window furnishings like curtains, blinds and shades to help lower the temperature at home. Installing solar window films will also help to reduce the amount of heat entering indoors.

9. Growing your own edible garden in your own home can help to reduce the carbon footprint required for transporting food. But if you don’t have the space (or the green fingers!) to do up a full-fledged garden, incorporating a mini herb garden in the kitchen can also help reduce the carbon footprint at home.

Design: Design Chapterz

10. Use plants as part of your décor as they can help to cool your interiors. Some plants like Calatheas can also help to purify toxins in the air, giving you a cleaner and fresher environment, reducing the need to make use of air purifiers.

11. Organise your fridge and pantry on a regular basis to see what you have and buy only what you need. Not only does this help to cut down on food waste, it also helps to cut down on the energy and water needed to grow, transport and package these foods.

12. While it may be cheaper to buy foods in bulk, avoid doing so if you have a small household or you don’t often eat meals at home. This will reduce potential food wastage.

13. When it comes to locating your refrigerator, make sure there’s enough space around it so that air can circulate (around 5-10cm). This will help it to run more efficiently. Also, don’t overfill your fridge as it will hinder air circulation.

Design: The Interior Lab

14. Check also to see if the rubber seal around the door of your refrigerator is in good condition. A broken seal will make it harder to keep the insides of a fridge cool, thus wasting more energy.

15. Practice proper recycling at home. In Singapore, items that can be recycled are commonly deposited into the blue commingled recycling bins we find in our housing estates. But not everything should be thrown in the bin. Check this list by NEA to see what can or cannot be deposited in the bins. It’s also good practice to empty and rinse food containers, drink cans or bottles before giving them to be recycled to prevent contamination of other recyclables.

What are other ways are you cutting your carbon footprint at home? Share with us in the comments!

Browse through the list of Interior Designers, their reviews and portfolios at http://www.renonation.sg/professionals/interior-designers/

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Original post 15 Simple Ways to Start Reducing Your Carbon Footprint at Home appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

In search for a vacuum cleaner and don’t know where to start? Want to know whether you should get a robot vacuum, a handstick or a canister model? Here’s what to know before committing yourself to these sucking machines.

What To Consider When Buying a Vacuum Cleaner

Image courtesy of Bosch

Storage space
How much space do you have for storing your vacuum cleaner? If you have a limited storage room, a slim handstick vacuum will be a better option than a bulkier canister vacuum.

Size of your home + Length of time you need to vacuum
If you have a lot of room to cover, go for vacuum cleaners that feel lighter in your hand. Cordless vacs are also good options for bigger spaces since you won’t need to constantly plug your machine in and out of the socket to move it around, but the caveat is their battery runtime. Most cordless tend to have short runtimes before needing a recharge so if you intend to vacuum for long periods, you might want to go with corded vacuums.

Types of flooring
You want softer bristles if you are dealing with hardwood or tile flooring, since they will be gentler on these surfaces. Vacuuming carpets with high pile and long strands are a little less straightforward. You want a vacuum cleaner that can dig deep, but you don’t want to get a suction power that is too high so much so that your shag gets all tangled up in your machine.

Design: Design 4 Space

Suction power
Some brands list the suction power of the vacuum cleaners, which is a good indicator of the vacuum cleaner’s cleaning ability. But if not, you can judge based on a few indicators such as airflow, which is the force of air that moves dirt and dust into the container of the vacuum, as well as the input power of the motor, usually measured in watts.

HEPA filter
If you suffer from allergies or have young children at home, consider getting a vacuum cleaner that comes with a HEPA filter. A genuine HEPA filter traps about 99.97 percent of fine dust particles that are 0.3 microns in diameter (one micron is one millionth of a metre). A vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter will channel the dirty air that is being sucked in through the filter and any air that is released from the machine will therefore be cleaner than the surrounding air.

Design: HYLA Architects

Pets
There are some vacuum cleaners that are made specifically for pet owners. Some come with specially designed brush rolls that help to pick up and untangle pet hair and some vacuum cleaners come with scented tabs that remove pet odours and freshen up your home while you vacuum. We like Gtech’s AirRam K9.

Design: The 80’s Studio

Do I need a steam cleaner function?
Want a vacuum cleaner that can also replace your conventional mop and bucket? Get one with a steam cleaner function. These vacuums work by heating stored water and releasing it as steam, mopping your floors as you vacuum. Some steam cleaners come with a variety of accessories that allow it to work on different flooring types. They are great for removing stains, odours and are marketed to kill bacteria because of the hot steam released. One of the main complaints about these steam cleaners is that they tend to leave the floor a little too wet. As such, invest in a steam cleaner that is also able to dry your floor along the way.

Noise
Noise is an important factor to consider, especially if you don’t want to wake the baby while vacuuming. Newer models are a lot quieter than they used to be, and anything around 60 dB is considered decent, while vacuum cleaners with noise levels in the 80 dB range are still acceptable. To give you an idea of what noise levels you are going to face, a moving motorcycle has a noise level of about 100 db while a conversation is in the 60 dB range.

Maintenance
An easy-to-maintain vacuum cleaner is key, if you want to extend the lifespan of your machine or you don’t want to dread taking out the vacuum every time. For bagged canister models, bags need to be replaced every time it’s full. For bagless vacuum cleaners, you will need to empty the canister regularly. A smaller dust canister capacity will mean more frequent emptying. Check to see if filters can be taken out easily and washed. Regular maintenance and replacement of the filters will enhance the lifespan of your vacuum cleaner.

Types of Vacuum Cleaners: Which Should I Get

Handstick

Featured: Dyson V10 Absolute

What is it: One of the more popular vacuum cleaner types in Singapore, the handstick vacuum is prized for its slim profile, making storage less of a hassle. Run on batteries, they are usually cordless, making them easy to manoeuvre around the home.

Pros: Flexible and lightweight. It’s not as backbreaking to use it as compared to canister types. Some brands also allow you to switch to handheld for those hard-to-reach spots.

Cons: Battery life tends to run out quickly, especially on high power mode. They don’t offer a deep enough clean, unlike with canister vacuums.

Get this if: You just need a vacuum cleaner that cleans quickly and efficiently.

Robot

Featured: Xiaomi Roborock

What is it: Flat metal machines that map out your space before going around your home to clean your floor. Most are smart enough to navigate between furniture.

Pros: You can schedule your robot vacuum to clean when you are out of the house, allowing you to come home to (relatively) clean floors every day.

Cons: Not as clean as canisters or handsticks, and they are not flexible enough to reach tight corners. They also sometimes get stuck on carpets and rugs.

Get this if: You are busy (or lazy) and can only afford some time each week to do a full-fledged vacuum. Best used as a complement vacuum cleaner.

Canister

Featured: Philips FC9352 PowerPro Compact Bagless Vacuum Cleaner

What is it: These vacuum cleaners comprise a vacuum head attached to a long flexible hose that is connected to a canister, where the vacuum motor is.

Pros: Suitable for a wide range of cleaning, including carpets. Vacuum attached to flexible hose mean you can reach a lot of places, including tight corners.

Cons: Bulky, so storage will be a hassle. Have to bend while vacuuming. Usually corded, so you might have to plug them in and out when you move them around.

Get this if: You want a tough vacuum cleaner that can take a wide variety of cleaning and hard-to-reach crevices. Tip: Go with bagless models if you don’t want to have to keep buying extra bags.

Handheld

Featured: Electrolux ZB6106WD Rapido Wet & Dry Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

What is it: These smaller vacuum cleaners are suited for smaller jobs and spot cleaning. Can be used on surfaces other than the floor, such as countertops, between the crevices of your couch or your mattress.

Pros: Clear away mess quickly.

Cons: Not so powerful. Best used alongside other vacuum cleaners.

Get this if: You need to clean other surfaces other than the floor.

Original post A Comprehensive Guide to Buying a Vacuum Cleaner appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

With Chinese New Year just around the corner, we are fast approaching hotpot season—time to bring in the induction cooker long hidden away and prepare for a warming reunion feast.

Design: Akihaus

In the past, people tend to use gas stoves for hotpot but nowadays, they are mostly replaced by the induction cooker, since the latter is much safer for domestic use.

But have you thought about how to use the induction cooker safely? Here are some tips from Deco-Man, check them out!

Source of electricity

Most home appliances have their own set of power and voltage requirements.

For induction cookers, since they operate with high power, their safety requirements for electricity is also more strict.

Therefore, pay attention to the electricity source when installing the induction cooker.

Choice of utensils

It is best to use pots specifically designed for induction heater since this can affect to protect the cooker itself.

At the same time, avoid using heavy pots, since the induction cooker has a limited load.

The rule of thumb is the total weight of the pot and the food should not exceed 5 kg. Overloading the surface of the cooker will cause damage like warping and cracking.

Where to put the cooker

When using the induction cooker, make sure the appliance is placed horizontally. Reposition the cooker in case the surface on which you place it is not flat and even.

This greatly lowers the chance of spilling accidents.

Cooling

Induction cookers have built-in coolers to cool down the heating components when they are in operation.

However, if the ventilation around the cooker is poor, or if there are objects blocking the vents, cooling efficacy will be lowered.

As the cooker’s temperature increases, its working efficacy lowers. This can even damage the cooker.

Therefore, when you find out that the cooker’s cooling fans are not operating, stop using the cooker right away and conduct checking immediately.

Cleaning

After a period of use, you should clean the cooker regularly because this can, in fact, extends the working lifespan of the cooker.

Use a soft cloth and soft brush combined with other cleaning tools to clean the cooker. Avoid contact with hard and sharp objects since they might damage the induction surface.

Cooking function checking

Most induction cookers have self-checking and protection functions. They act to inspect whether the pots used are compatible with the cooker, whether the method of use is correct and whether the cooking surface is overheated. If these functions are no longer in operation, using the cooker will become a very dangerous business.

HKDecoman, now going global as Deco-Man, is a Hong Kong-based renovation platform which provides professional consultancy services and pioneers in the development of A.I. homeowner-engineer matching. We aim at educating the public about the art of home renovation and have our eyes on transforming the traditional renovation industry, bringing standardisation, transparency, convenience and automation to the business.

Original post Portable Induction Cooker: 6 Safety Precautions You Should Know appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

Image from Zaobao

A photo of Tampines GreenVerge with a wrongly assembled precast went viral last year. This is a classical example of what will go (embarrassingly) wrong if the defect inspection was not done correctly and carried out in time.

Hence, we have carefully compiled a list of 8 quick facts which every HDB Homeowners must know. This list helps to ensure that the HDB flat defects checking process is carried out properly, and at the right time!

Design: Black N White Haus

#1. Start looking for defects once you have received your keys!

The sooner you get to finish the defects reporting and rectification, the sooner you can start your renovation! The longer you procrastinate, even simple defect rectifications will take longer since your neighbours who have reported their defects earlier, will get to be attended first.

Design: DB Studio

#2. Defects Liability Period (DLP) is 1 year

The Defects Liability Period (DLP) is the only time where you, the homeowner, can lay claim to any unfinished, defective and substandard quality to be rectified by the contractor. The DLP for a new HDB flat is 1 year, effective from the date of key collection. During the DLP, the defects which are reported will be rectified within 14 days by the contractor. After the 1-year DLP has lapsed, you have to engage your contractor to rectify the issues.

Design: Richfield Integrated

#3. Ensure all defects are reported and rectified before the commencement of renovation works

All defects must be rectified before the renovation starts. This is to avoid disputes over who is the right party responsible for rectifying the defects.

Design: Richfield Integrated

#4. Warranty Period is different from DLP

There is a warranty period for ceiling leak, external wall seepage, and spalling concrete; the warranty period for ceiling leak at toilets, kitchen and water seepage from external wall is 5 years* and the warranty period for spalling concrete is 10 years.

Note: *The warranty for ceiling leak will cease if the floor tiles have been changed; or if the waterproofing system has been tampered with.

Design: Home Philosophy

#5. Building Services Centre (BSC) is located on-site within the DLP for each HDB project site

The BSC is a temporary office, where you can report the defects. The BSC will follow up the rectification works for the defects which you have reported. You may also submit a rectification request online. The BSC will be removed once the DLP is up.

Design: Home Philosophy

#6. Duration of the defect rectifications varies

Once the defects have been reported, the BSC will arrange for a joint inspection of defects and carry out the rectification works. The rectification works could take up a few days to complete (for simple ones) and weeks for the complex works. Once the rectifications are done, another joint inspection will take place before the defects are considered rectified.

Design: The 80’S Studio

#7. A D.I.Y defect inspection will save you more than $400

You can actually handle the process yourself. Refer to BCA’s detailed quality home guide for a more thorough defects inspection. If hiring a professional, the industry rate for a defect inspection is $400 and above. Professional services are recommended for homeowners who do not have the time to spare for the defects inspection and rectification process.

Design: The 80’S Studio

#8. Defects check should also be conducted on or after a rainy day and at night

Damp walls and water seepage marks will be more apparent on a rainy day or after a particularly rainy season. In addition, an uneven, badly finished parquet floor is easier to spot at night as compared in the daytime.

Design: Black N White Haus

Do you love what you’ve seen? Contact us for a non-obligated consultation now.

Original post 8 Things HDB Homeowners Must Know to Ensure a Smooth Defects Checking Experience appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

Setting up a home theatre system in your HDB flat is an indulgence you should consider investing in, whether you are a movie buff or are just looking to add a little more oomph to your home entertainment.

Design: Jesigns Interior Design

Because we are no experts, we roped in a couple of home theatre specialists, Absolute Sound Singapore, Home Cinema Pit and TriTone AV, to answer some questions regarding setting up a home theatre system in your flat. From what colour scheme to go with to where the speakers should go, we’ve got you covered.

What are the essentials required in a home theatre system?

Design: erstudio

A reliable AV receiver (where everything connects to), a TV or a projector with projector screen, a media source like a Blu-ray player if you have a lot of Blu-ray content or streaming services such as Netflix or Apple TV, and a 5.1 speaker setup (five speakers and a subwoofer) for a surround sound experience.

According to Absolute Sound Singapore, most homeowners mistakenly assume two speakers and a subwoofer are sufficient for surround sound. However, this is not the case. The expert explains: “Most surround sound encoded audio requires at least five speakers. When you play back using only two speakers and a subwoofer, you end up with missing information in the scene and lose imaging and focus because there’s no sound panning.”

Which part of the home is best for setting up a home theatre system?

Ideally, a room that has little to no windows would be best. As that is usually not feasible in HDB flats, our specialists recommend choosing a rectangle shaped room in order to get the best acoustics. This is however becoming less important with today’s advancement in room calibration technology.

The living room is a popular choice for a home theatre, as it’s a communal space, which encourages participation and involvement from the whole family. If you prefer something more intimate or it’s a supplementary setup, Absolute Sound Singapore recommends the master bedroom.

What colour scheme and materials do you recommend for the surfaces of the home theatre?

Design: Sujonohun Concept & Design

A dark colour scheme works best, according to the pros from TriTone AV and Home Pit Cinema, who say that this will help to reduce reflection. Absolute Sound Singapore notes that this is more of an issue if you are going with a projector rather than a TV. “TVs are normally more accommodating in terms of visuals. Projectors on the other hand needs a dark colour palette to enhance the cinematic feel and to avoid distractions.”

To enhance acoustics, Home Pit Cinema recommends going with vinyl or hardwood flooring as well as gypsum or plywood walls.

In terms of layouts and furnishings, is there anything to take note of?

Don’t use glass or mirrors in a home theatre, says Absolute Sound Singapore, as these can cause unwanted reflections. A backlit TV wall is also a no-no, says Home Pit Cinema.

For seating, TriTone AV recommends a sofa or a couch with a deep backing for comfort and then locating it away from the walls. “Avoid setting seats in the corners of the rooms, as that will cause bass to swell,” adds the professional.

When it comes to lighting, our experts recommend layering your light by having a combination of different types of lights to accommodate for different needs. They also recommend going with a dimmer, which will help to create a variety of moods.

What is a good budget to set aside for setting up a home theatre system in an HDB flat?

If you are just starting out, Absolute Sound Singapore suggests setting aside $5,000, which can get you a compact Dolby Atmos setup. “Most movie content can be found in Dolby Atmos these days, so it has the benefit of being the current industry standard.”

For homeowners who are looking to get a projection TV in the setup, TriTone AV advises setting aside about $7,000 to $10,000. The low-end of this estimate can get you a soundbar with actual surrounds, UHD resolution projector and motorised screen.

Why would one go with a TV over a projector, or vice versa?

Design: Earth Interior Design

Some people find projectors less tiring on the eyes, says Home Pit Cinema. Plus, they allow for a more immersive experience. However, according to TriTone AV, they work best in darkened rooms. So if you have a space that has even some light coming through, images on a projector screen can appear washed out with little dark details.

In addition, going with a projector might mean you will have to do more space planning to maintain a seamless look, says the pro from Absolute Sound Singapore, since you may need to run HDMI and power cables through your ceiling if you plan to ceiling mount your projector.

With TVs, they have minimal installation costs. Plus, they are great for overcoming any light distortions. If you are opting for a TV, 55” for an HDB flat is a good size to start with that is neither too small or too large. Home Pit Cinema strongly advocates getting at a 4K TV (screen resolution of 3,840 x 2,160 pixels) with HDR (High Dynamic Range – better contrast) for the best visual picture.

Confused about today’s TV terminologies? Check out our guide here.

A good alternative for smaller apartments are short throw laser projectors. “They can be placed as close as 6cm away from your wall and have an 84-inch screen size, or bigger if the projector is placed further away,” says the expert from Absolute Sound Singapore.

How should the speakers be placed around the room?

Design: D5 Studio Image

The most important speaker is the centre speaker, which is where the dialogue comes from. It should be placed above or below the TV, whichever is closer to the tweeter of the left and right speakers, which are placed, accordingly, on the left and right sides of the TV. The other two surround speakers should be located about 90 to 110 degrees from the centre of the seat. The specialist from Absolute Sound Singapore also highlights that most of the speakers’ tweeters should be angled toward the listening position, that is, at ear level, for optimal experience.

Besides getting the basics right, how else can we create a more immersive experience in our home theatre system?

Design: Space Define Interior

One of the best ways is to add more speakers. If going with a 7.1 speaker setup, Absolute Sound Singapore advises placing the surround left and right speakers by the side of the couch and the rear left and right speakers behind the couch in a narrow angle.

TriTone AV’s expert also suggests adding more subwoofers to balance the bass around the room.

If you have media content that supports Dolby Atmos, Home Pit Cinema suggests adding two additional ceiling speakers to achieve a truly immersive experience as this will allow sound to come at you from a different axis. The home theatre specialist from Absolute Sound Singapore sums up the experience: “When you see a plane on screen and it soars toward you and over you, you’ll actually hear it go right over your head if you have ceiling speakers. Opting for additional overhead speakers can really make a difference.”

If we are getting in a professional to do up a home theatre system, what will the service include?

The service will usually start with a planning and consultation stage, involving the homeowners as well as the relevant contractors or interior designers. This will allow the professionals to better understand the needs and wants of their clients as well as to ascertain the feasibility and limitations of the space. This stage will also comprise system demonstrations, a discussion of how things work, as well as a plan for the placement of equipment.

During the installation stage, cables are first laid out. This can be done by the main contractor already engaged by the homeowner or by the professional. “Some clients will prefer us to do the cabling works for their home theatre system because the cabling method for audio and visual equipment is completely different with that of other electrical fittings,” explains the expert from Home Pit Cinema. Then comes the hardware installation.

Once that is done, there needs to be an audio and video calibration as well as adjustments. The professional will also do a walkthrough so that the homeowner will be able to familiarise themselves with their new system.

Browse through the list of Interior Designers, their reviews and portfolios at http://www.renonation.sg/professionals/interior-designers/

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Original post Ask the Experts: Setting Up a Home Theatre System in Your HDB Flat appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

In a place as humid as Singapore, the dehumidifier is used most of the time. Excessive humidity in the house can cause rapid bacterial growth and harm your health.

In general, the lifespan of a dehumidifier is around 5 years. Whether your dehumidifier can work longer than that depends on how well you are maintaining it.

We are here to give you a few tips on lengthening the lifespan of your dehumidifier.

Design: 13th Design Studio

Close all the doors and windows before use

The dehumidifier should only operate in a sealed space where the windows and other ventilation points are sealed from the exterior.

This keeps external moisture from entering the interior and affecting the machine’s dehumidifying efficacy.

This measure prevents the dehumidifier from overloading, thus protects the machine and extends its lifespan.

Leave space for heat dissipation

Make sure the dehumidifier is placed on a levelled area when operating so that the condensed water will not spill.

Also, leave adequate space between the machine and the walls, as well as furniture. This is to make sure the heat can disperse easily.

In addition, do not block the humidity detector and air passages when the machine is in operation.

Do not connect dehumidifiers to extension units

Dehumidifiers consume a large amount of electricity. Avoid plugging the appliance to an extension unit.

Do not turn the dehumidifier on unattended.

Clean the dehumidifier regularly

The water tank of the dehumidifier is a breeding ground for bacteria and mould. Clean the tank regularly to maintain the machine’s hygiene.

Some models have an air-purifying function, and the air filter also has to be cleared regularly to avoid the accumulation of dust mites.

Clothes-drying function

Most dehumidifiers have a clothes-drying function. This function has a strong moisture-removing effect and consumes more power. We recommend turning this function off when you are not drying washed clothes.

HKDecoman, now going global as Deco-Man, is a Hong Kong-based renovation platform which provides professional consultancy services and pioneers in the development of A.I. homeowner-engineer matching. We aim at educating the public about the art of home renovation and have our eyes on transforming the traditional renovation industry, bringing standardisation, transparency, convenience and automation to the business.

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Small yet Mighty!

When it comes to compact apartments offered by HDB and private developers, the skills of the Renovation Professionals are put to the strictest test; to maximize the value of abode by amplifying the spaces while minimizing the maintenance required.

#1. Identify structures which take up unnecessary space

Certain structures such as swing or bi-fold bedroom, toilet, balcony, closet and cabinet doors take up more floor space. This is because additional clearance space has to be set aside for the door to open outwards or inwards. By swapping traditional doors for sliding doors, you get to free up more space easily. In addition, by replacing traditional walls with sliding partitions, you can free up more space by re-configuring the spaces, divide rooms and organize the flow of your inhabitants easily.

#2. Use modular, movable furniture

In order to maximize a tiny apartment’s functionality, it has to be flexible so that it can be easily reconfigured to meet the evolving demands of its homeowners. Hence, modular, movable furniture is a critical enabler for a more versatile, open-plan space. For instance, mobile storage cabinets can be tucked neatly away when not in use; modular sofa can be arranged in a multitude of different styles and a movable pullout kitchen trolley can provide additional workspace where and when it is needed.

Image from Freshome

Design: 3D Innovations

#3. Opt for customized built-in carpentry

Aside from the usual cupboard, wardrobe, bookshelf and table, custom made carpentry can create storage cabinets from awkward corners and bring to life unusual, multi-functional furniture. Such examples include sliding bookshelves which double up as wall partitions or doors, a wall mount mirror which is also a jewelry closet and tailor made Murphy beds, can be pulled out from the wall to reveal a floating shelf and a coach.

Design: Architology

Image from Godownsize

#4. Look at unconventional, ingenious places for additional storage

A floor platform is a conventional way to eke out additional storage from below. However, you can also set your sights higher by carving out storage space from the ceiling! This is especially handy if your apartment comes with a high ceiling and you wish for  a unconventional alternative aside from using a bulky furniture deck or a mezzanine floor.

Image from Livabl

If you are adventurous enough, you can also opt for a bed, which can be hoisted up the ceiling when not in use!

Image from Dezeen

#5. Create secret storage spaces

A safe is very important to keep your valuables and important documents securely locked away. However, a proper safe usually takes up considerable space footprint in a tiny apartment. Therefore, you can consider creating multiple secret hidden spaces, either within a wall or even in a pillar, to keep your belongings safely hidden.

Image from Contemporist

Image from Bhg

Do you love what you’ve seen? Contact us for a non-obligated consultation now.

Original post 5 Easy Renovation Hacks to Reclaim your Valuable Space appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.

HDB Executive Maisonette (EM) homes are like the unicorns of the Singapore property scene—embodying a certain magical quality that has everyone wanting one of them. The only difference between these double-storey public housing wonders and the mythical creatures is that they really do exist, despite their rarity. They might go the way of the dodo though, seeing as the government has no plans to build any more EMs (as of October 2012) after the last one was built in 1995.

Owing to their generous size—they are typically 1,500+ square feet—and their decent location, most units are still highly coveted despite their lower remaining lease. If you managed to snag one (lucky you!), here’s how to do the space justice.

1. Keeping things simple

Decked out in monochromatic palette, this home features a clean, pared-back design. But underneath its simplicity are design nuances waiting to be discovered. The original layout had the balcony relegated to the side of the apartment, but this was shifted and the entrance, now via a glass door, sits next to the living room. Part of the balcony can also be seen through a glass panel window, constructed next to the open kitchen.

A TV half wall was built in the middle of the first storey. To centre it as the focal point in the living room, a wooden accent border was added. Further underlining the area is a plank of Suar wood, which functions as a spot for other media units.

Frameless glass balustrades provide an unobtrusive design at the stairwell, while allowing light to penetrate through so that the space wouldn’t appear too dark. Upstairs, bedrooms are kept simple with few built-ins to create flexibility and a less boxed-in vibe.

See more of this executive maisonette here

Design: The Merry Men Interiors
Location: Bukit Panjang
Size: N.A.

2. Staying timeless

One of the main issues with large spaces like executive maisonette homes is that the spaces can feel sparse and sterile. In order to avoid this, the homeowners went with a classic palette of black and white with plenty of wood accents for a cosier vibe.

Wood features prominently in the kitchen, which is separated into wet and dry zones in order to keep the fumes and grease better contained in the open cooking space. Wooden shelves line part of the wall in the dry zone, functioning as a pantry unit for staples.

One of the bedrooms on the second floor was converted into a home gym, while another is used as a home office. Bathrooms were clad in white subway tiles for an equally timeless look.

See more of this executive maisonette here

Design: Fineline Design
Location: Bishan
Size: 1,389 sqft

3. Feeling Zen

Step inside this home, and you will feel like you are being transported into a completely different world—a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) world of wood interiors and rooms laid out in tatami mats, that is.

Inspired by the homeowner’s love of Japanese culture, this executive maisonette is laid out in light-toned woods, platforms and shoji screens for dividing up the zones. The original living area is converted into a drinking corner, very much like an izakaya in Japan, defined by a wall of colourful sake bottles. The space is used primarily to entertain friends, doubling as a guest room when he has overnight company by hiding away the raised table into the platform and laying out a futon.

The kitchen comes with a raised bar table for casual meals, while more formal dining is done in a dedicated dining area by the living room. His personal bedroom upstairs is built atop a platform laid out in tatami mats, taking on a similar aesthetic as the rest of the home. Internal windows look out into the stairwell and the tall bamboo plant, inviting light, air and a sense of greenery and tranquillity into the private spaces.

See more of this executive maisonette here

Design: Sync Interior
Location: Tampines
Size: N.A.

4. Opulent Wonder

While most homeowners play it safe with a minimalist theme, the missus in this home does the opposite with her flat by embracing a no-holds-barred luxurious classic style.

Walls are covered in gold wallpaper and interiors are furnished with loud prints, ornate chandeliers, silk and velvet tufted chairs, and gilded and baroque influenced pieces. The liberal use of soft furnishings in the form of cushions, rugs, furry throws and feathered lamp shades creates a homey vibe to the space.

The kitchen, in contrast, feels a lot less flamboyant, with tinted mirrored cabinets lending elegance while helping to bounce light throughout the cooking space. Striped wall panels line the walls, evoking a more formal atmosphere.

The master bedroom upstairs sits behind aluminium-framed glass walls, all the better to showcase the ornamentation of the private sanctuary, while similarly alleviating the visual bulk of the room.

See more of this executive maisonette here

Design: Fifth Avenue Interior
Location: Woodlands
Size: 1,507 sqft

5. Mirror Illusions

In an effort to de-compartmentalise the different areas of the home and to connect the spaces together better, the designers of this elegantly designed executive maisonette reconfigured the original two zones into three, separating between service, dining and play.

‘Service’ comprised the main kitchen functions, while a custom dining table sits where ‘Dining’ is. A raised platform defines ‘Play’, which includes the living area as well as a play zone for the toddler at home.

A cluster of pendants in the stairwell provides a focal area of the home, which is otherwise little furnished. To make the space seem larger than it really is, walls are lined with mirrored panels.

See more of this executive maisonette here

Design: Ehka Studio
Location: Bukit Panjang
Size: 1,399 sqft

6. Print Party

While most Scandinavian homes feature clean, minimalist interiors, this home didn’t shy away from using quirky prints and patterns in their executive maisonette. Injecting graphic motifs has helped in creating a vibrant and lively milieu, while still allowing it to retain a simplicity commonly associated with Nordic themed homes.

Besides the surfaces of the flat, prints and patterns were also seen in their furnishings. For visual balance, the rest of the home was kept relatively neutral, with greys, blues and wood accents serving as the main colour palette.

The original dining area was converted into a foyer, which gave room for a built-in shoe storage as well as a custom bench to make it easier to put on shoes. The eating space was then combined together with the kitchen island in the open-plan cooking zone, increasing convenience during mealtimes and clean-up.

See more of this executive maisonette here

Design: DistinctIdentity
Location: Yishun
Size: 1,572 sqft

7. Breaking the Rules

Textures abound in this four-room executive maisonette in the east. One of the main materials used is wood, which is used to cover most of the flooring in the home and the family room. Decked out from floor to ceiling in bamboo strips, this family zone serves as a cosy spot to hang out during movie nights.

Next to the family room is the dining area. The walls, including the ceiling, in this eating spot is given a textured wash, appearing like moss. In the main living room, a red brick wall lends a visual break from the wood. It is seen again in the upstairs bedroom, drawing a connection to the spaces. Bathrooms are clad in marble, giving an elegant lift and the ambience of a spa sanctuary.

As a testament to the homeowner’s love for nature, a lush green wall lines the full height of the double-volume balcony. A wall-mounted bar table, made of wood, looks out into the verdant greenery beyond.

See more of this executive maisonette here

Design: AkiHaus
Location: Pasir Ris
Size: 1,475 sqft

8. Made For Entertaining

Being frequent hosts, the homeowners wanted a space that was able to accommodate larger groups of people without feeling overly cramped. There was also a need to keep a clear traffic flow throughout the apartment. What resulted was a bright and airy open space that had pockets of spaces suited for entertaining.

A casual lounge area replete with built-in window seats sits next to the entrance of the home, welcoming guests as they enter the flat. Next to it, the open-plan kitchen features an island that peeks out into the rest of the communal spaces, allowing the hosts to be part of the gathering even while they are busy prepping meals. Venture further and you will find the living room and dining area, the latter bathed in the golden sun thanks to the gorgeous skylight feature.

Upstairs, where the private spaces are, feels like a sanctuary with his-and-her sinks as well as marble-clad surfaces. Wood and white, the colour theme of the home, still feature prominently, drawing a connection with the rest of the flat.

See more of this executive maisonette here

Design: DistinctIdentity
Location: McNair Road
Size: 1,390 sqft

9. Rustic Retreat

To create a cosy ambience that was welcoming, this family adopted a rustic, country theme in their executive maisonette. Surfaces are clad in various wood shades, with the communal flooring taking on a fun chevron pattern. In line with the theme, the kitchen cabinets feature a vertical shiplap design with the floors covered in vintage floral tiles, lending a softer touch to the rough woods.

Despite the rusticity, the home still manages a light and breezy atmosphere thanks to the white backdrop, greenery, as well as the “airy” furniture pieces, most of which sit off the ground with metal legs.

One of the highlights of the home is the storage area under the stairs, which the designer turned into a display area for the homeowner’s camera and camera lenses collection. Under-shelf LED lights draw attention to the area, serving as a focal point for the home.

See more of this executive maisonette here

Design: The 80’s Studio
Location: Tampines
Size: N.A.

Original post 9 Stunning HDB Executive Maisonette Homes that Look Like Landed Property appeared first on Renonation.sg. Renonation.sg - It's where renovation begins.