Starting a home renovation project is an exciting endeavour, but it can also bring out the most stressful situations, especially for new homeowners in Singapore. For first-timers, it’s important to approach this process with careful planning and awareness. Renovations can be complex, and without proper foresight, costly mistakes can easily happen.
So, what should be done to avoid these common pitfalls?
Mistake #1: Underestimating the Budget
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is underestimating the budget required for their renovation project. Failing to account for all expenses can lead to overspending and compromise the quality of your renovation. Therefore, it’s a must to create a comprehensive budget that includes not only the obvious costs, such as materials and labour, but also overlooked expenses like permits, potential unforeseen repairs, and furnishings. Another tip is to gather quotes from multiple interior design firms to gain a realistic understanding of the market rates.
Mistake #2: Going At It Alone (Skipping Professional Help)
It’s true that the DIY approach can save costs in some aspects. However, when done wrong, it can result in serious repercussions, such as structural damage that requires starting the project from scratch again.
Therefore, when attempting to navigate the complexities of design, material selection, and HDB renovation applications, consider engaging the services of qualified interior designers and contractors who can provide invaluable guidance and ensure your project adheres to the highest standards and relevant laws. This is especially important since failing to adhere to HDB’s renovation guidelines may result in a court fine of up to S$5,000, and any work may be required to be reverted to its original state. They also bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, helping you make informed decisions about layout, colour palettes, and more.
However, remember that interior designers are distinct from contractors; while designers focus on the creative and planning aspects, contractors handle the actual construction and implementation. Choosing the right professionals for your needs is vital for a successful BTO or HDB renovation.
Mistake #3: Overlooking Space Optimisation
In Singapore, space is a commodity, and failing to prioritise space optimisation during your renovation can lead to a cramped and inefficient living environment. Consider incorporating these space-saving strategies to maximise every inch of your home:
- Multifunctional Furniture: Opt for furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as sofa beds or ottomans with storage.
- Smart Storage Solutions: Make the most of your storage space with built-in wardrobes and under-bed drawers.
- Efficient Layout Planning: Design your space focusing on functionality and flow, ensuring easy movement and optimal use of every corner.
- Use of Vertical Space: Utilise vertical space with floor-to-ceiling shelving or wall-mounted cabinets to maximise storage without compromising floor area.
- Open Floor Plans and Light Colours: Go with open floor plans and light-coloured walls to make your home feel larger and more airy.
Mistake #4: Focusing Only on the Present
While creating a home that meets your current needs is essential, it’s equally important to consider your long-term requirements. Lifestyle changes, such as starting a family or ageing in place, can significantly impact your space requirements. That’s why it’s best to incorporate adaptable design elements that can evolve with your needs, such as flexible room layouts or easily modifiable fixtures. Avoid overly trendy features that might quickly become outdated. Instead, opt for design choices that can withstand the test of time.
Mistake #5: Prioritising Aesthetics Over Functionality
Though aesthetics matter, striking the balance between how things look and how they work should be a priority. Certain design elements, while aesthetically pleasing, might present functional challenges in the long run. But there are also ways to work around it.
Open Shelving in Kitchens
Open shelving can add a modern touch to your home renovation project, but it also requires meticulous organisation and frequent cleaning to prevent dust accumulation.
Workaround Tips:
- Strategic Placement: Limit open shelving to areas that don’t experience direct cooking splatters or excessive humidity.
- Display Only: Reserve open shelves to display your most attractive dishware or décor items, minimising clutter and making cleaning easier.
- Glass-Front Cabinets: Combine open shelving with glass-front cabinets to protect some items from dust while maintaining visual openness.
Marble Countertops
Marble countertops exude luxury but are also susceptible to staining and etching, requiring careful maintenance and potentially limiting their practicality in high-traffic areas.
Workaround Tips:
- Sealing: Ensure your marble countertops are properly sealed to minimise porosity and reduce the risk of staining.
- Alternative Material: Consider alternative materials like sintered stone, which offer a similar aesthetic but with greater durability and stain resistance.
High-Gloss Finishes
High-gloss finishes can create a sleek look, but they also tend to show fingerprints and scratches more readily, demanding more frequent cleaning and upkeep.
Workaround Tips:
- Matte Finish: Opt for a matte, which is less prone to showing imperfections.
- Microfibre Cloths: Use microfibre cloths for cleaning to minimise streaks and fingerprints.
- Touch-Up Paint: Keep touch-up paint on hand to address minor scratches or imperfections.
Glass Surfaces
Glass surfaces, while visually appealing, are prone to scratches, which may make them less suitable for homes with young children.
Mitigation Tips:
- Tempered Glass: Choose tempered glass for greater durability and resistance to breakage.
- Regular Cleaning: Start a cleaning routine to keep glass surfaces looking their best.
- Alternative Materials: Consider alternative materials like acrylic or laminate, which offer a similar aesthetic but with stronger durability and easier maintenance.
Mistake #6: Lack of Contingency Planning
Home renovations often don’t go as smoothly as planned. Unexpected issues, such as hidden plumbing problems or material delays, can happen, causing stress and potentially derailing your project. Therefore, it’s important to include contingency planning in your strategy.
Establish realistic timelines that factor in potential delays due to unforeseen circumstances. It’s always wise to add a buffer to your estimated completion date, allowing flexibility and preventing unnecessary pressure. Similarly, create a realistic budget that includes a contingency fund. Make sure to aim for a contingency of around 10-20% of your overall budget to account for potential surprises.
Setting Yourself Up for a Successful Home Renovation Project
Embarking on a home renovation project is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning, informed decision-making, and a proactive mindset.
Navigate the process confidently and avoid common mistakes with the help of a leading interior design firm in Singapore. At Starry Homestead, we understand the complexities of home renovation and HDB renovation applications. Our team of professional designers is dedicated to working with you through every step of the process, from conceptualisation to completion. Begin your HDB or BTO renovation journey with Starry Homestead. Schedule a consultation today, and let us transform your home into a living space that exceeds your expectations.
