Renovating a 2-room HDB flat, whether it’s a brand new BTO or an older resale unit, is all about clever planning and creative design. These compact homes (often under 500 sqft) can feel surprisingly spacious and stylish with the right approach. In Singapore’s housing climate of rising property prices and smaller layouts, many singles and couples are embracing 2-room flats for their affordability and easy maintenance.
The good news is that budget-friendly doesn’t have to mean boring. By integrating smart space-saving solutions, multifunctional furniture, and chic design themes (like Japandi or Wabi-Sabi), you can transform a tiny HDB flat into a comfortable, beautiful home.
Below, we’ll explore the best practices – gleaned from top interior design sources – to help you plan a 2-room HDB renovation that maximises space, saves money, and showcases great style and functionality.
Smart Space Planning for Small Flats
Thoughtful space planning is the foundation of any successful 2-room HDB makeover. When every square foot counts, start by considering your layout and how each area can serve multiple purposes. Many homeowners choose to open up the floor plan to create an airy, seamless flow between the living, dining, and kitchen areas. For example, hacking away walls that separate the living room and bedroom can instantly make the flat feel larger and brighter. An open-plan layout not only improves sightlines and light flow, but also allows flexible use of space – a dining area can double as a home office, or a living room can incorporate a reading nook.
That said, open concept isn’t all-or-nothing. It’s important to balance openness with privacy and functionality. Use flexible partitions instead of solid walls when you need to delineate spaces. Options include sliding glass doors, foldable panels, or even curtains that can be drawn as needed.
Glass or translucent partitions are a popular choice because they let light through while giving you the option to section off an area (for example, enclosing the bedroom at night). In one clever 2-room BTO design, the bedroom was raised on a platform with almost full-length sliding glass panels and blackout curtains – providing privacy without permanently cutting up the space. Such hybrid solutions ensure your flat remains bright, open, and versatile, but can still offer quiet corners or separation when desired.
When planning your layout, think about your lifestyle and daily routines. If you’re working from home, carve out a small study corner or extend a countertop as a desk.
If you love cooking, an open kitchen concept might be ideal to join it with the living area, allowing for a social space despite the flat’s size. However, also consider ventilation for open kitchens – ensure cooking fumes can be managed to keep your living area fresh (installing a good hood or windows open for airflow is key). Good ventilation in general is crucial in a small flat to avoid stuffiness and moisture build-up; don’t overlook fans, window vents or exhausts, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, to maintain healthy air quality.
Finally, account for the quirks of BTO vs Resale layouts. A new 2-room BTO flat gives you a blank slate (usually a combined living/kitchen area and a separated bedroom), whereas an older resale 2-room might come with a more segmented or dated layout.
Older resale units could have fixtures or odd corners that you may need to reconfigure – for instance, previous built-ins or an enclosed kitchen that you might opt to hack for an open plan. Many resale flat owners struggle with inefficient layouts and clutter from limited storage. So, part of your planning might involve removing outdated fixtures and reworking the layout to improve flow and storage.
The guiding principle in both cases is the same: plan every zone purposefully. As renovation experts often note, overlooking functional space planning is a common mistake – every square foot should enhance your daily life. Take time to sketch out where each activity will happen (sleeping, lounging, cooking, working, dining) and ensure the design accommodates these without wasted space.
Maximizing Storage with Creative Solutions
Storage is often the biggest challenge in a compact home. The key is to build upwards and inwards – make use of vertical space and hidden niches. Think floor-to-ceiling cabinets, high shelving, and clever carpentry that exploits every bit of wall space.
By installing tall cabinets or open shelves up high, you gain storage without consuming precious floor area. In fact, vertical storage is a lifesaver in a small 2-room layout. For instance, mount cabinetry above doorways, or add an extra tier of overhead storage in the kitchen for infrequently used items.
Another winning strategy is to incorporate built-in furniture that doubles as storage. Custom carpentry like a full-height wardrobe that fits perfectly into a bedroom corner can eliminate the need for extra dressers. Built-in TV consoles or feature walls can conceal compartments for electronics and books.
Many 2-room HDB bedrooms also benefit from platform beds with storage underneath or hydraulic lift-up bedframes to hide bulkier items like luggage and winter clothing. In living areas, consider a bay window bench or banquette with hidden storage under the seat – one stunning renovation featured a window sill storage bench running the length of the flat, which not only tucked away clutter but also served as a cozy sit-down spot for lounging or working.
Here are some space-saving storage ideas commonly used in 2-room flats:
- Hidden Storage Furniture: Coffee tables or ottomans with internal storage, beds or sofas with drawers underneath, and benches that open up. These pieces keep visual clutter to a minimum by concealing your belongings inside.
- Wall-Mounted Solutions: Install floating shelves, pegboards, and wall hooks for everything from books to bicycles. Using your walls creatively means less items on the floor – for example, a pegboard in the entry holds bags and keys, or a wall-mounted spice rack in the kitchen frees up counter space.
- Built-in Cabinets and Niches: Work with a carpenter or interior designer to create built-ins in dead spaces. Alcoves beside the bomb shelter or around household shelter doors can be turned into cupboards or display shelves. In the bathroom, build recessed niches in the shower for toiletries, or add a mirror cabinet for medicine storage. These integrated storage spots maintain a clean look and utilize structural nooks that might otherwise be wasted.
- Multi-Purpose Corners: Combine functions where you can. A dresser can also be a study desk; a kitchen island can offer cabinet storage as well as a dining counter. By letting one element serve dual purposes, you reduce the number of separate furniture pieces needed.
Lastly, declutter often and intentionally. In a small home, less is truly more. Adopt a habit of evaluating what you really need and regularly clear out unused items. Keeping only what adds value to your life (and storing it smartly) will make your 2-room flat feel more spacious and serene. As one design guide puts it, having a small space means being purposeful with what you own. A neat, organized environment instantly makes any flat appear larger and more inviting.
Multi-Functional Furniture & Flexible Fixtures
When space is tight, every piece of furniture should pull its weight. Multi-functional furniture is a cornerstone of small home design – these are items that can transform or serve more than one need. A classic example is a sofa bed that provides seating by day and turns into a guest bed when needed.
Similarly, consider a folding or extendable dining table: it stays compact for daily use but can be expanded to accommodate visitors for dinner. You might also opt for nesting tables or stackable stools that can be tucked away when not in use.
In the bedroom, a platform bed with built-in drawers (or a lift-up storage bed) can replace the need for a separate dresser. Some homeowners elevate the entire bed area on a platform, incorporating steps with storage inside – bonus points for creativity if those steps double as drawers or cabinets! In one renovation, the bed platform included storage within the steps, cleverly hiding clutter while utilizing every inch of space.
Other ideas include wall-mounted dining tables or drop-leaf tables that fold flat against the wall when not in use, and modular furniture that you can reconfigure. For instance, modular sofas or ottomans can be rearranged to suit different activities (a few pieces can form a L-shaped lounge, or separate into chairs for extra seating).
Built-in foldable desks or Murphy beds (wall beds that fold up vertically) are more ambitious options that some small home owners explore to literally hide away an entire function when it’s not in use.
Also pay attention to fixtures like doors and windows. In a tight layout, sliding doors or pocket doors are preferable to swing-out doors for bathrooms or bedrooms, since they don’t eat into room area when opened. Even choosing a sliding barn door or a curtain for a wardrobe can save space compared to a hinged door that requires clearance. These small adjustments in hardware and furniture style collectively make a big difference in how functional your 2-room flat can be.
The goal is to maximize flexibility. Ideally, your living room can instantly transform into a guest room, or your study area can become a dining spot for four, with just a few tweaks. With multi-functional furnishings and smart planning, a 2-room HDB can live much larger than its actual size – a concept often emphasized in design solutions for small homes. Remember, even a 36-45 sqm flat can draw ideas from larger homes; it “just takes a bit of planning and creativity” to adapt those concepts in a compact space.
Design Tricks to Make the Flat Feel Bigger
Beyond layout and furniture, there are design tricks that visually enlarge a small home and make it more pleasant. Here are some proven techniques:
Light & Neutral Color Scheme:
One of the simplest ways to create an airy, open feel is by using light colors for your walls, flooring, and large furniture. Whites, creams, soft greys or beiges reflect light and make the boundaries of the room less conspicuous, giving an illusion of a larger space. As experts often advise, when in doubt, go neutral – shades like beige and white keep the interior feeling fresh and spacious, helping the flat appear larger than it is. You can certainly add color with accents, but keep the overall base palette on the lighter side to visually expand the space. Also, lean towards continuous flooring (e.g., the same light-toned vinyl running throughout the flat) to avoid chopping the flat into smaller-looking sections.
Strategic Use of Color & Accents:
While neutrals are great for a base, a pop of color or texture can inject personality. Consider an accent wall or a feature panel in one area – it could be a splash of pastel green or a muted terracotta (both trending tones for cozy interiors), or even a wallpaper with subtle pattern. A well-placed accent wall adds depth and character without overwhelming the space with clutter.
Some homeowners go bold with one element (like a colorful sofa or piece of art) to draw attention and create a focal point, letting the rest of the decor remain streamlined. Just be careful to choose one or two focal points at most, so the small flat doesn’t start to feel busy. For instance, an eclectic 2-room flat achieved a lively vibe with bright pops of color and a statement lime-green wardrobe, but balanced it by keeping the layout open and integrated.
The lesson: you can use vibrant design in a small flat, as long as you also employ space-enhancing tricks like open layouts and smart storage to counter any visual shrinkage.
Mirrors and Reflective Surfaces:
It’s a tried-and-true trick – adding mirrors can visually double the sense of space. A mirror on a wall (e.g., a large mirror above the sofa, or mirrored wardrobe doors in the bedroom) reflects light and the view, making the room feel more expansive. Reflective finishes like glass, glossy laminates, or even metallic accents can similarly bounce light around. Just don’t overdo the shine; the idea is to incorporate a few reflective elements to amplify brightness.
Layered Lighting:
Good lighting can make a small home feel open and welcoming, especially when natural light is limited. During the day, keep windows unobstructed – use sheer curtains or blinds that diffuse light but don’t block it. Avoid heavy drapes that cut out daylight. In the evening, use a layered lighting approach: a mix of ambient lighting (e.g., a ceiling light or cove lights), task lighting (under-cabinet lights, reading lamps), and accent lighting (LED strips on shelves, small spotlights for wall art).
This not only adds dimension to the space but also allows you to change the mood and function easily. For example, bright overall lighting when you’re cleaning or working, versus warm dim lighting for a cozy movie night. A well-lit room, with lights placed at different heights and zones, avoids dark corners that would make the flat feel cramped. As a bonus, modern smart lighting systems let you control brightness and even color tone to adapt the space on the fly.
Bring in Natural Elements:
Introducing some biophilic design touches – i.e., elements of nature – can significantly improve the ambience of a small flat. A bit of greenery (potted plants or succulents) adds life and makes the home feel less confined. If you don’t have a green thumb, even natural materials in decor help: think rattan baskets, wooden picture frames, a jute rug, or linen curtains.
These textures bring warmth and a sense of calm, aligning well with styles like Japandi and Wabi-Sabi (more on those shortly). Natural elements connect the space to the outdoors and can create a mini “oasis” vibe even in the heart of the city. Just be mindful to choose low-maintenance plants and avoid cluttering surfaces with too many small pots – a few well-chosen larger plants or a trio of wall-mounted planters might work better than dozens of tiny succulents on every ledge.
Keep Decor Minimal and Meaningful:
In small spaces, curation is key. Rather than displaying every collectible and family photo, pick a handful of decor pieces that really elevate the design. A large piece of artwork or one sculptural vase can often make a stronger style statement than multiple small knick-knacks scattered around. Adopting a “less but better” mindset (which is very much in the spirit of Japandi and Wabi-Sabi design) will ensure your flat looks chic and not cluttered. Plus, with fewer items on view, cleaning is easier – a practical perk for busy urbanites.
By combining these design tricks, you’ll find your 2-room flat not only looks bigger and brighter, but also feels more comfortable and inviting. It’s about creating an illusion of space and a pleasant atmosphere, so that living in a compact home doesn’t feel like a compromise at all.
Inspiring Design Themes: Japandi, Wabi-Sabi & Modern Luxury
Small HDB flats can be incredibly stylish. In fact, certain interior design themes naturally lend themselves to compact homes, emphasizing simplicity, warmth, and clever use of space. Three popular styles to consider (and which our interior design team specializes in) are Japandi, Wabi-Sabi, and Modern Luxury Minimalism. Let’s explore why these are great for 2-room flats:
Japandi: Sleek Zen Meets Scandinavian Coziness
Japandi is a hybrid of Japanese and Scandinavian design philosophies, and it’s become a beloved trend for modern small apartments. The appeal of Japandi lies in its balance: it combines the Zen-like minimalism and natural materials of Japanese style with the hygge comfort and neutral palette of Scandi style. The result is perfect for a compact flat – calming, uncluttered, yet invitingly cosy.
Japandi interiors favor neutral tones (think off-whites, soft greys, earthy taupes) paired with warm wood textures and simple, functional furnishings. In a 2-room HDB, this translates to using clean-lined furniture (often low-profile pieces), a light color scheme, and just a few well-crafted decor items that might have a Japanese or Nordic touch (like a paper lantern lamp or a knitted throw).
Plants or bamboo can add a zen vibe, and fabrics are usually natural (cotton, linen) to keep the look organic. This style “produces the perfect ambience in a calming, chic, simple 2-room HDB interior design”. Many homeowners love Japandi because it makes small spaces feel serene, airy, and artfully simple – ideal for unwinding after a hectic day.
One important aspect of Japandi (and Wabi-Sabi) is embracing imperfection and nature. Instead of high-gloss perfection, you might include a hand-made ceramic vase or a reclaimed wood coffee table with unique grain patterns. These touches add character without adding clutter.
According to design experts, singles in 2-room flats often gravitate towards fresh, minimalist themes like Scandinavian and Japandi for their light colors and space-saving ethos. Japandi indeed hits that sweet spot: it’s minimal but not cold, and stylish yet very functional.
Wabi-Sabi: Embracing Imperfection and Warmth
For those who appreciate a bit of soul and history in their home, Wabi-Sabi design is a wonderful fit – especially in small spaces where every piece can tell a story. Rooted in Japanese philosophy, Wabi-Sabi is all about finding beauty in imperfection, impermanence, and the natural aging of objects.
In décor terms, this means using materials like weathered wood, clay, stone, and linen that have rich textures and patina. Rather than shiny new showroom pieces, you might opt for a refinished vintage stool, a rug woven from natural fibers, or a feature wall of textured plaster. These elements bring warmth and character, making a modern HDB flat feel grounded and cozy.
A Wabi-Sabi inspired 2-room HDB would focus on simplicity and authenticity. Colors often skew towards earth tones – shades of beige, cream, soft green, and brown that create a soothing backdrop. Clutter is avoided (aligning with minimalism), so that each piece of furniture or decor can be appreciated for its form and material.
Wabi-Sabi’s minimalist approach “maximizes function without overwhelming the senses” in small HDB homes. This style encourages a harmonious flow and intimate feeling, which can actually make a tiny flat feel more expansive because nothing is fighting for attention or crowding the eye.
To incorporate Wabi-Sabi, you might include reclaimed or handmade items – perhaps a coffee table made of reclaimed teak, or ceramic pots with a rustic finish. Don’t worry if they have cracks or uneven surfaces; those are desirable traits in this aesthetic! Pair them with modern necessities in a balanced way (a sleek sofa alongside a rough-hewn wood side table, for example).
The mix of old and new creates a lived-in charm. It’s also a sustainable approach – reusing and upcycling items not only saves money but adds uniqueness. Overall, Wabi-Sabi interiors in Singaporean homes bring a sense of tranquility and authenticity that can make even a small flat feel like a personal sanctuary.
Modern Luxury (Luxurious Minimalism) in a Small Space
You might wonder, can a tiny 2-room flat feel luxurious? The answer is yes – by adopting a “luxurious minimalism” approach that’s currently on the rise. Modern luxury in a small home is not about filling the space with expensive things, but rather selecting a few high-quality elements that elevate the whole design while keeping the overall look clean and uncluttered. Essentially, you maintain a minimalist foundation (similar to Scandi/Japandi) but “dress it up” with upscale finishes or statement pieces.
For instance, you might stick to a monochromatic or neutral color scheme (white, greys, or taupe) but incorporate a feature of rich material, such as a marble-look quartz countertop in the kitchen, a backsplash of textured stone tiles, or a living room wall with wood paneling in a walnut veneer for a touch of opulence.
Another trick is to use accent lighting or decor that screams luxury: a small crystal or brass pendant light over the dining table, a large framed mirror with a bronze finish, or velvet cushions on the sofa. These pops of luxury make the space feel sophisticated without requiring many items. A plush rug or high-thread-count bedding can also imbue a sense of comfort and quality.
The idea is to focus on quality over quantity. One or two bold, luxurious features can define the space, such as an artistic light fixture or a set of designer bar stools and then keep everything else streamlined. For example, a 2-room flat can be painted in elegant neutral tones and furnished minimally, but include a gorgeous modern chandelier and some gold or black metal hardware accents for a modern luxe vibe. This way, even though the space is small, it exudes a high-end feel.
Home designers often mention sticking to a cohesive palette and using mirrors or glass to add luxury; a monochromatic scheme with varying textures (matte and glossy surfaces contrasted) can make a room look “designed” and expensive. In a small bathroom, something as simple as upgrading to a frameless glass shower screen and stylish fittings can give a boutique-hotel impression without changing the footprint.
Luxurious minimalism works well in small homes because it avoids clutter (which is antithetical to luxury) and focuses the eye on a few beautiful details. It’s about balance – you get the comfort and elegance of luxury design but scaled to a compact environment.
Think of it as creating a jewel-box: small but full of sparkle. With careful planning, a cozy 2-room flat can indeed feel like a chic, modern sanctuary that reflects your taste for the finer things, just in a more intimate package.
Budget-Friendly Renovation Tips
Renovating on a budget means making smart choices about where to spend and where to save. The encouraging news for 2-room HDB owners is that the smaller size can actually keep renovation costs lower than larger flats – there’s simply less material and labor needed overall. In Singapore, a basic 2-room HDB renovation might average between S$15,000 to S$40,000, depending on the scope and quality of finishes. To ensure you stretch every dollar (without future regrets), consider these tips:
Prioritize Essentials and Long-Term Needs:
Start by listing what’s truly necessary for functionality – e.g., storage cabinets, lighting, flooring – before the nice-to-have aesthetic extras. Invest in timeless, quality pieces for these essentials rather than splurging on fleeting design fads.
For instance, it’s wiser to spend on a durable built-in wardrobe and a good mattress (things that directly affect daily life), and maybe hold off on that expensive designer armchair that might go out of style. Avoid rushing into ultra-trendy designs that could lose appeal quickly. By focusing on a clean, functional design now, you won’t feel the urge to redo things in a couple of years (saving money down the road).
Plan (and Pad) Your Budget:
One common mistake is misjudging renovation costs. Always set a clear budget with some buffer (experts suggest allocating around 10-15% for unforeseen expenses). Small renovations can still spring surprises – perhaps electrical rewiring, pest issues in an old resale unit, or a material you really want that costs a bit more. Having a contingency ensures that a minor cost overrun won’t derail your finances.
Get quotes from a few contractors or interior design firms to benchmark costs. Also, be upfront with your designer about your budget constraints; a good professional will help tailor the design to meet your budget, suggesting alternatives where needed.
Mix High and Low Finishes:
You don’t need to go high-end on everything. Splurge selectively on a couple of areas that matter most to you (for example, a durable countertop or custom cabinetry in the kitchen if you cook daily, or quality bathroom fixtures for longevity).
For other elements, look for cost-effective alternatives. Use laminate or vinyl flooring that mimics wood or tile instead of real hardwood – modern laminates “can be made to resemble hardwood, but cost much less”. In bathrooms and kitchens, quartz is a great budget-friendly countertop option that resists stains and scratches like a champ.
You can achieve a luxurious look with some clever hacks: e.g., buy ready-made curtains and tailor them instead of custom-made, or use paint creatively instead of expensive wall panels (a fresh coat of quality paint in the right color can dramatically uplift the space for cheap). By being flexible and resourceful, you can achieve a high-end look at a fraction of the price.
DIY and Upcycle Where Possible:
If you’re handy (or willing to try), tackle some small improvements yourself to save labor costs. Painting walls is one DIY-friendly task – a weekend of work can transform your flat with a new color scheme. Also consider upcycling furniture: perhaps give your existing cabinets a makeover with new finishes and handles instead of replacing them. Old laminate cabinets can be repainted or wrapped; an outdated coffee table can be sanded and varnished anew.
Adding removable wallpaper or contact paper to a feature wall or cabinetry is another affordable trick for a fresh look. Likewise, simple DIY projects like installing floating shelves, building a pegboard organizer, or creating your own wall art can personalize your home cheaply. Just be sure to tackle only what you can manage safely – leave electrical and major carpentry works to professionals.
Reuse and Preserve What You Can (especially in Resale units):
In a resale flat renovation, assess if there are any elements worth keeping to save cost. Perhaps the existing flooring is in decent condition – you might jazz it up with rugs instead of hacking and retiling entirely. Or the previous owner’s kitchen cabinets could be solid enough that a new countertop and a coat of paint makes them good as new.
Every item you don’t have to replace fully is money saved. Of course, do ensure the old elements are in good working order (no point saving an ancient water heater that will break down soon, for example). Focus on refurbishing rather than complete overhaul when possible.
Avoid Last-Minute Changes:
Plan carefully from the start to prevent costly changes mid-renovation. Altering design or materials after work has begun can lead to waste and extra charges. It helps to visualize your design thoroughly (through mood boards or 3D drawings) and double-check measurements and clearance for all your furniture and appliances in advance. This way, you’ll be confident that what you plan fits both your space and lifestyle, reducing the likelihood of “I wish I had done X differently” later.
Lastly, consider engaging a reliable interior designer or contractor who is transparent about costs and experienced with small flats. It may seem counterintuitive when watching the budget, but professionals can actually help you avoid costly mistakes (like improper waterproofing or ill-fitting carpentry) and often know where to source materials for good prices.
Some firms specialize in affordable, transparent renovation packages for HDBs (you can ask our friendly staff about this too!) – they can guide you on how to get the most value within your budget. The right partner will understand that you want a beautiful home within your means, and they’ll have ideas to achieve just that without compromising on quality or safety.
Remember, a well-renovated home is an investment that can also increase your flat’s value over time, so spending wisely now can pay off in the long run.
Conclusion: Small Space, Big Potential
Renovating a 2-room HDB flat is a rewarding challenge that proves the adage “small but mighty.” With intelligent planning, your compact home can encompass everything you need – a cozy living area, a functional kitchen, ample storage, and even luxurious touches – all in a harmonious, uncluttered package. The key takeaways from observing the best in the industry are clear: maximize every inch with purpose, choose designs that open up the space, and keep things simple yet significant.
By using multi-purpose furniture, hidden storage, and light colors, you can make your little flat look and feel much larger than its actual footprint. Styles like Japandi and Wabi-Sabi help create a calm, airy atmosphere with minimal fuss, while a sprinkle of modern luxury ensures the space reflects your personality and feels like a premium retreat despite its size.
In both new BTO and older resale 2-room flats, these principles hold true. You might be starting from scratch or working around existing structures, but either way, a clever layout and thoughtful details will carry the design.
Don’t be afraid to get creative – sometimes the most impressive transformations come from out-of-the-box ideas tailored to the homeowner’s lifestyle (like turning a window bay into a reading lounge with storage, or installing a projector instead of a bulky TV console for a mini home theatre vibe). Every design element should have a reason to be there, especially in a small home, and if it can serve two reasons – even better!
Most importantly, remember that budget-friendly renovation doesn’t mean sacrificing style or quality. It’s about making strategic choices: spend where it counts and save where you can, all while keeping the design cohesive. With the inspiration and best practices borrowed from various successful projects and expert tips, you’re well-equipped to embark on your own 2-room HDB renovation journey.
Whether you lean towards the tranquil Japandi look, the character of Wabi-Sabi, or a chic modern luxe feel (or perhaps a blend of all!), your small flat can be a showcase of smart interior design and personal taste.
In the end, a well-renovated 2-room flat offers the best of both worlds – easy maintenance and affordability, plus a stylish, comfortable haven you’ll love coming home to. With thoughtful design, even the tiniest of HDB homes can deliver big on functionality and aesthetic appeal. So go ahead and imagine the possibilities for your space.
With careful planning and maybe some professional guidance, you can truly create “small home, big life” – a space that reflects who you are and proves that size is no limitation to living beautifully.
Need more information for other HDBs? Check out our guides on 3-Room, 4-Room and 5-Room HBDs.
FAQs
Q: How can I make a 2-room HDB flat look more spacious?
A: Use a combination of design tricks and layout tweaks. Stick to light, neutral colors for walls and floors to create an airy feel. Embrace open-plan layouts or glass partitions to maintain openness. Incorporate plenty of built-in and vertical storage so belongings are neatly tucked away.
Multi-functional furniture (like sofa beds or foldable tables) helps avoid overcrowding. Also maximize natural light with sheer window treatments and add mirrors or reflective surfaces to visually expand the space. Regular decluttering is important too, a streamlined space always feels larger.
Q: What interior design style is best for a small HDB (BTO or resale)?
A: Styles that emphasize simplicity, light colors, and functionality work best. Many homeowners opt for Scandinavian or Japandi themes, which focus on minimalist, clutter-free design with warm touches. These styles use neutral palettes and natural materials that make the space feel bright and calm, perfect for small flats.
Wabi-Sabi is another great approach, celebrating imperfection and using earthy tones and textures to add depth without crowding the room. If you prefer a bit of glam, a modern luxury minimalist style can also shine in a 2-room flat, keep the design mostly simple but add one or two luxurious materials or statement pieces for character. The key is to maintain a cohesive, uncluttered look regardless of style.
Q: How much does it cost to renovate a 2-room HDB flat in Singapore?
A: The cost can vary widely based on the scope of renovation and materials used. On average, a 2-room HDB renovation in Singapore may range roughly from S$15,000 to S$40,000 for a standard to mid-range renovation. A basic update (flooring, painting, simple carpentry) might be on the lower end, whereas extensive works (hacking walls, full kitchen and bathroom overhaul, custom cabinets) or higher-end finishes will push it toward the higher end. It’s wise to get quotations tailored to your specific plans.
Always include a contingency of around 10% for unexpected expenses. By prioritizing needs and choosing cost-effective finishes, you can keep to a budget while achieving a great result. Remember that investing in good space planning and durable key fittings is worthwhile, it can save you money in the long run by preventing costly changes or repairs later.