collage of interior design projects in Singapore
14
Jan

Ultimate Glossary for Interior Design | Home Renovation in Singapore

Ever wonder what is the meaning of terms your interior designer is telling you? To avoid misunderstanding and headaches for your home renovation, understand some of the common terms used in the industry.

We have prepared the ultimate glossary for interior design and home renovation in Singapore for you.

3D Rendering

A digital technique used to create realistic images or videos of a space before it’s built or renovated. It helps homeowners visualize the design, including furniture, colors, and lighting, making it easier to make informed decisions.

Accent Wall

A wall painted or decorated differently to stand out in a room. Often used to create a focal point or add personality to a space, an accent wall can feature bold colors, wallpaper, or textures.

Ambient Lighting

General lighting that provides overall illumination in a room. Common sources include ceiling lights and wall-mounted fixtures, creating a comfortable and functional environment.

Bay Window

A window structure that projects outward from a building, creating a small nook inside. Bay windows are popular for adding natural light and extra seating or display space.

Backsplash

A protective panel installed behind sinks or stoves to prevent splashes on walls. Often made from tiles, glass, or metal, backsplashes add both function and style to kitchens and bathrooms.

Bi-fold Door

Teck Whye Minimalist Japandi HDB Renovation | Interior Design by Interior Diary

A bi-fold door, also known as a folding door, consists of multiple panels that fold and stack against the wall. This design saves space and allows for a wider opening, making it ideal for Singaporean homes where space optimization is key. Bi-fold doors are commonly used to separate indoor and outdoor areas or to divide rooms.

Blackout Curtains

Blackout curtains are designed to block out nearly all light, making them ideal for bedrooms or media rooms where darkness is essential. Made from thick, opaque fabric, they help create a restful environment by preventing outside light from disturbing your sleep.

In Singapore, blackout curtains are popular among homeowners who want to improve their sleep quality or reduce glare from the sun. Additionally, they can help insulate a room, keeping it cooler during the day and warmer at night. Available in various colors and styles, blackout curtains combine functionality with aesthetic appeal.

BTO Renovation

Renovation work specifically for Build-To-Order flats in Singapore. These flats are often minimally finished, allowing homeowners to customize layouts, finishes, and fittings to suit their preferences.

BTO renovation involves various elements, such as designing the layout, choosing materials, and selecting fixtures and furnishings.

In Singapore, many BTO homeowners take advantage of renovation grants to make their dream home a reality. It’s essential to plan carefully, consider the HDB renovation guidelines, and hire reputable contractors to ensure a successful transformation of the new flat into a comfortable living space.

Built-in Furniture

wabi sabi interior design singapore showcase, study

Furniture that is permanently attached to a wall or structure, such as wardrobes or kitchen cabinets. It’s space-saving and tailored to fit specific dimensions, making it popular in compact homes.

Carpentry

The craft of building furniture, fixtures, and structures out of wood. Common in renovations, carpentry includes creating custom wardrobes, cabinets, and feature walls.

Ceiling Fan

A fan mounted on the ceiling to provide air circulation and cooling. It’s energy-efficient and can complement air conditioning in Singapore’s tropical climate.

Cement Screed Flooring

A smooth, durable flooring option made by applying a layer of cement. It’s popular for achieving industrial or minimalist aesthetics.

Cove Lighting

Rivervale Shores | Dark Modern Wabi Sabi | Interior Diary

Cove lighting is an elegant and subtle form of lighting where the light fixtures are hidden in ledges, coves, or recesses near the ceiling. The light shines upward or along the wall, creating a soft, ambient glow without directly exposing the bulb.

This style of lighting is common in Singaporean homes and is often used in living rooms, bedrooms, and even bathrooms to add a cozy, upscale feel. Cove lighting helps set a relaxed mood while adding depth to the room’s design without harsh shadows or glaring light.

Curtain Wall

A curtain wall is a lightweight, non-structural exterior wall system made primarily of glass and metal. This design allows buildings, particularly high-rises, to have large windows and impressive views while being energy-efficient.

In Singapore, curtain walls are popular in commercial and residential buildings, as they let in natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting. Additionally, modern curtain walls can improve insulation, helping maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Incorporating curtain walls can give your home a sleek, contemporary look while providing functional benefits.

Day Curtains

Lightweight curtains designed to filter sunlight while maintaining some privacy. They’re often paired with heavier curtains for versatility in lighting and privacy control.

Dry Kitchen

A kitchen area primarily used for light cooking, baking, or food preparation. It’s often paired with a wet kitchen for heavy cooking and cleaning tasks.

Energy-efficient Appliances

Appliances designed to use less energy while maintaining performance. They’re often rated with energy labels that indicate how much power they consume. Examples include refrigerators, air conditioners, and washing machines with energy-saving settings.

In Singapore, where energy costs can be high, energy-efficient appliances help reduce utility bills and lessen environmental impact, making them a top choice for environmentally-conscious and budget-aware homeowners.

Engineered Wood Flooring

A type of flooring made from layers of wood, offering the look of solid wood with added durability and resistance to moisture.

False Ceiling

A secondary ceiling installed below the main ceiling. It’s used for concealing wiring, improving acoustics, and adding a decorative touch.

Formaldehyde-free Wood

Wood or engineered wood products manufactured without using formaldehyde-based adhesives or resins. This eco-friendly option is safer for indoor air quality, reducing exposure to harmful chemicals often found in traditional wood products.

Feature Tile

Rivervale Shores | Dark Modern Wabi Sabi | Interior Diary

Feature tiles are decorative tiles used to create a focal point in a room, often highlighting a specific area such as a backsplash, shower wall, or fireplace. They can come in various colors, patterns, and textures, allowing homeowners to showcase their style and personality.

In Singapore, feature tiles are popular in bathrooms and kitchens, where they can add visual interest and character to otherwise plain surfaces. By using feature tiles, you can transform a space and make it feel more inviting and stylish. They can be combined with neutral tiles to create a balanced and harmonious look.

Feng Shui

An ancient Chinese practice of arranging spaces to promote harmony and balance. It’s often considered in Singaporean home designs to enhance well-being and prosperity.

Floor Plan

Image Courtesy of TeoAlida

A scaled diagram of a room or building layout, showing the arrangement of spaces, walls, and fixtures. It’s essential for planning renovations and furniture placement.

Granite Surface

Granite is a natural stone known for its strength and distinctive speckled look. It’s often used for countertops in kitchens and bathrooms, providing durability and heat resistance. In Singapore, granite is favored by those who want a resilient and elegant surface, though it does require some maintenance to keep it looking polished.

Glass Partition

A transparent or frosted glass panel used to divide spaces. It’s popular in offices and homes to maintain openness while creating functional zones.

Green Building Materials

Sustainable and eco-friendly materials like bamboo, recycled wood, or low-VOC paint. These materials are used to reduce environmental impact and improve indoor air quality.

Handleless Cabinets

Curved Interior Design, Pastel Blue, at Kovan Melody Singapore

Handleless cabinets feature a sleek, modern design that eliminates traditional knobs or handles, creating a streamlined appearance. Instead, they often use a push-to-open mechanism or a built-in groove for easy access.

This style is gaining popularity in Singaporean kitchens and bathrooms for its minimalist look and ease of use. Handleless cabinets create a clean, uncluttered aesthetic, making small spaces feel larger and more organized. Available in various finishes and materials, they can complement any decor style while offering practical functionality for contemporary living.

HDB Renovation Guidelines

Regulations set by Singapore’s Housing and Development Board for renovating flats. These guidelines ensure that renovations comply with safety standards, building codes, and community aesthetics. They cover aspects such as structural changes, electrical work, and the use of certain materials.

Homeowners must seek approval for major renovations, including hacking walls or altering layouts. Familiarizing yourself with these guidelines is essential for a smooth renovation process and to avoid potential fines or issues. Following the rules also helps maintain harmony within the community and preserves the integrity of the building.

Home Automation

Smart systems that control lighting, appliances, security, and more from a phone or device. It’s increasingly popular for convenience, energy efficiency, and security.

Insulated Windows

Insulated windows are designed to reduce heat transfer, helping keep your home comfortable year-round. They usually consist of two or more panes of glass with a space in between filled with air or gas.

This design prevents outdoor heat from entering in Singapore’s hot climate while keeping indoor temperatures stable. Insulated windows can also reduce outside noise, making your home quieter.

By improving energy efficiency, they can lower air conditioning costs and enhance overall comfort. Many homeowners choose insulated windows for their aesthetic appeal and energy-saving benefits.

Japandi Interior Design

Japandi is a blend of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics. It combines the minimalist, warm tones of Scandinavian design with the natural, clean lines of Japanese style. In Singapore, this trend is loved for its tranquil and functional approach, creating a calm, clutter-free space that feels both modern and timeless.

Island Counter

A freestanding counter typically located in a kitchen, used for food preparation, dining, or additional storage. It’s a popular feature in open-concept layouts.

Laminate Flooring

A cost-effective and durable flooring option made from compressed wood. It mimics the look of hardwood while being resistant to scratches and stains.

Laminates

Thin sheets applied to surfaces like cabinets and tables to provide a decorative finish. Laminates come in various colors, textures, and patterns.

Marble Finishing

Marble finishing involves using marble, a luxurious and natural stone, on surfaces like countertops, floors, or walls. Marble adds elegance and a timeless look to any space, but it’s relatively high maintenance. In Singapore, marble is popular in high-end homes, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, for its beauty and unique veining.

Matte Finishes

Non-reflective surfaces that offer a soft, understated look. Matte finishes are commonly used on walls, cabinets, and furniture for a modern yet cozy aesthetic.

Mosaic Tile

Mosaic tiles are small tiles made from materials like glass, ceramic, or stone, arranged in intricate patterns to create beautiful designs. They are often used for backsplashes, shower walls, and decorative accents in Singaporean homes.

Mosaic tiles come in various colors, shapes, and sizes, allowing homeowners to express their creativity and personalize their spaces. Their unique designs can make a bold statement or add subtle elegance, depending on the chosen pattern. Additionally, mosaic tiles are durable and easy to maintain, making them a practical choice for both residential and commercial spaces.

Open-concept Layout

A design style that eliminates walls between spaces like the living, dining, and kitchen areas. It’s ideal for creating a spacious and connected feel.

Parquet Flooring

Parquet flooring consists of small wooden pieces arranged in decorative patterns, like herringbone or chevron. It adds warmth and elegance to spaces, often used in living rooms and bedrooms. In Singapore, parquet flooring is valued for its classic appeal, though it requires careful maintenance to preserve its finish.

Partition Wall

A partition wall is a non-load-bearing wall used to divide a space into different sections. It’s often made from materials like glass, wood, or drywall. Partition walls are common in Singapore homes to create separate areas in open layouts, adding privacy and versatility without major construction.

Pendant Lighting

A single light fixture hanging from the ceiling, often used to provide focused lighting. Pendant lights are popular over dining tables, kitchen islands, and in entryways.

Pocket Door

A sliding door that disappears into a wall cavity when open. It’s a space-saving solution often used in small rooms or tight spaces.

Quartz Countertop

A durable and low-maintenance countertop material made from engineered stone. It’s stain-resistant and comes in various colors and patterns.

Recessed Lighting

Light fixtures installed into ceilings or walls, providing a clean and modern look. It’s often used for ambient or accent lighting.

Roller Blinds

Roller blinds are a practical window covering made from a single piece of fabric that can be rolled up or down. Available in various colors and patterns, they provide an elegant way to control light and privacy. When pulled down, roller blinds block light and maintain privacy, while being rolled up creates an unobstructed view.

Popular in Singapore for their simplicity and versatility, they suit any room and are easy to clean and maintain, making them an ideal choice for busy households.

Roman Blinds

Fabric blinds that fold into neat horizontal pleats when raised. They offer a sophisticated, soft look and are suitable for both traditional and modern interiors.

In Singapore, sheer curtains are popular in living rooms and bedrooms, as they provide a balance between light and privacy. They can be layered with heavier drapes for added warmth and style, making them versatile for various decor themes. Easy to clean and maintain, sheer curtains are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to enhance their interiors with a touch of elegance.

Scandinavian Design

Scandinavian design emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and minimalism, often with light colors and natural materials like wood. Popular in Singapore, this style promotes a clean and airy feel, making small spaces appear larger and more inviting. It’s ideal for homeowners seeking a modern yet cozy atmosphere.

Sheer Curtains

Lightweight, translucent curtains that let in natural light while maintaining privacy. They add a soft, airy touch to a room and can be layered with heavier drapes.

Shaker Cabinets

Shaker cabinets are a popular style known for their simple, clean lines and functional design. Characterized by a flat panel in the center and raised edges, they offer a timeless look that fits various home styles, from modern to traditional.

In Singapore, shaker cabinets are favored for kitchens and bathrooms due to their versatility and durability. They can be made from various materials and finished in different colors, making it easy to match them with your home decor. Their classic design makes them a long-lasting choice that never goes out of style.

Smart Home Integration

Smart home integration refers to adding technology that automates and controls various home functions, like lighting, security, temperature, and entertainment.

In Singapore, homeowners are increasingly adopting smart devices, allowing them to control their homes remotely, save energy, and improve convenience.

Soft-close Mechanism

A soft-close mechanism is a feature in cabinets and drawers that allows them to close quietly and gently. Instead of slamming shut, the mechanism slows the door or drawer’s movement as it approaches the closed position, preventing loud noises and potential damage.

This feature is especially appreciated in busy households in Singapore, where parents want to avoid startling children or waking up sleeping family members. Soft-close mechanisms enhance convenience and durability, as they reduce wear and tear on hinges and hardware. Many homeowners choose soft-close cabinets for their kitchens and bathrooms for added comfort and functionality.

Soundproofing Solutions

Methods or materials used to block or reduce noise, like acoustic panels, insulated walls, or soundproof windows. Ideal for creating a quieter home environment.

Space-saving Furniture

Space-saving furniture is designed to maximize functionality within small spaces. Examples include foldable tables, extendable beds, and storage ottomans. In Singapore, where compact living is common, space-saving furniture is highly valued for helping homeowners make the most of limited space without sacrificing style.

Study Nook

study nook in HDB by Interior Diary

A study nook is a small, designated area for reading, studying, or working, often tucked into a corner or unused space. In Singapore’s compact homes, study nooks provide a quiet and organized spot for work or study, ideal for both adults and children without needing an entire room.

In the recent 2 room flexi layouts, study nooks work increasingly well with the space beside the master bedroom.

Task Lighting

Lighting designed for specific activities like reading, cooking, or working. Examples include desk lamps, under-cabinet lights, and vanity lights.

Textured Wallpaper

Wallpaper with raised patterns or surfaces that add depth and visual interest to walls. It’s a great way to create a unique, tactile look.

Track Lighting

A versatile lighting system where multiple fixtures are mounted on a single track. It’s adjustable, making it ideal for highlighting art or specific areas.

Under-cabinet Lighting

Lights installed beneath cabinets to illuminate countertops. This type of lighting is both practical and stylish, providing focused illumination for tasks like cooking or food preparation while adding ambiance to the kitchen.

Vertical Gardens

Walls covered with plants for a touch of nature indoors. These are great for improving air quality and adding a unique, green focal point.

Vertical Storage

Vertical storage makes use of wall space for storage, with options like tall cabinets, wall-mounted shelves, or hooks. This approach is widely used in Singapore, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, to free up floor space and keep essentials within easy reach without cluttering the room.

Vinyl Flooring

A durable and water-resistant flooring option made from synthetic materials. It mimics the look of wood, stone, or tiles while being budget-friendly and easy to maintain.

Wainscoting

Decorative wood paneling applied to the lower half of walls. It adds a classic, elegant touch and can also protect walls from damage.

Wabi-sabi Interior Design

wabi sabi interior design singapore showcase, living room alternate

Wabi-sabi is a Japanese philosophy that embraces imperfection and simplicity. In interior design, it translates to using natural materials, soft colors, and items with a handmade or “imperfect” feel. Wabi-sabi spaces focus on authenticity and harmony, resonating well with Singaporeans who appreciate subtle beauty and a peaceful ambiance.

Wall-mounted TV Console

A floating unit installed directly on the wall to hold entertainment equipment. It saves space and creates a clean, modern look.

Waterproofing

The process of making surfaces or structures water-resistant, commonly used in bathrooms, kitchens, and balconies to prevent leaks and damage.

Wet Kitchen

A designated area for heavy cooking, often separated from the main living space. It’s equipped with durable finishes and proper ventilation to handle oil and heat.

Window Film

A thin, adhesive sheet applied to glass windows to reduce glare, block UV rays, or add privacy. It’s an affordable way to improve energy efficiency and comfort.

Window Grilles

Protective metal bars installed on windows for security and safety. They’re common in HDB flats and come in various designs to complement aesthetics.

Wood Veneer

A thin slice of natural wood applied to furniture or surfaces for a high-end look. Veneers combine the beauty of real wood with cost efficiency.

Work Triangle

A kitchen design principle focusing on the placement of the sink, stove, and refrigerator. The goal is to create an efficient workspace for cooking.

Zen-inspired Design

A minimalist style emphasizing simplicity, natural materials, and balance. It aims to create a calming, harmonious environment.

Zero VOC Paint

Paints with no volatile organic compounds, making them eco-friendly and safe for indoor air quality. These are popular among environmentally conscious homeowners.

Zoning

The practice of dividing open spaces into distinct areas for specific functions, like a living zone, dining zone, or workspace. It’s achieved using rugs, furniture, or partitions.