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Phase 3 of 8
Design & Planning
Transform your vision into actionable plans. Make crucial decisions about layout, materials, and aesthetics.
Duration:2-4 weeks
The design phase determines 80% of your renovation outcome. This is where dreams meet reality, budgets meet desires, and compromises shape your future home. Get this right, and execution becomes straightforward.
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Planning Time
2-4 weeks
Don't rush this phase
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Design Cost
10-15%
Of total budget
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Changes After
+30% cost
Mid-renovation changes
1
Space Planning Fundamentals
Good space planning is invisible - you don't notice it, but you feel it every day. Poor planning becomes a daily frustration.
The Golden Rules of HDB Layout
- The 60-30-10 Rule: 60% for primary function, 30% for secondary activities, 10% for circulation
- Natural Light Maximization: Keep spaces near windows open, use glass partitions where possible
- Cross-Ventilation Priority: Maintain airflow paths between windows
- Future Flexibility: Design for your life in 5 years, not just today
Common Layout Configurations
- Open Concept: Merging living, dining, and kitchen
- Semi-Open: Partial walls or glass partitions
- Traditional: Distinct rooms for each function
- Flexible: Movable partitions for adaptability
2
Room-by-Room Design Decisions
Each room has unique requirements and opportunities. Here's your comprehensive guide to designing each space.
Living Room Design
- Layout: TV-centric vs conversation-focused
- Storage: Built-in vs loose furniture
- Feature Wall: Worth it or waste of money?
- Ceiling: False ceiling vs simple cornice
Kitchen Planning
- Layout Types: Galley, L-shaped, U-shaped, or Island
- Work Triangle: Stove-Sink-Fridge efficiency
- Storage Strategy: Upper cabinets vs open shelving
- Ventilation: Hood type affects ceiling design
Master Bedroom Essentials
- Bed placement for optimal feng shui and practicality
- Wardrobe configuration (reach-in vs walk-in)
- Study corner integration possibilities
- Ensuite bathroom considerations (if applicable)
Common Bedroom Flexibility
- Multi-functional designs for changing needs
- Convertible study/guest room options
- Children's room with growth adaptability
- Work-from-home office integration
3
Material Selection Guide
Materials make up 40-50% of your renovation cost. Choosing wisely balances aesthetics, durability, and budget.
Flooring Options Comparison
- Vinyl (SPC/WPC): S$4-12/sqft - Waterproof, comfortable, easy maintenance
- Laminate: S$3-10/sqft - Affordable, decent durability, not waterproof
- Tiles: S$5-20/sqft - Durable, cooling effect, joint maintenance
- Engineered Wood: S$8-18/sqft - Premium look, comfortable, requires care
Kitchen Countertop Materials
- Quartz: S$80-150/ft run - Durable, non-porous, consistent patterns
- Granite: S$60-120/ft run - Natural beauty, heat resistant, needs sealing
- Solid Surface: S$100-180/ft run - Seamless, repairable, moderate heat resistance
- Kompacplus: S$40-80/ft run - Budget-friendly, decent durability
4
Smart Storage Solutions
In HDB flats, every square foot counts. Smart storage isn't just about having more space - it's about using space intelligently.
High-ROI Storage Investments
- Platform Bed Storage: Utilizes dead space under bed
- Full-Height Cabinets: Maximizes vertical space
- Multi-functional Furniture: Ottoman storage, dining benches
- Hidden Storage: Behind mirrors, under stairs
Room-Specific Storage Ideas
- Living: TV console with drawers, window seat storage
- Kitchen: Pull-out drawers, corner solutions, pantry systems
- Bedroom: Wardrobe internals, bedside built-ins
- Bathroom: Mirror cabinets, vanity storage, niche shelving
5
Design Mistakes That Cost Thousands
Learn from others' expensive mistakes to protect your budget and sanity.
Over-designing the False Ceiling
- Complex designs cost S$40-60/sqft vs S$25/sqft for simple
- L-box with cove lighting = maintenance nightmare
- Lower ceiling height affects resale value
- Better Alternative: Simple cornice with strategic spotlights
Wrong Flooring Choices
- Marble/tiles in bedrooms = cold feet, higher aircon usage
- Dark floors show every speck of dust
- Cheap vinyl peels within 2 years
- Smart Choice: Quality SPC vinyl or laminate for living areas
Insufficient Electrical Planning
- Adding points after renovation costs S$100-200 each
- Forgetting USB points, phone charging stations
- Poor switch placement (behind doors, furniture)
- Pro Tip: Add 30% more points than you think you need
Design Decision Checklist
Remember These Key Points
- Spend 2-4 weeks on design - rushing costs more later
- Function over form - beautiful but impractical = daily frustration
- Plan electrical points generously (+30% buffer)
- Choose materials based on lifestyle, not just looks
- Design for future flexibility, not just current needs
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Copying designs without considering lifestyle
- Over-investing in trendy features
- Under-planning storage needs
- Ignoring maintenance requirements
- Not considering furniture placement
Pro Tips
- Visit friends' completed renovations for real insights
- Test material samples in your actual flat lighting
- Mock up layouts with masking tape on floors
- Consider resale value for major decisions
- Keep 10% design buffer for spontaneous upgrades