Introduction
Undertaking a bathroom renovation is an exciting yet significant investment for HDB owners in Singapore. It provides an opportunity to infuse personal style into your living space while adding value to your HDB. However, to ensure a successful bathroom remodel, careful planning and consideration of various factors are essential. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the do’s and don’ts of bathroom renovation, offering valuable insights and tips to help you navigate the process.
Do: Find Design Inspiration First
Every successful bathroom renovation project starts with a well-thought-out plan. Before diving into the physical aspects of remodelling, such as tearing up floors or installing fixtures, it’s crucial to have a clear vision of your desired end result. To achieve this, explore design inspiration from various sources. Don’t feel confined to a single design style; you can mix and match elements from different styles to create a look that resonates with you. Remember to stay within your budget while exploring design ideas.
Don’t: Forget to Consider Your Budget
Realism is key when it comes to budgeting for your bathroom renovation in Singapore. Determine how much you can comfortably invest and compare it to the estimated cost of your ideal project. While budgeting may not be the most enjoyable task, it’s essential to help you prioritise your renovation goals. To keep your project affordable, consider obtaining quotes from multiple contractors, tackle some DIY tasks to save on labour costs, and explore local suppliers that offer competitive pricing. It’s also wise to keep your high-end purchases neutral to ensure long-term appeal.
Do: Keep High-End Items Neutral
Bathroom remodels can be expensive, making it essential to think about the longevity and versatility of your design choices. High-end items, such as tile flooring and shower designs, should be kept neutral to allow for flexibility and adaptability as design trends evolve. Neutral elements serve as a canvas for your personality, which you can express through accessories like bold paint colours, mirrors, hand towels, and floor coverings. Don’t shy away from creative storage solutions to enhance functionality and aesthetics.
Do: Invest in High-End Lighting
Energy efficiency is a significant concern for HDB owners in Singapore, and incorporating LED lighting into your bathroom remodel can address this while adding a touch of elegance. LED lights are not only energy-efficient but also offer design flexibility. They can change colours, be used near water, and provide various lighting effects, enhancing the overall ambiance of your bathroom. Consider integrating LEDs for tasks like illuminating the bathtub or sink, creating colour wash effects on walls, backlighting mirrors, or lighting up counters and shelves.
Don’t: Go Without Storage
Storage is a frequently overlooked yet highly appreciated feature in a bathroom renovation. Having a dedicated space for toiletries, towels, and other essentials ensures convenience and tidiness. If space allows, consider expanding storage options with built-in shelving or an extra storage closet. Even in smaller HDBs in Singapore, you can find organisation units that complement your aesthetic, providing a polished and well-organised look.
Do: Splurge on the Shower
In any room, a focal point is crucial for creating visual interest and appeal. Luxurious showers are highly desirable among homebuyers, making them an excellent choice for highlighting in your bathroom remodel. Multiple shower heads and heated floors can provide an indulgent experience while increasing the value of your HDB in Singapore. Skip soaking tubs, which have fallen out of favour due to their infrequent use and maintenance demands, unless they align with your personal preferences.
Don’t: Skimp on the Vanity
The bathroom vanity serves as another focal point and can significantly impact the overall aesthetics of your space. Opt for vanities with double sinks, large mirrors, and ample storage to meet modern design trends in Singapore. Consider selecting a luxe countertop material like granite or marble to elevate the visual appeal of your bathroom. If budget constraints arise, remember that you can refresh your existing vanity with a coat of paint or new hardware for a cost-effective update.
Do: Explore a Floating Vanity
To create a sense of spaciousness and modernity in your HDB in Singapore, consider a floating vanity design. This approach involves elevating the vanity from the floor, creating a visually open and airy atmosphere. Another option is to repurpose a sofa table with open shelving as a unique vanity alternative. Ensure it is at least 40 cm deep to accommodate your sink(s). Floating vanities can enhance the perception of space, making your bathroom feel larger and more contemporary.
Lessons from Renovation Experiences
In addition to the essential do’s and don’ts of bathroom renovation, it’s valuable to learn from the experiences and insights of those who have undergone the process in Singapore. Here are some key takeaways from HDB owners and experts:
- Heated Towel Rails: Install heated towel rails, preferably electric, which can be operated independently from the heating system. This allows for using them during the summer to prevent damp towels in Singapore’s climate.
- Dark Tiles and Grout: Dark tiles may seem chic but can highlight limescale, a common issue in Singapore. Consider the colour of grout carefully, as it can significantly affect the overall look of your bathroom.
- Antique and Reclaimed Pieces: While charming, antique and reclaimed pieces can be challenging to find parts for. Ensure you have a capable plumber willing to source the necessary components.
- Shower Curtains: Opt for linen shower curtains as an eco-friendly and mould-resistant alternative to plastic liners, which can be prone to mould in Singapore’s humidity.
- Material Conjunctions: Pay attention to how different materials meet in your bathroom, ensuring smooth and purposeful transitions.
- Lighting: Match your lighting choices to the natural lighting conditions of your bathroom, using brighter colours for well-lit spaces and darker, atmospheric schemes for dimmer areas.
- Shower Screens: Beware of standard glass shower screens, which may not effectively prevent water from splashing over the side of the bath. Consider alternative solutions to prevent leaks.
- Stand Your Ground: Be firm with builders and contractors when it comes to your design choices. Understand where you are willing to compromise and where you won’t.
- Water Stopcock: Know the location of your water stopcock before the renovation begins to avoid unnecessary delays in Singapore’s construction process.
- Budget for Paint: Decide on your bathroom’s colour scheme in advance of work starting as painters can easily accommodate your preferences at the same cost.
Conclusion
A successful bathroom renovation is the result of careful planning, thoughtful design choices, and practical considerations for HDB owners in Singapore.
Transform your HDB into a functional and visually stunning oasis that reflects your personal style while adding value to your home. Whether you are a seasoned renovator or a first-time remodeler, these insights will guide you toward achieving the bathroom of your dreams in Singapore.
Don’t know how to begin your renovation? We can assist you in making sure your renovation goes well by performing independent checks. Find out more about our ACES program here, or reach out to Agcare today.
