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Introduction:<a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/the-science-behind-feng-shui-beliefs-and-superstitions">Feng Shui</a>&nbsp;is an ancient Chinese philosophy that aims to create harmony and balance in living spaces. By incorporating Feng Shui principles into your <a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/hdb-living-room-unleashing-the-charm-of-singaporean-lifestyles">living room design</a>, you can enhance the flow of positive energy and create a serene and inviting atmosphere. Here are some essential tips to consider when arranging and decorating your living room.&nbsp; 1. Clear The Clutter:<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1699927013684-5738.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> One of the fundamental principles of Feng Shui is maintaining a clutter-free environment. Clutter disrupts the flow of energy and creates stagnant areas in the living room. Ensure your living room is well-organized, with a designated place for every item. Consider implementing <a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/space-savings-hacks-with-platform-beds-and-storage-to-maximise-your-bedroom">storage solutions</a> such as hidden compartments, shelving, or stylish baskets to keep things tidy and create a sense of spaciousness. Pro Tip: Why is this science + Feng Shui?&nbsp;Simply because a messy home affects our mood and well-being. If you can&rsquo;t find your wallet, and you are running late for an appointment, it&rsquo;s going to affect your day.&nbsp; 2. Balanced Furniture Placement:<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1699927035247-3d-rendering-business-meeting-working-office-room.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> &nbsp;The placement of furniture is crucial in achieving balance and harmony in the living room. Arrange your furniture in a way that encourages a smooth and comfortable flow of energy. Avoid placing furniture in a haphazard manner that obstructs doorways or creates cramped spaces. Ideally, position the sofa against a solid wall and ensure there is ample space for movement around the room. Additionally, avoid sharp corners or edges that may create negative chi, balance these with rounded or curved furniture pieces. Pro Tip: Why is this science + Feng Shui? This is quite logical. In space planning, a well-designed home has belongings stowed away neatly, this makes finding and keeping stuffs a breeze, it also reduces any obstructions and hazards. Just imagine if there happens to be a fire, every second counts, the last thing you want to do is slip on your child&rsquo;s fire truck or step on lego bricks. 3. Symmetry For Balance:<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1699927083674-sugar-bowl-residence-john-maniscalco-architecture-john-maniscalco-architecture-img%7Ebf61368a0d12a3c0_14-5435-1-159acf0.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Sugar Bowl Residence by John Maniscalco Architecture (Image Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.houzz.com/photos/sugar-bowl-residence-john-maniscalco-architecture-modern-living-room-sacramento-phvw-vp~96734" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Houzz</a>)&nbsp; Symmetry is an essential part of creating balance in Feng Shui design. Incorporate symmetrical elements within your living room to promote a sense of equilibrium. For example, place matching side tables and lamps on either side of the sofa or arrange pairs of chairs or d&eacute;cor items across from each other. This symmetrical layout helps create a calming and harmonious energy flow in the space. Pro Tip: Why is this science + Feng Shui? Nature uses symmetry to make things beautiful. When someone&rsquo;s face is symmetrical and well proportioned, he or she looks pleasant and inviting. The same can be said about a space and whether it is designed in a balanced, proportionate and symmetrical manner. The mind somehow associates a well-balanced space as inviting and hospitable.&nbsp; 4. Allow Natural Light And Fresh Air:<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1699927150496-modern-living-room-interior-with-scandinavian-moss-wall-3d-rendering.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Natural light and fresh air are essential elements for promoting positive energy in your living room. Open the curtains or blinds during the day to let in sunlight, which is believed to bring in good energy. Ensure that windows are clean and unobstructed to allow for the smooth flow of natural light and fresh air. Consider adding indoor plants to enhance the connection with nature and improve air quality. Pro Tip: Why is this science + Feng Shui? In modern day living, we spend more time indoors then outdoors, this affects our health as well as studies have proven that the air indoors is more toxic than the air outside (except when there&rsquo;s haze going on). We also use more artificial lighting to illuminate our spaces when we can make use of natural lighting to optimise our body&rsquo;s circadian rhythm. 5. Colours And Elements:<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1699927165208-close-up-blurry-woman-holding-color-palette.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Colours play a significant role in Feng Shui. Choose a colour scheme that promotes a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Neutral tones like beige, cream, or pastels are generally recommended, but feel free to incorporate colours that resonate with you. Additionally, consider the five Feng Shui elements&mdash;wood, fire, earth, metal, and water&mdash;and find ways to incorporate them harmoniously into your living room through furniture, decor, or artwork. Pro Tip: Why is this science + Feng Shui? Imagine you have a hot tempered rebellious 15-year-old teenager staying at home. He/she gets irritated at the slightest. Would you paint his/her bedroom in bright orange/red? I rest my case. 6. Engage All Senses:<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1699927185932-senses-01.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> &nbsp;Creating a harmonious living room involves engaging all senses. Consider incorporating elements that appeal to sight, sound, touch, smell, and even taste. Use soothing scents like lavender or citrus, play soft music or nature sounds, incorporate textured fabrics and materials, and display visually pleasing artwork or objects that bring joy. Creating a sensorial experience promotes relaxation and positive energy flow. Pro Tip: Why is this science + Feng Shui?&nbsp;In design, we call this &ldquo;experiential design&rdquo;, where the space engages the visitors beyond visual interest. Many high-end hotel lobbies, deploy design tactics like this to captivate the visitors, from the use of luxurious fabrics and stones to the unique smell of lobbies. Good design can entice sub consciously as well. 7. Art And Decor Placement:<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1699927207709-nature-landscape-with-hand-holding-frame.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> &nbsp;Art and decor play an essential role in Feng Shui. Choose artwork and decor items that uplift your spirit and resonate with positive energy. Display meaningful and inspiring pieces that evoke joy and a sense of tranquillity. Place them strategically in your living room, focusing on areas that need visual upliftment or balance. Avoid placing artwork depicting negative or intense emotions. Pro Tip: Why is this science + Feng Shui? A good piece of art or decor usually tells a story. Psychologically speaking, it can also help open conversations amongst guests. It almost goes without saying that art can make your home more beautiful and inviting. A well-chosen piece of art can add a touch of gravitas, sophistication and style to any room. Just make sure that adequate lighting is positioned to bring out the beauty of the art or decor. 8. Still Think It&rsquo;s Superstition?<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1699927223130-yinyang-symbol-black-white-stone-framed-by-gray-pebbles.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Whether you think Feng Shui is real or some hogwash, there are some fundamental science and common sense that is tied to this ancient and cultural artform. You don&rsquo;t have to associate it with religion in anyway. By incorporating Feng Shui principles into your living room design, you can create a harmonious and inviting space that promotes positivity. Clearing clutter, balancing furniture placement, incorporating symmetry, allowing natural light and fresh air, selecting appropriate colours and elements, engaging all senses, and strategically placing artwork and decor are all key scientific considerations. Embrace the philosophy of Feng Shui into your home design and transform your living space into a healthy, balanced and enjoyable home.

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese philosophy that aims to create harmony and balance in living spaces.

HDB Living Room, Science + Feng Shui?

Make Or BreakIn the world of interior design, choosing the right finish for walls is crucial to creating the desired ambiance. Afterall, walls form one of the largest surface areas in your home. It&rsquo;ll straightaway make or break the design if the colour or finish is off.&nbsp; While traditional wallpapers have long been popular, a new contender is emerging - limewash paint. So, what exactly is limewash paint, and why are designers increasingly drawn to it as an alternative to standard wallpaper? Limewash Is Ancient<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1699785793712-Fresco_from_Pompeii%2C_1st_century_AD%2C_National_Archaeological_Museum_of_Naples%2C_Italy.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">A fresco from the ancient city of Pompeii during 1st Century AD painted on limewash-covered wall (Image source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/459156124481589923/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>) Limewash paint is a unique type of paint that has been used for centuries. It is created by mixing slaked lime with water and natural pigments, resulting in a breathable, eco-friendly finish. Designers are turning to limewash paint for its ability to create a soft, matte finish that exudes a sense of timelessness and elegance. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1699785836707-1-01.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> So, why choose limewash paint over wallpaper? Let&#39;s explore its benefits: &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Breathability: Limewash paint allows walls to breathe by enabling moisture to evaporate rather than trapping it. This feature helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew and promotes a healthier indoor environment. Extremely useful in tropical Singapore. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Eco-friendliness: Limewash paint is made from natural materials, making it a sustainable choice. It produces little to no VOCs (volatile organic compounds), reducing indoor air pollution and contributing to a greener lifestyle. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Aesthetic Appeal: Limewash paint creates a unique textured and natural appearance on walls, adding depth and character to any space. Its charming aesthetic cannot be replicated by standard paints, making it a favourite among designers. The finish works especially well in <a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/minimalist-masterclass">minimalist</a>&nbsp;or <a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/wabi-sabi-is-not-wasabi-design-la">wabi-sabi</a> inspired homes &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Long-lasting: When properly maintained, limewash paint can age beautifully, developing a natural patina over time that enhances its aesthetic value. This characteristic adds a touch of elegance to any interior. On the other hand, traditional wallpapers have their own set of advantages. Let&#39;s compare limewash paint and wallpaper side by side: <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1699785880577-image-02.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Patina explained:&nbsp;<a href="https://notinggrace.com/everything-you-wanted-to-know-about-limewash/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Everything You Wanted To Know About Limewash</a> Your ConsiderationWhen deciding between limewash paint and wallpaper, consider the following 5 scenarios: 1.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Rustic and Vintage Aesthetics:&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1699785947937-what-is-limewash-hbx090120suzannekasler-003-1626734601.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Limewashed the stone walls (Image Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.housebeautiful.com/room-decorating/colors/a36955973/what-is-limewash-paint/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">House Beautiful</a>) Limewash paint is perfect for spaces that require a rustic or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/blending-vintage-elegance-with-modern-living">vintage</a>&nbsp;look, such as traditional homes, country cottages, or historical buildings. 2.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Breathability: opt for limewash paint in rooms with high humidity levels, like bathrooms and kitchens, where breathability is crucial. We would highly recommend this if your home were situated near the seaside. 3.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Sustainable and Eco-friendly Spaces: Choose limewash paint for eco-conscious projects aiming for sustainable and environmentally friendly finishes. 4.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Modern and Contemporary Styles:<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1699786004837-5572.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Wallpaper offers a broader range of design options, making it ideal for modern, contemporary, or eclectic interiors where bold patterns and textures are desired. 5.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Temporary or Changeable Solutions:<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1699786042474-wallpaper+installation.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Wallpaper allows for easy updates and changes without the need for repainting the entire room, making it a versatile option for those who crave variety. And The Winner Is?While wallpaper has been a staple in interior design for centuries (yes wallpaper is equally old), limewash paint is re-capturing the attention of designers and homeowners as a captivating alternative, especially since more and more people are exploring eco options. Its breathability, eco-friendliness, unique texture, and timeless charm make it an appealing choice. Consider the aesthetic requirements, moisture levels of your home, and sustainability goals of your project to determine whether limewash paint or wallpaper is the best fit. Both options offer versatility and charm, catering to different design preferences and scenarios but certain design styles may not work well with Limewash paint.

In the world of interior design, choosing the right finish for walls is crucial to creating the desired ambiance. Afterall, walls form one of the largest surface areas in your home. It’ll straightaway make or break the design if the colour or finish is off. 

Is Limewash Paint The Wallpaper Killer?

At SIXiDES, we have the privilege of encountering stunning homes every day. These awe-inspiring images are generously shared by our community of Verified Interior Designers. 

HDB Living Room – Unleashing The Charm Of Singaporean Lifestyles

Explore the smartest house renovation ideas in Singapore to upgrade your home stylishly, stay within budget, and create a functional, beautiful living space.

Smart House Renovation Ideas to Save Money in Singapore

Planning a home makeover? Learn which renovation projects need a residential renovation permit and avoid costly delays or fines.

Home Renovations That Require a Residential Renovation Permit

Avoid common Renovation Regrets with smart planning tips that help you save money, time, and stress in your next remodelling project. 

Avoid These Renovation Regrets in Your Next Project

Did all the plants you got the last time survive? Time to level up! Commit to being more green by adding 10 more indoor plants to your home. Careful though; these require a touch more attention and care to the last ones that were recommended. 

Ready To Commit More Time To Plants? 10 Indoor Plants To Bring Home

Explore the best options for temporary housing during home renovation and stay stress-free while your dream home takes shape.

Best Options for Temporary Housing During Home Renovation

Cooking and baking are a lot like ducks and chickens. Same same but different. Both are about prepping food, but how they are prepped are completely different beasts. Cut, chop, cook vs mix, knead, ferment, shape, bake. It&#39;s really shouldn&rsquo;t a cook&rsquo;s kitchen is going to be very different from a baker&rsquo;s one. So, if you&rsquo;re designing a baker&rsquo;s kitchen, remember to consider these 8 things. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1691128705383-beautiful-shot-modern-house-kitchen.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Making Space... And Then SomeBakers need far more real estate than any reasonable cook will ever need. Just try making a pie with less than a football field&rsquo;s worth of space &ndash; it&rsquo;s a nightmare. Design a kitchen U-shaped or L-shaped kitchen that includes an island &ndash; the island will serve as a dedicated prep space. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1691128749969-interior-beautiful-kitchen-elite-house.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> The Right Stuff... For A CountertopWhat kind of <a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/six-countertop-materials">countertop material</a>&nbsp;is best? Anything non-porous. Anything else and dough will stick to it harder than superglue. Granite and <a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/popular-types-of-white-marble-used-in-interior-design">marble</a> are a favourite especially with pastry bakers; they keep the dough nice and cool. However, if you&rsquo;re on a budget, quartz works just as well. Or even consider mixed materials. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1691128771087-large-green-kitchen-cabinet-with-many-handles-closeup.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Height Matters... For TablesWhere possible custom table heights would be infinitely helpful. One size DOES NOT fit all for a baker. A section that is a little lower than usual makes kneading so much easier &ndash; especially when working with stiffer doughs by hand. Plus, if there are <a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/is-your-home-ready-to-entertain-your-kids-these-june-holidays-">kids</a>, they can help out with the baking too! Storage, Storage... And More StorageBaking sheets. Cutting boards. Muffin pans. Serving trays. Those and millions of other large flat thingamabobs that are mainstay of the average baker. However, the average kitchen typically doesn&rsquo;t cater to storing such things. For those, you&rsquo;ll need a dedicated vertical storage.As for drawers, regular pullout ones aren&rsquo;t enough. Bakers have a jillion tools and whatnots &ndash; every single one of them, different in size, shape, and function &ndash; that will jam them shut forever. Enter rollout drawers. These offer more space and everything is highly accessible. Some can even store larger bakeware like stand mixers. &nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1691128806100-kitchen-brass-utensils-chef-accessories-hanging-kitchen-with-white-tiles-wall-wood-tabletopkitch.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Power Points Here And There... And EverywhereBaking can be backbreaking &ndash; mixing and kneading and shaping and even more kneading. Tools and appliances are how bakers get by. And for those to work, you need a lot of power points accessible nearby or, preferably, directly at your workspace to power these things.&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1691128835146-large-professional-wine-fridge-with-open-door.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Wine Cooler... For DoughsMake space for a wine cooler. No, it&rsquo;s not for wine &ndash; it&rsquo;s for dough. Baking and fermentation go hand-in-hand. The thing about fermentation is that the warmer it is, the faster it goes. In cooler parts of the world, bakers get warming cabinets. However, Singapore has the opposite problem. It&rsquo;s so warm that everything ferments too quickly. If you&rsquo;re not careful with that dough you made? It&rsquo;ll be soup before your can say &ldquo;croissant&rdquo;. You need a cool place to keep the process in check. A fridge is too cold and stop fermentation altogether. But a wine cooler? Just right. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1691128859663-render-3d-contemporary-kitchen.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> An Oven... Or TwoOvens aren&rsquo;t glorified toasters. Especially not for the baker, aspiring or professional. Invest in ones that include convection and/or steam functions. Convection allows you to bake on multiple levels evenly, and steam helps pastry and breads become fluffier.&nbsp;And if you&rsquo;re baking beast? Consider a second oven. That way, you can bake twice as much or at two temperatures at the same time. Everything... Including The Kitchen SinkIf there&rsquo;s one thing that&rsquo;s more certain than the sky being blue, it&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/5-design-choices-for-an-easy-to-clean-home">cleanup</a> after baking. To make it that much easier, you can&rsquo;t go wrong with an undermount sink &ndash; makes it so much easier to swipe everything into it. And, it&rsquo;s super satisfying. A Kitchen A Baker Can LoveRemember that most kitchens are designed for cooks, so you&rsquo;ll need to extra mindful about how YOU are going to use it and what you&rsquo;ll need to achieve all that. Then, and only then, you&rsquo;ll end up with a kitchen you love baking in.

Cooking and baking are a lot like ducks and chickens. Same same but different. Both are about prepping food, but how they are prepped are completely different beasts. 

Designing A Baker's Kitchen

Upgrade your home’s safety during renovation with the best fireproof home safe ideas designed to make your home more secure and fireproof. 

Best Fireproof Home Safe Ideas During Renovation

6 Fire Proofing Ideas For Your Next Renovation

Perhaps you really like wood. Like, REALLY like it. However, you need to convince your significant other that it is so indispensable that it&rsquo;ll be stupid not to have some (or a lot!) at home. Here are 5 legit excuses to have wood in your home. 1. DurableWood is tough. Don&rsquo;t let the likes of IKEA furniture fool you. The real deal is extremely durable thanks to naturally occurring chemicals, oils, and resins present within their cell structures. If Bruce Lee can train on it and not break it, neither can you.&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1684066439650-iStock-641454974.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-pan-x: ; --tw-pan-y: ; --tw-pinch-zoom: ; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-ordinal: ; --tw-slashed-zero: ; --tw-numeric-figure: ; --tw-numeric-spacing: ; --tw-numeric-fraction: ; --tw-ring-inset: ; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgba(59,130,246,.5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-blur: ; --tw-brightness: ; --tw-contrast: ; --tw-grayscale: ; --tw-hue-rotate: ; --tw-invert: ; --tw-saturate: ; --tw-sepia: ; --tw-drop-shadow: ; --tw-backdrop-blur: ; --tw-backdrop-brightness: ; --tw-backdrop-contrast: ; --tw-backdrop-grayscale: ; --tw-backdrop-hue-rotate: ; --tw-backdrop-invert: ; --tw-backdrop-opacity: ; --tw-backdrop-saturate: ; --tw-backdrop-sepia: ; color: rgb(112, 112, 112); font-family: Roboto, ui-sans-serif, system-ui; font-size: 16px; width: 1376px;"> Impregnated with the right preservatives, they can be made even more so. Such treatment can make them waterproof, pest and fungal resistant, and/or tougher than normal.&nbsp; All that said, not all wood is grown equal. You&rsquo;ve got hardwoods and softwoods. Hardwoods last for generations. Softwoods, as the name suggests, aren&rsquo;t quite as sturdy. But what they give up in toughness, they gain in character &mdash; over time, they get darker, gain scuffs and scrapes, and become tougher. It&rsquo;s why homeowners planning <a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/hdb-living-room-unleashing-the-charm-of-singaporean-lifestyles">living room design in Singapore</a> or embarking on a <a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/singapore-2024-renovation-budget-condo-renovation-cost-forecast">condo renovation</a> still choose natural wood for its warmth and evolving beauty.&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1684066494610-iStock-1389525164.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> 2. Eco-FriendlyWhen harvested properly, wood is leaps and bounds more sustainable than plastics &ndash; you can always grow more wood, but you can&rsquo;t grow crude oil (the stuff plastic is made from, donchaknow?). Also, if you know your science, you&rsquo;d know that wood is a carbon sink. That is, it they trap excess carbon dioxide (CO2) that would otherwise be floating around the atmosphere and accelerating global warming. Dead and unused wood decay, releasing that same CO2 back into the air. Keeping lots of wood at home makes you an Earth-saving hero! Just remember to do it responsibly and sustainably.&nbsp;(<a href="https://www.creatingtomorrowsforests.co.uk/blog/using-wood-for-good-how-timber-can-help-fight-climate-change#:~:text=Timber%20also%20acts%20as%20a,the%20atmosphere%20as%20carbon%20dioxide" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find Out More</a><a href="https://www.creatingtomorrowsforests.co.uk/blog/using-wood-for-good-how-timber-can-help-fight-climate-change#:~:text=Timber%20also%20acts%20as%20a,the%20atmosphere%20as%20carbon%20dioxide" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">)</a> <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1684066814525-2509296613480-LATODesign-Project1-01.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Solid timber flooring adds a touch of warmth to a space. Photo Credit:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/professionals/interior-designers/lim-ai-tiong-lato-architects-design">Lim Ai Tiong (LATO) Architects/Design</a> 3. Insulates The same interlocking fibres that make wood tough is also what makes it an excellent insulator. Heat or sound, you ask? Well, both. So whether it&rsquo;s because you&rsquo;re a kind, conscientious, and responsible neighbour, or a secretive reclusive, install wooden flooring and/or walls &ndash; that&rsquo;ll keep noise within your own apartment space. If you&rsquo;re planning this for your flat, an <a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/guide-to-all-interior-design-renovation-verification-and-accreditation-schemes-in-singapore">HDB licensed renovation contractor</a> can help ensure everything is done safely and according to regulations. The added benefit? You don&rsquo;t have to waste energy keeping the heat out of and the cold in your apartment. Less power used means less to pay for your utility bill.<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1684066857388-iStock-1266344041.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> 4. AromaticWood has oils that are naturally present and, of course, aromatic (mostly). None of that essential oil business! Each type has its own distinct aroma and it wouldn&rsquo;t be an exaggeration to say one could identify where the timber came from just by smelling it. This property brings with it some neat benefits. Aromatic furniture can be made with cedar or camphor to keep bugs away, or pine and walnut for a more relaxing home. We found from our research, that scents like pine wood helps reduce anxiety! No wonder, pine wood is a common material used to create Japanese Zen spaces. Turns out there&rsquo;s really something zen and calming about it!&nbsp;<a href="https://www.airscent.com/scent-and-emotional-well-being/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">(Read Here)&nbsp;</a> <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1684066895936-2147568852527-13thID-PROJECT2-1a.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">&nbsp;Photo Credit:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/professionals/interior-designers/13th-design-studio">13th Design Studio</a> 5. RelaxingThe presence of wood is relaxing. Proven by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/282923323_Wood_and_human_stress_in_the_built_indoor_environment_a_review" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">SCIENCE</a>! Why wouldn&rsquo;t it? It typically lends a warm and cosy feel in any room you put them in. And it&rsquo;s not just looking at it that&rsquo;s relaxing &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5551239/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">touching it reduces stress too</a>. Got hypertension? Cover every inch of your home in wood! What Are You Waiting For?Now that you&rsquo;ve indoctrinated your loved one(s) into the cult of wood, it&rsquo;s time to start thinking of how you can fill every inch of your home with wooden stuff! Head to one of our listed vendor&rsquo;s page&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/vendors/brands/the-floor-gallery">The Floor Gallery</a>&nbsp;or to their website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thefloorgallery.sg/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">thefloorgallery.sg</a>&nbsp;find out more information on how you could introduce wood into your home!

Perhaps you really like wood. Like, REALLY like it. However, you need to convince your significant other that it is so indispensable that it’ll be stupid not to have some (or a lot!) at home. Here are 5 legit excuses to have wood in your home.

5 Legit Reasons To Have Wood In Your Home

When choosing kitchen backsplash, ask yourself: Are you a Gordon Ramsey? Or a Simon Cowell? [Hint: One of them doesn&rsquo;t belong in the kitchen.]&nbsp; If you&rsquo;re a real chef, you&rsquo;ll probably agree that cooking&rsquo;s the easy part &ndash; it&rsquo;s the cleaning that&rsquo;s truly a chore. For the non-chefs, they just want a kitchen because&hellip; why not? Before you jump into any upgrades, it&rsquo;s worth checking if you need a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/7-things-you-ll-need-permits-before-you-renovate">residential renovation permit</a>, especially if you&rsquo;re planning bigger changes. And if you want it done right, engaging the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/best-renovation-contractor-in-singapore">best renovation contractor in Singapore</a>&nbsp;can save you a lot of trouble later on. Working out what you&rsquo;ll be doing, and not doing, in the kitchen will help you work out the kind of backsplash you&rsquo;ll need in the kitchen. For your convenience, here&rsquo;s a guide to 5 backsplash materials for your kitchen. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1682683776886-beautiful-green-kitchen-interior-design.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> 1. &nbsp; &nbsp;Ceramic Or PorcelainIt&rsquo;s the most common. And the cheapest of the bunch. Surely, that means it boring, right? Far from it. For the very same reasons, the sheer variety available, from colours, shapes, and patterns is practically endless.&nbsp; As if that&rsquo;s not enough reason for you stop reading now and get some now, they&rsquo;re exceedingly durable. And easy to clean. Chefs among you can tell you how important that is. The only downside? Ceramics can crack due to heat. For something MORE durable, go porcelain. Waaaay more durable and heat resistant than ceramic. The only thing is that it&rsquo;s less common so there&rsquo;s less variety in patterns and styles than their ceramic cousins. For more inspiration on ceramic ot tiles, head to (<a data-fr-linked="true" href="https://www.sixides.com/vendors/brands/hafary">https://www.sixides.com/vendors/brands/hafary</a>) for more ideas.&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1682683819060-minimalistic-kitchen-corner-with-appliances.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> 2. Glass&nbsp;Clean. Sleek. Fresh. Glass lends a modern and sophisticated look to any kitchen while also adding brightness to place. Also highly versatile, glass can be cut to any shape or form such as mosaic and subway tiles. Despite its upper-class looks, it&rsquo;s surprisingly easy to maintain. It&rsquo;s essentially splash- and stain-proof. Any sort of cleaning is just a matter of wiping it with a damp cloth. The fact that it&rsquo;s also heat resistant is just icing on the cake. That said, it is somewhat more expensive than your average tile. And while it&rsquo;s easy to clean, you&rsquo;ll need to be OCD-level diligent about wiping marks off &ndash; &nbsp;dirt, food, and fingerprints, are more obvious than a dog at a cat convention. Also, compared to tiles, glass is more brittle i.e. prone to chipping and cracking. Another factor to consider is the proximity of heat from cooking. There had been reported cases of glasses cracking if there is a lot of heavy cooking. As such, always consider your cooking behaviour before deploying glass as a backsplash. And if your goal is to modernise your space &mdash; from smart lighting to hands-free appliances &mdash; this ties in well with exploring <a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/how-to-create-a-smart-home-for-peace-of-mind-in-2025">how to create a smart home</a>, since glass backsplashes work beautifully with sleek, tech-driven kitchen designs. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1682683864043-grey-mirror-splashback-black-kitchen.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Photo Credit: Kitchen with stunning toughened grey mirror. (<a href="https://www.imageglass.co.nz/blog/smokey-mirror-glass" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Image Glass</a>) 3. &nbsp; &nbsp;MirrorNeed more depth and light in the kitchen? Mirror your kitchen. They&rsquo;re a lot like glass but a lot better and bouncing light and making small kitchens look huge. They can come in solid, wall-spanning panels, or in tiles of varying shapes and sizes. Love all things vintage? Then you&rsquo;ll love mirrors more; they develop a patina with age. Also, mirrors are essentially glass with a shiny bit behind then, they mirror all the plusses of glass (pun intended) &ndash; easy to clean, and heat resistant. Unfortunately, it&rsquo;s also true that dirt, fingerprints, and grime show up too easily, and it can chip and crack just like regular glass. Grease from the cooking will also add to the list of the chores if you want your mirror backsplash to look glamourous!&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1682683917434-3d-render-modern-kitchen-with-wooden-cabinet-table-design-interior.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> 4. &nbsp; &nbsp;Natural StoneGreat for those who lean towards to the rich and luxurious look. Natural stones include things like granite and marble. And just as you are naturally unique, so too are natural stones &ndash; one single one is alike.&nbsp; As a backsplash, natural stone is perfect &ndash; exceedingly durable and heat resistant. Usually paired as a table top and continuing as an upturn to form the backsplash, the use of natural stone is somewhat of a status symbol, albeit that the use of it is somewhat clich&eacute;. However, natural stone is a bit of a diva &ndash; you need to regularly coat it in sealant. If you don&rsquo;t, it&rsquo;ll stain. And just like a diva, it&rsquo;ll never let your forget how badly you treated it &ndash; that stain will be there forever. For more information on stones, head to our verified vendor Kstone (<a data-fr-linked="true" href="https://www.sixides.com/vendors/brands/kstone">https://www.sixides.com/vendors/brands/kstone</a>) for more ideas. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1682684167723-Fenix+NTM.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Photo Credit: Fenix in the kitchen (<a href="https://www.fenixforinteriors.com/en/applications/residential/#residentialdesignstory" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Fenix</a>) 5. &nbsp; &nbsp;Matt FENIX SurfacesAvailable in a multitude of hues, the Formica FENIX surfaces are just what you&rsquo;re looking for. We checked in with the brand and asked for their expert insight&mdash;here are a few solid reasons why the seamless Formica FENIX surfaces are such a great choice for your kitchen. This thing is strong and sturdy! The mix of paper and thermosetting resin makes FENIX surfaces particularly durable. &ldquo;During production, heat and pressure are applied simultaneously in order to obtain a homogeneous and non-porous product,&rdquo; she elaborates.&nbsp; &ldquo;The external surface has a multi-layered coating of next-generation acrylic resin, hardened and fixed with an Electron Beam Curing process.&rdquo; While they&rsquo;re all united by strength and longevity, each of the FENIX surfaces has its own unique features. &ldquo;FENIX NTM is an innovative, matt material that&rsquo;s pleasant to the touch and very versatile. FENIX NTM BLOOM addresses sustainability challenges by reducing the amount of phenol included in the resin by 50%. And FENIX NTA is an empowered metal surface that is scratch-resistant, soft to the touch and visually comfortable.&rdquo; For more inspiration on FENIX, <a data-fr-linked="true" href="https://www.sixides.com/vendors/brands/formica">https://www.sixides.com/vendors/brands/formica</a>.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1682684342340-close-up-steel-sink-integrated-into-worktop-modern-kitchen-with-its-steel-faucet-some-apples.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> 6. &nbsp; &nbsp;Stainless SteelIf you&rsquo;re a hardcore chef (or wish you&rsquo;re one), you can&rsquo;t go wrong with a stainless steel backsplash. It looks ultra-modern and exceedingly professional. The best part, compared to all the other choices, it&rsquo;s pretty affordable.&nbsp; In case the name didn&rsquo;t clue you in, stainless steel doesn&rsquo;t stain easily (shocking!). Easy to clean and super hygienic, it&rsquo;s at home even in the busiest of kitchens.&nbsp;Just remember, it&rsquo;s stainless steel, not scuffles steel or damage-less steel. They can be scuffed. They can be damaged. Over time, these thing build up. And the only way to fix it? Replace the whole thing. The other reason one would want stainless? It tends to give kitchens a cold look.&nbsp; Well? That kitchen isn&rsquo;t going to backsplash itself. Get out there and tell your ID you want [insert favourite backsplash material] for your kitchen!

When choosing kitchen backsplash, ask yourself: Are you a Gordon Ramsey? Or a Simon Cowell? [Hint: One of them doesn’t belong in the kitchen.]

House Hacks