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The Trend Of Arches And Curves, Is It Here To Stay?

In Singapore, the presence of bomb shelters in Housing Development Board (HDB) flats is not just a provision but a mandatory requirement. These shelters, commonly referred to as Household Shelters (HS), are an integral part of Singapore&#39;s civil defence strategy, aiming to protect its residents in the event of a national emergency or threat. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1708341936501-products-civil-defence-shelters-household-shelter.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Image of a typical bomb shelter found in HDB Flat. (Image source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.prefabtech3.com.sg/products-civil-defence-shelters.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Prefab Technology 3</a>) The incorporation of bomb shelters into public housing design stems from the country&#39;s geographical location and historical context. As a small island-nation situated in a region that has experienced conflicts in the past, Singapore&#39;s government took the initiative to ensure that every home has a built-in space that can serve as a protected area during crises such as warfare or natural disasters. Instituted under the Civil Defence Shelter Act in 1997, these shelters are constructed to specific standards designed to withstand the impact of blast and debris. Bomb shelters are built with reinforced concrete walls, a steel door, and a ventilation system, ensuring that they are structurally sound and impervious to potential damage. Nonetheless, many residents perceive their HS as a bleak and imposing feature in their otherwise welcoming home environment. This is where the role of interior designers becomes significant, transforming these utilitarian spaces into aesthetic components that blend seamlessly with the home&#39;s overall design. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1708342016038-Fuse+Interior.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">An inexpensive treatment - Bomb shelter door treated as a magnetic board for souvenir magnets and the main wall is painted with magnetic paint that also serves as a chalk board. (Image source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/professionals/interior-designers/fuse-concept" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Fuse Concept</a>)&nbsp; Go MinimalInterior designers have developed creative strategies to integrate bomb shelters into a home&#39;s d&eacute;cor. The first approach is to use inexpensive treatments such as making use of the metal door. It is a perfect material to stick all the magnet collection from your travels. Simply paint it in a darker tone to make the colours from the magnets pop and voila, you have a conversation starter when friends visit. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1708342071525-Areana+Creations.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Concealing treatment &ndash; the bomb shelter door, the vent hole and as well as the walls are all concealed by a box up shown above. As there is a protruding handle, and allow for ventilation to flow, the box up structure usually has a thickness. Seen above, the designer made use of the thickness to create two open niches to break the monotony of the design. (Image source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/professionals/interior-designers/areana-creation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Areana Creation</a>)&nbsp; Camo And ConcealmentAnother approach is the use of camouflage and concealment, where designers use decorative elements or furniture to obscure the presence of the shelter door. For example, large bookshelves or art installations can be strategically placed in front of the shelter entrance, making it less noticeable. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1708342127142-Jialux-Interior-ProjectQ021-06.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Try to figure out where the bomb shelter is? It&rsquo;s hidden behind the mirror and fluted panel. Both elements, mirror and the lines from the flutes are eye catching and distracts or attracts enough to make you shift your focus on the bomb shelter being there in the first place. (Image source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/professionals/interior-designers/jialux-interior" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Jialux Interior</a>)&nbsp; Shifting FocusNext, designers strategically employ lighting and colour schemes to shift the focus away from the shelter. Warm, inviting colours along with layered lighting can soften the room&#39;s ambiance, drawing attention away from the shelter door. Additionally, innovative storage solutions transform the shelter into a more functional space. Built-in cabinetry that matches the rest of the home&#39;s design theme can preserve aesthetic continuity while providing practical use. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1708342180092-a6d8076d1046d9f5f0766be760df4684.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Using artificial greenery to create a vertical garden, a fresh approach to conceal the bomb shelter door and the protruding handle.(Image by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/624170829613322313/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Style Degree</a>)&nbsp; Changeable ApproachFurthermore, removable wall panels and decorative stickers offer residents the opportunity to customize the look of their shelter door. These can be easily changed and updated according to the homeowner&#39;s preferences or design trends, giving the door a more personal and less utilitarian feel. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1708342391791-Zenith-Arc-ProjectQ004-02.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The bomb shelter door totally immerses in the space as the theme and the bomb shelter door gels together seamlessly in this project by Zenith ARC. (Image source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/professionals/interior-designers/zenith-arc" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Zenith ARC</a>)&nbsp; Immersive TacticA more immersive tactic involves theme-based design, where the shelter becomes part of a larger story told through the home&#39;s interior. For example, and since the bomb shelter door has an already &ldquo;industrial&rdquo; look to it, why not use it to the fullest and have an all-out industrial look to the space, to continue to style narrative. What Is The Ultimate Goal?Ultimately, the goal for interior designers is to respect the functional integrity of the bomb shelter while simultaneously enhancing its aesthetic appeal. This balance ensures that the shelter remains a safe and reliable refuge if needed, while also contributing positively to the home&#39;s overall atmosphere and style.&nbsp; Through the clever use of design principles and techniques, interior designers can successfully address the challenges posed by the integration of bomb shelters in HDB flats. This intersection of functionality and beauty reflects not only the unique aspects of Singaporean housing but also the adaptability and resourcefulness of its people.

Discover the different approaches to dress up your bomb shelter doors with a lists of ideas of SIXiDES Verified Designers.

Bomb Shelters, To Dress Or Not To Dress?

In The Beginning&hellip;If you&rsquo;ve just gotten the keys to your new home in Singapore, chances are you&#39;re grappling with the possibility of renovating on the notorious $30,000 budget. It&rsquo;s no myth; the $30k figure has significantly impacted the local renovation scene. Let&rsquo;s break down why this budget remains a staple and how you can make the most of it. Renovation On A Budget: Understanding The $30K Standard<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1705657240079-Image+1-01.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span style="color: rgb(112, 112, 112); font-family: Roboto, ui-sans-serif, system-ui; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;" id="isPasted">Ever wondered why $30,000 is the magic number? Here&#39;s the lowdown: &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Loan CapsMost banks in Singapore cap renovation loans at $30,000 or six times your monthly income, whichever is lower. This cap has become a de facto standard for both financial institutions and borrowers. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Risk and ProtectionThe cap helps manage financial risk for both parties&mdash;the bank doesn&#39;t over-lend, and borrowers don&#39;t over-borrow. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Market InfluenceThe budget cap has set the stage for renovation packages that cater specifically to this price bracket, making it a common starting point for quotes. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Small Spaces, Smaller BudgetsAverage Singaporean homes don&#39;t boast expansive square footage, which means less ground to cover, and subsequently, lower costs. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Steady as She GoesSingapore&#39;s controlled economy and inflation rates help maintain the feasibility of a $30k renovation. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Going TaobaoWhat with the convenience and trust in online marketplaces. Singaporeans do not have to completely get their furniture and finishes from the renovation. In fact, more and more homeowners are opting to save costs and get their materials, building supplies from online entities like Taobao or Lazada. A Practical $30K Renovation BreakdownSo, you have $30k and a dream. Here&rsquo;s a way to slice that budget pie in today&rsquo;s context to ensure you don&rsquo;t crumble under financial pressure:<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1705657083045-Image+1-02.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">&bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Fundamentals (20%)Channel funds into the crucial aspects of your renovation that form the backbone of your home&rsquo;s design. This usually includes hacking works, walls, tiling, waterproofing, doors, and windows. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Mechanical Marvels (20%)Electrical work and plumbing are essential; skimping here can lead to costly problems down the line. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Carpentry and Fixtures (25%)A significant portion will go into built-ins and cabinets, which are key to a functional space. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The Finishing Touch (10%)Paint, wallpaper, and minor aesthetics that make your space feel like home should take up a tenth of your budget. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Furniture and Decor (10%)Allocate some funds for furnishings that will bring personality to your newly minted abode. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Professional Know-How (10%)Good advice isn&rsquo;t free. Investing in professional fees for designers or contractors can pay off in a smooth renovation experience. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The &#39;Just in Case&#39; Fund (5%)Always have that buffer for unexpected costs or last-minute tweaks. $30K + Savvy Planning<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1705657122459-business-finance-man-calculating-budget-numbers-invoices-financial-adviser-working.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Remember, these are just guidelines. Every renovation journey is unique, and yours might require you to adjust the numbers slightly. Do get multiple quotes, and don&#39;t be shy to negotiate with contractors. If you need help in getting estimates to kickstart your journey, don&rsquo;t forget to use our&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sixides.com/equote" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">eQuote</a>, our renovation calculator. With savvy planning and a clear vision, your $30k can go a remarkably long way&mdash;even in today&#39;s market. Happy renovating!

If you’ve just gotten the keys to your new home in Singapore, chances are you're grappling with the possibility of renovating on the notorious $30,000 budget. 

Why is Everyone’s Renovation Budget, $30K?

The debate over ceiling fans continues to spin around many a design circle. While some claim that ceiling fans downplay room aesthetics, champions of such fans highlight their practicality. In this article, we&#39;ll dissect the love-hate relationship between designers and why some dislike having ceiling fans in their design.&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1700717919542-image-02.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Table 1: Ceiling Fans &ndash; Pros and Cons Efficient Air CirculationOne of ceiling fans&rsquo; major selling points is their ability to efficiently circulate air in a room. They create a cool breeze during hotter months and help distribute warm air evenly during colder periods, a feature that stands resilient against changing seasons. The condition for this to do well is understanding the science behind ceiling fans. If you want your ceiling fan to effectively reach the corners of your room, it is not just about the width of your fan fixture and the blades. The height of your top clearance or downrod affects the capability to reach further, as the more clearance you have, the more air the blades can pick up and push down into your room. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1700717958153-downrodlength.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Fan Mounting Options (Image Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.luxedecor.com/buying-guides/ceiling-fan-buying-guide" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Luxe Decor</a>) Constant Wind CoverageCeiling fans provide consistent wind coverage, easing the strain on HVAC systems. By utilizing ceiling fans, homeowners can lower energy consumption - a critical benefit considering the ongoing environmental concerns. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1700717994983-image-01.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> &ldquo;It Interferes With My Ceiling Design&rdquo;.Aesthetically, ceiling fans might not match a room&rsquo;s overall design and could obstruct interesting ceiling features. They&rsquo;re often viewed as practical but not aesthetically pleasing &ndash; a large reason many designers aren&#39;t fans of the fan. Some older designs have 5 blades and are long which makes it look like someone added &ldquo;propellers&rdquo; into a space and converted it into a helicopter. &ldquo;It Is Harder To Maintain/Clean&rdquo;With a floor standing fan, all you need to do is open the cage and take out the blades to hose it down. A stark disadvantage of ceiling fans, from a designer&#39;s perspective, is their difficulty to clean. Unlike light fixtures or compact standing fans, ceiling fans require more effort to maintain due to their height and size. A ladder is most definitely needed and in certain cases, where the bedframe is built in and immovable, there is an issue in placing the ladder to gain access to the ceiling fan.&nbsp; &ldquo;Strobe Light Issues&rdquo;Ceiling fans situated beneath a light source are liable to produce a strobe light effect. This can create an uncomfortable lighting situation that interrupts the tranquillity of a space. The designer will have to skirt around the ceiling fan to avoid casting a beam of light into fan&rsquo;s blade. In certain situations, this is unavoidable especially if the room is small and no matter how you shift the lights, there is no way you can avoid this. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1700718027107-strope-4-panel-1024x594.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">&ldquo;Strobing&rdquo; effect of ceiling fan on lights (Image taken from:&nbsp;<a href="https://emrenoblog.wordpress.com/2012/02/02/preventing-strobing-effect-from-ceiling-fans/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Em Reno Blog</a>&nbsp;) The best way to deal with strobe lighting issues (which is a pet peeve amongst designers) is to use a layered lighting approach and not depend on the light mounted on the ceiling for total illumination. By layering, you can use cove lights integrated into the carpentry, standing lamps and table lamps. The sum of lighting illuminating the space becomes spread out and this helps to avoid strobe lighting issue. Is There A Solution?So, do designers unequivocally hate ceiling fans? Not necessarily. Like any component in design, ceiling fans have their appropriate settings. However, they require a careful balance of their pros and cons to avoid sabotaging overall design cohesiveness and functionality. Perhaps it&#39;s less about animosity and more about awareness of when and where to use them to their best advantage.&nbsp;

The debate over ceiling fans continues to spin around many a design circle.

Do Designers Really Hate Ceiling Fans?

Anybody doing research about interior design in Singapore right now will undoubtedly see plenty of beautiful homes with stripped wall panels.

Ways To Use Fluted Panels For Your Home

Smoke Gets In Your EyesLet&#39;s talk about the current haze situation in our beloved Lion City. Yes, if you haven&rsquo;t notice, Singapore is not turning into Genting Highlands, the pesky and irritating Haze is back! For those who are unaware, the Haze carries with it harmful toxicants such as TVOCs and PM2.5, that can be inhaled and cause serious health problems. (source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.epa.gov/pm-pollution/particulate-matter-pm-basics" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EPA</a>) While we can&#39;t control the environment outside, we can certainly make our interior spaces better with some clever interventions! As an interior designer, I&#39;m here to share some ideas on transforming our homes and offices into cosy and haze-free havens.&nbsp; &nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1697185149163-pm2.5_scale_graphic-color_2.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">PM 2.5 particulate matters are so small in comparison to your human hair. Some of these particles can get deep into your lungs and even into your bloodstream and cause serious issues to your health. (Image Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.epa.gov/pm-pollution/particulate-matter-pm-basics" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EPA</a>) Mechanical InterventionsFirstly, mechanical interventions play a vital role in keeping our interior spaces clean and healthy. Air purifiers equipped with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can help to tackle airborne pollutants, including those pesky haze particles. Investing in these devices can significantly improve the air quality indoors.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1697185287871-air-purifier-living-room-air-cleaner-removing-fine-dust-house.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Plants Are Useful Too! <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1697185302822-plants.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">&nbsp;But hey, let&#39;s not overlook the non-mechanical interventions as well! Indoor plants, such as the resilient spider plant and peace lily, act as natural air purifiers, absorbing toxins and releasing fresh oxygen. Not only do they enhance the aesthetics of our spaces but also provide a breath of fresh air &ndash; quite literally!&nbsp; Personally, I have had an affinity with plants since young and had always incorporated some kind of greeneries into my designs. In my home, I try to find ways to dress up the space with the use of plants. With the haze upon us, even more reasons for me to convince my wife to go green with me indoors!&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1697185318316-Picture3.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Almost all the bay ledges in The Designerd&rsquo;s home are dressed in different pots of plants. 6 Ways You Can InterveneNow, let&#39;s dive into the concept of an interior designer&#39;s intervention. It goes beyond simply creating visually pleasing spaces. Our expertise lies in designing functional and harmonious environments that address Homeowners&rsquo; specific needs. From efficient space planning to thoughtfully selecting materials, furniture, and lighting, we strive to create spaces that enhance your well-being and ensure optimal comfort even during challenging times like the haze season.&nbsp; Here are 6 ways that an interior designer or Homeowner could implement in their approach to designing a space that addresses the internal air quality of a space. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1697185339196-Hefadf4a1099b4d32afbf9c3396737f8eL.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Invest in an Air Quality Meter, that reads the level of toxicants in your interior spaces. <ol><li>Adequate ventilation: Incorporate good air circulation and ventilation systems in interior spaces to minimize the entry of outdoor pollutants and improve the indoor air quality.</li><li>Air purifiers and filters: Invest and install high-quality air purifiers and air filters to efficiently remove particulate matter from the indoor air, reducing the impact of haze.</li><li>Sealants: Use air-tight seals around doors, windows, and other openings to prevent external pollutants from entering the interior spaces.</li><li>Plants and greenery: Integrate indoor plants and greenery into the design to naturally filter and purify the air. Plants like the Areca Palm, Snake Plant, and Boston Fern are known for their air-purifying qualities.</li><li>Use of materials: opt for low-VOC (volatile organic compound) materials and finishes in furniture, paints, and other interior elements to minimize the release of harmful chemicals and improve indoor air quality.</li><li>Smart technologies: Implement smart air quality monitoring systems to track and respond to changes in indoor air quality, automatically adjusting ventilation and purifying systems as needed.</li></ol> Do Something About It, At HomeSo yes, there&rsquo;s something you can do, my friends! We&rsquo;ve move past those days where we had to wear a mask everywhere we go only to come back to wearing it again to deal with the haze! While there&rsquo;s really nothing much, we can do to stop the haze, but we can make sure we take care of our interior spaces at home for the sake of our loved ones!

Let's talk about the current haze situation in our beloved Lion City. Yes, if you haven’t notice, Singapore is not turning into Genting Highlands, the pesky and irritating Haze is back! 

Haze Haze Go Away

1.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;She&rsquo;s Homeless?!<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1694164454384-Articles.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> In 2022, many news sites reported that she sold her home and would undoubtedly live from the suitcases and in hotels. From her dynamic appearance on the small screen to her spirited personality, Yifong is no stranger to all of us in Singapore and has firmly cemented herself as a household name here and beyond. So how can a household name be homeless? ( <a href="https://www.8days.sg/entertainment/local/eleanor-lee-quan-yifeng-sell-singapore-house-hotel-dating-595986" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">8 DAYS</a>, <a href="https://www.asiaone.com/entertainment/homeless-quan-yi-fong-clarifies-shes-not-leaving-singapore-she-sold-her-home-and-now" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ASIAONE</a>) 2.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Things Have ChangedFear not, loyal fans! Everything has changed! This is only a temporary state. Now, our beloved Yifong has found her nest, and she&#39;s lovingly opened the doors for a home reveal tour via us at SIXiDES! <iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LkPyj5A5iDw?autoplay=1&mute=1&wmode=opaque&rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" style="width: 100%; height: 40vw;">&nbsp;</iframe><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkPyj5A5iDw&ab_channel=TheSIXiDESChannel" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Part 1: There&#39;s No Place Like Home</a> <iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ojvz66b-U-w?autoplay=1&mute=1&wmode=opaque&rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" style="width: 100%; height: 40vw;">&nbsp;</iframe><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ojvz66b-U-w&ab_channel=TheSIXiDESChannel" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Part 2: Home is Where The &quot;Art&quot; is&nbsp;</a> Yifong called us up late 2022 and we discussed about getting her new place done up with the help of designers and vendors found on he SIXiDES platform. In a matter of weeks, we helped her find the ideal designer, and she eventually decided to do this project with Benjamin Toh from M2 D&eacute;cor. (<a href="https://www.sixides.com/professionals/interior-designers/m2-decor" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">M2 D&eacute;cor</a>)&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1694165045042-20230628+DOTM_June_with+Logo-01.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Judging from her previous homes, you&rsquo;d think she would be going for something big and opulent. However, this time round, she got a 2 bedder apartment as she wanted something easy to maintain. This is reflective of her current work and as her daughter, Eleanor Lee is Beijing based, she does not need something big. Nowadays Yifong mostly stays alone and wants a home that is smart, green and healthy, and of course, easy to upkeep. &nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1694165063174-Plan.png" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The two bedrooms, one for Quan and the smaller one for Eleanor. 3.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Home Is Where The Art IsAs one would expect, Yifong&#39;s new home reflects her vivacious persona as well as her daughter&rsquo;s penchant for art. It&#39;s not a house; it&#39;s a &#39;Yifong &amp; Eleanor Museum,&#39; where each corner whispers a story of their unique journey together. In fact, the moment, we enter the unit, we are greeted by Eleanor&rsquo;s collection of toy figurines. According to the mummy, her daughter has a say in the accessorising and dressing up for the home, the toys will greet visitors now as opposed to all the trophies that Yifong had amassed over the years.&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1694165085290-Pop+toys.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Instead of the trophies that Yifong had amassed over the years, the display niche that greets every visitor that enters the home, now houses a collection of pop toys. We even found miniature toy versions of mother and daughter at the corner!&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1694165151335-Miniature.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">We are guessing but these clay figurines should be Mummy Yifong and Eleanor, made by Eleanor herself! There is also a small section of the wall, dedicated to Eleanor&rsquo;s collection of paintings. We did a little sleuthing and found that these paintings had followed them from the previous home made its way to the current one.&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1694165189666-New+VS+OLD.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The same artwork followed them to the new home too.&nbsp; The art pieces adorning the walls are not mere decorations; they are the repository of their memories, and as we observe around the apartment, we can tell through the artworks, how much Yifong had encouraged Eleanor to explore her creative side. It&rsquo;s no wonder that she chose to put the trophies in storage and rather let these art pieces take centre stage. 4.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The Interior Space Has To Match The Art<span id="isPasted" style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px solid rgb(229, 231, 235); --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: ; font-size: 16px;"><span 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: ;"><img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1694165219800-Dining+Area.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: ; width: 1466px;">Yifeng&rsquo;s kitchen with an island table. No room for a dining table, she&rsquo;d rather have an island and used it as a prep table and a place to get a quick bite. The kitchen, or as Yifong likes to call it, the &#39;heart of the home,&#39; is a delightful surprise. The designer, Benjamin Toh from M2 D&eacute;cor calls it Sleek and modern, with a touch of &ldquo;English&rdquo; vibe. It&#39;s not hard to imagine Yifong, preparing some food while entertaining guests with her infectious laugh! <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1694165470109-Masterbedroom.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The master bedroom is elegant, minimalistic, yet filled with cosiness. The 2 leaf barn door actually hides the walk-in wardrobe. The master suite is a sanctuary of tranquility, a stark contrast to her bustling public life. It&#39;s here that Yifong retreats to after a long day, a space designed for comfort, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Benjamin chose to use fluted panels in the bedhead and as well as the vanity cabinet. In an all-white interior space, this helps to adds textural interest, and make an otherwise white and flat room looks sexy and cosy. &nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1694165493625-Bathroom.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">From the plush bed to the vanity area, &nbsp;every detail is meticulously chosen for its promise of rest and relaxation yet serving functional purposes. This celeb home tour is not just about opulent interiors and designer furniture; it&#39;s really about seeing the side we don&rsquo;t often see for this mother, daughter duo. &nbsp;You can&rsquo;t help but feel that &ldquo;home is where the art is&rdquo; is really an apt name for this home renovation project.&nbsp; 5.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;She&rsquo;s Back Home NowSo, fans, rejoice! Quan Yifong is not homeless anymore. She has a fabulous new address, a place that resonates with her spirit. And thanks to&nbsp;<a data-fr-linked="true" href="https://www.SiXiDES.com">www.SiXiDES.com</a>, we&#39;ve all had a chance to step inside and marvel at Yifong and Eleanor&#39;s world &ndash; a home that is as simple, elegant, unique, vibrant, and artistic as well.&nbsp;

In 2022, many news sites reported that she sold her home and would undoubtedly live from the suitcases and in hotels. 

Quan Yifong is Homeless No More!

1.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;It&rsquo;s In Our Culture<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1692940805822-burning+joss+paper.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Image Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/13-per-cent-drop-in-number-of-complaints-over-joss-paper-burning-during-hungry-ghost-month" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Straits Times</a> Every culture has its fair share of superstitions, and Singapore, the bustling, multicultural city-state, is no exception. The Lion City is home to a plethora of cultures, each with its unique customs and traditions, and when these merge, they form a rich tapestry of beliefs. One such fascinating belief revolves around the Hungry Ghost Festival and the dreaded activity of home renovation. 2.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;What Hungry Ghosts Have To Do With Your Home Reno?The Hungry Ghost Festival, celebrated during the seventh month of the lunar calendar, is a time when spirits (or ghosts), are believed to roam the Earth for a period of one month. Depending on who you ask, it&#39;s a time for paying respects to ancestors, offering food to appease/feed/reward the wandering spirits, or avoiding activities such as swimming, whistling at night, jingling your bells or... renovating your house.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1692940835961-chinese+calendar-01.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">A Chinese lunar calendar that actually indicates that building/renovation of a home (盖屋) is to be avoided Yes, you read that right. Renovation. The very activity that turns your house from a &#39;meh&#39; to a &#39;marvellous&#39; is considered a no-go during this period (together with swimming). The rationale? Disturbing the spirits with your noisy power drills, hammering, and general upheaval. It&#39;s almost like the spirits are grumpy neighbours, complaining about the noise pollution. &quot;Keep it down, I&#39;m trying to haunt here!&quot; The rationale is, this is the one time in a year that the spirits have a month-long holiday upstairs, and your noisy renovation work is going to affect their &ldquo;spirits&rdquo;. 3.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;But Let&#39;s Unpack This Myth, Shall We?&nbsp;Firstly, the concept of ghosts being disturbed by renovation noise is a bit perplexing. Aren&#39;t ghosts, by definition, incorporeal beings who pass through walls? If that&#39;s the case, why would they be bothered by a little drilling into drywall? Secondly, since it&rsquo;s a month-long holiday and they have full access to everywhere, I think they would rather be at Sentosa chilling or heading to the clubs at Duxton Hill. Why would they hang out at your HDB flat? Supervising your reno works? One would think that being dead would give you a bit of a pass on dealing with the annoyances of the living world.&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1693028573732-7f888f70-cfe6-4957-888d-62bcc22b15be.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> But if we take a step back and look at the broader picture, it becomes apparent that like many cultural traditions, this too is rooted in respect and consideration. The Hungry Ghost Festival is a time for honouring the deceased, and perhaps the taboo on renovations is simply an extension of that respect. Send the spirits some good vibes, and they might just pull some strings in the afterlife to get you that dream kitchen you&#39;ve always wanted.&nbsp; 4.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Time Is Of The EssenceHowever, in a fast-paced city like Singapore, where time is money and the property market waits for no ghost (holy or not), are these age-old superstitions still relevant? In truth, while some Singaporeans still adhere to these traditions, many others don&#39;t give a second thought to renovating their homes during the Hungry Ghost Festival. You could argue that cultural traditions should be respected, but you could also argue that if the spirits are truly our ancestors, wouldn&#39;t they want us to move with the times (after all if you&rsquo;ve seen some of the &ldquo;kim zua&rdquo; (effigies) we burn to send them, they are quite updated with the latest rides and gadgets)? <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1692940890440-paper-gifts-hungry-ghost-festival.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">From French fries to iPad to the latest in iPhone, the many paper effigies we burn for the ancestors. Image source from:&nbsp;<a href="https://thesmartlocal.com/read/unexpected-kim-zua/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Smart Local</a>) Moreover, the idea that the ghosts are somehow particularly perturbed by renovation noises, but not by the constant din of traffic, construction, and the general hustle and bustle of city life, seems a tad selective.&nbsp; 5.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;You Dare Or Not?While the belief in the Hungry Ghost Festival and its associated superstitions are a fascinating part of Singaporean culture, the idea that renovation during this time will bring misfortune is one that perhaps belongs more to the realm of folklore than fact. But many folks still believe that it is better to be on the &ldquo;safe side&rdquo; and do not wish to trouble &ldquo;trouble&rdquo;. For many renovation firms, there is a saying that if the renovation starts before the start of the hungry ghost festival, then all is fine, because you have essentially &ldquo;choped&rdquo; to do reno work first.&nbsp; Whatever your decision and beliefs are, it is important to be sensitive about the culture, respect and of course your timeline in the whole reno affair. You may not care about this custom, but perhaps your ID or renovator is a super believer. Hence, some concession may be necessary. At the end of the day, it&rsquo;s really a matter of, &ldquo;you dare or not?&rdquo; My logic is simple, isn&#39;t a well-renovated, comfy home the best way to welcome your ancestors if they decide to drop by?&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1692940918744-WFTN+Chinese-01.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://xhslink.com/vcjPNt" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">小红书</a>&nbsp; for our Chinese version of Hungry Ghost Festival Renovation Myth &ndash; &ldquo;谈鬼色变&rdquo;

Every culture has its fair share of superstitions, and Singapore, the bustling, multicultural city-state, is no exception. 

The Spooky Side of Singaporean Interior Design: The Hungry Ghost Festival Renovation Myth

Greetings, fellow home design aficionados! If you had been following the news on celebrities home, you would have heard about “Casa Qi”, the modern classical/European style home designed by yours truly, the Designerd. 

A Guide to Create a Modern Classical Home: Casa Qi Explored

1. &nbsp; &nbsp;Do You Love The Sea?<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1690524678233-beautiful-tropical-beach-sea-with-chair-blue-sky.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> I grew up at the east side of Singapore and heading to the beach to idle away or to have family outings was quite frequent for me when I was much younger. I&rsquo;ve always loved the sea, the smell, the ropes, the hawker stalls.&nbsp; Now there&rsquo;s actually a way that you can bring a slice of the sea into your home design by incorporating certain elements to create the style, &ldquo;Nautical Design&rdquo; or also known as &ldquo;Coastal Home Design&rdquo;. 2. &nbsp; &nbsp;The Seaside Resort LookNautical interior design style is a popular theme for homes, offices, and other interior spaces. It is characterized by its use of elements that evoke the seaside and the ocean, such as shades of blue, white, and beige, stripes, ropes, anchors, and other nautical accessories. This style is perfect for those who love the ocean and want to bring a touch of the beach into their homes. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1690524707225-Image+1-01.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">A collection of nautical elements&nbsp; One of the defining features of nautical interior design is the color scheme. This style typically uses a palette of blues and whites, which are reminiscent of the ocean, the sky, and the clouds. These colors create a light and airy feel, which is perfect for homes that want to evoke a sense of relaxation and calm. Beiges and creams can also be used to complement the blues and whites, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1690524733306-Nauticle+Moodboard.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The Nautical interior design elements, Image source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cushionaccessoryco.com.au/blogs/news/coastal-home-design-elements" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Cushion Accessory Co</a> 3. &nbsp; &nbsp;The Design ElementsLet&rsquo;s look at how we can easily &ldquo;hack&rsquo; this look and replicate it for your home! &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;An important element of nautical interior design is the use of stripes. Stripes can be seen in everything from curtains and rugs to bedding and throw pillows. Horizontal stripes are the most common, as they mimic the waves of the ocean. Stripes can be used in a variety of colors, but navy blue and white are the most popular. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1690524784287-Nautical+Bedroom.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Blue stripes are an important element in Nautical design, Image source&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nauticalluxuries.com/products/beach-cottage-stripe-bedding-collection" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nautical Luxuries</a> &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Ropes and knots are also common in nautical interior design. These can be used as decorative elements, such as tying knots around a vase or using ropes to hang curtains. They can also be used as functional pieces, such as using rope as a handrail or using a rope hammock as a seating area. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Anchors are another popular nautical accessory. They can be used in a variety of ways, such as hanging an anchor-shaped mirror on the wall or using anchor-printed bedding. Anchors are a symbol of stability and strength, which is why they are often used in nautical interior design. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Shells, starfish, and other sea creatures are also commonly used in nautical interior design. These can be used as decorative elements, such as placing shells in a glass bowl or using starfish as wall art. They can also be used as functional pieces, such as using a shell-shaped soap dish or using a starfish-shaped doorknob.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1690524832071-Nauticle+Element.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Textures found in natural materials acts like the replacement of sand the wood found in the beaches. Image Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cushionaccessoryco.com.au/blogs/news/coastal-home-design-elements" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Cushion Accessory Co</a> &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;In terms of furniture, nautical interior design favors natural materials such as wood and wicker. These materials are reminiscent of beach houses and create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Furniture with a distressed or weathered look can also be used to add to the beachy vibe. Nautical interior design is not limited to homes near the ocean. It can be used in any space, regardless of location. This style is perfect for those who want to add a touch of the beach to their homes, or for those who want to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1690524882495-Bunk-Bed-and-Play-Station.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">An example of an imaginative children&rsquo;s bedroom design using the Nautical Design theme. Image Source :&nbsp;<a href="https://www.upcycleart.info/kids-projects/bunk-bed-designs-for-kids-room/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Up Cycle Art</a>&nbsp; One of the best things about nautical interior design is its versatility. It can be used in a variety of ways, from subtle accents to full-blown beach-inspired rooms. It can be used in small spaces, such as bathrooms, or in larger spaces, such as living rooms. It can also be adapted to fit any budget, as there are many DIY nautical projects that can be done using inexpensive materials. In some cases, we have seen homeowners dress up their kid&rsquo;s bedrooms in such a style to give them a space to imagine and role play. 4. &nbsp; &nbsp;Explore Like a Sea Explorer<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1690524919357-Picture1.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">A nautical design theme living hall. Image Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.housebeautiful.com/room-decorating/g1735/nautical-inspired-rooms/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">House Beautiful</a> We&rsquo;ve seen too many &ldquo;scandi&rdquo; and minimalist homes of late, so much so that you start to see copies of the same look in many Singaporean homes. To be frank, it is really getting quite boring in the interior design scene. Therefore, I feel that it&rsquo;s worth exploring different design styles for your new home! If you like to add a sense of adventure and bring the seaside to your space, you may consider incorporating nautical interior design elements. Whether you choose to add a few beach-inspired accents or completely transform your space into a seaside retreat, this style is sure to bring a touch of the ocean into your life. So grab some rope, some shells, and some blue and white paint, and get started on your nautical interior design journey! <iframe scrolling="no" name="__tt_embed__v6828268207359413509" sandbox="allow-popups allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox allow-scripts allow-top-navigation allow-same-origin" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed/v2/7265558402049395969?lang=en-US&autoplay=1&mute=1" style="width: 100%; height: 680px; display: block; visibility: unset; max-height: 550px;">&nbsp;</iframe>

I grew up at the east side of Singapore and heading to the beach to idle away or to have family outings was quite frequent for me when I was much younger. 

Aye Aye Captain Let’s Sail Away With Nautical Design!

1.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Oh No! Not Again!<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1689927800257-20232007_RenovationFirmHack_Stomp.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Image extracted from Stomp Article. Source: <a href="https://stomp.straitstimes.com/singapore-seen/renovation-company-hired-by-pregnant-woman-stops-work-after-getting-90-of-payment" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Stomp</a> We stumbled upon yet another tale of woe in the renovation realm, and this one takes the cake for audacity. A pregnant woman wrote in a recent STOMP article that she had hired a Design and Build firm to transform her home, only to be left high and dry with 96% of the payment already swiped from her pockets. Seriously, it seems like the good guys in the industry must deal with the nonsense of the bad hats. <blockquote>&ldquo;A company hired by a pregnant woman to renovate her home left the work unfinished after receiving most of the payment. The Stomper has since found others who were similarly left in the lurch by the company, R3 Design and Build. She recounted: &quot;I engaged them when I was in the third trimester of my pregnancy last September. They hacked my house, left it and were gone after taking about 96 per cent of the payment.&quot;She told Stomp the full amount was $58,000 and she had paid $55,608.&rdquo; She added, &quot;I&#39;ve approached my MP for help, but they said it was not a scam as work did start though not completed. Hence, it was a &#39;dispute&#39;.&rdquo;</blockquote> Homeowners facing rogue interior design and renovation firms are caught in a tough spot, burdened with proving scams. They often realize too late they&#39;ve been deceived, lacking a strong audit trail to hold these errant renovators accountable. Let&#39;s empower homeowners with knowledge to outsmart these crafty culprits! 2.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;So It Falls Onto The Homeowners To Do Their Homework<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1689927896678-finance-adult-stress-businesswoman-girl.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Homeowners facing rogue interior design and renovation firms are caught in a tough spot, burdened with proving scams. They often realize too late they&#39;ve been deceived, lacking a strong audit trail to hold these errant renovators accountable. Let&#39;s empower homeowners with knowledge to outsmart these crafty culprits! <ul><li>Licenses and Accreditations - Make sure they have gotten their green lights with HDB, BCA or accredited by RCMA CASETRUST or SIDAC. We had written an earlier article about these accreditations and you can read more here <a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/guide-to-all-interior-design-renovation-verification-and-accreditation-schemes-in-singapore">(</a><a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/guide-to-all-interior-design-renovation-verification-and-accreditation-schemes-in-singapore">Guide to all interior design renovation verification and accreditation schemes in Singapore</a><a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/guide-to-all-interior-design-renovation-verification-and-accreditation-schemes-in-singapore">)&nbsp;</a></li></ul> <ul><li>Portfolios - If their Company is new, make sure to check on the founders&rsquo; backgrounds and portfolios. The tell-tale sign of a &lsquo;fly by night&rsquo; operation is the lack of credible portfolios. </li></ul> <ul><li style="color: rgb(112, 112, 112);">Peek At Ongoing Projects &ndash; Don your Sherlock caps and ask to see their ongoing projects on site. A legitimate firm will always have ongoing projects at any given time. Once you visit the site, make sure to check on the HDB permit, or Condo renovation permit stuck on the entrance of the apartment. Red flags if the company on the paperwork does not match. In most circumstances the homeowners of the ongoing site will not mind a visit since they would be happy to share experiences if the experience with the designer/renovator is good.</li></ul> <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1689928174304-Screenshot+2023-07-21+1539239.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> <ul><li>Comparison is Key &ndash; It is an absolute must for homeowners to research, meet <a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/5-reasons-to-meet-multiple-interior-designers-for-your-dream-home">(</a><a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/5-reasons-to-meet-multiple-interior-designers-for-your-dream-home">5 reasons to meet multiple interior designers for your dream home</a><a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/5-reasons-to-meet-multiple-interior-designers-for-your-dream-home">)</a>&nbsp;and compare at least 3 firms&rsquo; pricing to get a good sense of how much your renovation will cost. It helps that you confirm on a certain look, theme, and use of materials. If you would like some help on this, try our <a href="https://www.sixides.com/equote">EQuote</a>.</li></ul> <ul><li style="color: rgb(112, 112, 112);">Too Good to Be True&nbsp;&ndash; Normally a responsible renovator will spell out all the deliverables in the renovation quotation. This will include the area of work, item description, quantity, unit rate and subtotal of the cost. If there are lots of generic descriptions of the scope of works, &ldquo;lump sums&rdquo; and estimates, or even crazy rock bottom pricing between the competitors for the same scope of work, then this is where you need to be logical, and not be tempted by the cheaper rates.&nbsp;</li></ul> <ul><li style="color: rgb(112, 112, 112);">Variation Orders Vigilance &ndash; Keep an eagle eye on the Vos during the renovation process. Sneaky, rouge renovators will try to exploit ambiguous descriptions and terms. An example of a sketchy description is, &ldquo;to supply and install kitchen cabinet 10ftr&rdquo;, the ideal way to describe this would be, &ldquo;to supply and install top and bottom kitchen cabinet in laminate finish 10ftr&rdquo;.</li></ul>&nbsp;<ul><li style="color: rgb(112, 112, 112);">Recommended payment terms &ndash; as a guide and this depends on each case, we recommend that payment for your project be split into 4 payments:</li></ul>1st payment&nbsp;&ndash; 10-15% (commencement of design and preliminary work)2nd payment &ndash; 30 -40% (commencement of physical work and upon successful application of permits)3rd payment&nbsp;&ndash; 40% (progressive claim upon completion of all site works, such as demolition, wetworks, doors and windows and carpentry confirmation)4th and last payment &ndash; 5 - 20% upon satisfactory completion of all said works including VOs and defects. 3.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Research and Research<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1689928447826-Screenshot+2023-07-21+153929.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> I&rsquo;ll be absolutely frank with you, renovations will cause headaches, but that doesn&#39;t mean we&#39;ll let the rogues run rampant. Embrace the art of research! Arm yourself with knowledge about industry lingo, materials, timelines, and budget planning. It&#39;s the best way to safeguard your interests. So, dive into the vast ocean of information available online &ndash; visit social pages, peruse portfolios, and check out the designer directory. Become an informed homeowner and be the hero of your renovation tale! Better still, you can find out more of our verified designers listed in or our designer directory (<a href="https://www.sixides.com/professionals/interior-designers">Professional Interior Designers</a><a href="https://www.sixides.com/professionals/interior-designers">)</a>.&nbsp; Let&#39;s banish these renovator rogues to the past! United, we&#39;ll raise the standards and make sure these &#39;cowboys&#39; won&#39;t get a chance to pull off their disappearing act anymore. Happy renovating, savvy homeowners!

We stumbled upon yet another tale of woe in the renovation realm, and this one takes the cake for audacity.

Outsmarting Rouge Renovators – Guide To Avoiding Vanishing Contractors

1.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Brutally HonestBrutalist style is a form of architecture and design that emerged in the mid-20th century and continues to influence contemporary design today. This style is characterized by its use of raw, unrefined materials and exposed structural elements, creating an industrial and utilitarian aesthetic. Some of the folks like to call it the &ldquo;Industrial Design&rdquo; or &ldquo;brutalist industrial design&rdquo; theme.&nbsp; One of the key features of brutalist style is its use of concrete and other raw materials. Brutalist buildings and interiors often feature exposed concrete walls, floors, and ceilings, leaving the rough texture of the material on display. This creates a sense of honesty and authenticity in the space, as the materials are not hidden behind layers of decoration. The use of raw materials also allows for a sense of continuity between the interior and exterior of a building, as the materials used in the construction of the building are reflected in the design of the interior.&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1689302841476-house-of-concrete-experiments-samira-rathod-design-atelier-india-residential_dezeen_2364_col_4-852x1143.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">A Brutalist Interior Design &ndash; Image source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dezeen.com/2022/06/11/house-of-concrete-experiments-samira-rathod-india/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dezeen</a> 2.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The Brutal HistoryBrutalism originated in the 1950s and 1960s as a response to the ornate and decorative styles of the past. Architects and designers sought to create buildings and interiors that were honest and utilitarian, eschewing the decorative flourishes of the past in favor of a pared-down aesthetic that celebrated the beauty of raw materials and the functionality of the space.&nbsp; Brutalism was popular in the mid-20th century, particularly in Europe and North America. It was embraced by architects and designers who sought to create buildings and interiors that were honest and functional, eschewing the ornate and decorative styles of the past. Brutalist buildings were also quite popular during the 70s in Singapore. The Golden Mile Complex, the Singapore State Courts and OCBC Tower are all icons of the brutalist movement. Source:&nbsp;TimeOut - Singapore <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1689302929097-golden_mile_complex_3.png" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Golden Mile Complex &ndash; Image source:&nbsp;<a href="https://biblioasia.nlb.gov.sg/vol-19/issue-2/jul-sep-2023/golden-mile-complex/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Biblioasia</a> 3.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The Brutal LookBrutalist interiors often have a minimalist feel to them, with furniture and decor kept to a minimum. The focus is on the space itself, with the materials and structure of the building taking centre stage. Furniture pieces are often simple and functional, with clean lines and a lack of ornamentation. Decor items are similarly pared down, with a focus on functionality over aesthetics. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1689302982256-ludwig-godefroy-casa-alferez-architecture_dezeen_2364_col_7-852x1065.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Some may argue that a &ldquo;brutal&rdquo; themed home may be too cold or raw looking. However, if complemented with warm hues and accessorising, it can actually be very appealing and full of character. Image Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dezeen.com/2023/04/30/brutalist-mexican-homes-concrete-lookbooks/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dezeen</a> Today, brutalist style can be seen in a variety of interior design contexts. Residential spaces, such as apartments and houses, often incorporate brutalist elements such as exposed concrete walls or floors. Commercial spaces, such as restaurants and offices, also embrace brutalist style, using raw materials and exposed structural elements to create a sense of authenticity and utilitarian beauty. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1689303032318-brutal+design.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Somehow, the brutalist industrial look had also inspired me in some of my earlier works (Seen @ Holland V) a design and built project designed by me. You can still see the timeless quality of the design. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1689303053583-seen+holland+v.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> One of the reasons for the continued popularity of brutalist style is its versatility. While the aesthetics of brutalism may seem harsh or industrial at first glance, they can be adapted to a variety of spaces and lifestyles. The use of raw materials and exposed structural elements can be softened with the addition of warm lighting, soft furnishings, and natural elements such as plants. When incorporated into a space with care and intentionality, brutalist elements can add a sense of depth and character that is unique and compelling. 4.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Be Brutally Daring!With all the saturated Scandinavian styled homes popping up everywhere, perhaps you can explore this interesting style! Brutalist style may be raw and harsh with its use of concrete and other raw materials, it is really a versatile style that can be adapted to a variety of spaces and lifestyles. Singaporeans like to &lsquo;rojak&rsquo; a bit with their interior styles. You can quite literally do a 50/50 mix of &ldquo;Oriental x Brutalism&rdquo; style to add a touch of character to your space! As we continue to seek out authenticity and simplicity in our lives, brutalist style offers a refreshing and grounding approach to interior design, and oh, there&rsquo;s an actual additional benefit to add, raw surfaces cost lesser to build, and that&rsquo;s an honest, brutal truth! <iframe scrolling="no" name="__tt_embed__v6828268207359413509" sandbox="allow-popups allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox allow-scripts allow-top-navigation allow-same-origin" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed/v2/7263016216791371010?lang=en-US&autoplay=1&mute=1" style="width: 100%; height: 680px; display: block; visibility: unset; max-height: 550px;">&nbsp;</iframe>

Brutalist style is a form of architecture and design that emerged in the mid-20th century and continues to influence contemporary design today.

It’s a BRUTAL Design!

If you're planning to renovate your apartment and you're sifting through a list of shortlisted designer firms, you may encounter badges at the bottom of their websites or name cards. 

Guide To All Interior Design & Renovation Verification And Accreditation Schemes In Singapore

1. &nbsp; &nbsp;No Seriously, That&rsquo;s The Name Of The StyleIf you had been doing some serious research about interior design styles, chances are you will come across names like &ldquo;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/why-is-everyone-trending-japandi">Japandi</a>&rdquo;, &ldquo;Muji Look&rdquo; or maybe you&rsquo;ve heard of &ldquo;Wabi Sabi?&rdquo;&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1687097797295-cb-6-14-wabi-sabi-768x562.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Often associated with wabi-sabi is the art of kintsugi. This is the art of repairing pottery with a golden inlay. Instead of discarding the broken piece it is restored. The gold serves to highlight the break and becomes part of the history and presence of the piece. (Image source: Unknown) &ldquo;Wabi-sabi is Japanese acceptance of imperfections as both meaningful and in their own way, beautiful &ndash; a refuge from the modern world&rsquo;s obsession with perfection. Wabi-sabi is a concept of aesthetics, which helps us see the world in a whole new way. &ldquo;Extracted from:&nbsp;<a href="https://japanexpertinsights.com/wabi-sabi-japans-simplistic-way-of-life/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Japan Expert Insights</a> Wabi Sabi is an interior design style that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is a known fact that Singaporeans love all things Japanese, it is no surprise that this style has gain quite the cult following in our tropical island. In a nutshell, this is a Japanese aesthetic that embraces imperfection and celebrates the beauty of things that are old, worn, and weathered. In this Nerd article, &nbsp;we&#39;ll take a closer look at Wabi Sabi and explore how it can be incorporated into your home&rsquo;s interior design. 2. &nbsp; &nbsp;Appreciating ImperfectionAt its core, Wabi Sabi is all about appreciating the beauty of imperfection. It is a philosophy that values simplicity, understated elegance, and the beauty of natural materials. In Wabi Sabi, there is an appreciation for things that are handmade, natural, and have a sense of history and tradition.&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1687097914765-4319136571336-Kaizen-ProjectA-04.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The Terrace Flat by Melvin Keng of Kaizen Architecture skilfully captures the spirit of Wabi Sabi in his unconventional flat. (Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/professionals/interior-designers/kaizen-architecture">Kaizen Architecture</a>)&nbsp; One of the key elements of Wabi Sabi interior design is the use of natural materials. This can include wood, stone, bamboo, and other materials that have a natural texture and feel. These materials are often left in their natural state, with minimal processing or finishing, to showcase their inherent beauty. Another important aspect of Wabi Sabi interior design is the use of muted, earthy tones. These can include shades of gray, brown, green, and other colors that are found in nature. These colors help to create a sense of calm and serenity in a space, and allow the natural materials to take center stage. 3. &nbsp; &nbsp;You Must Like VintageWabi Sabi design also embraces the use of imperfect and aged objects. This can include things like antique furniture, vintage textiles, and handmade pottery. These objects have a sense of history and character that cannot be replicated in new objects. They have a story to tell, and their imperfections are celebrated rather than hidden. In Wabi Sabi design, there is also a focus on the beauty of simplicity. This can include minimal furniture, simple lighting, and an uncluttered space. The goal is to create a sense of calm and tranquillity in a space. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1687098008356-1280px-Hasegawa_Tohaku_-_Pine_Trees_%28Sh%C5%8Drin-zu_by%C5%8Dbu%29_-_left_hand_screen.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The concept of &ldquo;Ma&rdquo; (negative space), where nothing is actually something, deep right? (Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ma_%28negative_space%29" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wikipedia</a>)&nbsp; One of the most important elements of Wabi Sabi design is the concept of &quot;Ma,&quot; which is the Japanese term for negative space. This refers to the space between objects, and the importance of leaving room for the imagination to fill in the gaps. In Wabi Sabi design, negative space is just as important as the objects themselves. It allows for a sense of balance and harmony in a space and can create a feeling of spaciousness in even the smallest of rooms. 4. &nbsp; &nbsp;How To Implement Leh?So, how can you incorporate Wabi Sabi into your own interior design? Here are a few tips: <ul><li>Embrace natural materials. Use wood, stone, bamboo, and other natural materials to create a sense of warmth and texture in your space.</li><li>Keep it simple. Avoid clutter and focus on minimal furniture and simple lighting to create a sense of calm and tranquility.</li><li>Celebrate imperfection. Look for antique furniture, vintage textiles, and handmade pottery that have a sense of history and character.</li><li>Use muted, earthy tones. Stick to colors found in nature, such as shades of gray, brown, and green.</li><li>Embrace negative space. Leave room for the imagination to fill in the gaps, and allow for a sense of balance and harmony in your space.</li><li>Find beauty in the everyday. Look for beauty in the simple things, such as a well-worn book or a handmade bowl.</li></ul>&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1687098071681-6603601466653-Kaizen-ProjectA-10.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Using cement and natural materials, mixed in with some random vintage pieces, voila, a Wabi Sabi home! (Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/professionals/interior-designers/kaizen-architecture">Kaizen Architecture</a>)&nbsp; 5. &nbsp; &nbsp;Give It A Go! <iframe scrolling="no" name="__tt_embed__v7244120213963279618" sandbox="allow-popups allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox allow-scripts allow-top-navigation allow-same-origin" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed/v2/7244120213963279618?lang=en-US&autoplay=1&mute=1" style="width: 100%; height: 680px; display: block; visibility: unset; max-height: 550px;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe>Source: Tiktok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@sixidesasia/video/7244120213963279618" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@sixidesasia</a> Wabi Sabi is a beautiful and unique interior design style that celebrates imperfection and the beauty of natural materials. It is a philosophy that values simplicity, understated elegance, and the beauty of objects that have a story to tell. By incorporating Wabi Sabi into your own interior design, you can create a space that is not only beautiful, but also be full of interesting narratives! So why not give it a try and see how you can incorporate this unique and inspiring style into your own home?

If you had been doing some serious research about interior design styles, chances are you will come across names like “Japandi”, “Muji Look” or maybe you’ve heard of “Wabi Sabi?” 

WABI SABI Is Not WASABI Design la

1.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Nope It Is Not The Same ThingInterior design is all about creating a space that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. There are many different styles of interior design, but two of the most popular are contemporary and modern. While these terms are often used interchangeably, and the dictionary does not offer much help as they both are defined the same way. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1686143402860-Image+1-01.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Turns out that you can&rsquo;t depend on the dictionary from to define these 2 different styles In the design world, these two actually refer to two distinct design styles. Today, we&#39;ll have to take a time machine and explore the difference between contemporary and modern interior design (turns out modern style isn&rsquo;t as modern as you would think). 2.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Modern Is From The Past<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1686143437024-%C2%A9_FLC-ADAGP_-_ANTOINE_MERCUSOT_restaurationFran%C3%A7ois_Chatillon_%2824%29.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">You will never guess that the picture above was designed and built in the 1930s by architect, Le Courbusier (Source :&nbsp;<a href="https://www.archdaily.com/904426/le-corbusiers-restored-parisian-apartment-opened-to-the-public" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Arch Daily</a>) First, let&#39;s take a look at modern interior design. Modern design emerged in the early 20th century, and to be absolutely exact, from 1924 - 1945 (<a href="http://designkmg.weebly.com/design-movements.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Design Technology</a>) and was heavily influenced by the Industrial Revolution (<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Industrial_Revolution">Wikipedia</a>). Basically a bunch of architects decided that they wanted to revolutionise the way design was always overly ornate and for the rich. The modern movement is exactly the opposite of colourful, intricate and ornate embellishment that was prevalent during that time.&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1686143556496-teaser_5_iconic_designers.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Iconic Modernist furniture from the 1920s-30s (<a href="https://www.archdaily.com/982629/5-iconic-designers-and-their-furniture-milestones-aalto-gray-le-corbusier-van-der-rohe-and-panton" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Arch Daily</a>)&nbsp; As such Modern style, as an opposite to the former is characterized by clean lines, minimalism, and a focus on function over form. In modern design, the emphasis is on simplicity, with the use of neutral colors and natural materials like wood and stone. The furniture is often made of metal or glass, and may have a futuristic look to it. 3.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Contemporary Is Now!Well not exactly now as in present, but compared to Modern style, Contemporary interior design, on the other hand, is a more recent style that emerged in the latter half of the 20th century, more specifically around the 1970s.&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1686143607694-4677265985654-AIDesign-Project1-02.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">A fine example of a contemporary design home, designed and built by AI Design (Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/spaces/view/aidesign-ultimate-luxury-sembawang-road">Ai Design</a>)&nbsp; It is characterized by a more eclectic mix of styles, with a focus on individuality and personal expression. Contemporary design borrows elements from many different styles, including modern, art deco, and even traditional design. The colours used in contemporary design are often bold and bright, and the furniture is often more organic in shape. 4.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Key DifferencesSo, what are some of the key differences between modern and contemporary design? Let&#39;s take a closer look.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1686143634618-7850734574591-LATODesign-Project5-04.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The Modern colour palette is often monochromatic and neutral seen here, designed by Lim Ai Tong Architects (Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/spaces/view/latodesigner-modern-attap-house-at-48-jalan-sukachit">Lim Ai Tiong Architects</a>)&nbsp; &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Colour Palette: The colour palette is one of the most noticeable differences between modern and contemporary design. Modern design tends to use a neutral colour palette, with lots of white, black, and gray. On the other hand, contemporary design uses more bold and bright colours, such as red, blue, and green. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1686149523608-1079919-feature-M.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">A Contemporary style furniture designed by Bo Concept (Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boconcept.com/zh-sg/stores/find-your-local-store/singapore/boconcept-paragon" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">BoConcept</a>)&nbsp; &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Furniture: The furniture used in modern design is often made of metal or glass, and has a very minimalist look to it. In contrast, contemporary design features furniture that is often more organic in shape, with curves and angles that give it a more natural feel. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Materials: Modern design often uses natural materials like wood and stone, while contemporary design may use more synthetic materials like plastic and acrylic. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Patterns: Modern design tends to be very minimalist, with few patterns or textures. Contemporary design, on the other hand, often uses bold patterns and textures to create a more dynamic and interesting space. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Accessories: In modern design, less is often more when it comes to accessories. Contemporary design, on the other hand, embraces accessories as a way to add personality and character to a space. 6.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Minimalism vs Individuality <iframe scrolling="no" name="__tt_embed__v6828268207359413509" sandbox="allow-popups allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox allow-scripts allow-top-navigation allow-same-origin" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed/v2/7236928552451558657?lang=en-US&autoplay=1&mute=1" style="width: 100%; height: 680px; display: block; visibility: unset; max-height: 550px;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe>&nbsp;Source: Tiktok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@sixidesasia/video/7236928552451558657" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@sixidesasia</a> In conclusion, while modern and contemporary design share some similarities, they are two distinct styles with their own unique characteristics. Modern design is characterized by minimalism, a focus on function, and a neutral colour palette, while contemporary design is all about individuality, personal expression, and a more eclectic mix of styles. Whether you prefer the clean lines of modern design or the bold colours and patterns of contemporary design, there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to interior design. Ultimately, it&#39;s all about creating a space that reflects your own personal style and makes you feel at home.

Interior design is all about creating a space that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.

Isn't Modern And Contemporary Design Style The Same Thing?

1. &nbsp; &nbsp;It&rsquo;s Sizzling HotWell, well, well, it looks like Singapore has turned up the heat for the past two months! With temperatures soaring higher than the tallest building (we&rsquo;re exaggerating) in the city-state, it&#39;s safe to say that we&#39;ve been sweating more than a politician during an election campaign. From ice cream trucks working overtime to air conditioning units struggling to keep up, it seems like everyone is feeling the burn. So grab a cold drink, find some shade, and let&#39;s talk about this sizzling hot heatwave that just won&#39;t quit! 2. &nbsp; &nbsp;Why Is It So Hot?<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1685527299672-Image+1-01.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">According to Wikipedia, Singapore reached a whopping 36.1&deg;C in Admiralty on 14th April, the highest temperature recorded in the country since the start of 2023. But in May, that record was broken when the temperature reached 36.2 &deg;C in Choa Chu Kang on 12th May. (Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2023_Asia_heat_wave#:~:text=Singapore%20reached%2036.1%20%C2%B0C,Chu%20Kang%20on%2012%20May" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">2023 Asia Heat Wave, Wikipedia</a>)&nbsp; While we had some short showers recently, it did not help much as pedestrians crossing the roads in the day, can still feel the punishing heat from the relentless sun. Managing Director, Mr. Jonathan Tan of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/vendors/brands/prism">Prism+</a>&nbsp;shared that they had seen a significant spike and demand in their range of cooling devices over the past month.&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1685527349457-Aircon-Image1.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><a href="https://prismplus.sg/products/prism-zero" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Prism+ ZERO Smart Air Conditioner</a> &ldquo;Orders for our smart air conditioner system, the&nbsp;<a href="https://prismplus.sg/products/prism-zero" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Prism+ Zero</a>, have gone up over a hundred percent in April compared to previous months! Even our Oasis Ceiling Fans have seen a fifty percent increase in orders!&rdquo; Said Mr. Tan.&nbsp; Mr. Tan added, &ldquo;We have seen an increasing urgency from consumers opting to purchase without waiting for site surveys, further amplifying the current state most users are in.&rdquo; Experts are saying that all this heat is due to El-nino but no one has come out to talk about how we can heat-proof our spaces or our homes. &nbsp;Therefore, and as usual, we at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sixides.com/">SIXiDES</a>&nbsp;are taking the lead to talk about how good passive design combined with mechanical cooling can play a part making you cool, literally! 3. &nbsp; &nbsp;What Is Passive Design Or Cooling?<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1685527404707-Image+1-02.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> As an advocate of sustainability, I am a firm believer of employing passive methods to cool down a space. This refers to the use of natural elements and features to maintain comfortable temperatures within a home, without the need for active cooling systems such as air conditioners or fans. This approach to design takes into account factors such as, to create a living space that is naturally cool and comfortable in hot weather. By reducing the need for energy-intensive cooling systems, passive design can help to lower energy bills, reduce carbon emissions, and create a more sustainable and eco-friendly home. But let&rsquo;s assume your home is facing the west sun, a lot of shading is not available, many of the ID and renovation work had been done long ago, what else can we do to beat the heat? 4. &nbsp; &nbsp;Methods To Keep CoolHere are some passive design/d&eacute;cor suggestions combined with mechanical methods to keep cool and still lower your electrical bills.&nbsp; &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Choose light-colored materials: Light-colored materials such as cotton, linen, and silk reflect light and heat, making them cooler to the touch and more comfortable to sit or lie on. As such if your sofa is in a dark coloured fabric or leather, consider getting a white silk or chiffon sofa cover or drape it in a light colour cotton fabric. This will make the sitting more bearable as the sofa fabrics tend to trap heat and especially more so if they are darker in colour. &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Optimize your room layout: Rearrange your furniture to optimize the flow of air in your space. This is to encourage cross ventilation. Many HDB dwellers always like to open their main door and windows, this helps the wind to travel into the space. As such look at whether you have big furniture obstructing this cross ventilation from happening. If so, try shifting them. To optimise even further, you can also tap on ceiling and floor standing fans to circulate and boost moving air throughout the room. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1685527444084-top-view-boards-mdf-material+%281%29.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp; Use natural materials: If budget allows and you are also looking at changing your furniture, consider natural materials such as wicker, rattan, or bamboo for your new furniture. These materials not only will help you achieve the &ldquo;Japandi&rdquo; look, (<a href="https://www.sixides.com/articles/why-is-everyone-trending-japandi">Read More</a>) but it can also help you keep your space cool. These materials are porous and allow air to circulate, which helps to lower the temperature. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1685527484120-woman-wore-orange-gloves-planted-trees-house.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp; Add plants: Believe it or not plants can help regulate the temperature in your home by absorbing heat and releasing moisture into the air. You can choose plants that are known for their cooling properties such as monstera, snake plants, ferns, and aloe vera. However, don&rsquo;t expect one small table sized pot of money plant is going to help bring the temperature down a few degrees. For this to work, you need quite a few pots of mid-sized plants to dress up the space. If you have a green thumb, consider this option as it will also enhance the visual appeal to the space as well! &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Add shades: If your current windows are dressed in roller blinds or venetian blinds, these blinds will not perform much in blocking the heat away. Consider changing them by using light-colored curtains, drapes, or shades. If you have a balcony, you may consider zip track blinds or bamboo chick blinds. Balconies are already designed to give you that extra shade, when you add another layer of shading using the chicks, the temperature will drop even further. If you are gunning for the tropical look in your balcony, try using large potted plants to create more natural shade. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1685527499809-Image+1-03.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">&nbsp;&bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Air Con and fans: The ideal sustainable temperature for your AC should be set at 25 &deg;C if you want to be prudent with your AC bills but we all know this is hardly a comfortable temperature and almost all of us are guilty of dropping the temperature as low as possible. One way we can make 25 &deg;C bearable is to consider placing a standing fan in an oscillating mode directly below the path of the AC&rsquo;s air flow coming from the vent. As cold air settles and lands near the back of the fan, the fan intervenes and acts as a &ldquo;boost&rdquo; to push the cool air further as opposed to letting the cold air settle on the ground. If you have a ceiling fan, this method will be even better as the circulation combined with the AC will help make the space cool down faster without the need to lower the temperature below 25 &deg;C! Brands like Prism+ has features on their Smart Air Conditoners (<a href="https://prismplus.sg/products/prism-zero" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Prism+ Zero</a>) and their Smart ceiling fans (<a href="https://prismplus.sg/products/prism-oasis" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Prism+ Oasis</a>) such as a &ldquo;Routine Feature&rdquo; to help users schedule their cooling devices to tun on/off. This means users can plan to stay ahead of the heat curve. There is even a &ldquo;Geolocation&rdquo; feature that allows the device to detect the user if they are within the facility or leaving it to make sure to never forget to power off the device/s. Such a useful tool to deal with costs while keeping cool! 5. &nbsp; &nbsp;Heat Is A State Of Mind!I used to recall my friends telling me that feeling hot is a state of mind. The true meaning to this is not about feeling chill or calm. That is utter nonsense. In truth, there are many ways we can innovate and think of how to keep cool even with the current conditions of your home. Think creatively and try ways to beat the heat using passive cooling ideals. This is definitely a &ldquo;cool&rdquo; idea! Now if you want to adopt all the above strategies and still have some mechanical cooling devices, you can approach Prism+ for a friendly consultation in many of their experience centres popping up in Singapore! Their Smart AC and Smart Ceiling Fans are on promotion now with substantial warranties. There are free gifts and purchase on purchase deals, right now! (<a href="https://prismplus.sg/products/prism-zero" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Prism+ Zero</a>&nbsp;&amp;&nbsp;<a href="https://prismplus.sg/products/prism-oasis" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Prism+ Oasis</a>)

Well, well, well, it looks like Singapore has turned up the heat for the past two months! With temperatures soaring higher than the tallest building (we’re exaggerating) in the city-state, it's safe to say that we've been sweating more than a politician during an election campaign.

Beat The Heat With Interior Design

1. &nbsp; &nbsp;STYLES COME AND GOJust when I thought that the long lived Scandinavian interior design theme is phasing out, the world decided to prolong it&rsquo;s live a little longer by coming up with a fusion concept called, &lsquo;Japandi.&rsquo;&nbsp; Suffice to say, the interior design world has seen a number of styles come and go over the years, but one that has been gaining popularity in recent years is this lethal combo of east meets west, Japanese Zen fused with Scandinavian vibes, known as the Japandi style. This style is has been embraced by homeowners and designers alike. Let&rsquo;s explore the rise of Japandi style in interior design and discuss why it has become so popular. 2. &nbsp; &nbsp;LET&rsquo;S DIVE DEEPER<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1684461611743-Japandi.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">East + West, Zen + Scandinavian = Japandi. Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/trends/g29252196/hardwood-floor-colors-trends/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Elle Decor</a> So we know that Japandi is a fusion style like your Miso flavoured Aglio &nbsp;Spaghetti, at first glance, seem very different from each other. Scandinavian design is known for its minimalist and functional approach, while Japanese design is often associated with intricate details and natural materials. However, both styles share a love for simplicity, clean lines, and a focus on natural materials. The fusion of these two styles creates a unique aesthetic that is both calming and inviting.&nbsp; So why has Japandi style become so popular in recent years? One reason could be that it offers a sense of serenity in a world that is often chaotic and overwhelming. The clean lines and natural materials used in Japandi style create a sense of calm and relaxation, which is especially important in a time where many people are spending more time at home and looking for ways to create a peaceful environment. Japandi style brings the simplicity of Scandinavian design and the warmth of Japanese design together in a way that feels both modern and timeless. 3. &nbsp; &nbsp;VERY SUITABLE FOR SINGAPORE AND APARTMENT LIVING<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1684461659483-1534263203568-ABCD-ChaiChee-7.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Notice the Scandi vibes, the minimal approach and the zen like stillness in the design, image by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/professionals/interior-designers/a-blue-cube-design">A Blue Cube Design</a> Another reason for the rise of Japandi style is that it is highly adaptable to a variety of spaces and lifestyles. Whether you live in a small apartment or a large house, Japandi style can be incorporated into your home. The neutral color palette and minimalist approach to design make it easy to integrate Japandi elements into any space. You feel very serene and calm due to its colour palette, and this is especially important, in hot tropical Singapore. Additionally, Japandi style is not limited to a specific age group or demographic, making it very accessible option even for my 70 year old mother, who is in love with this style! 4. &nbsp; &nbsp;THEN HOW TO GO ABOUT CREATING THIS LOOK?One of the key features of Japandi style is the use of natural materials. Both Scandinavian and Japanese design place a strong emphasis on using natural materials such as wood, stone, and bamboo. These materials not only add warmth and texture to a space but also create a connection to nature. It is always ideal to incorporate natural materials into our homes can provide a sense of earthly grounding (pun intended).&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1684461692429-Image+2.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The Japandi Material and Mood Board, source&nbsp;<a href="https://stylesourcebook.com.au/style-edit/the-ultimate-guide-to-creating-a-japandi-style-home" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Style Source Book</a> When it comes to color, Japandi style typically uses a neutral palette of whites, grays, and blacks, with occasional pops of muted colors such as sage green or blush pink. This color palette creates a sense of calm and allows the natural materials used in the space to shine. The use of muted colors also adds a sense of sophistry and elegance to the space. In terms of furniture and decor, Japandi style favors minimalism and simplicity. Furniture pieces are often low to the ground and have clean lines, while decor items are kept to a minimum. The focus is on quality over quantity, with each piece being carefully chosen for its form and function. This approach to design not only creates a clean and uncluttered space but also promotes a sense of mindfulness and intentionality.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1684461749807-4270273424345-CARPENTER-PROJECTA-04.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The Japandi look with simple, unpretentious treatment featured in this project by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/professionals/interior-designers/carpenters">The Carpenters</a> Japandi style also places a strong emphasis on lighting. Natural light is preferred whenever possible, with large windows and skylights being a common feature in Japandi homes. When artificial lighting is used, it is often in the form of soft, warm lighting that creates a cozy atmosphere. Lighting fixtures are kept simple and understated, with a focus on functionality rather than ornateness. 5. &nbsp; &nbsp;SO, THERE&rsquo;S A REASON WHY IT IS TRENDING LAH&hellip;&nbsp;<iframe scrolling="no" name="__tt_embed__v6828268207359413509" sandbox="allow-popups allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox allow-scripts allow-top-navigation allow-same-origin" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed/v2/7234014899897158913?lang=en-US&autoplay=1&mute=1" style="width: 100%; height: 680px; display: block; visibility: unset; max-height: 550px;">&nbsp;</iframe>Source: Tiktok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@sixidesasia/video/7234014899897158913?_r=1&_t=8cNrsrcrS1y" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@sixidesasia</a> In my opinion and findings, &nbsp;Japandi style has become popular in interior design due to its calming aesthetic, adaptability, and emphasis on natural materials, neutral colors, and minimalism. This fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian design elements allows for a unique and timeless look that can be incorporated into any space or lifestyle. Japandi style promotes mindfulness and intentionality in design, creating a sense of serenity in our homes. As long as my Mama is happy, I am happy!

STYLES COME AND GO Just when I thought that the long lived Scandinavian interior design theme is phasing out, the world decided to prolong it’s live a little longer by coming up with a fusion concept called, ‘Japandi.’ 

Why Is Everyone Trending ‘JAPANDI’?

1. &nbsp; &nbsp;WE SPEND 80-90% OF OUR LIVES INDOORS<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1680660349448-energetic-dancer-dynamic-glamorous-light.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Have you ever thought about it? Modern living and rapid urbanization actually mean that we are spending more and more time indoors. Be it at home, at work and even at play, when we visit malls, dine out or go clubbing. All these environments are mostly designed and built by Architects, Designers, Builders and Contractors. But have you ever wondered whether these interiors and spaces were designed and built in a green, sustainable and healthy manner? 2. &nbsp; &nbsp;WHY DOES GOING GREEN MATTER?By now, most would have known that when people inhabit a space long enough, we will form patterns of usage. Some of these are simply bad habits. Like the running of taps when we brush our teeth or the use of high energy consuming devices such as air conditioners throughout the day. Careful planning, specifications of certain efficient products can mitigate these bad habits and Designers can quite literally help direct inhabitants to form new and good habits. To cite an example, the Designer can simply design the plug points above the study desk, such that it becomes more accessible for inhabitants to switch off or unplug their devices when appliances are not in used. A simple idea, but completely doable design intervention! &nbsp; It&rsquo;ll ultimately challenge the Designer and Occupants to put their brains together to design a new lifestyle! This is just a micro perspective of just one home. If we start to scale this up, and see this from a combined point of view, one home at a time, one block of occupants, one neighbourhood of well-designed homes with good habits, what kind of impact do you think it will do for the society and for the environment?&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1680660366151-usb-charging-gadgets-blurred-background-room-close-up-concept-technology-everyday-life.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> 3. &nbsp; &nbsp;RENOVATION WASTE AND INTERNAL AIR QUALITYWe tried looking for data on renovation waste in Singapore but could not find enough information on this. What we do know, is the yearly volume of renovation work, which totals about 55,000 -60,000 homes annually. Now if we attribute a conservative speculation that 1,000kgs (1.0 ton) of debris and waste to each of this home renovation project, we are looking at a potential of 55,000 to 60,000 tons of renovation waste generated annually, enough to fill 22-30 Olympic swimming pools! &nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1680660407189-Renovation+waste-01.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Beyond this, there is still the greater concern that more can be done to regulate the use of harmful solvent, adhesives, materials and wood that has high traces of formaldehyde (HCHO) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) introduced into the interior spaces by the renovation work.&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1680660380437-Sick+Building+Syndrome.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Sick Building Syndrome &ndash; affecting many of us in bad air circulation spaces As we grow reliant on the use &nbsp;mechanical ventilation and cooling, many inhabitants restrict good airflow thus disallowing the purging of bad air and off gassing of these VOCs. This results in inhabitants feeling sick and uncomfortable in the interior space, resulting in what we call, a &ldquo;Sick Building Syndrome&rdquo;. 4. &nbsp; &nbsp;MORE INTERVENTION CAN BE DONEAt the end of the day, Designers design and build these spaces for occupants. Their needs go beyond the use of space but also its impact on environment, its impact on the health and wellness of its occupants. More, can be done from the interventions by Designers who follow these steps to help build a better environment: &nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1680660334158-Singapore+Eco+Labels.png" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Singapore Eco labels for products, appliances and fittings &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;USE GREEN MATERIALS (SGBCP, Green Label, Green Mark Products, FSC Certified wood etc)&bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;CONSIDER ENERGY AND WATER EFFICIENCY &ndash; this goes beyond the efficiency labels on appliances and fittings. Study the usage patterns and implement strategies to reduce use and optimise efficiency as well.&bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY &ndash; Specify products that are recycled, reuse whenever possible, consider the impact on the environment when we hack and throw.&bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;INDOOR AIR QUALITY &ndash; allow enough time for the purging of toxicants and VOCs after the renovation. Do not introduce elements that will harm the inhabitants in the long run. 5. &nbsp; &nbsp;DO MORE AS A DESIGNERFor homeowners who would like to hire a certified green interior designer, look out for our designers with the GID (Green Interior Designer) badges. These designers (<a data-fr-linked="true" href="https://www.sixides.com/professionals/interior-designers">https://www.sixides.com/professionals/interior-designers</a>) undertook our Green Interior Design course that was conducted at the Singapore Institute of Technology and are equipped to help in designing a green and healthy home!&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1680660474618-Graduants.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Graduants of the first batch of Green interior designers listed on SIXiDES panel of Designers Our work as Designers does not end when we hand over the renovation project to our Clients. In fact, the moment they start to use the space, is the day that the occupants interact with the Designers&rsquo; true designed intent. This is the remit and responsibility of the 21st century Designers today. Don&rsquo;t just make beautiful spaces that are good to look at but are really toxic to reside in. If we take into consideration their lifestyle preferences and implement green ideas into the project, the occupants will continue to enjoy the space for many beautiful and healthy years to come.&nbsp; Interested in taking part in the Green Interior Design Course? Click on this link&nbsp;<a class="fr-strong" href="https://www.singaporetech.edu.sg/sitlearn/courses/business-communication-design/interior-design-course-singapore-residences-sustainable-healthy-interiors-basic">HERE</a>&nbsp;to apply!

Have you ever thought about it? Modern living and rapid urbanization actually mean that we are spending more and more time indoors.

Why We Need Green Interior Design

1. &nbsp; &nbsp;THE INFAMOUS/FAMOUS HDB RED LOBB<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1677819383891-article84-1.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">A red-themed lift lobby at a HDB block in Tampines has been spooking residents. Image Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.zaobao.com.sg/realtime/singapore/story20230301-1368272">Lianhe Zaobao</a> The last few days, the internet was buzzing with sinister looking lift lobbies and with bright red colour splashing our social feeds. Some creative memes came out, from Ah Long getting creative with their scare tactics to a scene from Residential Evil. Love it or hate it, as a designer, I find this whole episode amusing and felt compelled to share some viewpoints about the whole RED LOBBY saga. 2. &nbsp; &nbsp;UNDERSTANDING INTERIOR &amp; COLOR PSYCHOLOGYLet us talk about the psychology of interior design. &nbsp;This field of study is also known as Environmental Psychology. These 2 disciplines go hand in hand and in the last decade or so, this topic has been receiving more attention. &nbsp;No matter what the space &ndash; your bedroom, the office, yoga studio, doctor&rsquo;s office, or a criminal court &nbsp; &ndash; all the objects and elements found in a space will affect you in one way or another. Let us talk a little about home design and we often hear people talk about residential design is all about bringing out the personality of the homeowners and manifest it in the spaces we design. So, when an interior designer works on a project, we, the designer will have to perform some psychologist work by understanding the personalities of the occupants. For example, a friendly and social person may want a warm coloured dining room to eat with family and friends, whereas someone who is a little introverted may prefer to recluse and might choose a dark grey room with accent RGB lights to cosy up and watch movies.&nbsp; In home design, we need to focus on a few main things, let me list them down: &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Colours&nbsp;- Colour is a big part of how we experience the world. &nbsp;Colours have a big impact on mood. They can promote feelings from tranquillity to anxiety. Shades like yellow, orange, and green tend to promote communication and socialization. Darker colours such as purple, deep blue, red, etc., can promote a sad and gloomy mood. However, all these shades can promote opposite feelings depending on the appropriate environment. &bull;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Perception&nbsp;- The best interior designers play with their space. They see things differently and know how to trick the normal eye with their keen perception of space. If you train your mind to analyse a space in a certain way and choose all the correct colours and elements, a room can come across as far more spacious and luxurious than its actual square footage. For example, a small home layout should probably have at least one mirror wall. A room that does not crowd you and gives you room to think and breathe can contribute to your mental wellbeing. 3. &nbsp; &nbsp;RED REALLY SO SCARY MEH?<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1677819421879-article84-2.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Image source:&nbsp;<a href="https://stomp.straitstimes.com/singapore-seen/red-themed-tampines-north-blocks-like-horror-movie-hdb-to-tone-it-down-after-feedback" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://stomp.straitstimes.com/singapore-seen/red-themed-tampines-north-blocks-like-horror-movie-hdb-to-tone-it-down-after-feedback</a> <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1677819453343-article84-3.png" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Observation of the lobbies from the architectural standpoint (Image source:&nbsp;<a data-fr-linked="true" href="https://cnalifestyle.channelnewsasia.com/trending/tampines-greenvines-bto-red-colour-scheme-349641" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://cnalifestyle.channelnewsasia.com/trending/tampines-greenvines-bto-red-colour-scheme-349641</a>) In the case of the RED LOBBY, we know that they were following some nature theme like the colours of fruits and the surrounding environment. From the architectural standpoint, we believe the architecture was designed such that the column of lobbies seen from the side of the building, will highlight the building&rsquo;s unique colour scheme. From that scale, this unique approach, lends a breath of fresh air into the otherwise &lsquo;blocky&rsquo; looking flat. However, when the human approaches the lobby and is inside the smaller space. The scale changes and the space then becomes more intimate. A combination of low ceiling, soft, moody lights suddenly made the otherwise dramatic looking lobby become eerie and creepy. Perhaps what could have been addressed, aside from the painting of walls and ceiling in white to fix the problem, the authorities could use lighting to make it less dim and more inviting.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1677819488655-article84-4.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Photos of ZOHE All Red Booth design in HOMEDEC event KL, designed by QUADE STUDIO (Images courtesy of QUADE STUDIO, KL) We recently came back from a home renovation event in Kuala Lumpur and were enthused by one outstanding booth designed by Quade Studio. In our opinion, the ZOHE booth by Quade was intended to shock, excite and to solicit a response. Perfect for situations like in an exhibition or for a launch of a product. They had everything coated in red, like their toilet bowl, shower head and bed sheets. These &lsquo;extreme&rsquo; measures got our attention and much like the RED LOBBY, it got people to talk about it! <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1677819743448-article84-10.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1677819750182-article84-11.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Dramatic splashes of red in the ZOHE booth by QUADE STUDIO (Images courtesy of QUADE STUDIO, KL) 4. &nbsp; &nbsp;RED IN DESIGNFor many designers, we have been using red for situations where we want to get attention and to &lsquo;spice&rsquo; up a mood. This is also why we have things like &ldquo;red carpets&rdquo;, to add a touch of drama and excitement. In the case of the RED LOBBY, perhaps the drama was too much for many Mamas.&nbsp; Our best advice if anyone is bold and passionate to try red in a residential space is to use it with caution. Your safest bet is to have your red in a muted or darkened tone as opposed to a spicy, bright red one. This will help calm the nerves and if used in a bedroom can be quite cosy and luxurious looking. Do also remember to use it sparingly like an accent or have them on accessories as opposed to painting all the surfaces. Most designers will also approach it like a highlighted wall approach. This adds a focal point to a room and can set the mood and tone very quickly once you step into the space. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1677819811907-article84-12.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Used sparingly, like touches of colours in a room or as a highlighted wall, it really does add drama to a space. <iframe scrolling="no" name="__tt_embed__v6828268207359413509" sandbox="allow-popups allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox allow-scripts allow-top-navigation allow-same-origin" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed/v2/7208831975279398146?lang=en-US&autoplay=1&mute=1" style="width: 100%; height: 680px; display: block; visibility: unset; max-height: 550px;">&nbsp;</iframe> 5. &nbsp; &nbsp;RED IS OK &ndash; BUT YOUR ID MUST BE TRAINED IN PSYCHOLOGY AS WELLSo, there you go, psychology and interior design works are linked in so many ways. Colours and scale of a space can quite literally make or break the design of a space. All of us playing and experimenting with colours in an interior space should always pay heed and be mindful of the occupants and their uses. Intimate spaces tend to have an effect to psychologically &lsquo;shrink&rsquo; the space, and for most people that is why they tend to prefer white and neutral colours to &lsquo;free up&rsquo; a space. In the end, I think it is important for interior designers to be mindful and infuse the power of positivity and happiness in the spaces we design or else we can end up sending the shivers down peoples&rsquo; spines. &nbsp;If we do it right, we should reduce stress and make people happier and healthier. We do it wrong, then it will make national headlines!

The last few days, the internet was buzzing with sinister looking lift lobbies and with bright red colour splashing our social feeds. Some creative memes came out, from Ah Long getting creative with their scare tactics to a scene from Residential Evil.

Why The HDB Red Lobby Freaked Everyone Out?

1. &nbsp; &nbsp;AN AI DESIGNER?With all the talk about AI bots like CHAT GPT, Discord&rsquo;s Mid Journey, every designer we know, had been talking to us about AI and whether our AI will ever replace their job and take over their livelihood. Since SIXiDES has an AI function in our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixides.com/equote" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EQuote</a>, I thought it would be good to discuss this topic.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1677808073023-automation-worker-concept-with-3d-rendering-ai-robot-working-smart-office.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> 2. &nbsp; &nbsp;WHAT IS THE BIG DEAL ABOUT AI?AI or Artificial Intelligence has been making huge strides in many industries. In Singapore, the most common AI Bot we know of, is the pop-up bot that greets us in many of the government agencies&rsquo; portals, &lsquo;Jamie&rsquo;. You either love her or hate her, but &lsquo;Jamie&rsquo; has been silently learning your type of questions, fielding your requests, and making her adjustments so that she can better serve the queries. Further to that, she is also efficiently sifting out different type of queries and either giving prepared answers or directing them to relevant departments in the agencies to tackle the queries. You cannot really deny how efficient it is and how much manpower is reduced in handling daily queries from users. With advancements in technology, it is natural to wonder if AI can eventually replace human interior designers. Can a &ldquo;Jamie&rdquo; AI Interior designer replace a real human Jamie interior designer? Our short answer to this is, NO, for now. It is unlikely that AI can completely replace the expertise and creativity of a human interior designer.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads/article83-gif.gif" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">How SIXIDES&rsquo; Equote reads the images and identify the design themes. 3. &nbsp; &nbsp;SO WHAT CAN AI DO IN INTERIOR DESIGN?The current AI technology can assist interior designers in many ways, such as providing design recommendations, generating 3D models and renders, and as well as customer data. Some powerful AI-powered software can also help designers identify new design trends, market preferences, and streamline workflow processes such as project management. With these tools, designers can create more personalized and efficient designs that meet specific needs of their clients. To cite an example, we can use AI to predict how many light fixtures and what kind of brightness is required for a space that will be inhabited by elderlies. As AI collects data from a broad set of users, this useful AI generated suggestion, will assist the designer to better plan for the lighting design of a home meant for multiple generations! 4. &nbsp; &nbsp;SO, AI IS NOT OMNI-POTENT?&nbsp;Despite the many advantages of AI in ID, there are still some limitations to the technology. For example. AI lacks the &lsquo;human touch&rsquo; that is essential to design work. As we all know, Interior design is more than just aesthetics, it is somewhat of art and science coming together. All designers had been trained to practice the saying, &ldquo;Form follows function.&rdquo; Designers are trained to use their creativity, intuition and their most important skill, empathy to design and make proposals that makes functional, aesthetical, and budgetary sense. This is something, no AI, now can replicate. A human designer can interpret a client&rsquo;s preferences and transform them into a unique and personalized design that reflects their personality and lifestyle. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1677762119320-Instant+AI.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Instant AI Generated renders from photos to dressed up renders Besides this, anyone who had gone through an interior design and renovation process will know that ID and renovation work, requires a certain level of commitment, collaboration, and communication that AI is still incapable of replicating. Can you imagine a building designed by an AI collaborating with an AI interior designer, or collaborating with an AI project manager? At this point in time, I cannot imagine if I would stay in such a building designed and built completely by AI. As of now, we are aware design feasibility is quite a dynamic process, and it involves the understanding and compliance of building codes, budgets etc. Human designers can build relationships with clients and communicate effectively, with empathy. These factors help create a positive and successful design experience!&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1677762149793-Image-01.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> 5. &nbsp; &nbsp;CONCLUSION IS&hellip;My take is that AI at best, is good at being efficient and filtering out certain data. Like the AI in our EQuote, it works as a tool for homeowners to use the tool to determine the cost of certain styles and looks. It helps provide perspective and speeds up the research process between the designer and the clients. In fact, members in the family making decisions for the home renovation, can also use the tool to do fast research. But make no mistake that the AI technology now, cannot replace the emotional connection between a designer and their client. Interior design and especially home related design work is really an intimate and personal experience, which only a human can build upon to establish trust and understanding. Only when these are met, then the human designer can produce works that reflects the emotional and personal preferences of the clients. While AI has many benefits and can enhance the ID process, it is still very unlikely that it will ever completely replace human interior designers. It can provide valuable insights and assistance, but it will always need a human to empathise and put themselves in the shoes of the clients. AI does not even have feet, much less put on shoes (pun intended). As of now, the best approach is for designers and clients to embrace AI technology as a tool to enhance the design experience. Its capabilities will become more and more essential in the design process, and we are all hoping that in the grand scheme of things, new and better design works will one day, really reflect the saying, &ldquo;Form following functions&rdquo; as modern interior designers adopt this hybrid approach of harnessing AI technology into their work.

With all the talk about AI bots like CHAT GPT, Discord’s Mid Journey, every designer we know, had been talking to us about AI and whether our AI will ever replace their job and take over their livelihood. Since SIXiDES has an AI function in our EQuote (embed link here), I thought it would be good to discuss this topic.

Can AI Ever Replace An Interior Designer?

1.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Yes I Am A Feng Shui Practitioner!Before anyone flags me and call me a con-man, I am truly a certified Feng Shui practitioner and here is my certificate of practice that I graduated from since the Singapore Feng Shui Centre, under the tutelage and mentorship of Grandmaster Vincent Koh, (one of the few Grandmasters in the world!) in 2010. As such, I have more than a decade of experience and practice in combining this ancient wisdom with our modern interior design living. In fact, I had come up with a modern way to fuse modernity into the classical art of Feng Shui. In this &ldquo;WORD FROM THE NERD&rdquo;, let me share how you can &ldquo;Huat&rdquo; a little bit more with 3 simple ways to activate or find the wealth spots in your home! <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1673573492888-article74-1.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib froala-align-middle">Astley&rsquo;s Certificate of Practice for Feng Shui 2.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Huat Is A Wealth Point?Simply put, in Feng Shui, a wealth point/location/spot/sector is an area of a home or shop or office that is associated with wealth , prosperity and abundance. You may be asking,&nbsp;&ldquo;How can a single location or spot in a space bring in luck or wealth? It does not make scientific sense at all!&rdquo;Let me try to explain this in the easiest and most modern way. Imagine you are a caveman now, and your residence is literally a cave. And in a cave, there are dark spots, dry spots, damp spots, airy spots and warm spots. Which means if you, the caveman, were to bring in firewood, would you place the woodpile at the dry spots or the damp spots? Would you start the fire at the dry spot or the damp spot?&nbsp;It is actually quite logical that if we want the best possible result for starting a fire, we would place the wood in the correct environment and yield the best possible outcome.&nbsp;Have you noticed that in restaurants, the cashier counters may have a tipping box for you to drop the spare coins in? If you just happen to not want to carry the coins, or you really want to tip the waiting crew, the tipping box will remind you to tip them. Or when you are making payment in Don Don Donki, they have a &ldquo;snaking&rdquo; pathway that they are lined with goods like titbits and snacks, for the purpose of making you do a last minute impulse purchase? <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1673573533110-article74-2.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib froala-align-middle">Payment at typical Don Don Donki stall So the idea of a tipping box, a bunch of impulse buying displays and a &ldquo;wealth spot&rdquo; acts in the same way. They are symbolic and are there to communicate a purpose like tipping or impulse buying. If used in an appropriate location, they can be very effective, for the same logic that you should start a fire on dry ground. The theory is similar.Hence in Feng Shui, many people take the symbolic aspects quite literally and place piggy banks or water features or even FU LU SHOU figurines at these wealth spots to activate the luck. Personally, I prefer that we take a modern approach and activate in the most subtle way like plants or decoration items to activate the wealth spots as opposed to putting figurines. It has to feel homogenous with the design and theme of the home. Remember that just like the wind, good Qi (luck energy) is not seen but felt. Therefore, it should be subtle and non-intrusive.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1673573555814-article74-3.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib froala-align-middle">Tips for a Scandinavian styled home: FU LU SHOU and a designer, Scandinavian design piggy bank. Ideally use elements or d&eacute;cor items that gel into your home design. If it sticks out like a sore thumb, then it is the wrong approach. 3.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The 3 Theories For Locating The Wealth PointsThere are many theories to locate your wealth points, but from this article, we&rsquo;ll be sharing 3 and they are:&nbsp; THEORY 1: HOME/SPACE BAGUA Simply locate the southeast location of your home. You do this by standing in the center of the home and using the compass to determine the location of the southeast. If it turns out that southeast happens to be a bathroom or a bedroom, then use the spot just before the bathroom or bedroom. However if the location is too crammed and not suitable to place any objects, move on to theory 2. <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1673587574164-article74-4.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib froala-align-middle">Location of Southeast is in the bedroom and the exterior of the bedroom is actually the entrance of the bathroom, therefore this is not suitable to use theory 1 THEORY 2 &ndash; SELF KUA&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1673574660127-article74-5.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib froala-align-middle">Self/life Kua number chart &ndash; find your name and note your Kua number &nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1673574675346-article74-6.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib froala-align-middle">East and West House Group Chart This one is actually quite easy too. Just take reference to the 2 charts above. Find your personal Kua number. Assuming you are a female born in 1999, then your Kua number is &ldquo;8&rdquo; and for you, the wealth area is Southwest (SW). THEORY 3 &ndash; VISIBLE WEALTH POINT <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1673587877282-article74-7.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib froala-align-middle">Visible wealth point (明财位) reference guid For Visible wealth point, it is very straightforward too! If your entrance is on the left, the right most corner is your wealth spot. If it is center, then it is actually the 2 corners. If the entrance is to the right then the opposite left is the wealth spot.&nbsp;&nbsp; <img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1673615061312-article74-8.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib froala-align-middle">Wealth spot is opposite the main entrance 4.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Simple And Easy Way to Use Feng ShuiOf course, there is a whole lot more to Feng Shui than just these 3 theories. This is just a simplified explanation of how you can bring in more luck for the new year, especially since the GST got increased by another percent, we need all the wealth we can get!Keep in mind these are just general guidelines and the specific enhancements will depend on individual needs and circumstances. My advice is to still consult a professional Feng Shui practitioner if you want a comprehensive audit of your home. But if you just want to experiment and have some fun, you can try these theories out and who knows, maybe you will huat nonstop after deploying these enhancement techniques! Happy New Year to (兔) you! Huat ah!

Before anyone flags me and call me a con-man, I am truly a certified Feng Shui practitioner and here is my certificate of practice that I graduated from since the Singapore Feng Shui Centre, under the tutelage and mentorship of Grandmaster Vincent Koh, (one of the few Grandmasters in the world!) in 2010.

Feng Shui Your Home For The CNY 2023!

<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1668994328684-men-showing-whatsapp-messenger-icon.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">&nbsp;1.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&ldquo;Ok Let&rsquo;s Start A WhatsApp Group Chat To Manage The Project!&rdquo;Raise your hands, if the last designer or renovator who did up your home or the one currently doing your home, suggested to you that they will create a group chat and manage your home renovation project with that app. Chances are, you may have been added into one of those groups that claims to be the answer to how your home renovation project is going to be managed. However, I&rsquo;ve always wondered, &ldquo;How can a communication tool perform complex project management stuffs?&rdquo; To me, it is akin to being in an email loop and just because everything and everyone is inside the loop, does not make that a project management tool.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1668994350611-business-people-using-smartphone-while-together.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> 2.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;More Than Just CommunicationAlmost all of us have in one way or another used WhatsApp at some point in our lives to communicate with our friends, family, and even colleagues. What makes WhatsApp so popular is how easy it is to exchange messages and photos with your connections. A user can be either the admin or the participant to a number of WhatsApp groups and communicate differently depending on the members and the scope of each group. It is really easy to use and effective, with no geographical constraints. But what about using WhatsApp in renovation projects? Could that work? The short answer is no. Good as it is, WhatsApp isn&rsquo;t enough for running complex projects, at best we can say it is a good communication tool, but not enough to manage a project. There are many shortcomings and I will share why.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1668994389401-builders-are-working-level-building.jpg" style="width: 100%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> 3.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Renovation Is ComplexTools like WhatsApp and Excel might be great for other uses like communications and data spreadsheets, but they can&rsquo;t offer you overall site understanding and control, that all homeowners experiencing the anxiety of renovation, are after.&nbsp; Since renovation is complex and its daily affairs require frequent and factual updates, people have turned to the most universal and accessible app to achieve this. Whatsapp became a natural choice for both client and renovator. The success of this, is assuming the project team updates frequently and honestly.&nbsp;In reality, the homeowner will have no real-time insight into the renovation project and there will be no clarity on who&rsquo;s accountable for what, which ultimately leads to slow and dysfunctional decision making.&nbsp; There are many drawbacks as well and below is just a small list of what we noticed: <ul><li>Chronologically, all data is stored in the WA group and you can have access to it, provided you were inside the group since day 1. Any new member joining the group will not have knowledge nor access to the information before he/she joined. This means new members serving in the project team will still be in the dark about many things.</li><li>Some people like to delete things on the app and phone so that they can free up storage on their device. This happens all the time especially when people are using older and or lower spec devices. The result to this is a loss of information and data.</li><li>Searching is difficult because while the groups exist, there is no way to compartmentalize the information so that we can retrieve the needed information easily and quickly. Users will have to rely on keywords to search, provided everyone remember the keywords.</li><li>It can be quite intrusive. Let&rsquo;s face it, we all need our personal space. Whether you are a homeowner or project person or a designer, when messages start coming in like site pictures or comments on site matters in the middle of a movie or a dinner date after work, it can be quite nerve wrecking and disruptive to whatever activity you are doing. The sender is anxiously waiting for the &lsquo;double blue ticks&rdquo; and the recipient is deciding whether to open the app to read the message. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</li></ul> 4.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The Truth Will Set Us Free!So, assuming your project guy or designer is zealous about the reports, updates regularly with photos of your site, it does not guarantee that your project is not headed for a disaster. As everyone has a smart phone these days, some designers or project managers have been known to rely on the contractors carrying out the work to update their progress or completion of the work by sending pictures to the designers. In turn, the designers will take these pictures and resend into the group chat that the homeowners have with the designer, giving the false impression that the designer had visited the site and has seen the progress and is updating with site pictures.&nbsp; The harm that this action does, is that the designer may not be there to see potential issues like workmanship, care for other parts of the home (ie. Painters painting the ceiling and leaving paint marks all over the new parquet flooring, because the relevant contractor only captured images of their area of work and not other areas).&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1668994415429-ghant+chart.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Gantt Chart on a tablet and smart phone On the other end of the spectrum, we have also seen how very detailed designers and project managers use softwares like Microsoft Project or Gantt Chart apps to post schedules on when certain jobs or components of a project will be executed. It can be quite useful to see the planning and scheduling but in the eyes of a homeowner or an outsider, this is rocket science to them. What&rsquo;s more, having a plan does not equate to execution, but it does seem to minimally provide some form of expectations to dates and deliverables.&nbsp; I remember being on a site with a few contractors once and we were all looking at the 35 item gantt chart on a smart phone and it was just impossible to shift left and right to see the scope of works.&nbsp;5.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;There Must Be A Better Way To Do ThisIn truth, many of the designers rely either on a project team to manage the site or they manage themselves. However, most firm may not have a dedicated project team and so the job of sales, drafting, preparing quotations, meetings with contractors on and off site for multiple projects all happening at the same time becomes too much to bear.But, what if we can make it simpler, easier to use, more effective and have a way to plan, store and communicate faster. I&rsquo;ve thought about this for quite some time and we at SIXiDES came up with a Project tool called, &ldquo;ALMANAC&rdquo;.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1668994428326-Al-ma-nac.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> The whole idea about scheduling and planning something is to create predictability. And all homeowners will agree with me and that renovation, is anything but predictable. Our Almanac has functions that tells the stages of the project and we used activity rings to indicate the progress.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1696401508432-almanac-highrez+%28small%29.jpg" style="width: 60%;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Screen capture of almanac beta But beyond that we figured that we needed more and so we added features into it to beef it up. Here are some of the things we added to the design of this tool: <ul><li>Easy to read activity rings. Anytime a part of the work gets completed, the rings will close and another ring will begin. These rings are easy to read, whether it&rsquo;s on your phone, your tablet or your desktop!</li><li>As the rings start getting closed. The system will trigger the designer to upload invoices to advance the project with progressive claims.</li><li>Uploading of all plans, 3D renders and site photos so that there is an archive of everything. If the homeowner or designer is on site or off site or even overseas, he/she can just whip out the smart phone or tablet and access the information all at their fingertips.</li><li>Weekly review &ndash; homeowners can grade the project execution every week. If the project continues to receive negative reviews, it will trigger red flags to the design firm&rsquo;s owner/s for immediate action and remedy.</li><li>Without being intrusive, both parties can leave notes or chats and even to do lists to each other so that messages or instructions can be acted upon expeditiously.</li></ul> These are, but some of the initial features of our Almanac Beta version. What we are seeking to do is to disrupt and change the way people project manage their home renovation. The idea is to make it understandable, predictable, and reliable. Since there is no precedent, the only way we see it, is to use our experience and to make a product that meets the needs of the consumers and service providers today. 6.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Last But Not Least&hellip;So now that we know Whatsapp is not a project management tool and we now know Almanac exist, why not give it a go? We can only get better with the product development when we have enough users trying it out and letting us learn from their user experience.&nbsp; What Are You Waiting For? Use eQuote Now, Select a Designer, And Begin Managing Your Renovation Projects With Almanac! <a href="https://www.sixides.com/equote"><img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1669039580476-Get+equte-01.png" style="width: 23%; text-align: middle;" class="fr-fic fr-dib froala-align-middle"></a> <iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SsNwbYgaqbw?autoplay=1&mute=1&wmode=opaque&rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" style="width: 100%;height: 45vw;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe>

Raise your hands, if the last designer or renovator who did up your home or the one currently doing your home, suggested to you that they will create a group chat and manage your home renovation project with that app.

Whatsapp Is Not A Project Management Tool For Your Home Renovation!

As an interior designer with over 25 years of experience, both domestically and regionally, I have noticed the phenomenon of consumers themselves replacing the role of an interior designer. In home related projects and in more economically advanced countries like Singapore, Malaysia and China.

Do We Really Still Need An Interior Designer?

In this article, we are going to be talking about what real interior designers do vs renovators. There’s a distinct difference and it's not just about qualifications. 

Spilling The Beans, 4 Things You Need to Know About The ID Industry in SG

Some designers continuously come up with awkward designs for their customers&rsquo; homes. Do they do it with the best intentions? Do they do it because it addresses functional and aesthetic needs? Are they just trying to cut costs and produce only the bare minimum for their clients? Today, let&#39;s dive deep and talk about the top 3 embarrassing Home ID mistakes that will also cost you dearly!&nbsp;&nbsp;No. 1: MARBLE LAMINATES (High Pressure Laminates)Please stop sticking marble looking laminates on your carpentry doors. That is not how marble or stone looking laminates should be used for interior design.&nbsp;To understand how these laminates should be used, we need to understand how the actual marble stone is used. In real world situations, designers and architects love to use marble; not only on the floor, but also on the walls as wall features.&nbsp;&nbsp;This kind of application is known as a highlighted treatment, where we draw the attention of the visitor to look and marvel at the wall feature. In many of these situations, designers will use big slabs and use a method of vein matching known as bookmatching.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1660201604898-1660201604898.jpeg" class="fr-fil fr-dib" style="width: 100%;">Photo Credit : Bookmatching by Hafary&nbsp;Bookmatched natural marble and stone is a notoriously expensive product, as the manufacturing process for it is time-consuming, labor-intensive and wasteful.&nbsp;&nbsp;The bookmatching technique can only be carried out using the finest quality marble, which has defining attributes of clarity and definition. One example is Statuario Venato, which has a clear white base and a few, very pronounced, strong brown-gray lines. Due to the colossal expense of bookmatched natural marble and stone, we don&rsquo;t see it very often. Hence, the rarity and value.&nbsp;&nbsp;On the other hand, we have these marble veins laminates&hellip; (sigh)&hellip;&nbsp;<img border="0" src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1660201604920-1660201604920.jpeg" class="fr-fil fr-dib" style="width: 100%;">Photo : Poor use of marble looking laminates on the cabinets&nbsp;These laminates look like the real thing. While there is nothing wrong in having laminates that are replicas of natural materials, like wood grain or stone, it looks tacky and awkward when the treatment or application is done incorrectly.&nbsp;Some designers choose to use these marble laminates on cabinet doors. In reality, such applications defy logic. Typically, a piece of marble is about 25mm thick. They are heavy and it is impossible to install real marble slabs onto the doors and use them like regular cabinet doors.&nbsp;&nbsp;For many, choosing to use replica materials is to create a certain sense of believability, as if it is real marble or stone. So use the marble laminates, just use them in the way that mimics how real marble slabs are used on wall features. Laminates from Lamitak even&nbsp;have&nbsp;a range that can be bookmatched!&nbsp;<img border="0" src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1660201604939-1660201604939.jpeg" alt="lamitax, bookmatched marble, lunigiana" class="fr-fil fr-dib" style="width: 100%;">&nbsp;Photo Credit :&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lookboxliving.com.sg/shopping/lamitak-creates-bookmatched-marble-metal-finishes-with-laminates" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lamitak Bookmatched laminates</a>&nbsp;Conventional marble laminate comes in a size of 1.2m by 2.4m, and some designs will require more than 1 piece to create a wall feature. But by using more pieces, the &ldquo;real marble&rdquo; illusion is broken and the overall result becomes a plasticky, repetitive look. In the natural world, a natural material&rsquo;s veins and patterns never repeat.&nbsp;&nbsp;By itself, there is absolutely nothing wrong with the marble laminate material. Just use it in a believable manner. Know the material size and play along those factors to achieve a dignified and realistic look.&nbsp;&nbsp;No. 2: Bad Ceiling (AKA &lsquo;L&rdquo; box ceiling in Singapore) Designs&nbsp;One of my personal pet peeves is how certain renovators, in the spirit of profit, will propose ill-serving and unsightly false ceiling designs. Some of these renovators will justify their designs by saying they have artisanal value, artistry to fabricate&hellip; yadah yadah.&nbsp;&nbsp;The reality is, these designs make the ceiling look atrocious, distracting and complicated. Sometimes, when paired with additional downlights, the whole ceiling just looks like a big mess.&nbsp;<img border="0" src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1660201604955-1660201604955.jpeg" class="fr-fil fr-dib" style="width: 100%;">Photo Credit :&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nobroker.in/blog/gypsum-false-ceiling/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Examples of messy looking ceiling designs</a>&nbsp;To maximize profit for their project, the unscrupulous renovator would propose the bare minimum amount of false ceiling box ups, for example only 300mm in width.&nbsp;&nbsp;Now, this small amount of false ceiling together with downlights, makes for a disproportionate composition. And when cutouts are made for services like air con blowers etc, that is when it looks really bad.&nbsp;&nbsp;When large downlights are installed, the visual composition becomes disproportionate. The light diffusion from the downlights are also severely compromised, as they are closer to the walls and not spreading to the&nbsp;center&nbsp;of the room.&nbsp;No. 3 &ndash; Weird TV Feature Walls And TV ConsolesAsian IDs may take the cake when it comes to coming up with the weirdest designs for TV feature walls and Consoles. Now, some of these designs border on being weird and whimsical. Some are just plain ridiculous.&nbsp;&nbsp;There is a common misconception that TV consoles must be symmetrical and balanced. While symmetry and aesthetics are important, so is proportion and treatment. If done wrongly, your TV Feature may end up looking like an altar.&nbsp; &nbsp;<img border="0" src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1660201604973-1660201604973.jpeg" class="fr-fil fr-dib" style="width: 100%;">Photo : Bad examples of TV consoles and feature walls&nbsp;&nbsp;There&rsquo;s also the 画蛇添足 (adding limbs to a snake) design strategies that these excessive renovators like to do for their clients&rsquo; homes. They add layers, odd forms, lights and experiment with different types of material all within the small wall space, which results in distracting the person from watching the TV&hellip; Designing a TV feature wall should complement your TV watching experience, rather than distract and take away from the experience!&nbsp;<img border="0" src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1660201604990-1660201604990.jpeg" class="fr-fil fr-dib" style="width: 100%;">Photo : Adding a lot of unnecessary details to the TV Feature walls&nbsp;What can you do about it?Some advice to mitigate the examples of bad design above:&nbsp;Less is more &ndash; in design, it&rsquo;s better to be plain and simple. Look at the space as a whole, as opposed to just looking at adding frills to one particular sector or furniture.&nbsp;Be natural &ndash; think logically about how natural finishes perform in the real world and when you use synthetics, always be believable in the execution of the design.&nbsp;Do more research &ndash; deep dive into how other successful designers implement their designs and do not be immediately convinced of the design offered by your renovator. Always start with a mood board and share your intended goals with your designer/renovator as early as possible to be aligned on the vision of your home.&nbsp;There are definitely more than 3 embarrassing design mistakes that homeowners and IDs/renovators are susceptible to. I look forward to sharing more next time in the next Word from the Nerd!

Some designers continuously come up with awkward designs for their customers’ homes. Do they do it with the best intentions? Do they do it because it addresses functional and aesthetic needs? 

The Poor, The Bad and The Weird: Top 3 Embarrassing Home Interior Design Mistakes

Why You Need Design?DESIGN RESULTS FROM human decisions. You can design with intention, which means you have a chance of doing it well, or you can let it happen, which means you&rsquo;ll probably fail. Design happens whether you&rsquo;re aware you&rsquo;re doing it or not paying attention. Everything is designed. Things are either badly designed or well designed.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1652956410573-1652956410573.jpeg" class="fr-fil fr-dib" style="width: 100%;">&nbsp;What Do I Mean By Design?Design is how we communicate what an object does, or its function, through its shape or&nbsp;form.Take an oven mitten. Study it for a bit, and it becomes obvious that your hand goes inside. That&#39;s the form. The minute you have the oven mitts on, you understand it makes it easier to handle hot food on hot plates. That&#39;s the function.&nbsp;Design is also the process we undertake to solve a problem. It hurts to take hot plates with your bare hand. A mitten is the solution to that problem. If you ask five designers to define design, you&rsquo;ll get five different answers.&nbsp;When you think about the design of a chair, you consider both how it looks and how it feels to sit on. A well-designed office chair corrects your posture and enhances your productivity, while a well-designed living room chair lets you lie back and relax, watch TV, play with your iPad, and take a nap.&nbsp;If you and I were to design a chair together, we&rsquo;d have to consider some factors from the beginning. Of course, we&rsquo;d consider the seat&rsquo;s size, the height from the ground, the angle of the back, the materials, and the fabric. Before we made any of those decisions, we&rsquo;d ask ourselves about the chair&rsquo;s goals. Who would be using the chair? What would they be doing? How would the chair benefit the person sitting in it? These answers affect how we communicate its function. When a person&rsquo;s expectation of the chair matches their experience of sitting in the chair, they get more joy out of it. This is design done right.&nbsp;Will those considerations ensure that the chair is well designed? No, but they certainly increase the odds. Not thinking about them ensures that our chair is badly designed.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sixides-us/uploads%2F1652956410594-1652956410594.jpeg" class="fr-fil fr-dib" style="width: 100%;">&nbsp;What Is Design&rsquo;s Value?Imagine two chair shops across the street from each other. One shop takes the chair&rsquo;s design into consideration from the start. They hire the best chair designer they can. The chair designer researches other chairs on the market to figure out where they&rsquo;re lacking. They ask people what they like and dislike about their current chairs, research materials, consider the chair company&rsquo;s budget and profit margin, and source materials and manufacturing to make sure the chair is built right. They test different designs. They make adjustments. They test again. They come up with a solid design that meets both the company&rsquo;s goals and people&rsquo;s desires. The chair goes into production. It sells well. Everyone is now rich.&nbsp;The people at the chair shop across the street also make chairs. They select adequate materials and make a seat, some legs, a back. This is definitely a chair! Then they hire a designer and say, &ldquo;Make this a comfortable chair!&rdquo; The designer adds a sad little foam rubber seat cushion. The chair does not sell. Everyone becomes miserable.&nbsp;The value of good design is the increased possibility of success. We understand its importance in everyday objects like chairs, clothes, watches, coffee makers, and a good mattress. When it comes to interior design, we tend to think of design as a surface layer applied at the end to make things beautiful. In truth, interior design is much more than that. It can be intentional or happenstance. For design to be truly great, you need to build it into your projects from conception to completion.&nbsp;People hire professionals because they can hold us accountable. When the users cannot understand how to make use of a curved wall for storage or how to deal with small spaces, you want to know you&rsquo;ve got people trained in designing effective solutions that work well and will design based on a predicted outcome and not be playing guessing games.&nbsp;Can I guarantee that hiring a professional designer will result in good design? No more than a University can guarantee that studying there will make you smarter. But it certainly improves your odds. Especially if you find the right fit.&nbsp;Look for thoughtful, inventive problem solvers with excellent communication skills. Don&rsquo;t get dazzled by the &ldquo;beautiful decoration&rdquo; trap. Treat your designers (and call them designers) as adult professionals. We are responsible for measurable job performance goals, the same as other employees.

DESIGN RESULTS FROM human decisions. You can design with intention, which means you have a chance of doing it well, or you can let it happen, which means you’ll probably fail...

Word From The Nerd