About to Renovate? Hear These Experts

Embarking on a renovation or currently in the midst of it? Read about sound renovation advice from industry players for homeowners-to-be.

By Chew Hui Ling

Article originally published in SquareRooms Issue 103. Visit their website - https://www.facebook.com/SquareRooms.

Quite honestly, renovations are a love-hate thing. It can be a fabulously rewarding experience, especially after you see your hard work come to fruition, but the groundwork can be just too much. Play it smart by tapping into the experience and expertise of these industry experts before you dive into the actual revamp.

Before engaging an interior designer:

“It’s important to find the right interior designer whom you can work well with and can understand your needs. But before consulting an interior designer, you should first research on what kind of style and theme you want for your home.”
Andy Tan, director, The 80’s Studio

“Homeowners should know the difference between a contractor and an interior design firm. Many tend to be confused, as they do not have ample understanding of the trades. They can differentiate it from the services provided. Interior design firms offer intangible services and specialise in creativity and details, while contractors provide mass-market services and focus on sourcing for the lowest budget possible. The last thing you want is to approach an ‘interior designer,‘ only to realise that it’s actually a contractor.”
Raymond Seow, director, FS Intent Pte Ltd

“First and foremost, they should think about how to beautify their home and how to make it functional. They should also get their budget ready.”
Winarto Atmadja, designer, Ultimate Interior Creation

“It’s important to understand what you want and then plan ahead. For example, five years down the road, is there anything in terms of design or furniture that you won’t tire of and still need for your home? In conclusion, you should always think about the functionality of their home.”
Wilson Teh, co-director, Rezt & Relax

“Prior to the renovation, we’d try our best to understand the lifestyles, needs, and requirements of our clients. Every house is unique and individual. For us designers, we don’t just focus on aesthetics, but also planning and arranging of elements to accomplish a purpose.”
Cadine Lim, designer, Prozfile

 

“A key point to take note of is to find the right interior designer at the right location at the right timing. There are many designers in a company, so it’s crucial to find one that has a good sense of responsibility. Ultimately, it’s not about the company, but about the designer.”
Alex Lim, AX Image Design Concepts

“Owners need to trust the IDs they select while at the same thing, should not be shy to ask for 'alternatives.' I personally like challenges to jolt me out of my comfort zone. Need more lighting but don't want more lighting points? I source for battery operated LED lights. Need a completely zero VOC paint for a baby's nursery? We can use paints made out of milk.”

Zinc, designer and owner, Mint & Pistachio Home

“Always conduct research before engaging the services of an interior designer. One way is to go through magazines, catalogues, and forums for inspiration and advice.”
Randoll Lee, director, Hall Interiors

"Homeowners do all sorts of background checks when hiring a designer but often neglect to find out their qualifications. No harm in asking if he or she is from a prominent art school or not. Bottom line is; look for someone who is competent academically and well versed in the industry.”
Gabriel Yee, Thaddeus Interior

“Price should not be the main factor. The most important thing is to find an honest and responsible designer. No matter what, the designer should deliver what was promised.”
Johnny Fong, Inspire by D’Trenzo

On furniture selection:

“I would advise homeowners not to shop for furniture or any ornaments before engaging an interior designer. That should come after the design conceptualisation phase. This is a common mistake made by many homeowners and they often end up purchasing a lot of unnecessary items.”
Violet Kang, designer, Darwin Interior

“Choose furniture pieces that have a story to tell, whether it be a unique reclaimed wood piece (that used to live a different life as an old building), or an original vintage piece with design cues from a different era.”
Terence Teh, marketing manager, Journey East Pte Ltd

“For the styling aspect, the interior designer should advise them on what kind of furniture pieces they should look out for depending on the concept theme. This factor is essential for a successful design scheme.”
Alvin Ling, director, The Scientist

 

 

“Focus on getting quality key pieces (sofa, dining tables and bed frames) before moving on to the smaller items (lighting, curtains or coffee tables).”
Amanda Lin, Grafunkt

“Take the time to find and invest in a piece of furniture that possesses a unique personality. Something that speaks to you. These are objects that you pick—or, as some say, pick you—objects that you care for, but might also be happy to let age, stain, gain character.”
Foundry Collection

On the conceptualisation:

“Try to be more flexible in terms of design. The design scheme might not look great at the first glance, but after adapting to the interior, you will find that everything actually blends well together. Design is about changes, so the most important thing is to know how to adapt to changes.”
Freddy Tan, designer, The Interior Lab

“Don't always go for design that looks great just in artist impression; focus more on the practical aspect.”
Emun Yen, I-Bridge Design

 

 

“The design theme should be timeless and does not go out of date easily. Materials are very important, so make sure that the materials are good in quality.”
Sanm Sam, The 80’s Studio

“Make sure that you know the direction you want for your home. As designers, we have to be aware of homeowners’ specific requirements before we can craft out a lifestyle setting for them.”
Trifven Ho, designer, Living Icon

“Do not blindly heed other people’s suggestions on how to remodel your own interior. Stand by

your decisions.”
Wincy Tang, principal designer, Rhiss Inter

 

On space planning:

 

 

“Getting the layout right is paramount in the renovation works. Spaces can be combined, divided, reconfigured, and manipulated to best suit your needs. So even before thinking about the colour of your walls or which style to adopt, space planning should always top your list.”
Lee Chi Ho, designer, The Orange Cube

“Consider the activities you do there, the space you have, and the amount of items you have to keep. If you have less space but plenty of items, then you may need to consider furniture that has a double function.”
April Kwan, IKEA

On budgets:

“Don’t compare prices. The most expensive renovation services might not necessarily be the best. Reasonably-priced renovation services can also be up to par, but homeowners should first understand the materials that they are offered before making their decision.”
Jesper Low, director, Arc Define Interior

“I understand that different people have different budgets for renovation, but I’d advise them to concentrate on particular areas. Try not to split up the cost because this will result in the lack of a focal point in the house.”
Grace Wong, director, Brim Design

 

4 tips on how to budget your renovation costs

"How much will it cost to renovate my house?"

This is a common question, especially for new homeowners or those undergoing first-time renovations. It definitely makes sense to know how much the various works can cost, so you can plan according to your budget.

We speak with Kelvin Teo of Space Sense, and William Chan of Spacedge Designs to get a rough estimate of how much you can expect to fork out for basic renovation works in Singapore.

Even if you're going to put it up for rental, it makes good investment sense to renovate your apartment for better yields.

4 tips on how to budget your renovation costs


1) Hacking Of Walls

This may just be the first thing you consider. It could be to join two bedrooms to create a larger space with an adjoining walk-in wardrobe, or to replace solid walls with lighter, sleeker partitions, or simply creating that open-plan layout.

Hacking of a single wall in a HDB flat or apartment costs between $400 and $900, depending on the length, thickness and the area to be removed.

4-room flat with a $100K reno price tag

2) New Flooring

You might not like the floor finishes that come with your place, or they just won't suit the design of your dream home. There are many new designs for tiles out there, some even replicating the look of wood or stone.

New tiles cost between $6,500 to $9,000 depending on the size of the unit (for example, three-room or five-room), including the labour for laying of tiles and the necessary foundation below.

3) Carpentry/Fitting-out Works

No home is complete without the essentials such as the kitchen carpentry, or even built-in wardrobes and storage. Kitchen carpentry (excluding appliances) can cost above $8,000 for a medium-sized space.

That is, if you were to have an unconventional or more personalised design, with the use of more expensive materials for your countertop, such as granite instead of solid surface. Your kitchen layout is also a factor.

Wardrobe fitting-out costs from $320 per foot run. This depends on the design and mechanisms - for

example sliding or soft-closing tracks - to be used, as well as the internal finishing.

4) By area

If you haven't yet determined to what extent you are renovating, a good estimate is to set aside at least $100 per sqf, area wise. The cost varies according to factors like your design, requirements and materials used.

However, don't forget the other components such as loose furniture, soft furnishings, lighting fixtures, window treatments, electrical appliances and sanitary ware and fittings.

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The Housing Board advises homeowners to follow the guidelines below so that renovation works can be carried out legally:

To carry out renovation works in an HDB flat, including those that do not require a renovation permit, flat owners are required to engage an HDB Registered Renovation Contractor (RRC). The list of HDB RRCs is available on the HDB InfoWEB at www.hdb.gov.sg .HDB flat owners can also obtain the list of HDB RRCs through their mobile phones.

Users can download the Mobile @ HDB app on their phones or access the services through http://mobile.hdb.gov.sg.

For renovation work such as demolition of walls, contractors must electronically submit the floor plan showing the proposed renovation works together with the application for renovation works on behalf of flat owners to HDB for approval.
More information is available on the HDB website.

Flat owners must ensure that the renovation works carried out by their contractors are in accordance with the approved renovation permits and guidelines. Flat owners are given information booklets such as a renovation guide and electrical guide for HDB flats when they collect their keys from HDB. This information is also available on the HDB InfoWEB under the section Living in HDB flats >Home Renovation >Knowing the Guidelines.

To minimise inconvenience to neighbours, noisy renovation work like demolition of walls, removing wall and floor finishes, cutting of tiles and drilling works must be done between 9am and 5pm daily on weekdays. Such works are not permitted on weekends or public holidays.

Contractors must also keep neighbours informed by giving them advance notice on the works that will be carried out, as well as display the notice of renovation work outside the flat until all the renovation work is completed. All HDB licensed contractors should be able to advise on what can or cannot be done with or without permission

Here's a list of renovation works that are not allowed in HDB flats:
• Hacking and removal of structural members such as reinforced concrete wall, columns, beams and staircases within maisonette flats

• Loading of the floor slab with a load greater than 150kg for every m sq of floor area Plastering of ceilings

• Partitioning the unit with combustible or toxic emission materials such as plywood or plastics

• Using concrete to raise the floor level beyond the allowable thickness of 50mm.

• Extending the floor area by covering over void deck areas

• Constructing a water tank in the bathroom unless it is a ready-made fibre-glass bathtub

• Repositioning or enlarging the opening of the rubbish bin chute

• Painting external parts of the building

• Installing fixtures outside the unit

• Installing casement windows where the unit's facade is facing common corridor

• Laying floor finishes outside the entrance door without a recess area or step


And here's why some of the renovations works are not allowed:

• They may overload the structure, which may in turn affect the structural integrity and safety of the building

• They will affect the external facade/form of the building or public safety

• They will create a public nuisance, pose a fire hazard or encroach on public areas

• They will infringe the lease agreement, relevant statutory regulations or requirements

For owners of condominiums and private apartments, they should get permission from the Management Committee Strata Title or Managing Office before proceeding with any renovations. The MCST or Managing Office will usually have a list of guidelines derived from the databases of the relevant authorities and advice from the project consultants.

Information is also available at the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and Building Construction Authority (BCA) websites.

This article was first published in The New Paper

Types of Kitchen Countertops

When it comes to kitchen countertops, the options are endless.

Although not every kitchen countertop will fit into your lifestyle, there’s no doubt that no matter the choice you make, you will find yourself with a beautiful kitchen countertop that will hopefully last you for years to come.

That said, here are some of the latest kitchen countertop options that have become popular in recent years.

1. Granite

If money is no object when it comes to building or renovating a kitchen, granite is typically the big winner. It gives off an air of elegance and sophistication, and the original beauty of the granite stone gives a je ne sais quoi to even the most conventional kitchen.

If sealed and installed properly, a granite kitchen countertop can last a lifetime. The major drawback is that it’s quite expensive, although some would argue that it is becoming more affordable.

Should you get it?
 It can sustain heat, is available in myriad colours and patterns, and adds major value to homebuyers; however, it is porous (can absorb and harbour bacteria).

2. Laminate

If you have kitchen ADD and need to switch things up every few years, then laminate countertops might be a great option for you. Made of plastic-coated synthetic material

with a smooth surface that’s easy to clean, the pieces are easily cut to size and then

finished on the edges of the counter space.

Should you get it?

While laminate countertops are inexpensive, you need to consider that scratches and chips are virtually impossible to repair, and does not add value to homebuyers.

3. Solid surfaces

 

Because surfaces like Avonite, Corian and Swanstone are solid, any scratches that the countertops endure can be sanded out.

However, the countertops are not heat resistant, so you are highly discouraged from placing a hot pan on the surface; but then, why would you ever do that?

Should you get it?

Solid surfaces comes in a wide array of colours and patterns, are stain resistant and seamless.

4. Ceramic tile

While ceramic tile can be quite durable, inexpensive, and a DIY project for resourceful homeowners, tiles rarely last a lifetime and can easily chip or crack.

As well, drop one glass of red wine and the grout will be permanently stained.

Should you get it?

Ceramic tile is heat resistant and is available in a wide range of price points, although your counter surface will be uneven and if you want to go custom, it will cost you a pretty penny.

5. Quartz

Quartz counters are essentially engineered stone composed of 93% quartz particles. You can get it in a much larger range of colours than granite and it is scratch resistant and has a non-porous surface (it will not be penetrated by bacteria).

Yes, it is more expensive than granite, but nevertheless, it is worth the price paid in the long-run, as it will last a lifetime.

Should you get it?

 It’s stain resistant, requires no maintenance and adds major value to homebuyers.

6. Stainless steel

If you’re a big fan of very contemporary kitchens, stainless steel might appeal to you in many ways. Both heat resistant and durable, stainless steel countertops also allow for that seamless look as they are constructed according to your specifications.

Should you get it?

While stainless steel is definitely durable, it is quite pricey, noisy and may even dent if hit hard enough. And don’t even think about cutting on this surface.

Kitchen countertops that suit your lifestyle

Of course, there are other options for kitchen countertops like marble, concrete, copper, crafted glass, and exotic stone, the truth is that most homeowners would opt for more reasonably priced and maintainable kitchen countertops.

by Katerina Gomes

Renovation Loans in Singapore: How they work & how to get one

If you made a diorama of my house, you’d get something like a Lego brick a cat chewed on. And the interior is worse; like the dungeon level of an 80′s video game. It all needs a facelift. Problem is, renovations don’t come cheap; and without cash on hand, it’s hard to make the upfront payments that contractors want.

The solution?

A renovation loan. These are trending in Singapore, and in this article, I examine how they works More importantly, I look at the best way to find a renovation loan package:

What is a Renovation Loan?

Renovation (Reno) loans are taken for a number of reasons:

• A change in Interior Design

• Extensive repairs

• Re-modelling of one or more rooms, or of the façade of the house

• Physical extensions of the house

Reno work is either paid in steps, or upfront. Either way, home owners need cash on hand. It’s like a race between you getting money, your designer trying to spend it, and your contractor trying to embezzle everything before you notice.

Sure, there’s always credit cards, but at 24% APR, that’s a step below the local loan shark. Also, renovation costs can easily exceed $50,000, so your nickname at the bank will be “Mr. Maxed” by around week three. Reno loans, on the other hand, average 3 – 5% APR, and won’t wreck your credit score.

How Big is the Loan?

With most banks, the minimum loan is $10,000. Depending on your credit, this can be extended to eight times (8 x) your monthly income, to a maximum of $30,000.
Some banks, such as RHB, also provide furnishing loans. If you want the loan to cover every aspect of your renovation, including the furniture, it’s usual to take a Reno loan and a furnishing loan. This separate furnishing loan is usually capped at $120,000.

So the maximum loan is typically $30,000 (the Reno loan) + $120,000 (furnishing loan) = $150,000. Interior Designers and contractors are familiar with this amount, and this is the budget for range for most designer apartments.

Standard loan tenure is between one to five years.

How Do I Get a Renovation Loan?

You have to:

• Be a Singaporean or Permanent Resident

• Be between 21 – 55 years of age

• Have a minimum income of $24,000 per annum

• Have a fair credit score

This loan is easy to negotiate, so you can sometimes get it even with bad credit. If you’re rejected, either appeal, or try again in six months. And if you can’t meet the minimum income, get a co-signatory. As long as they’re a relative, you’ll get your loan.

Aren’t All Reno Loans the Same?

No. While Reno loans have less variety than home loans, you should still do your homework.
Different banks offer varying interest rates, which hover between 3 – 5% per annum. Some banks also offer perks, such as free insurance protection for your loan.
Shop around and find the lowest loan, via websites like SmartLoans.sg. Remember, the best Reno loan in March 2012 may not be the best in June 2012; so make sure your sources are current.

General Tips on Renovation Loans

Points to note about Reno loans are:

1. Keep the Tenure as Short as You Can -

Unlike home loans, Reno loans can’t be refinanced. If you pick a five year loan, you’re stuck with the same bank for all five years. Also, unlike property, the value of the renovations won’t appreciate. A Reno loan is effectively borrowing money for consumption, and you want to repay the debt quickly.

2. Stretch the Loan to Cover Everything -

Because renovations involve multiple suppliers, it’s easy for the budget to go wrong. When that happens, many home owners end up with credit card debts on top of the Reno loan. You can save money by making sure everything is covered under a single, low-interest Reno loan.

Whatever budget the contractor comes up with, don’t match the loan to it exactly. Make allowances of up to 10%. While the repayments may go up a bit, it’s better than having to open another credit line later.

3. Crunch Numbers First -

Before you get the Reno loan, try to quantify what the improvements will do for you. If you’re a landlord, how will the renovation increase your yield? Is it enough to cover the new repayments?

If you’re just doing it for a more comfortable home, make sure it’s worth renovating instead of just moving. How many years are left on the lease? Are you intending to sell within the next 10 years? If so, remember the renovations may add nothing to your valuation.

Get more Personal Finance tips and tricks on www.MoneySmart.sg

Top Tips for a Smooth Reno

Renovating your home can be extremely stressful as you give up your territory and home conveniences for weeks - even months. Use these tips on organising and planning to keep the project on track and minimise disruption to your work and family life.

1. Create a separate folder for each contractor so there's no need to hunt around for the relevant documents at each discussion.

2. If you're doing painting work, ask for leftover paint for future touch-ups. Remember to label the tin with the room the paint is used in and date. Add a lick of paint to the lid so you can identify the colour without having to prise open the can, which dries out the contents.

3. Electrical trunking should be run before painting or wallpapering so you can blend it in with the wall colour. It should be wide enough to house at least four cables so your brand new decor isn't spoilt by unsightly wires crisscrossing the walls.

4. Factor in more electrical plugs than you think you'd need. With most household appliances requiring electricity or charging, you don't want trailing extension leads should you add a new massage chair or lamp.

5. Time and budget are huge considerations in any upgrading. If you want to save time, use off-the-shelf dimensions for features such as doors and storage systems instead of custom-building them.

6. We spend 60 per cent of our time in the kitchen around the sink, so plan its placement first. As a guide, stand with your arms straight down by your side and turn your hands up at right angles. This is where the bottom of your kitchen sink should be. Add the depth of the sink, and this marks the ideal working height for counters.

7. If you're home during the renovation period, carve out an oasis for yourself. Use a room that will remain relatively untouched by the chaos and put in whatever you need (your laptop, kettle, yoga mat, earplugs etc.) to keep yourself sane during that time. Keep all your renovation files, valuables and chargers in this spot, too.

8. Be prepared and make your renovation choices beforehand. Try to buy everything in advance. If that's not possible, schedule a time each day to make outstanding decisions with your spouse/family to keep within your schedule.

9. Be nice and tell the neighbours. They'll be more accommodating about the extra vehicles in the parking lots and the inevitable noise and dust.

Information provided by Georgina Wong
Find out more at http://www.asianprofessionalorganisers.com/

5 Quick Ways To Upgrade Your Bathroom

Everyone wants a stylish and trendy home without having to spend too much. More often than not, most renovation budgets allow for only a portion of your home to be refurbished and the bathroom is usually the last on the list of priorities.

For those who are tired of the state of their bathrooms and wish to upgrade its design without the extra hassle and cost of a full-force renovation, below are five easy-to-follow steps for any household.

With these tips, you can have a small sanctuary with little touches that reflect your personality and style. Whether you're a minimalist who likes clean and sleek designs or if you prefer bright quirky designs and unique shapes, there are options for everyone.

1. Accessorise and make your shower experience more enjoyable
Add a touch of colour or quirky utensils to add more spice to your bathroom.
Accessories make a noticeable and significant difference to any home space. If you fancy fresh and vibrant spaces, add a little splash of colour with some eye-catching hand soap dispensers, toothbrush holders or soap trays.

Those who prefer modern concepts can look out for accessories in monochrome tones and sleek finishings.
You can choose from a variety of easy-to-install fittings including colourful showerheads, bold and decorative screens or shower curtains that stylishly separate your bath area from the toilet. There are also fantastic options of quirky accessories like toilet roll dispensers and towel hooks in animated shapes and functional designs.

If you are in the mood, exercise some creativity by stenciling a pattern onto a plain bathroom cabinet or wall tiles to give your bathroom an instantly chic update. Mix up your textiles with some luxurious bath mats to break up the monotony of floor tiles or display personalised images and artwork for an intimate feel. Last but not least, all intimate spaces need to smell good, so opt for some good quality pot pouri or scented candles for that final touch.

2. Sleek and eco-friendly faucets for a modern washing experience
High quality, stylish faucets are in high demand lately and can add a touch of sophistication to your bathroom. We recommend picking out sleek, wall-mounted designs with a smooth and versatile chrome finish — perfect for saving space with a touch of modernity.

You can also opt to do your bit to conserve water with energy efficient faucets. There are now several ways to do so with trendy new designs. For example, single-lever mixers feature integrated water-saving technologies that restrict the rate of water flow allowing you to reduce water consumption without sacrificing on performance.

Tips for conserving water:

- You can reduce water consumption of your basin mixer by up to 40 percent by replacing the aerator of your basin mixer with an energy-saving alternative.

- Consider purchasing a toilet with dual flush technology, which gives you the option to use about four litres on the low flush and six on the full flush.

3. Light up your life with your bathroom
There are various lighting options to open up the space or exude a nice ambience in your bathroom.
Lighting serves to brighten and decorate any room and remains a simple and effective way of setting the ambience and opening up a space.

There are endless options of functional and decorative lighting available, including spotlights, ceiling lights, mirror lights and incandescent strip lights, all designed to serve a different function.
New forms of lighting include LED or halogen lighting which can be activated by a soft off/on button for gradual illumination.

For themed spaces, playful vanity globes can be used on mirrors, as seen in celebrity dressing rooms, and are ideal for those who frequently doll up. You can use diffused lights, which cut down on shadows and provide maximum light to your face.

A popular choice for ceiling illumination lately is recessed lighting consisting of simple, circular lamps installed into a hollow opening in the ceiling, creating the look of having light shining from a narrow spotlight.

4. Mirrors
Mirrors and lighting go hand-in-hand and if used well, can act as a focal point for your entire bathroom space. As we know, mirrors come in all shapes and sizes. We recommend always choosing a style with the theme of your space in mind.

For example, if you like traditional and elegant designs, opt for intricately framed, oval-shaped mirrors. Modern and classic spaces on the other hand, look best with unframed, circular or beveled (custom) mirrors. Mirrors can also be used to reflect a favourite object in the room or the outdoors when placed facing a window.

While in the shower, mirrors frequently get fogged with steam. For those who find this annoying, try installing an electric bathroom mirror defogger. These defoggers consume very little electricity yet are incredibly effective.

Some useful tips when choosing a mirror:
- The mirror should never extend beyond the counter top over which it is hung.

- If a vanity has two sinks, either hang two mirrors with side lights or hang a single wall-to-wall mirror (perfect for a clean, contemporary look).

- A popular trend for lighting is to hang a sconce (lights that are directly attached to flat surfaces) onto a mirror which offers an easy way to double the amount of light in the room.

5. Go green with plants
You can go green, literally! Plants add a welcoming touch to any bathroom. You can explore multiple types of plant arrangements such as displaying small clusters of potted plants in a basket or on a shelf and covering them with pebbles to create a chic look.

For those who prefer a maintenance-free option, consider buying or making a Terrarium, which are small, indoor plants placed within exquisite candy jars (acting as an enclosed vacuum) with the ability to survive without any need for water or sunlight.

There are many options to spruce up any space in simple and cost effective steps. Be it with plants, paintings or colourful accessories, all aspects of your bathroom should reflect your personality. We hope these tips have helped you in your plans to refurbish your bathroom and equipped you with some useful renovation ideas which can be applied to any room in your home.

Source: Interior Affairs, Singapore's largest one-stop venue for European bathroom and kitchen fittings

Dealing with Contractors

We live in a world where one needs the help of others to get many things done.
There may be a need to repair or renovate the house one stays in, or to fix certain items in the house. Given the manner in which society has evolved, life in the bigger towns can get very impersonal. The parties involved in a transaction are unlikely to know each other. Hence they may approach each other with caution.
Should money be paid first or the work done first?

The employer may be apprehensive that the contractor may take the money and not do the job or do it in an unsatisfactory manner.
On the other hand, the contractor may feel that after he has wrapped up work, he may not get paid. This gives rise to the need for the employer to inquire about and assess the contractor and vice versa.

However, the contractor may be anxious to secure the contract first and think about payment later. Once both parties have reached an agreement, the question is: who starts by trusting the other first?

In most cases of home renovation, the employer is likely to be the owner of the property. This creates a situation where the contractor can start work as soon as possible. However, the contractor needs to be paid because he has to buy materials needed for the renovation and pay his workers on a daily or weekly basis.
Of course, there are cases where the contractor actually shoulders all the payments until the work is completed and handed over.

However, this is only done where the contractor has the requisite financial resources and the employer is known to have the ability to pay.

A more practical approach would be to make progress payments as and when work is done. The work can generally be divided into three or four stages; once each stage is reached, a proportionate amount is paid to cover the work done.
In doing so, it must be remembered that breaking up work into parts may not by itself correspond to the payment percentage because certain stages of work may involve higher cost.

Thus the stages have to be carefully structured to correspond with the amount to be paid. It is also unwise for the employer to pay the entire remaining balance after work is completed. This is because after a few days, certain shortcomings may become apparent. Once this happens and unless a contractor is an honourable person, he may not be interested in coming back to do any rectification.
This is because at such times, he is unlikely to get paid for further work done.
Therefore it is advisable to retain part of the contract amount to cover such eventualities.

This sum is referred to as a "retention sum".
In this way, the contractor would be obliged to make good the defects so that he can collect the retention sum. But what if the contractor does not agree to this arrangement?

In fact, the contractor may even go further and asks that he be paid 10% or 20% in advance before even starting work!
When faced with such a situation, it is for the employer to make his own assessment.
He needs to decide whether he is willing to take the risk of non-performance or unsatisfactory performance on the part of the contractor. Such requests will reflect on the mindset of the contractor.

The fact that he wants payment upfront could reflect on his financial capability. It could mean that he has no funds of his own to purchase the material or pay his workers for any period. Or that suppliers of materials are not prepared to allow him credit facilities.
His unwillingness to allow a retention sum to be held back could also indicate an unwillingness to acknowledge and be responsible for any shortcomings or defects in his work.

All these are possible but not necessarily an inevitable inference to be drawn.
The employer may then have to make a decision on whether to stand by his position or accede to the contractor's terms. Here a decision will have to be made in the context of who is in a stronger position to assert his terms and conditions or who needs the other more.

There is also the aspect that the contractor may have been approached on the basis of an advertisement in a newspaper or a magazine. If the contractor collects the initial down payment and deposit and absconds, is there any right to make a claim against the company that published the advertisement?

The answer is no.
This is because a newspaper or magazine is merely a conduit for facilitating communication. It does not, in accepting and publishing an advertisement of the goods or services advertised, give any warranty.

At the end of the day, it will have to be realised that there are always risks inherent in every transaction. Some risks are small, some are big. This cannot be avoided.
What one can do is to be aware and evaluate the risks, and be ready to deal with them should the need arise

Article by Bhag Singh

Know the Basics of Feng Shui

It may be thousands of years old, but the Chinese art of feng shui is showing no signs of becoming outdated. On the contrary, it's more popular around the world than ever. Feng shui, which literally means "wind water" in Chinese, aims to incorporate natural elements and create harmony to actively encourage good fortune and dispel bad luck in a home.

Feng shui is not merely mysticism, it can add a touch of aesthetics to your home as well.
There are many principles of feng shui, but one of its main tenets is polarity or balance. The yin yang symbol is an excellent representation of equilibrium to bear in mind. In practical terms, this means having both relaxing, calm and passive (yin) and active, strong and vibrant (yang) elements. Ideas for yin features include a tranquil photo or painting and soft music, whereas bright colours and strong lights can add yang energy.

Whether or not you believe in the mystic benefits of feng shui, this art form can still breathe life into the layout, design and general feel of your home. Its basic tenets, which advocate placing five natural elements (wood, fire, metal, earth and water) into your home, can create a soothing atmosphere thanks to fountains with running water and potted plants.

In any residence, the bedroom, bathroom and kitchen form the vital backbone of a house. Feng shui is no different, and it recognises the importance of these three fundamental rooms. You will want your sleeping and washing areas to be filled with calm energy, and your eating area to be energised for hearty cooking and dinner parties.

In general, the way you decorate these rooms should be dictated by common sense. Trust your senses — if your kitchen is a hectic sensory overload of colours and sounds, your bedroom needs to be even more restful; a haven of tranquility to which you can retreat from noise and stress. Ideally, when considering your house room by room as well as in totality, it should seem like a stable, well-composed unit, with no room hogging the limelight.

Another tenet of feng shui is the flow of qi or energy. Again, while there are elements of mysticism here there is a grounding of common sense. "Blocking" the energy of your house can lead to a palpable sense of claustrophobia or oppression. Consider the entrance of your home, for example. Is that where you dump all your shoes and damp umbrellas? If so, your home forms a weak impression before you've even stepped through your door. A house with good feng shui will have a strong, clear flow of energy at the entrance.

And it's not just small homes that stand by this blend of aesthetics and mysticism. Massive and influential international companies such as HSBC, and even Marina Bay Sands here in Singapore, do consult feng shui masters when designing new office headquarters or buildings.
Whichever way you look at it, feng shui has something to offer to any home owner. Yet there is obviously a lot more to learn about this simple yet intricate art.

By Daniel Seifert


To hear more, you can head to the iProperty.com EXPO for a talk by Joey Yap, founder of Joey Yap Consulting Group. On October 29 at Marina Bay Sands Singapore he will be discussing practical feng shui for property buyers. Visit www.iproperty.com/expo/ for more details.

DIY - Creating the ideal home office

Working from home has over the years seen a paradigm shift from being an option to a chosen few employees to today being an alternative to many as the cost of commuting to work rises and as environmental consciousness and the willingness of employers to save on cost and retain valued employers become more important.

The great thing about making your home your place of work besides the fact that you don’t have to rush to get to work on time, is that you are able to work at your own pace, have your own schedule and most importantly, there’s no need to wear a shirt and tie all day long!

But working from home does present its own challenges too. For example, an office has all the necessary technology and supplies to help you do your duties, but your home does not.

Don’t worry, because here are some basic requirements that will set you on the road to a functional home office. They include:

◦Deciding on a budget.

◦Purchasing the necessary equipment that will help you in your work, and deciding where to set them up.

◦A computer, such as a desktop or laptop. This is a MUST HAVE!

◦A printer is a good investment. You might want to consider printers that double-up as scanners and photocopiers. You will save on money and space.

◦Setting up phone and electrical lines. You will have to make sure that you have sufficient electrical outlets to plug your computer, printer, etc.

◦Good lighting which is essential for you to work well. Purchase a small desktop lamp if you need to work into the night.

◦Is the room air-conditioned? If not, you might want to buy one. You can get an inexpensive portable air-conditioner these days which works well.

◦Designing your home office in such a way that your work time remains separate from what other family members are doing so that you do not get distracted and lose productivity. Noises coming from the television or the cooking that’s being done in the kitchen are some examples of distractions that can affect your work.

◦Using indoor plants to soften up the look of your home office. They will also help boost your general health by filtering air and increasing oxygen levels.

◦Investing in cabinets to help keep important files and documents.

Feng Shui For Your Home Office
If you are keen to make your stint working from home a success, why not try Feng Shui. According to Feng Shui practitioners, it can bring benefits to your work and lifestyle. Here are some tips you can try.

◦Have your home office as far away from the bedroom as possible. This will ensure that your work life remains separate from other activities in your private life.

◦Position your desk in such a way that your back is not facing the door. Also make sure you are not facing a wall whilst you are sitting at your desk.

◦Do not keep a lot of things in your work place. It is believed that clutter drains your energy.

It’s becoming easier to work from home
The huge advancements in technology have made it easier for people to work from home. You can converse with your colleagues or bosses over the phone and conduct meetings through the internet by using webcam technology and Skype. The conveniences of such technology are making home offices a viable option for more and more people.
Maybe it’s something you might want to consider for yourself?

Article courtesy of - http://www.propertyguru.com.sg/

Worst Decorating Mistakes

There are no decorating rules that are set in stone since everyone's tastes are different. There are, however, standards of decorating that most people agree on. See the list below for the most common decorating mistakes that go against common decorating standards.

Decorating Mistake #1 - Clutter
There should be a place for everything and everything should be in its place. Clutter can make even the best designed homes look bad. Clutter can also add stress, burden, and anxiety to your life, so get rid of it. Go through your decor at least once a year to purge and put away items that you no longer love. Instead of multiple smaller items, use one larger item in your decor. Kids have many things, so attempt to keep them in order. Try to Display Children's Art in a More Organized and Sophisticated Manner.


Decorating Mistake #2 - No Color
Most new homes are constructed with beige, cream, and white as the color scheme in order to appeal to as many people as possible. Paint your walls a color instead of light beige. If you are afraid of color, use a darker beige. Don't forget about painting your ceilings.

Decorating Mistake #3 - Protective Plastic Covering
Furniture and accessories often come in a protective plastic covering so they are not damaged or get dirty in shipping. The plastic covering should be removed immediately after you receive your item. Discard any plastic covering on your lamp shades, dining room chairs, sofa, or any other item. If you have children and are afraid of them getting your fabric dirty, consider getting a removable cover that should only be used when the child is using the furniture. You can also reupholster the furniture in a stain resistant fabric, such as a leather looking vinyl.

Decorating Mistake #4 - Cheap Artificial Flowers and Plants

Just admit it, you rarely clean your fake flowers and plants, especially the ones on top of your kitchen cabinets. Discard any faux flowers, plastic ivy, and dried flowers. Leave your upper cabinets bare except for maybe some uplighting. If you must have fake flowers or plants, spend extra money and get good quality ones, but make sure you dust them at least once a month.

Decorating Mistake #5 - Decorating with Generic Items to Fill the Space
Your home should be a reflection of your style, not a showroom for the popular accessories store down the street. Decorate your home with your own personal treasures, not generic items that happen to be the right size and color. Use decor from your travels, flea markets, antique stores, and other places that have one of a kind items instead of mass produced decor that your neighbors probably also have in their home.

Article courtesy of: http://www.interiordesigninfo.com/

DIY - Maximizing Small Spaces

Picture: http://www.smootree.sg/

Many newly constructed apartments in Singapore are notorious for having small rooms. This can make it tricky for you when you are designing your room. However, living in a small space doesn’t mean that you have to compromise on style or comfort. You can still have the home of your dreams despite the cramped space with these great tips to help you.

Choose the right furniture
Furniture always takes up a lot of space and if you have a small room, then it doesn’t make sense to buy big bulky items such as that king-sized bed or ottoman for your bedroom. Get furniture which is compact so that you maximize space and your room won’t have to look cluttered. Another room where you can maximize space is your dining room. For example, a foldable dining table will help create more space when you are not using it. Another option would be to buy those dining tables that come with chairs which you can place under the table when not in use.

Custom made in-built cabinets will also help you save lots of space and it is an idea which works well in any room be it the bedroom, dining room, kitchen or guest room.
Another design tip to note is just to buy the essential furniture. Don’t go overboard and buy lots of items because it will clutter your room and make it look smaller and you’ll realize that you don’t have enough space.

Apart from buying the right furniture, there are another 6 tips you can use to help you design your small room.

◦Ask yourself if the room really needs a door. Doors are great for rooms like the bedroom because they allow for privacy, but what about the dining room or living area? Ask yourself whether you need a door for those rooms. A door would just make such an area look smaller and they would cut out the light and air flow which would make you feel even more claustrophobic. If you really feel that you need a door, get a sliding door so that you can play with different options.

◦Low ceilings create the effect of a smaller room. If you stay in a landed property, it’s possible to create higher ceilings for your rooms. High ceilings will give the effect of more space to the room.

◦Remove as much clutter as possible from your rooms. Invest in good closet space so that you can keep all your personal belongings in an organized manner which will free up space at the same time.

◦Walls can also create the effect of a smaller space. Apart from those walls which are necessary for structural support, do away with those other walls which are making your room look smaller.

◦Mirrors are a great piece of furniture to have because they help add character to a room and also reflect light enhancing a feeling of space.

◦When decorating your room, keep it simple. Avoid buying too many items to beautify the room because it will end up making it smaller.

◦When painting your room, avoid using dark colours because it will make the room look smaller. Go for lighter colours such as white or beige to create the effect of a bigger space.

◦Lighting is important. Bright lights will help to accentuate the space in your room while dim lights will make it look smaller.

Article courtesy of http://www.propertyguru.com.sg/

Buying Guide for Kitchen Cabinets & Countertops

Remodeling a kitchen is one of the biggest and most exciting projects a homeowner can undertake. The choices and decisions may seem endless, but the possibilities and the payoff are immense. Your family will love cooking and eating together in a brand new space. And best of all, kitchen remodeling offers one of the highest return-on-investment results of any home improvement project. Start your kitchen renovation planning with these buying guides to get an idea of what choices await you.

Kitchen Cabinets
The starting point for every kitchen — the bone structure of the room — is its cabinetry. Kitchen cabinets can be arranged to meet specific needs, whether you’re a wine collector, a pastry chef or a family of nine. A wide variety of specialty cabinets and accessories are available to fit your specific situation.
The first decision to make about cabinetry is which type will work best for you. Kitchen cabinets are available in three levels of specialization and price:

Stock cabinets come in standard sizes and shapes, and are usually available to take home from the store the same day or just a few days later. Size and style options are limited with stock cabinetry, but the price is right for remodelers on a budget.

Semi-custom cabinets are built after your order is placed, so you can choose from among certain options of size and style. That flexibility makes it easier to design a kitchen that fits your particular requirements. Semi-custom cabinetry usually requires a longer lead-time for delivery than stock. Because they offer more choices, they are more expensive than stock cabinets.

Custom cabinets are made by hand to fit almost any standard you require. An odd-sized or irregular-shaped space in your kitchen might not accommodate a stock or semi-custom piece, but a custom cabinetmaker starting from scratch can build nearly anything you need. Custom cabinets are the most expensive of the three types; the exact price varies widely according to size, materials and options. The time it takes to receive a custom cabinet order depends on the cabinetmaker’s schedule.

Cabinet Accessories
Once you’ve decided on a set of cabinets, it’s time to think about accessories. As expected, custom cabinets offer the greatest range of accessories and personalization. But even stock cabinetry can be made much more efficient and useful with the addition of special racks, trays and drawer inserts.

Cabinet Hardware
A little black dress is a classic wardrobe choice, but imagine how much livelier it is when worn with a colourful necklace. Cabinet hardware provides a visual punch to dress up the look of the kitchen, and it also serves an important purpose. After all, what good are cabinets if you can’t open them up to reach inside?
Some cabinet hardware pieces are made specifically to work with the principles of Universal Design, which aims to make living and working spaces more accessible to people with limited physical abilities.

Kitchen Countertops
Once all the cabinetry decisions have been made, select a countertop to make the kitchen complete. Countertops are available in a variety of materials and price ranges, and the best configuration for your kitchen may actually involve more than one type of countertop material.

Article courtesy of Lowe's Home Improvement warehouse
http://www.lowes.ca/

Rules For Decorating Your Room

It doesn’t matter which room it is, there are some things that are always worth bearing in mind when decorating or re-decorating your living space.

Rule 1: Size Matters
While the room is completely unfurnished, amble around it. Stand in various corners, wave your arms around, swing cats (not really) -– just make sure you have a realistic sense of how much stuff your room can fit. Because you’ll look mighty silly when you stick a two-ton sofa or imperial-sized dining table into an area that can’t accommodate it. Conversely, make sure you don’t underestimate the capacity of a room and buy decorations that are too small. Undersized shelves, chairs, tables etc will make it look like you’re living in a doll’s house.


Rule 2: Pick Patterns Prudently
Curtains, tablecloths, carpets, wallpapers and more all blaze out their own colours and patterns, and you want to make sure that they work cohesively. You wouldn’t wear plaid pants and bright white running shoes, so why put your faux zebra skin sofa beneath the polka-dotted blinds? The answer is, you wouldn’t. Think about how your decorations can work best side-by-side. It helps if you squint at your furnished room –- with objects blurred, you’ll be able to spot pieces that are glaringly mismatched.


Rule 3: Let there be (the Right Amount of) LightRule 3: Let there be (the Again, balance is the idea here. You don’t want to give off a hermit-like vibe by installing heavy velvet curtains that give off a cave-like atmosphere, nor is it advisable to install 100-watt light bulbs every two paces. Either extreme end of the spectrum is liable to make guests feel like they’re about to be harshly interrogated. You’ll ideally want to make use of natural light wherever possible, and spread lamps around the room so that there are no incongruous dark zones. Above all, don’t mix fluorescent with normal bulbs; it’s a recipe for a headache.


Rule 4: Comfort First
While it might seem to run counter to the points above, comfort should supersede all other rules. If you’ve found a recliner that makes you feel like the king (or queen) of your castle, a recliner so comfortable that you dream about it even when you’re in your bed, a recliner so soothing that it could broker peace in the Middle East –- then by all means, that should take precedence over its Mr. Men motif or garish but ergonomic pillows. After all, this is your home, not a showroom. (Plus you can always reupholster!)


For more property news, real estate reports and celebrity home features, head to www.iproperty.com.sg/resources