Hey there! Once again, it’s the end of another year of amazing ideas and spaces here at Qanvast. While we are looking forward to what 2018 has in store for us (and it looks pretty exciting, judging from Pantone’s wild Ultraviolet colour pick) – it’s also interesting to see how far we’ve come this year. Which spaces and styles did Singaporeans go ga-ga over? And what do local homeowners love reading on our app and site?
So, let’s hear one last hurrah for the year; whether they’re most shared or liked on social media or a hit with readers online, here are the top interior and renovation trends that took Singapore by storm this year.
1. Bright & Airy Scandinavian Tops Our Lists
Interior Designer: Lemonfridge Studio
A clear winner stands above all this 2017 - bright, airy Scandinavian spaces (that help provide an illusion of spaciousness) have been most popular with homeowners on our platform.
Most Liked on Facebook:
Think clean-cut carpentry in a pale wood finishes, tons of white and a calm, pastel-colored palette to complement the space.
Most Saved On Qanvast
This theme is also one of the most saved on Qanvast – perhaps an indication that many local homeowners are seriously considering this style for their own renovation this year?
2. The 'New' Modern Is Our Next Runner-Up
Interior Designer: 82
Not far behind, the ever-classic, monochromatic modern look is another major trend that most homeowners seem to love - especially on Instagram. Why? The dramatic contrast it offers packs a visual punch – whilst still bringing a touch of timeless elegance.
Top 9 Instagram Posts in 2017
Note: See an obvious trend showing?
But not just any black-and-white space will do. This year, it’s all about giving it a twist, in the form of simple, linear built-ins and a dash of the eclectic or classic (e.g. Peranakan tiles, ventilation blocks and luxe marble finishes) for a bit of fun.
Interior Designer: Habit
And another feature that’s increasingly in? Navy hues that substitute heavy blacks for a hint of color.
3. Japanese-Zen Abodes Are Still In
Interior Designer: D5 Studio Image
Whether it’s reveling at this ryokan-style HDB flat above (one of our most popular Facebook posts this year) or saving this tranquil, minimalist project by Ace Space Design below into your mood board – one thing’s for sure. Singaporeans do love their Japanese style abodes.
Interior Designer: Ace Space Design
Featuring uncluttered designs and simple woodwork, the calm, Zen-like vibe it exudes definitely calls out to our busy, frazzled souls. Or perhaps, it’s just our obsession for all things MUJI hitting an all-time high (what with their massive new flagship store having recently opened this year).
4. Practical Ideas and Tips Are Always Popular
Interior Designer: Third Avenue Studio
Every renovation comes with its fair share of research and planning. So, it’s no surprise that serious renovators are saving more practical ideas and articles from our platform.
Interior Designer: 82
For instance, images that did best (Singapore and overseas) from our Pinterest feed were those that featured unique storage solutions and functional ideas – like this built-in wardrobe from Posh Home.
Meanwhile the articles most saved by users in 2017 on our app and web mainly revolve around topics that dish out practical advice (water saving hacks, best types of interior materials) and must-know renovation tips (such as reading your floor plan, applying for permits, etc).
Most Bookmarked Articles of 2017:
5. We All Love A Good Makeover Show
So, when it comes to home renovation, what strikes our fancy? Just like how we love keeping our eyes peeled for a new episode of ‘Fixer Upper’ and ‘Flip or Flop’, the good ol’ home makeover story always catches our attention.
And local homes are no exception - it’s no wonder then that our series of 'Before & After' HDB makeover posts have become two of our most read blog articles this year.
6. We Are Also Obsessed With Achieving the 'Private Home' Look
Interior Designer: Mr. Shopper Studio
Admit it – we all dream (and strive) to live the lap of luxury in a fancy condo or huge bungalow. So, anything that brings this fantasy to reality? A sure-hit with the crowd. In particular, homeowners love reading a good rags-to-riches story.
Interior Designer: Linear Space Concepts
Posts on how modest HDBs can be transformed into the coolest spaces rivalling that of swanky private homes; or unique HDB flats that offer non-cookie-cutter living you won’t find anywhere else have captured the imaginations of ambitious homeowners (and curious onlookers) online.
Get the landed look for less with these top reader picks:
7. And Most Importantly... It’s All About The Money
Interior Designer: Boon Siew D'sign
We know renovating a home is costly work. But just how expensive? That’s the question that seems to be on the minds of many homeowners this year (or any year, really). Whether it’s figuring out the right budget or money-saving designs – cost-related topics have been proven to be a popular read for the crowd.
Interior Designer: akiHAUS
Make the most out of your moolah with these popular reads:
New year, new rules
Whether you agree (or disagree) with these trends listed - get started on a clean slate for your home with our 2018 trend forecast guide here.
Or simply make a resolution to kickstart on your home's overhaul - and we can help!
Request for a quote here, and we can match you up with 5 interior firms - based on your budget and style.
Renovate with assurance, only on Qanvast.
Find and meet interior designers verified by homeowners, with no hidden costs and no commissions involved.
Find an ID