Your HDB Won’t be Cookie-Cutter After These Design Hacks

The market is saturated with homes that have centrepieces, feature and accent walls. While these certainly add a dash of visual interest, they aren’t exactly fresh approaches and won’t make your housewarming guests do a double take.

So, what does it take to achieve that “wow” moment? Louder, more inspired designs! Break free of the cookie-cutter with these 6 design solutions that you can incorporate into your own place!

1. A fancy standout wall treatment

Colour does well enough to break up the monotony of a space but if you really want something visually stimulating, consider wallpapers or stickers. Take this large tropical graphic for instance. Reminiscent of a brunch or tourist spot, it immediately imbues a sense of relaxation vibes.

These wall treatments also come in a variety of patterns so you can tailor your options to fit your aesthetic — you could even get it in marble for a luxe touch or rustic brick. Best bit is, they emulate the look without the need for extra maintenance!

2. Graphic tile installations… where you least expect them

Mainly used in the kitchen as the backsplash or a mini accent wall, the graphic tile is not what one would call a novel design solution. However, it still has the potential to be a game changer if you place them in unexpected areas of the home such as the entryway or have it wrap-around your dining area.

And hey, if these tiles can withstand the heat and humidity in your kitchen, it can certainly withstand the dirt and scuffing when you enter or walk on them. Plus, they’re quite easy to care for too!

3. Be intricate with wall panels

Add additional texture to your space with wall panels! These designs don’t even require a large amount of space, so it even works in small homes. Vertical wall panels not only imbue a sense of rustic air but are great for concealing private spaces. You can even wainscot if a full-height is too much.

The picture frame mould will (undoubtedly) make you recollect Victorian-themed homes but that’s not to say you can’t incorporate them into more clean-cut, contemporary apartments. Just paint them a neutral shade to pull off the look.

4. Throw a curveball with archways

While some homeowners overseas are looking to remove their archways in their sprawling homes, we’re tired of looking at rectangular doorways and seeking to reinvent them with the arch.

Have them blend in with paint or get them to stand out by implementing curved edges for a vintage feel. You can even add decorative touches such as framing or moulding!

5. A pop of colour — the bolder, the better

White may be ubiquitous but lately there’s been an upswing in integrating colours. From pretty pink homes to blue apartments, hues are making waves in the industry. Still, it doesn’t hurt to try even bolder hues for a brighter statement.

It's an effective way to switch moods too – red in the dining area can whet appetites and green in the study can optimise concentration.

6. Outfit with conversation starter furnishings

Styling and furnishings play an important part: Though it’s often overlooked, the right accessories and décor sells the interior as a whole. Think pinterest-worthy décor set against a pastel backdrop of an eclectic home.

Or brass elements and time-worn pieces in contrasting shapes for contemporary homes.

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