6 Proven Steps to Make an HDB Flat Feel Like It’s a Posh ‘Condo’

Some of these steps don’t even require renovation works to be done.

When you look at photos of them online/in magazines, some HDB flats just feel so much better than their counterparts in the same development. You know the type: elegant, stylish, and with just the right amount of luxury that doesn’t tip into ostentatiousness.

Though it’ll take plenty of effort to create an HDB home that’s as well put together, it’s probably still more achievable than putting together enough money for a million-dollar penthouse. Here are 6 steps to follow when upgrading your humble flat so that it feels like you’re stepping into a luxury condo every time you come home!

1. Pick a suitable décor theme…

Although there are exceptions to the rule, some interior design styles don’t lend themselves well to the concept of a posh, immaculate home as compared to others. For instance, most industrial-style interiors tend to come off as raw and edgy rather than classy. And the same goes for wabi-sabi homes that are all about embracing beauty in imperfection.

So, if you’re planning to achieve a more polished look for your home, finding the right style is key – some themes you may want to try: 1) contemporary, 2) mid-century modern, and 3) monochrome.

2. … and stick to your chosen style

Step 1 of making your HDB flat feel more like a condo is finding the right look for it, so it stands to reason that step 2 involves sticking to your choice.

Most HDB flats (as well as condos) that look great have thematically cohesive interiors, which is to say, they’re entirely consistent in the aesthetic department.

Take for example this Northshore Drive HDB flat by Prologue Studio, which pursues a strong monochrome aesthetic throughout, from its living area to its bedrooms and bathrooms. This creates the image of a well-thought-out home, rather than one that’s a rojak of different styles.

3. Add layers to your home to give it more depth and character

Layering is an interior design technique that employs various elements (including but not limited to, wall coverings, furniture, accessories, fabrics, and even textures) and blends them all together to create a characterful home.

Through layering, you’ll be able to bring out a distinctive, but cohesive interior that best matches your idea of a posh ‘condo’ HDB flat. Want a neutral-filled home? But also don’t want it to appear too dull? Add a pop of colour with soft printed cushions or use wood-look surfaces to layer on a warm natural vibe.

4. Camouflage the unsightly bits of your home

Water pipes, electrical wires, and wall sockets are all must-haves for a functional home, but it’s also true that they’ll make your surroundings appear more cluttered than classy when left out in the open. (The same goes for TVs too, especially if you agree with us that they’re eyesores.)

Thankfully, there are ways to make them disappear into the background, and you’ll surely want to adopt some of these techniques (e.g., creating box ups, building a false ceiling) to create your stylish HDB home.

5. Include at least one attention-grabbing feature

One of the key steps of making an HDB flat (or just about any home) look more impressive is giving it a wow factor. Or in less abstract terms, a feature that grabs your attention the moment you come indoors.

This can be just about anything you like: a strong recurring accent colour, an impressive wall-to-wall TV console, or even a ceiling ‘frame’ comprised of wood-look panels to give your home the visual punch it needs. The sky is the limit here.

6. Tidy up regularly and invest in ways to keep your home neat

Cleanliness is next to godliness – and it’s a phrase that also applies to your personal spaces. Keeping your home tidy is a basic step towards making it a lot more appealing, and you can do this by investing in the right storage built-ins, stocking up on cleaning supplies, and adopting a regular cleaning schedule (that works even for busy people).

After all, what’s the point of building a beautiful home if it’s going to be buried under clutter?

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