A spotlight on the most-saved reno project this week.
Looking for calm, curated design inspiration? This Hougang HDB maisonette is what happens when Scandinavian minimalism, Japanese wabi-sabi, and soft, tactile materials come together — and it’s no wonder it’s the most-saved project on Qanvast this week.
Let’s take a closer look.
About the renovation
Location: Hougang
Property type: HDB Maisonette
Size: 142m²
Design style: Minimalist, Scandinavian, Wabi-Sabi
Renovation cost: $130,000
Designed by: Insight.Out Studio
What we love
| Feature | Why we love it |
|---|---|
| Light wood + neutral tones | Creates a calm, airy vibe |
| Microcement and textured walls | Adds warmth and depth without noise |
| Open-concept living-dining layout | Enhances flow and spaciousness |
| Warm ambient lighting | Softens the space visually |
| No overbuilt carpentry | Keeps things clean, functional, and versatile |
Inside this week’s most-saved home
With a large open-plan layout and no unnecessary built-ins, this living room space is designed to breathe. The earthy-toned microcement walls, recessed ceiling lights, and thin curtains add softness without sacrificing simplicity.
Balconies aren’t common in HDB flats — which makes this one all the more special. Framed by raw-textured plaster walls and clad in dark decking, this quiet corner feels like a natural extension of the home’s minimalist mood. A single woven lounge chair and side table set the tone for slow mornings or evening wind-downs, while a leafy potted plant softens the space – a great reminder that you don’t need much to create a retreat.
Open shelving and panel-front cabinets keep things light and airy in the kitchen. The island doubles as a prep zone and casual eating spot, tying the cooking and dining areas together in a relaxed, functional way. The lighting is also immaculate, casting a soft and warm glow over the dining table for cosy and intimate meals.
Soft arches and built-in niches elevate the hallway. Instead of going for maximalist decor, this home uses architectural details — like rounded corners and open ledges — to create visual interest in a subtle, cohesive way.
With the help of gentle lighting and raw finishes, even the transitional areas in this home feel curated. The space beneath the stairs is also cleverly used for concealed storage without interrupting the flow.
Bathed in soft daylight, this space leans fully into minimalism. The bed with a warm wood frame anchors the room, while floor-length curtains add gentle texture and warmth. Instead of side tables or bulky lighting, pendant lamps float subtly on each side above the bed — a thoughtful touch that keeps things visually light and uncluttered. Flush cabinetry with slim brass knobs completes the look, blending seamlessly into the walls for a clean, calming feel.
Explore the rest of this home
Take the full tour of this stunning maisonette here — and save it to your moodboard for all the wabi-sabi, soft minimalist inspiration you’ll want to come back to.
Alternatively, contact Insight.Out Studio or click on the button for renovation quotes from local interior design firms – free of charge!
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