Creative Renovation Ideas for HDBs and Condos in Singapore

More than a decade of designing and renovating various kinds of spaces in Singapore has taught me that renovation isn’t about beauty alone; it's about shaping how residents live their daily lives. 

Whether it’s a compact 2 Room Flexi, a growing family’s 4 Room BTO, or a modern condo overlooking the skyline, the right renovation ideas can transform homeowners' lifestyles and bring them peace of mind and comfort. 

Here are 15 creative renovation ideas for Singapore homeowners to elevate their HDB flats and condos.

1. Create an Open Concept Layout for Better Flow

You can never go wrong with an open concept layout. It’s an impactful way of renovating your space. Many older HDB flats have enclosed kitchens and segmented living areas.

But in modern homes, removing non-structural walls allows you more space, airflow, and light. An open layout creates more space in your home and allows parents to interact with each other, their kids, or guests while cooking or doing other chores. 

2. Build Full-Height Storage to Maximise Space

When it comes to homes in Singapore, storage is a significant challenge. Install full-height carpentry that reaches the ceiling. It gives you more space and works well for 2-room flexi renovation ideas and HDB renovation ideas.

3. Use Glass Partitions Instead of Solid Walls

Glass partitions are one of Singapore's favorite modern condo renovation ideas. Why? They allow for space separation without blocking light from entering the house. 

A good example is to; 

• Separate  kitchen and dining areas

• Create a home office in the living room.

• Divide the bedroom and wardrobe areas.

Glass partitions are a stylish way to manage space, especially in smaller flats, where every bit of openness matters.

110A Bidadari Park Drive - HDB BTO | AC Vision 

4. Design a Functional and Beautiful Kitchen

The kitchen is the hardest-working space in any home; it should be given some priority when renovating. 

Here are some of the best kitchen renovation ideas you should consider:

• Quartz countertops for durability

• Handleless cabinets for a modern look

• Pull-out pantry systems

• Built-in appliances

When renovating a 4-room HDB, it's best to extend the kitchen slightly to create more counter space. A well-designed kitchen improves your daily routine and eating habits. 

110A Bidadari Park Drive - HDB BTO | AC Vision 

5. Create a Feature Wall That Defines the Living Room

Your living room welcomes your guests. You must renovate it so it sets the tone for the rest of your home.

Adding a feature wall adds personality without ruining the idea in mind: some feature wall options you can try in your living room include:

• Wood panels

• Textured laminates

• Fluted panels

• Subtle stone finishes

This works perfectly well, especially as simple renovation ideas Singapore homeowners choose for simple yet functional living.

6. Transform Your Toilet Into a Hotel-Style Bathroom

If you are going for a renovation idea that offers premium relaxation, choose a hotel-style bathroom. Modern toilet renovation ideas allow you quality space and time to rest in your bathroom.   

Some key features you can include in your hotel-style bathroom include:

• Wall-hung vanities

• Large format tiles

• Built-in niches for storage

• Concealed piping

Even small HDB bathrooms can feel very comfortable and luxurious with the right design. 

It’s important you focus on simplicity, elegance and comfort when renovating a toilet. In this toilet the large format wall tiles enhance the sense of space. The moment you walk in, you will notice the round mirror, the neutral color, and the subtle decor element that gives it a luxurious feel. 

110A Bidadari Park Drive - HDB BTO | AC Vision

7. Use Mirrors to Make Spaces Feel Bigger

This is one of the oldest tricks in interior design, and it still works beautifully. Mirrors can make small spaces appear prominent. They reflect light, creating an illusion of space. So place them strategically and watch the magic unfold. 

They are particularly effective in small bedrooms, narrow living rooms, and condos.

8. Incorporate Multi-Functional Furniture

Singapore homes demand innovative solutions. Multifunctional furniture can also feature hidden storage to keep items you don’t use regularly out of sight and to hide wires or cables that can disrupt your home's aesthetics. 

Install multi-functional elements like:

• Storage beds

• Built-in study desks

• Foldable dining tables

• Window seating with storage

Every piece of furniture should serve more than one purpose and help maximize space. 

The setup here is a perfect demonstration of how a built-in study desk can double as both a workspace and storage solution. The built-in overhead cabinet and drawers provides homeowners with plenty of space to store their everyday items. 

Bartley Ridge Condo @ 40 Mount Vernon Road | AC Vision 

9. Use Sliding Doors to Save Space

With traditional swing doors, you need more space. But with a modern slide door, you can maximize space for other things. Slide doors work excellently for bedrooms, wardrobes, and kitchens.

10. Design Built-In Wardrobes That Fit Your Lifestyle

Built-in wardrobes maximise every inch. Instead of standard layouts, customise based on your needs:

• More hanging space

• More drawers

• Hidden compartments

Good storage improves daily living.

This image shows how built-in wardrobes can be designed in your homes to excellently manage space. The full height wardrobe stretches across the entire wall and blends seamlessly with the overall design. 

Blk 6 Ang Mo kio Central 3 | AC Vision 

11. Upgrade Lighting for Ambience and Function

Lighting can determine how your house renovation idea feels and looks. Don’t overlook it. Ensure you invest in general lighting, task lighting, ambient lighting. For example, warm lighting creates a cosy environment.

13. Extend the Living Room for More Comfort

You can always extend part of the balcony into the living room to create more space and to better lay out your furniture. This is very common in 4-room HDB resale renovation ideas or Condo renovation Singapore projects. Extending your living room presents you with more space to work and relax.

14. Use Neutral Colours for Timeless Appeal

Trends change quickly. Neutral colours remain timeless. Popular choices include warm whites, soft greys, and light wood tones.

Neutral colours also make spaces feel larger and the approach works across all renovation ideas. The walls here are finished in a soft warm white that leaves a bright and open finish. 

Blk 6 Ang Mo kio Central 3 | AC Vision 

15. Customise Your Home to Your Lifestyle

This is the most critical advice I give every client. The renovation shouldn’t make your home feel like someone else’s. It should reflect how you live.

 If you have a family, ensure your renovation allows for more storage; if you are a couple, opt for open space. If you work in a professional field, your renovation should include a home office. 

Conclusion

To renovate an HDB or condo to meet homeowners' living standards, ensure you balance beauty, function, and longevity. Always keep in mind that good design is never just about looks; it should make everyday life better. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best renovation ideas for HDB flats in Singapore?

The best HDB renovation ideas maximize space, include clever storage, and create open layouts. The goal is to make smaller HDB flats feel spacious and comfortable. 

2. How much does a typical home renovation idea cost in Singapore?

Cost varies depending on the fly type, the size, and the scope of the project to be achieved. On average:

• 2 Room Flexi: SGD 20,000 – SGD 40,000

• 3 Room HDB: SGD 30,000 – SGD 60,000

• 4 Room BTO or resale: SGD 40,000 – SGD 80,000

• Condo renovation: SGD 50,000 – SGD 100,000 or more

The final cost is also affected by several factors: carpentry, hacking work, materials, and design complexity.

3. What are the most critical areas to prioritise during renovation?

I always advise homeowners to prioritise the kitchen, storage, and layout. Once you can focus on these three areas, you will be able to transform your space entirely. 

4. How can I make my small HDB flat look bigger?

To make your small HDB flat look bigger, use:

• Use light and neutral colours

• Install full-height storage

• Add mirrors to reflect light.

• Use glass partitions instead of solid walls.

• Choose built-in and multi-functional furniture.