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Tips to design your HDB to look like an upscale condo/loft

Updated: 7 min read

Discover how you can transform your HDB flat into a space that echoes the sophisticated aesthetics of a condo or the open, airy feel of a loft. With strategic use of space, sleek design, and a touch of luxury, you can create a home that inspires and reflects your style.


Understanding the basics of condo-style design

design hdbs to look like condos
Somewhat a split between luxurious living and functionality, that’s the condo-style. Image credit: Francesca Tosolini on Unsplash.

Embracing modernity and luxury is possible for HDB owners by maximising space with stylish, open design elements. Condo and loft styles serve as an inspiration for achieving a chic, modern look that exudes elegance and sophistication.

 

Additional reading: Upgrading from an HDB flat to a condo? The guide to end all guides

 


I. Colour and lighting to transform spaces

Choosing your palette

design hdbs to look like condos
Colour-blocking? What’s that? We go for colour consistency nowadays. Image credit: Grovemade on Unsplash.

Achieving a visually harmonious living space is all about maintaining colour consistency. By incorporating neutral shades like greys, whites, and beiges, you can create an illusion of spaciousness and radiance, illuminating your HDB flat with natural light. For those who crave a dramatic flair, darker hues can be used in moderation or in less frequented zones to add a hint of edginess without overwhelming the senses.

 

Lighting solutions

hdb lighting and decor ideas
Because we perceive things with light, the lighting in your house is crucial to make it ‘home’. Image credit: Armando Morales on Unsplash.

Transform your space into a warm and welcoming haven by carefully curating your lighting fixtures. Create a mix of overhead and ambient lighting to give your surroundings a cosy and inviting vibe. Elevate your decor by adding statement lighting pieces such as sculptural floor lamps or pendant lights, and experience the luxurious feel of a high-end condo in the comfort of your home.

Looking for homes on the MRT route? Use our Singapore MRT guide!


II. Furniture and layout ideas

Use multipurpose furniture

design hdbs to look like condos
For multidimensional creatures like us humans, we need multipurpose furniture. Image credit: Sam Moghadam Khamseh on Unsplash.

In Singapore, where space is at a premium, it’s important to make the most of every inch. Multipurpose furniture, like ottomans with storage and sofa beds, can help you do that. By choosing items that serve dual purposes, you’re not only saving space but also making your living areas more flexible and adaptable.

So why not add a touch of functionality to your home and create a space that’s truly your own?

Layout optimisation

design hdbs to look like condos
Natural light is the way to go. Image credit: Point3D Commercial Imaging Ltd. on Unsplash.

Create a space that feels open and free-flowing by arranging your furniture with intention. Let the natural light shine through by thoughtfully placing larger pieces, and use rugs and dividers to create distinct areas while maintaining a loft-like feel.


III.Decorative touches and textures

Art and decor

design hdbs to look like condos
A bold art piece adds much character and familiarity to a room, not to mention a great conversation starter! Image credit: Lotus Design N Print on Unsplash.

Choose artwork that perfectly complements the modern aesthetic of your design theme. Simple yet bold pieces can elevate the look of any room, adding a touch of sophistication that’s perfect for condo interiors.

Textures and materials

design hdbs to look like condos
The blending of textures and materials can be soothing to the eyes, if done right. Image credit: Francesca Tosolini on Unsplash.

By blending materials such as metal, glass, and wood, you can bring texture and visual interest to your living space. Opt for wallpapers that imitate textures like brick or stone for an added loft vibe, which is not only stylish but also convenient for cleaning and maintenance.


IV. Smart use of vertical and compact spaces

design hdbs to look like condos
Adding a cabinet on walls helps solve most storage problems, for sure. Image credit: Huy Nguyen on Unsplash.

Maximise the potential of your space by utilising vertical storage with shelves and cabinets that reach up high. This not only saves floor space but also draws the eye upward, creating a sense of height and openness. Innovative storage solutions can also be hidden under beds or within built-in seating – the possibilities are endless!

Additional reading: Which is better: EC or Private Condo?

Achieving the loft look

design hdbs to look like condos
It may look a little industrial but exposed ductwork and high ceilings add a certain vibe to the room. Image credit: Israa Hilles on Unsplash.

Bring the essence of a loft into your HDB by incorporating elements such as exposed beams or ductwork, high ceilings, and an open-plan layout where feasible. Even with limited structural changes, you can achieve the desired effect by adding an industrial colour palette and metal fixtures. Let your imagination run wild and turn your HDB into a stunning loft-inspired space.


Conclusion

design hdbs to look like condos
In the end, how you design and arrange your home is based on your taste and style. Image credit: Huy Nguyen on Unsplash.

With a thoughtful blend of colours, lighting, and functional design, you can transform your HDB into a modern and chic space that reflects your style. Create a home that feels open, sophisticated, and tailored to you with these helpful tips.



FAQs

 
What are the key elements of condo-style design for HDB flats?

Condo-style design for HDB flats focuses on a blend of luxury and functionality, utilising open design elements and modern aesthetics to create a chic and sophisticated space. This style often involves using neutral colour palettes to enhance the sense of space and natural light and incorporating sleek, multipurpose furniture to optimise living areas.

How can lighting and colour transform an HDB flat?

Strategic use of lighting and colour can significantly transform an HDB flat by creating a welcoming and spacious atmosphere. A consistent colour scheme with neutral shades can make rooms appear larger, while a mix of overhead and ambient lighting fixtures can add warmth and character to the home, mimicking the luxurious feel of a high-end condo.

What are some tips for maximising space in a compact HDB flat?

To maximise space in a compact HDB flat, consider multipurpose furniture that serves dual functions, such as ottomans with storage or sofa beds. Optimising the layout to enhance the flow of natural light and utilising vertical storage solutions, like tall shelves and cabinets, can also help create a sens of openness and organisation, making the most of the available space.

What decorative elements can add a touch of sophistication to my HDB flat?

Bold art pieces, a mix of textures and materials like metal, glass, and wood, and wallpapers that imitate textures such as brick or stone can elevate the look of your home.

How can I achieve an industrial loft look in my HDB flat?

Incorporate elements such as exposed beams or ductwork, high ceilings, and an open-plan layout. Use an industrial colour palette and metal fixtures to enhance the loft-inspired design.

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About Azhann Rosmin

Azhann Rosmin is a writer who has 6 years of professional forte. He specialises in writing about real estate and lifestyle topics. His coverage mostly focuses on HDBs, condos, BTOs, and landed houses while also favouring topics of food, nightlife, and technology. He has worked in multiple writing positions that include cryptocurrency, fintech, e-commerce, fashion, and cosmetics. Azhann graduated with a bachelor's degree in Applied Linguistics and also writes poetry.

Looking to sell your property?

Whether your HDB apartment is reaching the end of its Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) or your condo has crossed its Seller Stamp Duty (SSD) window, it is always good to know how much you can potentially gain if you were to list and sell your property. Not only that, you’ll also need to know whether your gains would allow you to right-size to the dream home in the neighbourhood you and your family have been eyeing.

One easy way is to send us a request for a credible and trusted property consultant to reach out to you.

Alternatively, you can jump onto 99.co’s Property Value Tool to get an estimate for free.

If you’re looking for your dream home, be it as a first-time or seasoned homebuyer or seller – say, to upgrade or right-size – you will find it on Singapore’s fastest-growing property portal 99.co.

Meanwhile, if you have an interesting property-related story to share with us, drop us a message here — and we’ll review it and get back to you.

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