Hiring an interior designer in Singapore is a wise decision, as long as they have the necessary qualifications, work experience, and practice in Singapore. This will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. If you are planning small-scale projects such as renovating your bedroom, installing new carpentry, installing new tiles, and installing a plaster ceiling, hiring a renovation contractor is a great investment for your home design project in Singapore. However, it is important to ask the right questions to ensure that you find the right designer for your needs.
There are many interior design firms in Singapore to choose from, making it difficult and time-consuming to find the right partner. To avoid a tight and stressful schedule, it is recommended to engage an interior designer (ID) firm at least 3 to 6 months before collecting your house keys. This allows time for both parties to create a design plan.
Hiring an ID is not essential as a contractor can fulfill basic renovation needs but can also take on the role of project manager. The high price tag comes with the added value they provide for your home. While hiring an interior designer for your HDB space in Singapore is not a strict requirement, it can significantly enhance your home’s overall look and provide expert advice on spatial planning.
When undergoing home renovations or extensive building projects, getting an interior designer to work with you early on in the process can help you coordinate works amongst various contractors. The answer to this question depends on your plans, skills, and the scope of the project. When making cosmetic adjustments that don’t involve a lot of work, it is essential to consult with an interior designer to ensure the best fit for your needs.
📹 Designers’ Series | EP 1 | The Truth Behind Being An Interior Designer In Singapore
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At what stage should I hire an interior designer?
A professional interior decorator can help you complete the entire process of decorating your space, from organizing to purchasing items. They can help you make your space look spectacular without wasting time and money. They can also help you execute your ideas, incorporating your personality into the design. They will conduct brainstorming sessions and decide the best options for your space, executing all your plans and ideas down to every detail.
When planning to move to a new home, it can be challenging and intimidating to make the necessary decorations. However, with the help of one of the best interior designers in India, you can make your space look amazing and alleviate the stress of sorting out everything in your new home.
When should you not hire an interior designer?
In the event that one is not yet prepared to invest in the aesthetic and functional enhancement of one’s domicile, it would be prudent to consider engaging the services of a professional interior designer. They can assist in the formulation of a prudent plan of action and ensure the optimal utilization of financial resources. Should you be resolved to engage the services of a residential interior designer, it would be prudent to ascertain whether they meet the requisite criteria and to consider the potential benefits of hiring a designer.
When should I start finding interior designers?
For larger projects, it is recommended to start searching for an interior designer at least a year or more before starting the project. This allows for interviews, bids, cost estimates, and a team to be in place before work begins. Once the right designer is found, they can help create a timeline for the project and ensure everything stays on track.
For complex projects, it is even more important to start your search early than for simpler projects. Complex projects can take longer to complete, and it is crucial to work with a professional who can bring your vision to life. By starting your search early, you can ensure you have enough time to find the right designer for your project and avoid last-minute scrambling or rushing through the process.
Is interior design in demand in Singapore?
Singapore’s strong economy and international business presence make interior design a promising career choice. The country’s vibrant architecture and a strong interest in cutting-edge design make it a desirable location for interior designers. The city-state’s commitment to sustainable design further bolsters the demand for skilled designers who can create visually stunning spaces. The government’s commitment to environmental design also contributes to the growing need for interior designers knowledgeable about these principles. To succeed in an interior design career in Singapore, consider these tips:
- Develop a strong portfolio of work that showcases your skills and experience.
- Develop a strong portfolio of projects that showcase your skills and experience.
- Stay updated on the latest trends and trends in interior design.
Should you hire an interior designer in Singapore?
An interior designer is responsible for creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing property for their clients. They advise on color schemes, materials, furniture, and lighting to achieve their vision and maximize the existing space. Their services include concept development, material selections, and 3D designs. A contractor manages the technical aspects of the renovation process, providing construction services and executing the design plan.
They do not provide advice on design or aesthetic aspects. If the client does not hire an interior designer, contractors execute the renovation plans and provide project cost estimates. The contractor coordinates with subcontractors, such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters, to ensure they complete tasks according to the project timeline and specifications.
Do you really need an interior designer?
Delegating home updates and planning to a professional Interior Designer can save time and ensure a comfortable, home-like space. This doesn’t mean losing control, as the designer handles the heavy lifting. The designer collaborates with the client, making the process enjoyable and stress-free. They offer an easy design brief, quick turnaround, one-click basket, and shopping support to make the process hassle-free. To save time and receive your dream home, book a free call with one of their experts today.
How much does it cost to engage an interior designer in Singapore?
Home and Décor Singapore reports that interior designer fees range from S$1, 500 to S$6, 000, with some designers charging for design quotations. Additional fees may apply for higher material costs, as customisation may be required beyond standard materials. Hiring an interior designer may not be the best option for those who want a home that reflects their personality, as it may not be cost-effective.
When should you engage an interior designer?
New build projects and renovations have different timelines, making it essential to hire an interior designer early on to provide expert insight into the design, development, and construction process. For less involved projects, such as decorating a new space, interior designers can offer cosmetic services like selecting paint color or advising on furniture and art selection. It is crucial to set up a consultation with a designer early in the process, as they can help identify the full potential of the project and address unforeseen challenges.
The process requires patience and passion, as designers need time to gather information, ask questions, and understand the client’s lifestyle. A functional, comfortable, and beautiful design is the result of many small decisions, reflecting the individuality and lifestyle of the client, creating a space that feels like home.
Do people actually hire interior designers?
The engagement of an interior decorator can prove advantageous for those who lack the requisite time, design expertise, or confidence to create a cohesive and visually appealing space. In such cases, the services of an interior decorator can provide the necessary professional guidance and insight into current design trends.
Do you need a license to be an interior designer in Singapore?
To start an interior design business in Singapore, you need to obtain necessary licenses and permits, such as a general business license from the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA), a building and construction authority (BCA) license, a HDB license for public housing renovations, a Fire Safety Bureau clearance for commercial projects, and professional indemnity insurance. Business advisory services can help navigate these requirements and ensure compliance with local regulations. Additionally, explore funding options like government grants, private investors, or bank loans, and consider partnerships with established furniture suppliers, contractors, or property developers.
Is it better to hire an interior designer or do it yourself?
Hiring an interior designer offers several benefits, including time savings, stress reduction, customized solutions, and a more personalized outcome. Designers are experts in the design process, allowing for quick and efficient decision-making, resulting in project completion in less time than a DIY project. They also have experienced problem solvers who can help navigate issues and cover all details, ensuring a stress-free experience.
Additionally, a skilled interior designer provides tailored solutions to your needs and preferences, ensuring your living space is aesthetically appealing and reflects your unique personality and lifestyle.
📹 Revealing The Secrets of Singapore’s Interior Design Industry | TDK Podcast #219
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The problems with ID industry is that it is not properly regulated by BCA and how well trained are these IDs. A lot of IDs just focus on aesthetics with little or totally no knowledge of good building construction practices / detailing / processes & procedures and maintenance needs. The worst is no responsibility on standing supervision & doing proper job especially during hacking (over hacking too deep ) & waterproofing works to wet areas such as toilets, kitchens, powder rooms, & balconies leading to leakage to lower floor or unit below. Another problem with wet areas is poor gradient to run off water causing stagnation / pooling at a corner etc. A good practice of written renovation contract is to ensure there are: payment terms of deposit and subsequent payment based on value of work done less out the deposit & retention fund (at least 10% to 20% of the contract value to be released after all defects are properly rectified during the defects liability period. Retention fund percentage depends on contract value, if too little, no impact Defects liability period of 12 months Waterproofing guarantee for at least 5 years from completion against leakage, because industry practice is 10 year guarantee provided waterproofing not tempered by owner Submit details and design, samples / mood boards for clearance visit to suppliers to select finishes and appliances coordination with others who may be engaged by the owner / employer. It will be good to visit ID’s projects completed the the past 3-6 months and 1-2 years.
OMG THIS article IS A GEM!! and Wilson is such a sincere entertainer too! Love his very ‘layman’ examples for noobs who dont know anything! Only thing is…. this article came abit too late. But really appreciate this team + him for filming this nearly hour long article. I sat down to watch, initially thinking maybe i’ll just watch 10 mins. but…. i finished the entire article! Pls have a part 2 or part 3 if possible!
20K? I’m going to start on my Reno for 3 room BTO soon. My initial quote was 25K for the whole house, only wardrobe, toilet vanity and kitchen carpentry. We decided that we wanted to change the tiles at the toilet so it went up to 32K. How is it possible to get 20K? Didn’t count Kitchen carpentry? But that one feels like a need in all BTOs… That being said, this was a good episode. Wish I had this while searching for ID instead of just learning as I go.
This was amazingly helpful. I am getting my home next year and literally I ust want to do lighting, painting and a insect screen on windows for things I cant do personally. The scariest thing is getting scammed with hidden costs and Wilson def. helped to relieve some of that stress. Excellent podcast and keep up the good work.
This Wilson is so humble and funny! I had my flat renovated by them 5 years ago. Didn’t get to meet Wilson at all, but got 2 designers, 1 senior and 1 junior. I thought it was an overkill to have 2 IDs but now learned that the junior ID was understudy like he mentioned. The renovation and handover was done on schedule and it was a good experience.
End of the day it depends on the main person who handles ur project. THE COMPANY can be reputable but its thr stupid ID that handles ur project that tarnished the company’s name. Like wat he said…all we want is a responsible ID and one who keep the owner updated so they wont be worried. N pls have intergrity n professionalism too. I had bad experience for mine hence it gave me abit of trauma. I spent around 48k for mine
00:00 Introduction and Daily Ketchup 01:42 Childhood Memories 02:47 Contractor and Payment Tips 04:01 Scams in the ID Industry 26:54 Money-minded mindset 28:01 Starting a contracting business 29:00 Realizing the value of his job 30:03 Connecting with homeowners 31:13 Importance of a good design 32:05 Building trust with homeowners 33:02 Understanding different customer needs 34:06 Determining profit margins 39:24 The importance of service and lifetime warranty 40:07 Example of a lifetime warranty 42:09 Passion and attitude in interior design 45:11 Preparing for a meeting with an interior designer 46:40 When to start sourcing for an interior designer 48:20 Things homeowners tend to overspend on
If every id were to follow his methodology at the profit margin for newcomers to earn which is so low because it has to be split with the senior designer for every project for at least 3 years…. 99% of them can just die out of hunger and run out of liquidity. They also have a life too despite being newbies.. somemore you structure it in a way that their fate lies 100% in their senior designers’ hands, there should be discipline imposed, period correct but there must also be a balance struck. People join every job for the sake of money and survival but that does not mean the company has to squeeze them out so tightly for the sake of being newbies and inexperience.. these are two different things
I agree with Wilson on most of the questions. HOWEVER, I disagree on not giving more financial incentives to experienced IDs whom mentors the newbies. It should be given as RECOGNITION and MOTIVATION for his/her efforts. Having a “good mindset” whilst great and very appreciated, can only take you so far if your pockets are only FULL OF THANK YOUS.. 🤦🏼😅 .
People say being an id is very easy, just need to choose design for them and all but actually as an id is isn’t easy… as we are always the middle person, like we need to deal with the contractor and also the client as well as your planning need to be good so that the contractor work won’t get crash tgt. Worst part is sometimes client very hard to deal with as well because there’s client who will put you on airplane mode if not go mia… or worst case scenario they will take your hard work idea and give it to others id company because it’s more cheap then ours…
@38:05, I am a hands on type person, so I like the satisfaction of having overseen the process from start to finish by only hiring a main contractor, which I did with my kitchen reno, but with that said, if you have pretty novel and kooky ideas its better to find a design professional who is experienced in such niche contexts and has the right intuition..
One topic that they did not cover, Project Manager/ ID not being there when there’s are 3rd party contractor involved. of the multiple renovations i am tasked to oversee (from companies I work in) whenever I visit the reno sites, especially when a new subcon is there the Project manager/ ID is never present, simple problems are always surfacing.
ID’s charges EXTREMELY high. Aftersales service may or may not be good, No Garuntee. The laymen term for ID’s and contractors: On Paper, Nothing is 100000000% garuanteed from any ID or contractor. My experience: I’ve done many rounds of renovations my entire property journey. More than 14 years of experience and i hear the SAME stories, SAME lines. Pricing factor : 40,000 $ to renovate the whole home with ID but LESS than 8,000 $ with contractor which is at least 4 folds the ID charges and my own contractors are very reliable. A renovation i did for one of my home. Then I would question myself, Why I want pay 40,000$ for an 8,000$ job ? Quality may or may not be good, If you are experienced then you will know what wood and laminate is good. 40,000 for warranty but terms and conditions apply, Same for 8,000 but the difference is i still can afford to redo my carpentry, different colour. Pressumingly redo is another 8,000$, it is still cheaper than ID. Conclusion: In short, there are different mix of people in the industry regardless ID or Contractor. ID or Contractor can say all they want. If they want to run, they will run whether or not what paper you sign. If the contractor wants to delay, Nothing the ID can do about it too. Its not just about the money. Definitely with an ID, you dont have to worry too much about colours and designing. Nowadays, The Contractors know whats trending and what colours match the best because they have done MANY projects. their ideas and designs that ID would almost never thought of those ideas.