Shopping for IDs

Introduction
I always think ID Hunting should be like man doing shopping. Know what you are looking for and just get it done ASAP.  Woman-style shopping should not be adopted (no offense, ladies.  Just an analogy).  Without knowing what you want, you may end up spending more time and money!

This, in some way, describes Gf and my style of shopping.

So what should you do to reduce the pain and time of ID hunting? 


The Preparations

1. Plan your Budget!
   I can never stress this enough.  In my earlier post, I have explained the importance on budget planning and how to plan your budget well.  You need to know how much you can set aside!
   
2. Think of what you want!
   Prior to the visit, research on your design themes.  Of course you can depend on the ID to come out with the design.  But if you are going to work with a Contractor, you need a design in your mind.
   
   I personally think if you are going to do up your home, you might as well do some homework.  I have given some popular themes out there in my previous post, but there are still many themes out there (use Google!).   Also check out designs on home design magazines.  My personal favourites are Home & Decor and Squarerooms.
   
   You can also consider using online apps/softwares (I will do a write-up in a later post) which you can plan out your layout.
   
   Or you can be like my mother.  No homework done and she left all the works to a contractor.  In the end, she paid the same amount as many other homeowners but ended up with a home with a generic design.
   
   Like what Jack from ThreeDConceptwerke said, "I don't not want someone to come to my house and say, 'Hey! you kitchen is so like Tom's! so nice."
   
   
3. Plan your hunt!ID hunting is crazy.  So plan your hunt well.  Do a research on good ID firms.  I have earlier done a write-up.  Pay close attention to recommendations. Then draw up a list and plan your visits.  For example if there are three IDs in your list that are based in IMM, visit them at one go.  It may also be wise to make prior appointments if you have an ID in mind.
   
4. State your requirements clearly!
   During your discussion with the ID, state your requirements for each room.  Some of the things you should highlight or request the ID to review/propose:-

• Storage Options: Do you have any bulky items like luggages but no storeroom?  Let your ID propose storage solutions.
• Functions of each room:  Kids room? Study room? what is the function of the room?
• Cooking style: Heavy cooker or light cooker? You need to inform the ID in order to plan effectively a kitchen to suit the needs.
• Any material dislike?: Inform your ID if you do not like any materials.  For me, I have a disdain for wallpapers and mirrors and I made it known early I do not want them in my home.  Note that not all materials are suitable for some themes too.  For example, I have yet seen the use of fanciful wall papers in resort theme homes.
• Ceiling fans: Are you planning to install ceiling fans?  If so, it may not be advisable to install false ceilings.  Alternatively, request your ID to plan the false ceiling layout.
• Wardrobe: Do you want a walk-in-wardrobe?   Let your ID propose.  However, be warned that if it involved hacking an existing room, you lose that room.  It may be hard for it be converted back in future too unless you are willing to do another round of renovations.
  
  Once you are done, state your budget for the ID/contractor works minus at least 10% and round down to nearest $5,000.  For example, if your budget is $40,000, state amount of $35,000.  The remaining $5,000 shall form your contingency budget.  That's because in every design, variations are bound to happen, so it's better to keep aside part of that budget.  DO NOT REVEAL this to your ID/Contractor.  And explain that this cost excludes any electrical cost and air-conditioning cost.
  
  If you also need your ID's advice on furniture selection, sound it out to him/her.  There are some IDs whom provide excellent service by accompanying you to get furniture that complements with your home design.
  

Conclusion
That about sums it up. If my small brain remembers anything, I will update it.  Good luck on your ID Hunt!

Budgeting your War Chest

Introduction
After I wrote about how My ID selection came about, I realised I didn't explain the finer points you need to do prior to the ID selection.  So in this post, I will talk about budgeting and in the next post, I will highlight the necessary mentality and preparations you need to have prior to meeting a ID or a Contractor.

Picture note related: Just a stupid illustration hoping to enlighten you that in war, you need war funds.

Yesh! IT'S WAR!!!!!!!!!!

I just like the movie 300. 

Budgetting 101
Always always always ask yourselves.  How much is in your war chest?  Without proper planning, you may find yourself in debt.  Be realistic and only get what you want.  It's easier for me to say this, but even without planning, I find myself giving in to unnecessary wants which may balloon my current budget.  Thanks to Gf, I was brought down to earth.  Several times.

So what should your budget look like?  I have come up a list of items for your consideration based on a 4-room HDB unit.

1. The Construction
Definitely the no.1 cost which should not be neglected.  You need to hack walls.  Hack tiles.  Change waterproofing.  Add window grilles.  Change all the wood doors.  Painting.  Build wardrobes.  The list goes on and on.   Unless you are moving into a all-ready home with all built-in furniture in condition, this should be where your bulk of costs goes into.  Generally the works in this category includes the following:-

• Demolition works which refers to hacking of tiles, knocking down of walls
• Wet works which includes built up walls, flooring, tiles and waterproofing 
• False ceiling / 'false' wall works
• Painting works
• Built-in furniture or carpentry works consisting of kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, TV consoles
• Glazing works
• Plumbing works which includes running of gas pipes and installation of sanitary wares
• Painting
• Misc works like haulage works, cleaning up, Professional Engineers' Fees, ID fees

So how much is enough?  It depends on what you really seek.  I have seen people spending $15,000.00 to do up a new flat (I have a friend whom is going to do that to her new flat).  I have also read of people spending $100,000.00 or more.  So ultimately it depends on how deep your pockets are.  And also consider the following self-questioning:-

• What is the purpose of renovating? Is it for you and your family to live in comfortably? Or do you plan to rent it out?    If it's the latter, do it cheap IMHO.  However, if it is the former, spend but within your means.  I always felt it's better to do it now if you can then wait a few years later (to accumulate funds) and do renovation again.   If your budget is tight, do up the basic finishes and needs first.  The word here is prioritize.
• Do you plan to sell your house after a few years?  This is a difficult question.  You see, if you do plan to sell, try to keep your renovation cost low.  Contrary to what most real estate agents will tell you, a nicely renovated unit may not be so sellable in the resale market as many buyers out there are more likely to carry out renovation works to their new purchases (especially with the younger generation).  Unless the prospective buyers have the same design tastes as yours, most of them will probably baulk at the idea of paying a premium for a nicely decorated dwelling as compared to paying for a run down and subsequently using the premium saved to do up the place to their own liking.
• What is the future like for you?  Do you plan to have a baby? Do you have aging parents living with you?  You may want to set aside/review budget for incorporating a baby room or elderly-friendly features.

2. Electrical Works
This relates to all the wiring, socket points and lighting points your need.  Same advice as above.  Do as much as you can afford now as it may be costly if you later regret  missing out a point here and there.  Generally, costs are within the range of $1,500 to as much as $8,000 (for complete re-wiring) for a 100sqm unit.  I have seen quotations of even $15,000 in some local forums but the unit rates used are crazy (smell of carrothead, if you know the mandarin meaning).  Note that this budget is for the installation works only.  Supply of lights need to be considered separately (see below).

3. Air-conditioning Works
Singapore is HOT, HOT, HOT!!! Though this is not a must have item, try to incorporate into your renovation works.  It will be messy when you decide to do it after renovations and most likely you need to be around to supervise the works.  Why not yet your ID or Contractor do the dirty work for you?  Costs are generally within the range of $2,000 to $4,000 depending on the system type.

4. Sanitary wares
This refers to basins, kitchen sinks, taps, toilet bowls, shower heads and etc.  Basically I would advise to change them all if you are moving into a re-sale unit.  It's all about hygience.  Costs are in the range of $1,500 to $3,000 or more (if you are going for designer wares)

5. Lights
Yes.  Definitely a need.  Unless you intend to use candles.  Again spend within your means.  You do not need designer lights.  You need ILLUMINATION only.  Designer lights are only your WANTS.  Cost can be as low as $500 to as high as ..... erm....... forget it.  Ultimately it depends on what and how many lights you want.

6. Furniture and electrical appliances.
Okay this usually ranks lowest in importance.  Well, you can get them later after the renovation is done.  Just go for the basic furniture like Bed, Sofa, Dining Set, Console.  If your budget is tight, go to Ikea.  Furniture may not last (as what others said), but they are affordable and guaranteed of good service.    However, if you plan to get a home-entertainment unit, try to get it early and plan with your ID or Contractor.  Sometimes you need their help to conceal the wiring (especially for a 5.1 system) or mount the speakers on your ceiling.

Conclusion
This generally sums up the items you need to consider for planing out your budget.  I think I may missed out alot of information, so if you have queries on renovation or on your items in your quotations, do feel free to drop me an email at keithtan79@gmail.com.  I will be most glad to advise you on any renovation matters to my best ability.

Mee-ni-nai-mi-mo I choose you (ID selection) Part 2

Earlier in my blog, I have listed 11 out of 13 ID firms. Out of the eleven, only Alan from Edgeline was short listed in the final round.

Alan was shortlisted as he was extremely hardworking. He was also very innovative in his design. I have to admit my visits to many IDs were fruitful;so fruitful till some of the design ideas were adopted/ incorporated into my design. Alan was the one whom tweaked the ideas to achieve practicality.  However, Alan is about to face two very serious competitors whom came late into the scene.  These two competitors, The Ruler Group and GA7 were brought into the scene as I was slightly uncomfortable on the thought that I only had one shortlisted after 11 quotations.  Below is the write-up of the last two ID firms which were immediately shortlisted.


The Ruler Group
Frankly speaking, I don't really have a good impressions of ID firms setting up booths at home exhibitions at Singapore Expo. Somehow I feel there must be one way or another in which the ID firms passes the rental charges to their clients. So one day in July I chanced upon an exhibition.

I was reluctant to enter as I find the sales personnel are very pushy. But I was at my wits' end. Alan was the only one in the short list by then and I was not very comfortable in awarding job to him based on that conditions. I need one more good quotation to set my mind at ease.

If you haven't been to such exhibitions, try going on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Some firms have a bevy of babes and hunks lined right outside their booths whom coincidentally are also IDs. My gf then remarked she felt as though it was like those sleazy ktv lounges u seen in Hong Kong movies where the hostesses lined up to greet you.

Anyway we visited Prozfile as we saw their portfolios which included several of similar themed projects. My writeup can be seen in my earlier post.

I then wanted another one more quotation. I then decided it was The Ruler Group. It was luck perhaps. Time then was late. I was hungry and I only had time for one more ID. There was another ID firm which was next to the Ruler Group I wanted to go, but gf wanted the Ruler Group as she felt the IDs in the other firm looks too young and inexperienced. In the end we indeed mee-no-nai-mi-mo and selected The Ruler Group.

We were immediately served by Kevin in a crisp white shirt and a necktie. We went through my design brief. Finally, we settled the design and Kevin then started a sales pitch. He wanted me to pay upfront for his 3D drawings. I flatly refused to do so and scolded Kevin for such a request. After much berating from me, Kevin agreed there will be no 3D drawings till I signed the contract. The whole experience left a bad taste in my mouth. I asked gf whether she thought Kevin will come back with his quotation. We both agreed in unison he won't.

A week later, Kevin called to my surprise and said his quote was ready.  I was slightly hesitant to go over to his firm after work.  But I still trudged there eventually.   His shop is located very near to Beau Monde which I went a few weeks back.  And boy was I impressed.  Kevin was ready with his floorplan, quotation and even a material board of proposed materials to be used.  I and my gf spent about 1 hr going through his plan and proposal and this hardworking chap had done his homework well by researching into the theme.  And his quotation..... ranks one of the lowest till date.

I met him two more times: one to go through the design again, and another one more time to visit the house for site inspection .  In fact, due to urgency to award the job (7th Lunar Month was nearing and I wanted to start some works before that),  the meeting was back-to-back with GA7 and the house visit was together with GA7 (as I did not want to impose too much on the seller).

Overall, my impression of Ruler Group has been very good.  Initially I wondered Kevin was able to understand my requirement well, but my fears were indeed unfounded.  Though Ruler Group had only recently entered the HDB market (they were mainly concentrating their services for private landed developments), their experience was there.



GA7 Associates Planning and Design
GA7 Group was recommended by my another good friend, Andrew, whom is in Real Estate.  I met up with Iris, a very nice lady.  From my meeting,  I understood that Iris is a project manager.  She claimed this was a better arrangement which is indeed rather unique in the ID field.  This was because, to GA7, IDs may give wild ideas which may be impossible to carry out.  Anyway, I spent more than 3 hours at a local fast food restaurant going through the ideas.   Iris was brilliant in ideas.  In fact, her ideas are filled with practicality and cost savings.    She has such a warm personality then we eventually even chat like old friends.

Eventually I was asked to visit a unit which she just completed.  But I declined due to time constraints.  Like Kevin, I met her two more times.

My impression of GA7 Group was similar to The Ruler Group.  GA7 came across as a ID firm with its roots in construction of small private landed developments and is highly experienced in doing up small homes too.  Though I was supposed to meet her ID together with Iris, I didn't due to time constraints.  But I think it was a brilliant practice.  There were so many instances I read where the ID was fully involved in the design, but when it comes to actual works, a coordinator whom you never met would usually run the actual works.  There was an additional unnecessary layer of communication which can be broken down, just like what GA7 Group has recognised.

Iris was also a woman of her words.   If she promised to deliver her promise on that day, she stuck to it even though it was eventually 1-2am when she sent.  That was another plus point to me.  Overall, her quotation was extremely close to Kevin's.



FINALLY......So whom did I picked? Was it Alan from Edgeline whom was very creative and diligent? Or Kevin whom was very enthusiastic and also diligent even though I had lectured him sternly at our first meeting?  Or superwoman Iris whom was extremely chatty and experienced?

It was.......

TADA!!!

The Ruler Group......

Yesh, I picked Kevin.  Why?  I guessed it boiled down to the follow factors (from the order of lowest priorty):-

1. Workmanship.  I felt it was okay though I only saw his carpentry works.  I did not really view the rest due to time constraints, so this factor ranks the lowest
2. His cost was the lowest (or 2nd lowest? I forgot).  I had promised myself that if the difference is minimal among the shortlisted (Kevin's and Iris's quotations were lower by alot as compared to Alan's),  this factor would rank low.
3. Kevin's design ideas were good too, evident from the design of my initial TV console (which was eventually scrapped due to cost).
4. Kevin has a car!!! Yes this is very materialistic of me, but hey with a car, it meant two things to me (a non-car owner).   One, he could easily bring me around sourcing for materials. Two, there is a likelihood that he will visit the site regularly which was definitely comforting to me.
5. Kevin's attitude is No.1!  He listens well and follows up accordingly.  He respects my choices and will only intervene if it was not very smart.  And best of all, he didn't show any attitude despite me lecturing him in my first meeting.  On the hindsight, I realised he may be right as 3D drawings are useful to explain to clients whom may have difficulty in visualising the design.  But I  felt perhaps ID firms should offer perspective hand-drawn drawings which would also do as well.
6. Kevin was very enthusiastic in his works.  He was fast to follow-up and respond (though I hoped it will be same after I awarded the job to him).  He promised he wanted this job badly because the design intent was extremely unique to him and would broaden his portfolio.

Please note Alan and Iris were not picked not because they failed the criteria above but because they came up lower than Kevin in overall score (Yes, there is a selection weightage in the criteria which I will not reveal out of respect for all IDs).  As such, do consider them if you need a good ID, or even the other 10 ID firms in my earlier post. 

Upon being informed of my intention to award the job to him (at end July 2012), Kevin invited me to come down to Singapore Expo to sign the Contract and make a deposit.  Why Expo instead of his office at Joo Chiat, I queried.  To which he answered, "Oh The Ruler Group is having an exhibition there now. If you go there to sign up, you can enter lucky draw to win $8,888!"

Whoa, I haven't sign and he is already thinking for me.  Bonus POINT!

So I went down to sign.  And I DIDN'T win anything despite entering the contest with 200 plus tickets.  EPIC fail, I thought, till Kevin informed me a client later entered with 1000 plus tickets.  I almost fainted.

Mee-ni-nai-mi-mo I choose you (ID selection) Part 1

Okay, my previous post I mentioned I visited 14 ID firms.  I was wrong.  It was 13.  But still crazy.  So crazy that I still cannot believe my determination to get the best quotation.

Later you will find a brief write-up on each ID firm.  Please note that the write-up is to allow readers to make an informed decision.  Opinions are of mine alone and should not be held against each ID firm.  Neither am I being endorsed by any of the firms.

To me, the ability of the ID to design accordingly to my theme is of utmost importance.  I will be lying if cost is not a factor.  Another is communication.  It is important I can relay my instructions clearly and be understood easily.

In the end, I had a shortlist of the ID firms.  Most felt short 'cos of budget.  Some due to design.  And some totally didn't came back with their quotations (disappointing). 

Okay, enough blabbering.  Here is a write-up of the IDs or contractors I approached (* indicated shortlisted initially).  Some of the ID's names have been 'censored' as I find the post may not be fair to them (considering that it's my own view and that their side of story is not heard).  I have appended their websites in the sub-headings to allow readers to search for them easier.


Edgeline Planners*
I was served by a young chap,Alan. I personally felt despite his age, Alan has a creative vibe in him. I was initially cautious as my sister used the same ID firm and had nasty words about its works (this was strangely retracted by sister later whom now swears by their workmanship).

Alan is very hardworking and works fast. In total, I met him a total of four times as he was one of my short listed. However, his quotation came back a tad high and I have a nudging feeling that his variation works may amount to a large sum (as what I read from forums but hey which ID doesn't?!).  Nevertheless, his designs are great.  The only thing I felt that didn't feel right was best summed up by my brother-in-law, "Yeah, their designs are always so modern."  That's right.  I was lamenting that I felt the design was slowly evolving to modern contemporary.


Spacious Planners and Design
I was served by Nora, a nice lady.  Total visits was three times.  Unfortunately I didn't take her offer as I felt her design proposals didn't really suit what I wanted. I also understand Edgeline and Spacious are "sister' companies having the same boss.  I find it weird too, as they were just side-by-side at IMM.  Nevertheless, I was told by Alan from Edgeline they are run by different managements.


Space Planning and Design (Cannot locate webpage)
A middle-aged gentleman served me.  Basically I had to guide him what I wanted.  That's all.  No suggestions or anything from him.  Within 5 minutes, I regretted walking in and wanted out.  I cannot accept the fact that I have to provide design ideas to an ID.  I might as well get a Contractor.  He, of course, did not get back to me too.


Northwest Interior 
I was served by a A****.  Very hardworking as she called me several times to ask about my decision on her offer (lol)  But I did not take her offer for various reasons.  One main reason: she doesn't seem to understand my design theme at all.  How can it be delivered if the design theme is not understood?  It seems to me they are churning out the same, run-of-the-mill designs.  But I have to admit, her costs are low.  Good if you want it simple and cheap .


Intradesign
I was served by a very pleasant looking A******* which was highly recommended by renotalk forum users (whom strangely had a few posts only). Went through the design and was told her quotation would not have a breakdown (same as what others said),

Initially her quote came in within my budget. However, being in the construction line, I could never accept it if my contractor does the same thing to me. I cannot understand how forum users are ok to this. What if there are variations? How will it be determined? Do you really feel comfortable paying tens of thousands and not knowing the breakdown of costs? I cannot accept such business models. As such, do look for them if you are a novice in this. I do think their design ideas are great (even at first visit).


Beaux Monde
Okay this is disappointment. I was served by Z***** and spent more than one hour with her going through her designs. She has a flair and enthusiasm for design. I told her upfront she's short listed.

But in the end, she didn't get into the list. Why? Well it's simple. She didn't come back with any quotations. I didn't chase her for it too because it says alot on whether you want the job. Either my budget is too low for her profit margins or she is simply too busy.


2Form Interior Design*
Helmed by Mr Ray Sim, 2Form designs has been featured on magazines and newspapers. I should have known where I am heading in terms of price when I saw this headline:-

"More HDB flat owners spending lavishly to create dream homes"

Anyway, 2Form only appeared in my radar because I chanced upon them while on a hunt at Trades Hub 21.

I met Ray's assistant, Reginald,whom seemed fresh out of design school. I am fine with it though. Ray too had to sit in a few times. But the young chap was good in design. Opportunities have to be given to nurture young talents like him.

Unfortunately, they chose not to give me opportunity to hire them in return. The quote for my two bed room condo was about 80% percent of the renovation costs in that article.

Being in this line, I can't help but got shocked at the cost of certain works. The high costs stuck up like a sore thumb in the eyes of every quantity surveyor. After several meetings, the cost was reduced but still out of my budget. I concluded that it cannot proceed further.


Three-D Conceptwerke*
Jack served me. If you know this ID firm, my design theme should be known by now. Jack's design is very bold, fresh and innovative.

Unfortunately the cost of his works are very high. As much as I wanted to incorporate Jack's design into my living abode, my wallet would not allow me.  Jack even offered to waive off his design fee.  On one hand, I felt it was unfair to him.  But still, the waiver would not bring the cost within my budget.


Innerview Design
Colin was my ID for my previous flat. And also the boss of innerview. He is hardworking and responsive and I do like his workmanship. IMHO, Colin is more like a contractor. Naturally I went back and short listed him.

I discussed with him on the design like an old friend. He understood my design and ideas and was able to propose alternatives. He was confident of meeting my budget.

But he never got back....

I do not want to know why. I think he knows I am not a picky person and easy to work for. So it seems strange why he didn't came back with a quotation.

Anyway, Colin is highly recommended by me. There are indeed many bad reviews on renotalk forums, and I asked him about it. He shook his head in resignation and blamed his luck on employing someone whom had tarnished his firm's reputation.



Plush Living
J***** served me.  His design proposals didn't really interest me.  Ultimately, though his price was cheap, I didn't engage him.  Dunno why, but I find it hard to click with him.


B&E Group
I was recommended to P****** by my real estate agent.  B&E came across as a contractor firm initially.  As I was nearing my hunt for IDs and the quotations I gotten then weren't really fitting into my budget, I was assured that he will give me a very competitive price.  P****** indeed came to the condo unit to take measurements and was very attentive.

In the end, he did came back with a competitive quote; as competitive as the rest of the high quotes. For example, supply and laying of homogeneous tiles actually cost twice the market rate.  There was no further reduction, as such he was dropped.

Later my agent told me he was shocked at the pricing as P******* had done for his cousin's abode at almost half the price for a bigger unit. I told him it's probably he didn't want the job.  It's a common practice in the industry that contractors priced themselves out of a construction tender so as not to get the job and yet give the client 'face'.


Prozfile*
I came across Prozfile at an exhibition at Singapore Expo.  I would rank them highly in terms of design.  In fact, it parallels against Jack's design from Three-D Conceptwerke (see above).  Overall, I am utterly impressed by Kay Kay's design.  Unfortunately, they do not fit into my budget.  I would have engaged him if not for the costs.

One additional nugget of info.  Prozfile is suspected to be linked to a ID Firm with a familiar name.  I have spoken to them with respect to it and was told Prozfile was formed by the ex-partners in that ID Firm whom left due to difference in directions.  So no more guessing :D


Conclusion
As you can see above, there are only 11 ID firms listed. Please do not let my views stop you from approaching them.  I find some of them really good except their quotations cannot fit into my budgets.

The other two firms not mentioned above are The Ruler Group and GA7 Associates Design and Planning (GA7).    Together with Alan from Edgeline, they entered into my final shortlist.  It must be noted (unfortunately) that The Ruler Group and GA7 were the last ID firms which I got quotations from.  And they were within my budget!  I will elaborate more on the selection process in my next post.

Choosing an ID - a how-to guide

For people whom are unaware, I worked in the construction industry as a quantity surveyor (click here for explanation). I call tenders for jobs, evaluate the tender returns and then recommend award. As such, when the time came for me to choose ID, I thought it will be smooth. Or so I thought...

     Yes, I am a Quantity Surveyor.

In total I approached 14 IDs. Yes FOURTEEN DIFFERENT COMPANIES! Till now I still wonder how did I manage to do so in a span of six weeks. My weekends were burnt. I rushed by taxi to some ID firms to get quotes after work. I was totally burnt out. Perhaps I wanted to assure I could get the best quote.

I will like to share with you readers on my selection process and some tips which may be useful to you in your search.

1. Which ID should I approach to get a quote?
There are various sources which you can consider. They are as follows:

Local Interior Design Magazines
Check out local magazines. Various design themes are usually explored and showcased. If you have a design theme in your mind, keep an eye out for IDs whose designs are within your theme. Likewise if you do not have a design theme yet, you can find which is to your liking and move on from there.

One word of caution though: generally if the ID firm is in the magazine, they usually charge a premium (i believe). That's the word in the forums. I do not know the validity of this statement though as I heard from another ID that he submits his completed work to magazines.  No fees are charged by the magazine.

Harnessing the power of the Internet, find the contact number of the ID firm and make an appointment. You can also scour their websites (most ID firms have some flashy websites which unfortunately won't work on ur iPhone or iPad) and check out their portfolio.

Forums
Numerous local forums on renovation could be found. The most famous portal is Renotalk.com. I have also seen forums at singaporebrides.com and at housing estates portals for Duxton Pinnacle and Punggol where there are often active discussions ongoing about renovations. There are also bulk buys for appliances which may appeal to the cash strapped. Renotalk also has a mini-blog section where proud owners showcased their newly renovated homes. Ideas are indeed plentiful!

However, when viewing for ID recommendations by other forum users, please throw wind to caution. I have seen plenty of rave reviews of certain ID firms by posters with only one post. Call me over-zealous, but how can I gauge the authenticity of the recommendation? Certainly no way.

Interior Design Exhibitions at Singapore Expo and IMM/ TradeHub21
Singapore Expo has regular home exhibitions which are usually held monthly by various exhibitors. ID firms pay a fee (usually the cost of about $10,000 plus) to exhibit their services for a week or two.

It is noted there are always a few regular firms that always appeared in such exhibitions.

As for IMM and tradehub21, the situation is similar to Singapore Expo except that the ID firms are usually paying a fixed rent only. Expo exhibitors, on the other hand, are paying rental for exhibition space on top of their rental costs. As such the latter's expenditure has to be claimed from someone else ( yes! From you! the client!)


Other than the concerns raised above, these places are still good to go for quotations if you:
A) lazy to check the forums for recommendations; or
B) lazy to scour for designs and IDs in magazines
C) do check the forums, read home ID magazines from cover to end, but still kiasu and want more quotations (just like me!)

IMHO, these places may be a gem. Their services may come cheaper if u are lucky. Simply walk in and request for a quotation. And pray hard the IDs know what u are looking for.

Social media
Social media has certainly evolved over the years. I have seen ID firms setting up Facebook accounts and showcasing their portfolio. Facebook uses cookies,I think, and was able to accurately show me adverts of ID firms on facebook during my hunt for IDs. I am certainly impressed by some of the portfolio shown but do take it with a pinch of salt. Defects or poor workmanship can only be viewed at actual sites. The photos generally won't tell a thousand words in this case.

Word of mouth
This remains the most reliable method in getting an ID.  Get your relatives and friends whom have done up their homes.  Through recommendations, you can perhaps even get cheaper quotations.  Or if you have relatives or friends whom are IDs, even better!  They will not let you down (maybe) and you may end up with even cheaper quotations!

However, there may be some disadvantages:
1.  Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.  Your relatives/friends may think the design and workmanship is good.  But it may be otherwise to you.  Go down and view them then.  Query on the attitudes of the ID/Contractor.
2.  It may be hard if the ID/contractor is a friend/relative.  Poor workmanship? You may be embarrassed to ask him to rectify.


 From these, you should be able to draft a list of potential ID/contractors.  Good Luck!

The Theme

Close friends whom know me always think of me as a person on the safe side and not a risk taker.

But actually I like being unique.  I do not like to wear off-the-rack clothes.  I always want to be at the forefront. That was why all the usual design themes do not really interest me.

Prior to the purchase of my unit, I have been reading lotsa books on interior decorating.  One major local bookstore was shutting and design books were selling dirt cheap (Sorry that your have to shut the doors, Page One.  Singaporeans will miss you for your design collection).  Based on the info sourced from books and the web, I have seen plenty of interior design styles, each influenced by culture, history, technology, pop and etc (sorry this gets more boring as it goes.)  

Below is a list known to me and my personal views on the style:

(WARNING: beauty is in the eye of the beholder.  Please do not take offence if my views differ from yours.  All views herein are definitely of my own and I may be VERY VERY wrong)

(Disclaimer: all photos are found on the web via google image search for this non-profit blog.  If your photo is copyrighted or you do not want them on this blog, please let me know and I will remove them.  I meant no utter disrespect for your works of Arts.) 

1.Country style Design

Country style interior design is cozy and warm and it's simple and cozy.  Country style can be branched out to culturally different country style designs pertinent to various countries, i.e. french country, English country, American country, Italian country or Tuscan, and Modern country.  

I didn't really consider this style for simple reason.  I am a Singaporean.  Why should I do something that is culturally different and something that I can't relate to?

Some examples:

To put it simply, it just feels so old fashioned to me!  So this theme is out.


2. Retro Style

It is the style of ’50s, ’60s or ’70s.  Imagine Austin Powers' shagedelic pad.  Bold. But this design is very popular in Singapore as Singaporeans are crazy with everything retro. Somehow, this can also be considered vintage in my eyes.  It just makes me feel everyone is jumping onto the bandwagon.  In Singapore context, retro is sometimes fused with vintage furniture as seen in the fifth and sixth photos hereunder:-

(Credit: Journey East)

(Credit: Journey East)

This style does not suit me for several reasons, mainly cos it's expensive (furniture is not easy to get) and my boring personality does not fit into the adventurous and daring style it portrays.


3. Oriental (Chinese) Style
Just see the following photos. 'Nuff Said.

4. Oriental (Japanese) / Zen Style
Zen interior design conveys tranquil and peaceful moods, a connection with nature, and distinct minimalist elegance.

I love it for the serenity it seems to bring.  I also love Jap Culture! But nope I personally do not really think it suits me. 
 
5. Modern and Contemporary
Okay this has me stumped.  But I do recognise lotsa designs out there fall under here.  Perhaps this explanation at here and here will help.

As explained simply, "In the realm of interior decorating and design, modern refers to a style of architecture and furniture that emerged in the mid-century, reaching a peak the in 1950s. In this regard, modern is a static term."

and

"The basic definition of contemporary is “of the moment.” Contemporary art, design, and interiors are “of the day.” They exist in the here-and-now. And, taking this further, they could only exist in the here-and-now because ten years ago some of the materials and pieces wouldn’t have been available. And in ten years from now, there will be new pieces that do not exist today. Yesterday’s contemporary is today’s vintage. And tomorrow’s contemporary is still unknown."

Erm okay I think I understand it better now.

So perhaps these are contemporary designs fused with modern(?)

So is this for me? hmmmm guess not.

6. Balinese Resort Theme
Wanna live ur daily life in a resort? This is the closest you can get.  But two words.  BEAUTIFUL. EXPENSIVE.  Unless I strike TOTO (a lottery), there's no way I could afford this (though it remains one of my fave design theme)

7. Baroque Style
Basically a french-classic inspired design.  Think of the movie Moulin Rouge and you get the idea.  And yup.  Not for me either.

So what did I decide on? The clue is none of the above.  Stay tune to see what I want!

The Start of a New Chapter

I began house hunting in early this year (2012) looking for a new bachelor with a limited budget. I wanted a resale unit as I do not want to wait 2-3 yrs for a new condo unit. Simply put, I want an unit ASAP!

Several places cropped up in my hunt:

1) 833 Mountbatten along Mountbatten Road 
But this 50sqm one-bedroom unit was snapped up before I could even view the unit.

The Unit Floor Plan of the one-bedroom unit at 833 MB Residences

2) Other studio units which failed the cut
Condos in Aljunied, Little India/Rangoon Road and Paya Lebar area-failed cos there were just too many unsavory characters (streetwalkers). 

Optima at Tanah Merah failed cos of hefty prices (1400psf) and the one-bedroom units were all facing the west sun.

Units at Joo Chiat were rejected as the units shown were a walk away from bus stops and seemed secluded. My auntie whom has that type of vibes immediately told me to reject those immediately.


3) Double Bay Residences
Unit was a 50sqm studio unit. I was sold due to its location near Simei MRT. I fell in love with the layout and began closing in to purchase a sixth storey unit. There were only four units of these types of units on the resale market so it was going hot. When I saw the listing in late 2011, such a unit was going for 650k. However, by end April, it was selling for 700k. I went in ready to pay this figure but the seller wanted 730k. I raised offer to 715k but they stuck to that. And then came news on Singapore having too many studio apartments and possibly of low rental potential. I immediately considered other units.

The Type A2 was the one I wanted.

Conclusion
Eventually I was thinking why not get a bigger unit. 750k and above could snag me a 2 bedroom unit. However , choices were limited. The rising property prices were making such units becoming unattainable. That was till I saw Melville Park.

Melville Park is a 1232(I think) units condo development in Simei with 10 plus years in existence. I had initially considered Melville Park in late 2011 but I wasn't interested than. I was adverse to units with more than one bedroom as I was lazy to clean. In addition, it's old (have you seen the colonial style design? and the pinkish looking facade?)  Moreover prices for units at Melville Park were climbing even faster than public transportation fares. As such I dropped the notion. But that still did not stop someone staying there from giving me the occasional leaflet to let me 'consider'.

View of the Melville Park Estate

View of the Side Gate

Someone I know stays at this block

My agent Jerry Lee then advised Melville Park as an alternative after I decided not to make further offers for Double Bay Residences. Of cos he did it reluctantly for he felt I may lose out on resale in future. I felt then I may just stay in the East so to be more independent so I stay rooted in my decision.

I saw my first unit on the fourth storey at Block 16 or 18(cant remember as it has been quite a while).  It felt homely, but the unit was facing PIE.  It has a small balcony and nice homely feel.  But as the unit was facing the expressway, I was a tad cautious.  My auntie didnt have good vibes too.  So we decided not to go ahead with any offer.

A week later, my agent finally got me a unit on the ninth floor at Block 2X (secret!).  It was facing the HDB unit.  There was plenty of sunlight into the unit making it bright and spacious and best of all, the seller was the first owner.  Kudos to the seller whom have maintained a beautiful unit (though I had not met him).  After the acceptance of our offer, the unit is sold to me! August 13, 2012 shall be the day I collect my keys!