It’s been way over a hot minute and your kitchen needs a facelift. But before you renovate a HDB kitchen, what should you take note of?
In our years of business, we’ve had our fair share of helping homeowners renovate and remodel kitchens. Things can get overwhelming for many homeowners. If you’re looking for a clear guide on how to renovate your kitchen read on. Interior Designer Louis Ting breaks down everything from cost, design, layout and timeline.
THE AVERAGE KITCHEN LIFESPAN
Before you even begin the renovation journey, it’s worth asking if now’s the right time. Most kitchens last a good 10 years before they begin to show signs of wear and tear. However, a 20 year lifespan is possible with regular maintenance of functionality and appearance or only light cooking is done.
Since time is not the best indicator, Louis recommends you do a quick scan with this list. If you check off on most of the boxes, it’s time to look for a contractor to renovate your kitchen.
Renovating an existing kitchen goes beyond just appearances. It’s about safety too. Remember, the kitchen is exposed to higher than average levels of humidity, heat, grease and food substances. This means appliances and structures deteriorate faster than any other room in the home. Therefore, it is in your best interest to avoid delaying a kitchen renovation as it quite literally is unable to take the heat.
Should I Renovate my Kitchen?
-
Have any of the tiles chipped?
-
Is the grout discoloured? Are there missing pieces or cracks? Most grout lasts for 15 years before it needs to be replaced.
-
Are the kitchen cabinet door hinges loose or rusty?
-
How about the cabinet laminates? Are they peeling off?
-
Have the counter surfaces discoloured or stained?
-
Do any of your pipes have a leak?
COST OF KITCHEN REMODEL IN SINGAPORE
Once you’ve made the decision to renovate, you need to consider the costs. Here’s an estimated average pricing guide.
Wondering why condo kitchen renovations cost more? Simply because building codes are unique. Unlike a HDB renovation, all condominiums require walkway and lift protection. Extra liaison with the building management means more work for the interior designer, thus driving up costs.
Average Kitchen Renovation Price
WHAT IF I'M ON A TIGHT BUDGET?
We hear you. Not everyone has the cash on hand to redo a kitchen. Here are two ways you can go about it.
OPTION 1: CONSIDER A PACKAGE DEAL
Many contractors and even interior design companies offer renovation packages that bundle accessories and labour costs. These don’t necessarily keep costs down. However, they might be attractive if the items included are brand name fittings and accessories like Hansgrohe or Blum. On its own, branded items can cost a pretty penny.
Take note that package deals have a very specific scope of work and materials. Some renovation companies might put a limit on the dimensions or even use the cheapest materials out there. Furthermore, if you plan to deviate from the itemised list, you most likely have to fork out more cash. Be sure to get a comprehensive itemised quote if you are considering a kitchen renovation package to avoid getting scammed.
Secondly, kitchen renovation packages usually are tied together with the renovation of both toilets. Unless you’re in the market for spanking new toilets as well, package deals might not be for you.
Hence, consider taking up a package deal if the terms of the contract make the most sense for your budget. Juz Interior offers two types of package deals for homeowners based on their budget and needs. You may get in touch with us for a copy of the kitchen renovation package details.
OPTION 2: GO FOR A BARE BONES TOUCH UP
This second tip bodes well especially if you’re purchasing a resale HDB with a relatively well maintained kitchen. Here are Louis’ top tips to renovate a HDB kitchen:
- Plaster off the wall. Louis says this can help avoid retiling and ensure safety in the long run.
- Overlay with New Tiles Consider this option only if the existing flooring is in good condition.
- Repaint the Ceiling Need we say more? Oil and smoke causes discolouration. In any case, a fresh coat of paint will help refresj the kitchen’s appearance.
- Minimal Carpentry If you’re planning to change up the sanitaries like the sink, you will need to redo kitchen cabinets and surface counters. Swapping out for new cabinet is necessary because the dimensions of your appliances might differ from the previous layout.
DESIGN THE PERFECT HDB KITCHEN
Now for the fun bit; design!
We’re assuming your Pinterest board is already popping with tons of great ideas and colour themes for your house. But if you’re late to the game, or you haven’t a clue where to start, here’s how.
Firstly, decide what kind of kitchen best suits your home:
- Open Kitchen
- Semi-Open Kitchen
- See Through Concept Kitchen
Whichever you choose, Louis says a kitchen work triangle is a must. Conceptualised by Home Ergonomists in the early 1900s, the triangle outlines the most efficient arrangement between the sink, stove and fridge. Adherence will reduce the number of steps needed to complete a task. So think carefully about where to place your appliances like the oven, microwave, water dispenser, coffee machine, dish drying rack and work surfaces.
Next, decide on what kind of materials you would like for your kitchen cabinets and counter surfaces.
Finally, pick a colour scheme which will match the rest of your home.
HOW LONG A HDB KITCHEN RENOVATION TAKES TO COMPLETE
It takes 4-6 weeks to renovate a HDB kitchen. There is no need to move out during this period. Although you can continue living in your home, be prepared for possible disruptions to water and gas access. Of course, brace yourself for a whole lot of dust and noise.
However, if you’re planning to renovate your kitchen and toilets at the same time, expect the entire process to take anywhere between 6-8 weeks. For this process, you will need to move out as there will be total disruption in daily tasks.
Have other questions about how to renovate a HDB kitchen? Leave a comment! We’d love to answer them.
And as always, if you’re ready to get your HDB/Condo kitchen renovation going, get in touch with Juz Interior’s team of interior designers today.
Amazing Blog I love it,