Renovating your HDB flat is a thrilling chapter, a chance to finally create a space that’s truly yours. Whether it’s a new BTO unit or a resale flat, the possibilities are endless, and the excitement of choosing tiles, designing storage, and planning layouts is hard to beat. It’s your opportunity to reflect your personality, lifestyle needs, and future plans through your home’s interior.
But with this excitement often comes uncertainty, especially if it’s your first time. From budgeting to working with contractors and understanding what’s actually feasible in an HDB flat, it can all feel a little overwhelming. But you’re not alone, as many homeowners in Singapore face this same journey. The good news is, with the right steps and guidance, your HDB renovation doesn’t have to be stressful.
Here’s a five-step guide to help you kickstart your HDB renovation smoothly so you can stay on time, within budget, and true to your design goals.
1. Define your renovation needs and budget
The very first thing to do is get clarity on what you actually need. Is it a full overhaul or just specific areas like the kitchen and bathroom? Are you reconfiguring layouts or working within existing walls and plumbing?
Sit down with your household and make a list of what’s essential vs nice-to-have. From there, determine your budget, factoring in not just the renovation itself but also furniture, appliances, and that all-important buffer for unexpected costs (typically 10–15%). Renovation costs for a 4-room flat can range from $40,000 to $70,000 depending on the extent of work, which is why getting your financial boundaries right early on is so important.
2. Understand HDB renovation guidelines
Not everything goes when it comes to renovating an HDB flat. There are specific guidelines and permits you need to be aware of, from hacking walls to reworking electrical wiring.
For example, HDB prohibits the removal of structural walls and has strict rules on wet areas like bathrooms. You’ll also need to apply for renovation permits through HDB’s e-Services and ensure your contractor is HDB licensed. You can check these requirements directly on HDB’s renovation portal.
Knowing what’s allowed saves you from potential delays and costly reversals. A professional who offers interior design services in Singapore will usually manage these requirements for you, giving you peace of mind.
3. Choose the right interior design firm or contractor
The team you choose can make or break your renovation journey. Some homeowners opt to work directly with contractors, while others prefer to engage full-service interior design firms that handle everything, from space planning and 3D visualisations to project management.
Look for a company with strong reviews, a robust portfolio, and experience with HDB renovations. Ask about their process: Do they offer in-house designers and project managers? Will they walk you through materials and finishes? Are they transparent about pricing?
One subtle but important thing to keep in mind is the signs you need an interior design upgrade for your home. If you’ve ever thought that your space just doesn’t work the way it should or feels outdated no matter how much you tidy, it might be time to consult with the experts.
4. Plan your design around lifestyle and practicality
It’s tempting to scroll through Pinterest or Instagram and save endless photos of gorgeous homes, but great design is about function.
Do you need more storage for a growing family? Are you working from home and need a proper study area? What kind of lighting suits your daily routines? Think about your habits and lifestyle. In Singapore’s climate, ventilation and natural light are also key considerations.
Practicality also means choosing the right materials. For instance, quartz countertops are popular for kitchens due to their durability and ease of maintenance. An experienced designer can help balance visual appeal with everyday functionality so you won’t end up regretting that trendy but hard-to-clean backsplash.
5. Be involved, but trust the process
Once work begins, it can be tempting to micromanage every detail. While staying involved is important, trying to control every tile and screw can actually slow things down. Trust the expertise of your design team and let them manage the coordination with electricians, carpenters, and suppliers.
Do regular check-ins (ideally once a week) to review progress and address any concerns early. Make sure there’s a clear communication channel, like a shared WhatsApp group or Trello board. This way, you stay updated without needing to be on-site constantly.
It’s also important to be prepared for delays. Renovations rarely go 100% according to plan. A supplier might run out of stock, or unexpected electrical issues may arise. The key is to stay flexible, communicate openly, and focus on the end goal: a beautiful, functional home that brings you joy for years to come.
Your first step towards a renovation you’ll love
Renovating your HDB flat doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right mindset, planning, and a team you can trust, it can be an incredibly fulfilling journey. Whether you’re upgrading a resale unit or creating your dream home from a blank canvas, your efforts will be worth it every time you step through the door.
View our portfolio at Eight Design to see how we’ve helped homeowners just like you achieve their renovation goals. From full HDB makeovers to clever storage solutions, our team offers exceptional interior design services and renovation contractor expertise in Singapore.