1,292‑sq‑ft DBSS Home Transformed: How a Couple Turned Bay Windows and Planters into Functional Spaces

Turning a Five‑Room Canvas into a Dream Home

Meet Shu Mei & Gaius (@hownowbrownhouse)

When the dynamic duo decided to go after a five‑room DBSS resale unit in Ang Mo Kio, they weren’t just chasing a piece of real estate – they were hunting for the perfect launchpad to build their dream living space.

“We wanted something bigger than the cramped little pads,” Shu Mei says, “and we didn’t want the house to feel like it was stuck in a time capsule. We needed a unit that’s not too old, close by an MRT, and right next to our parents’ place.”

Key Features of Their Pick

• 10‑year‑old building – still modern but with character
• 1,292 square feet of living awesomeness
• Five rooms – plenty of room for ideas and improvisations
• Walking distance to an MRT – because we all love commuting with a breeze
• Near family – so Saturday brunches are a no‑stress affair

In short, it was the sweet spot: not too old, not too tiny, and perfectly situated. A canvas that let them paint their own story, one room at a time.

Why They Fell in Love with Their New Pad

When they saw the spacious living room and the main balcony with a killer North view, they knew the house was a match made in real‑estate heaven. “And don’t forget the hawker centre and the 24/7 supermarket right below Park Central,” Shu Mei added, swiping at the map like a pro.

Meet the Current Housemates

• Shu Mei – the one who keeps the vibe chill and the coffee flowing.
• Gaius – the handy‑home guy who can fix a leaky faucet in a snap.
• Draecena – their giant potted plant that loves soaking up the sun on the balcony all day. #PlantPersonality

How Convenience Meets Centrality

The couple made living in the prime spot feel like a breeze by turning the house into a mini‑hub. Fast grocery runs, a hot meal from the hawker centre, and a relaxed balcony vibe all combine to give them the ultimate “live, work, play” convenience.

Who knew house‑shopping could feel so good?

How the renovation journey turned out

Renovating the Rainbow Fortress

Shu Mei and Gaius took on the adventure of turning a resale unit into their forever home. As newbies to the ownership game, they aimed for a tidy budget of $60,000‑$70,000, but reality hit them like a surprise bouncer at a party.

The Budget Balloon

• Started at $60K–$70K.
• Ended up peaking around $100K—a dramatic 40% jump.
• Covid‑19 produced extra headaches—think “home office” demands and supply‑chain hiccups.
• Custom doors, bespoke fittings, and balconies added costly touch‑ups.

Balcony Bonanza

The DBSS unit came with four balconies, and the couple didn’t just slap a coat of paint on them.

• They enclosed two smaller balconies to create usable living space.
• Each enclosure meant extra wall, flooring, and finishing work—think of it as a balcony makeover.
• Result: a reclaimed floor area that felt like a clever tweak, but the receipts reflect the cost.

Unusual ‘Extras’ that Poked Fun at the Budget

Beyond the expected, there were a few quirky touches:

• Zip blinds on the living-room balcony and the master bedroom—yes, sliding blinds over a balcony? Rent a tiny theater in the sky.
• They purposely chose to skip built‑in carpentry; you’d think that would shave money, yet the market prices turned that dream into an expensive solution.

Bottom Line

For first‑time buyers, renovations can morph from a “smooth roll” to a “wild roller coaster.” The lesson? Always keep some “surprise‑money” in your wallet—it’s the budget’s secret sauce to handle those balcony conversions, the extra doors, and the whimsical window treatments.

Inside the Home Design Journey

After crunching the numbers, we finally dove into the heart of what the couple really wanted for their living spaces.

Mid‑Century Vibes, But With a Twist

“We were all about that mid‑century rustic charm—think Studio McGee’s Netflix home makeover vibes,” Shu Mei shared, grinning.

She explained why they weren’t letting the whole place dictate a single theme:

• Flexibility is key. If everything is pre‑built, swapping styles becomes a Herculean task.
• They wanted to mix it up from time to time—say, a touch of brutalism one week, a soft farmhouse the next.

Color Talk: The Classic ID Strategy

Design decisions weren’t made on a whim; they leaned heavily on their ID’s suggestions.

That means:

• Becoming best friends. The couple and the ID spent countless hours communicating.
• It was a marathon of back‑and‑forth chats that stretched over months.
• All to nail that perfect look the couple envisioned.

Bottom line—each shade, layout, and décor piece is the result of a patient, collaborative love affair between the homeowners and their design wizard.

Home Makeover: Big Bricks & Tiny Plants

When they shook up the house, they didn’t just rearrange a few pieces of furniture—they literally did a blanket‑change to the floor plan. The result? Two over‑the‑top moves that turned a cramped space into a stylish vibe.

1⃣ Wear‑Off the Wall

• What happened? They busted down a wall between two rooms.
• Why this matters? The two once‑separate rooms now mash up into one massive master bedroom.
• Result? More space, fewer doorbells, and a room big enough to host a tiny dance party.

2⃣ Plant Party Fix

• What’s new? They took the scattered planters in the living‑room and master bedroom and gave them a cozy enclosure.
• Big idea? These little green buddies never again cost the familyall the floor space to each other.
• Why it matters? Instead of an entire floor being eaten up by endless balconies, the interior feels more purposeful and less “outside‑in”.

“If we didn’t do this, the floor area would practically drown in a sea of balconies,” Shu Mei laughed, making it clear the two tweaks were as much about practicality as style.

Living room

Making Space, One Fold at a Time

Picture this: the main balcony had those clunky sliding doors that left half of the entrance feeling cramped and a bit like a locked treasure chest. Our power couple decided it was time for a makeover and went big on bifold doors—the kind that can fold all the way to the side. Tossed in some sleek zip blinds, the whole setup now lets light pour in and the space feels as wide as a wintry day.

What Changed?

• Sliding doors removed – no more half‑size entry.
• Installed bifold doors – roll them down and the balcony feels airy.
• Added zip blinds – stylish, minimalistic, and functional.

The Result

With the new bifold doors folded to the side, the balcony becomes a generous open area, perfect for sunbathing, playing cards, or hosting a tiny rooftop garden. It’s a simple swap that turned a half‑open hallway into a breezy, welcoming space.

Shu Mei and her husband gave a humble corner a brand‑new makeover: a snug reading nook that has quickly become the hotspot for every guest’s Instagram snaps.

What Makes It So Adorable?

• Soft lighting – like a pocket of warm tea light, inviting anyone to curl up comfortably.
• Cozy cushions – plush enough to appeal to both the book‑lover and the selfie enthusiast.
• Thought‑out décor – been curated with vintage touches that pop on a camera, ensuring every angle is picture‑perfect.

Guest Reactions

Guests have taken to framing their photos in the nook with a mix of whimsy and reverence. “This corner is the best backdrop for a quick selfie or a relaxed book‑stuck pose,” one visitor laughed, while another mused, “I think this spot deserves its own Instagram account!”

Why It Matters

In a world where social media feeds decide a place’s buzz, Shu Mei’s little piece of paradise proves that a touch of comfort and a splash of style can turn any room into a beloved hangout—one that turns readers into photographers in its wake.

Our Unexpected Luxe Hideaway

Picture this: a room that practically knocked on the door of perfection and moved in. The moment we stepped inside, we realized it had outshined even our wildest dreams. Without a doubt, it quickly became the one spot on the floor plan that everyone’s gossiping about.

Why This Corner Became the Household Celebrity

• Calming vibes: The space hums with quietness, thanks to a meticulously chosen neutral palette.
• Modern flair: Think sleek lines and subtle textures that give it that “look at me, I’ve got style” edge.
• Instant charm: It’s so inviting that even the furniture wants to stay forever.

Suite‑style Serenity meets street‑smart sophistication—so it’s not just a room, it’s a lifestyle statement. Every time we enter, the hum of home feels like a quiet applause, and the soft hues keep our senses on a gentle ride.

Cheers to the Retro Neutral Trend

Who would have guessed that a “plain” color scheme could feel so vivid? The strategic palette works like a subtle cheerleader, encouraging us to slow down and enjoy the moment. Not only does it amplify the quietness, but it also keeps the room looking ultra‑modern—and that’s pretty much the sweet spot for any contemporary space.

Dining room

Dining Room Sneak‑Peek

No big redesigns took place in the dining nook—it simply slides into place, tucked right behind the living room like a quiet sidekick.

Layout

Picture a seamless transition: the dining space flows straight from the living area without any dramatic snap‑back or layout overhaul.

Furnishings & Vibes

• Rustic charm is the theme—think reclaimed wood and earthy tones.
• The wood‑dominant pieces bring a cozy, warm glow that feels more like home than a showroom.
• Overall, the room feels comfortably rustic, without being overly bold or flashy.

Rustic Living: Where Wood Meets Light

Imagine a space that practically hugs you with a wood‑packed wonderland: from timber beams and cedar trim to those cozy log‑style walls. But the real magic comes from the expansive windows—they’re not just big, they’re practically the windows of a full, panoramic paradise, letting a flood of natural light splash in like a warm hug.

• Woody Vibes: Every surface feels like a campfire in a rustic cabin.
• Sky‑Wide Views: Those big panes bring a scene‑sized panorama right into the room.
• Airy Expansion: The extra light tricks your eyes into seeing the room as big as it feels.

So, grab a super‑cozy mug, kick back with a splash of sunshine, and let your heart feel that rugged, open‑air charm—you’ve got the rustic dream right here.

Kitchen

Instead of just dreaming about a new kitchen, the team actually tore down the stale, decade‑old cabinets and replaced them with brand‑new, sleek cupboards that shout modern convenience.

Why this kitchen is a whole lot less rustic

• Portrait‑sized porcelain tiles run the floors, giving them that buttery‑smooth finish.
• White cabinetry keeps the vibe fresh and simple—it’s the minimalist equivalent of a clean sheet of paper.
• Gold‑accented fittings add a touch of glam, turning the kitchen into a polished canvas.

While the living and dining rooms lean into a charming rustic feel, the kitchen chose to lean into clean lines and pure style—think of it as the cool, calm counter‑point to the cozy, wood‑synergy of the other rooms.

Bedrooms

Master Bedroom Makeover: From Tiny to Trendy

Ever wonder how to turn a cramped master room into a spacious oasis? The trick is a bit of wall‑hacking, a snug planter relocation, and a whole lot of creative zoning.

Why the big change?

• Room Size Matters: “The original master was just too small,” explained the homeowner.
• Word of the Day: “Wall‑crunching is the new green trend.”

What’s Left After the Splice?

• Opened Space: Two rooms have become one, giving plenty of room to play and live.
• Wardrobe Upgrade: There’s space now to add another closet that’ll keep those socks organized.
• Queen‑Size Comfort: A full‑size bed now fits just right, no more bouncing around on a cramped pillow.

So if your master bedroom feels like a shoebox, a little wall‑removal and a strategic planter shuffle could earn you the spacious dream bedroom you’ve been longing for.

Bedroom That’s practically a Closet Office

With a master suite the size of a small living room, the couple squeezed in a 4.5‑meter wardrobe—tuffy enough to separate “his” side from “hers.” His portion, by the way, loves to brag it’s perched on what used to be a bay window, says Shu Mei. The result? One room that’s basically a storage space, a fashionista’s playground, and a place where you can’t possibly run out of socks—quite literally.

Office‑in‑a‑Bedroom: Making Space Work

Snapped between the dining room and the master suite, this former bedroom got a makeover: it’s now a sleek, no‑frills home office. The décor sticks to the basics, but every piece is chosen to keep you focused and efficient.

• Desk space that feels great. Enough room for a laptop, paperwork, and a stash of sticky notes.
• Lighting that doesn’t blink. Adjustable, pin‑pointed to keep you from squinting.
• Minimalist vibe. Less clutter = more creativity.

Bathrooms

Turned a Bathroom into a Design Studio

Why Geometric Tiles? Clean, chic, and a dash of geekiness

Imagine stepping into a bathroom that feels like a minimalist art gallery. That’s the vision the couple had: a neat, clutter‑free space where every tile speaks to the eye. They chose geometric patterns—not just any patterns, but ones that whisper “sophisticated” without shouting.

Master & Horny Bathroom Upgrade

With a master suite that needs drama and a hallway bathroom that deserves a little flair, the duo decided to go with rectangular tiles. Rigid shapes, predictable edges, but still so fresh and modern.

Hacking the Bathrooms

When you say “hack,” think less of a cyber‑attack and more of a DIY makeover. The couple had to meddle a bit: swapping out old tiles, re‑lining the walls, and re‑engineering the layout to fit the new rectangular vibe. It’s like turning a bland canvas into a runway-ready runway—only in a bathroom.

• Removed outdated mosaic tiles
• Phased in rectangular tiles with a light, airy feel
• Added subtle shading to create depth
• Final touches: sleek fixtures that keep the “clean” vibe strong

Result? A space that looks like it belongs in a sculptor’s studio, feels like an everyday escape, and keeps the casual, “can’t believe this is real” vibe alive.

Bringing the vision to reality

How We Renovated Our Home Without Losing Our Sanity

Meet the Dream Team

Shu Mei and her husband dove into a renovation adventure that felt like a spa day for their living space—only with more zoning plans and fewer cucumber water cups.

The Visual Prep: VR, Not Just Pinterest

• Before lifting a single screw, they had a virtual reality walk‑through that let them virtually stroll through the future rooms.
• It was kind of like a movie set preview but for a home makeover.

Choosing Buildbuilt: Because People Matter

• Why Buildbuilt? “They got us,” Shu Mei says. “They understood what we wanted without having to ask for a diagram on a napkin.”
• The pair were so excited that Buildbuilt threw in layout suggestions right at the first meeting—talk about proactive!
• “Communication should be top priority,” the couple stresses. “We picked Buildbuilt so the design talk feels like a chat, not a tech support ticket.”

Furniture Shopping: The Quest for Quality Oak

• They stalked Tan Boon Liat and other furniture shops like detectives on a good coffee break.
• All their heart‑warming pieces came from Soul & Tables: a solid bed frame, a dining table, chairs, and a sideboard—beautiful, sturdy, and wow‑factor guaranteed.
• Because they cherish real wood, they were willing to splurge on high‑quality natural timber. Compressed wood? Nope, they said “nope” to that.

Results: Like a Dream that Never Ends

The final outcome? “It’s exactly what we imagined,” Shu Mei gushed. “We see it—now, and future‑you can even walk through it anywhere in 3D.”

So if you’re thinking of a renovation, remember these golden rules: got a solid ID,, pre‑visualize with VR, separate your furniture budget for real wood, and pick an ID who listens—your sanity will thank you.