Monochrome: Not Just One Shade, But a Whole Family
When people hear “monochrome,” their minds often jump straight to a single, boring hue. But here’s a little secret: it’s not all about draping the room in one exact color. It’s about dancing around a base color—shifting it lighter, darker, and somewhere in between.
Think of Grey, Then Add Some Jazz
Say you pick grey. “Monochrome” means you’re allowed to play with its cousins—shades, tints, tones. One block might be charcoal, the next could be snow‑white, and somewhere in the middle? Dusty blue‑grey. The trick is not to let all those shades collapse into a dull blob.
Enter the Green: Nature’s Come‑Back Kid
That’s where plants come to the rescue. A splash of green instantly pops against a gray backdrop, giving depth and life to any space. Jo and Sam (@evertonenclave) used to love a clean, monochromatic loft. After adding loads of leafy friends, their home feels more like a living, breathing canvas than a colorless cubicle.
Why the Chosen Location Makes Sense
- Old‑school charm – Building a 20‑plus year HDB in Everton Park feels like reintroducing the old vibes.
- Rental breeze – They didn’t want a hot‑pot for a resale gain but a stable, discoverable lease.
- Kid‑friendly vibe – No off‑beat geometry; just a cozy, green‑accented pastel.
Restash on the Story
Jo said, “We were eye‑rolling at the idea of a BTO; the resale was a no‑lose.” Sam grinned, “The spot snagged us the rent that keeps the house humming.” Now, the only resident that’s really moving around is their trusty Shih Tzu, which practically does the whole thing for them.
Let’s Check Out the Renovation
- Walls kept clean, no cluttering patterns, just shades of gray.
- Plants were the MVP, eyes and ears of the homestead.
- Furniture was minimal, telling a story of ease and warmth.
And that’s how Jo & Sam wove flat monochrome design with the lively highlight of green. A simple shift in color palette, a splash of nature, and they’ve turned an ordinary space into a vibrant, familiar home.
How the renovation journey turned out
It All Started with a Sweet $80k Dream
Jo told us, “We set aside $80,000 to give our place a facelift, but reality hit us with an extra $30,000.” She smiled, adding, “Our contractor was a bit on the pricey side.” Notably, that $110,000 bill didn’t cover furniture purchases.
What About Trying Different Vendors?
- Windows? Got a new set.
- Air‑con? Swapped models.
- Countertops? Ripped out the old slate.
- Bathroom fixtures? Joined the upgrade squad.
Even with these changes, the overall cost stayed stubbornly above our original budget. But, as you’ll see next, the end result was worth every extra buck.
Design Vision: “Monochrome Zen’in’”
“We went full monochrome—so many pastels got out of the picture. It’s calming, and it makes all the pop‑color décor look like a nice spotlight.” Jo explained.
The couple wanted a fresh look but refused to rewire the entire floor plan. Below is a quick glimpse of the kitchen overhaul.
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Functional Layout Over Fancy Trends
For them, functionality comes first.
• A single‑wall kitchen that doubles as a dining space.
• A built‑in table that cheats the kitchen for extra workspace.
“We didn’t split the kitchen and dining like other three‑bedrooms do. In our low‑ceil tile, we knocked down two bedroom walls to make the common area feel bigger both shaped-wise and visually.”
Room‑by‑Room Transformation
Here’s a snapshot of how the home went from ordinary to extraordinary. Each room was reimagined with an eye for “more space, less clutter.”
Living room
A Kitchen That Lets You Talk While You Cook
Jo and her husband had a simple craving: stay right in the culinary action and still have a full conversation with the guests. The quick solution? Tear out the wall that used to separate the kitchen from the living area. That bold move turned an ordinary house into a giant, inviting kitchen‑living loft that brings people together more naturally than a well‑timed telenovela.
- Open‑Plan Vibes – No more cramped corners. View the sizzling pans and the gossip in one glance.
- Smooth Flow – From stove to sofa, movement is as effortless as a laminated pizza crust.
- Extra Heat – More kitchen warmth means fewer awkward silences and more toasty conversation.
- Versatility – Easy shift from a casual brunch to a fancy dinner party.
How It All Happened
First, they drafted a new floor plan that opened the kitchen straight into the living room. Then the crew came in and smashed the old wall down, turning the space into the giant living kitchen. Finally, they added extra cabinets for all the living‑room goodies they now kept within reach of the cooking action.
Final Touches
Now Jo never misses a laugh or a question while whipping up her signature dish. The kitchen’s open layout not only boosts the atmosphere but makes hosting a no‑stress adventure. It’s like having your cake and eating it while sharing the secrets to the recipe with everyone in the room.
Turning the House into a Personal Gallery
They went ahead and installed a crystal-clear, sliding glass partition that splits the living room from the study. Now every time a coffee mug rolls across the couch, a quick glance through the glass lets them admire the latest art pieces hanging up there. It’s like having a front‑door window to a museum right in the home.
- Glass: Transparent, sleek, and allows for a glimpse without interrupting the flow.
- Sliding mechanism: Easy to open, plus no more awkward “gravity‑defying” bans.
- Art showcase: From abstract splashes to classic portraits, all laid out for casual viewing.
In short, this new doorway blend of convenience and aesthetic feels like a VIP pass to their own living room gallery, turning everyday moments into art‑cappuccino sessions.
Living Space Takeover: It’s More Than Just a TV
When we say the TV and console are the star of the room, we’re a bit shy. In reality, the whole living space is the main attraction—think of it as a living room that’s stolen the show.
Why This Matters
- Easy Breezy Hosting – Guests can gather around the coffee table, no awkward carpet stretching needed.
- Cozy Vibes – The layout invites relaxed conversations, not just “look at the screen” moments.
- Comfort & Convenience – The whole room feels like a personal lounge, not a tech stall.
Jo’s Take
“By turning the entire living space into a social hub, we invite folks who love chatting around the coffee table,” Jo says, painting a picture of comfy seating and effortless conversation.
Study room
From Bedroom to Study: A Quick Architectural Adventure
It all began with a simple dream: transform a cramped bedroom into a roomy study. The team quickly realized that more than just the living‑room wall had to go—there was a whole hidden wall waiting to be conquered.
Step One: Identify the Hidden Space
- Realized the study had to feel like an open canvas.
- Noticed a stubborn wall that tucked into the balcony.
- Decided to extend that wall and create a seamless flow.
Step Two: Bulldoze the Walls
- Knocked down the divider between the living room and the study—boom!
- Added some creative flair by hacking through the balcony wall.
- Result: a fresh, airy living area that blends with a cozy study nook.
Aftermath: A Work‑of‑Art Space
With a clear line of sight and more room to breathe, the new study feels like a hidden treasure—perfect for deep dives, brainstorming, or just curling up with a good book. And for the rest of us spreadsheet‑savvy wanderers, it’s a reminder that sometimes the best renovations require a bit of wall‑busting courage.
Rolling Into Fun: The Clever TV & Chair Shuffle
Thanks to the nifty setup, the household can slide the TV right into the living room or tuck it into the study when it’s not needed.
Why It Matters
- Space‑Saving Magic: The TV goes where you need it—no more awkward corner watching.
- Instant Party Mode: When guests flood the sofa, the office chairs can be dumped into the living room in seconds, making room for more chats.
Live It Up
Picture this: the TV’s there to binge, the chairs pop into place for comfort, and you’re all set for a spontaneous movie night or a big game day—without breaking a sweat.
Why Their Balcony Became the House’s Hidden Green Room
Picture this: a balcony that doubles as a green room, letting the team soak in a serene view while they stay glued to their desks. It’s like having a secret garden right by the keyboard!
What Makes It Stand Out
- Natural Contrast: The splash of greenery instantly pops against the sleek, monochrome walls, turning the space from bland to brilliant.
- Enhanced Mood: Fresh air and a touch of nature boost creativity and reduce office fatigue—no more staring into a wall!
- Impression‑Gaining: Clients and guests get a first‑rate view of an otherwise modest interior—nature’s reminder that style doesn’t have to be sterile.
Inside the Design Story
By turning the balcony into a green room, the designers managed to keep the interior chic while injecting an organic element that feels both natural and stylish. It’s the smart balance between minimalist elegance and a breath of life—just what modern homes need.
Takeaway
For those looking to spice up a monochromatic home, a balcony green room could be the key. It’s practical, a visual pop, and a breath of fresh air all wrapped in one!
Dining room
Reviving the Classic Kitchen-Dining Combo
Most old three‑bedroom apartments used to let everyone dine right where the stove chimed. It was the sort of “bring your table to the kitchen” vibe that you’d expect from a vintage loft. We thought the couple kept that quirky layout, but they wanted it to feel less “kitchen” and more “kitchen‑plus‑feast‑room.”
The Upgradation Breakdown
- Fresh paint – washed out, sun‑kissed walls to brighten the space.
- New lighting – a statement chandelier replaces the bare bulb.
- Stylish table – a reclaimed‑wood piece that ties in perfectly with the modern vibe.
- Smart storage solutions – built‑in spots for dishes and silverware to keep clutter at bay.
All the while, the flow from the kitchen to the dining area stayed the same, making it easier to throw a quick dinner or prepare a full feast. With this thoughtful makeover, the couple has transformed an old “kitchen nook” into a spot that feels both cozy and sophisticated.
Meet the All‑Star Table
Picture this: a room where the dining table is the real MVP, doubling up as your go‑to workspace. It’s the kind of piece that makes you think “Who needs a separate desk when you’ve got this?”
Why We Love It
- Made to Last: Crafted from engineered stone that mirrors the kitchen counter—so you won’t have to call it “the table” or “the countertop” ever again.
- No Magic Tricks Needed: Stains? Scratches? Heat? This table laughs in the face of all three, turning spills into a simple wipe‑and‑forget routine.
- Space Saver Extraordinaire: One piece to rule them all—a solid base for meals, meetings, and even midnight snack brainstorms.
All the practicality, zero of the extra clutter. Cheers to the table that’s practically a Swiss Army knife on a countertop!
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Basking in Brilliance
When the drop lights drape over the ceiling, they instantly turn the room into a spot of sheer sophistication—think of a subtle glow that says, “This place exudes style.”
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall
Meanwhile, the multi-panel mirrored wall tricks the eye into stretching the space. It’s like a codec that makes your cozy nook look like a grand ballroom.
- Feel the elegance sparkle.
- Let the mirrors magnify your surroundings.
- Enjoy a vibe that’s both classy and cozy.
Kitchen
Kitchen Story (Re‑imagined)
The original kitchen was a single‑wall layout, the couple’s clever way to squeeze every inch of space. Think of it as a minimalist playground for their culinary adventures.
But when the décor got a makeover, the entire kitchen got a fresh facelift to match the rest of the home’s vibe. Suddenly it wasn’t just about efficient cooking—it became part of the house’s personality.
Key Takeaways
- Space‑savvy Design: One wall, many possibilities.
- Theme‑Driven Remodel: Every corner now fits the house’s style.
- Happy Cooking: A kitchen that’s functional AND fashionable.
Kitchen Upgrade Highlights
- They introduced a fresh kitchen island to neatly house the dishwasher and wine fridge.
- Had to stretch the island a bit further – it’s now big enough to squeeze the main fridge right in.
Why Going Open Made Their Space Super Fresh
The couple replaced those heavy, closed cabinets with sleek, open shelves. It gave the kitchen that modern, airy feel everyone’s been chasing.
Visibility is King
They believed “If something isn’t in sight, it gets lost in the abyss.” Having items within reach kept them from disappearing in the dark corners of drywall.
Bugs? Nah, Thanks!
- Open shelves mean there’s less hiding spots for pests.
- With everything exposed, bugs have a hard time finding a cosy nest.
All in all, the upgrade was a win for style, convenience, and a tiny anti‑bug morale boost.
Say Goodbye to Stuffy Cabinets
They decided to ditch the old‑school cabinets and roll out drawers instead. The change isn’t just a visual upgrade; it’s a real ergonomic win. Now, when you pull those drawers out, everything’s on display—no more frantic rummaging in darkness.
Why They’s Love The Drawers
- Comfort‑first layout: Each drawer feels like a cozy nest for pantry goodies.
- All‑at‑once visibility: Open it up, and you can see every item in plain sight—no guessing games.
- Hands‑free convenience: Grab your stuff with a quick lift, freeing your wrist from cramped confines.
Bedrooms
Master Bedroom Makeover: The Wardrobe Woes
Jo’s rendition of “renovation” was pretty minimalist — they only stretched out the wardrobe, and the bedroom door got a dramatic flush against the wall. Sounds like a quick tweak, but hey, every little change can feel like a big upgrade!
What went down
- Wardrobe extension: more space for those last-minute outfits. If you’ve ever been stuck on a spontaneous night‑out, this upgrade is a game changer.
- Flushed door: the door now hugs the wall, giving the room a cleaner look and making it easier to swing open.
Why it matters
It might seem simple, but a bigger wardrobe means fewer wardrobe malfunctions, and a flush door adds a touch of polish that feels like a fresh coat of paint. Even small changes can make a room feel brand-new.
Final thoughts
From Jo’s whispering “take it easy” to the big “new bedroom vibe” — a little stretch in the wardrobe and a neat door tuck can take you from “meh” to “wow.” If you’re feeling stuck with a cramped closet, maybe give it a squeeze or two. It’s a small step that can bring a lot of joy!
The Clever Closet Caper
The Great Decision
When they looked at the little attic space above their wardrobe, they felt it was a waste to just slap a box on it like a clueless house‑maid. The area was slipping into the realm of “just a sad, unused corner” if left untouched.
The Ugly Box Phase
They almost put a box there—think of it like the closet version of a rusty metal tin. But a tiny space made hanging rods recede into the realm of impossibility.
The Romance of the Bookshelf
So, they flipped the script and turned that cramped nook into a bookshelf. It’s a sweet compromise that lets them keep a little library on the wall. They can slide the shelves in, stack books, and revel in the tidy charm of a bespoke vertical book case.
Bathrooms
Bathroom Bonanza: Turning One Messy Space into Two Lucid Retreats
The old bathroom was a bit of a two‑room mash‑up: one corner was the shower, the other was the toilet. But the layout felt more like a game of Russian Roulette than a functional sanctuary.
How the Magic Happened
- Old Setup: One big square with a shower on one side and a toilet on the other—imagine trying to walk between two neighbors without bumping into each other.
- New Game Plan: Split that single space into two distinct rooms—one cozy shower room and one tidy toilet room. It’s about giving each one its own little throne.
Why It Matters
By reorganizing, we’re not just rearranging tiles; we’re creating actual breathing spaces. The shower gets its own privacy box, the toilet its own zippy corner, and you get a bathroom that feels less like a sardine can and more like a two‑person spa.
The Takeaway
Less confusion, more comfort—because when the bathroom finally behaves, you’re going to thank yourself with a splash of joy (and a few smirks while you do it).
Guest Washroom – The Cozy Corner
Below the main stage sits a tiny toilet marked “guest” that faces the open space. It’s like the backstage secret spot that keeps guests feeling right at home.
To keep the floor plan lean and the vibe private, the designers chose wooden bifold doors. Unlike a clunky swing door, these glide open smoothly, giving you that “no more room‑squeeze” feeling while still keeping the little bathroom a snug, personal oasis.
- Space‑saving with a tight opening
- Quiet operation – no “swoosh” sounds
- Modern, inviting finish that looks great with the open set
Store room
Brightening Up The Space
We kept everything just how it was—no fancy new paint, no quirky art—except for two upgrades that made the room pop.
- New ceiling light: A sleek fixture that turns the whole room into a sun‑burst zone.
- Portable fan: Because who doesn’t love a refreshing breeze while looking at cool stuff?
To make the place feel more open, we removed the door from the storeroom. Now the space is flooded with natural light and the only thing blocking the airflow is the occasional gust.
Bringing the vision to reality
Renovation Rumble: How Jo & Co. Chose the Right Contractor & Every Piece of Furniture
Short & sweet: The couple had everything sorted before the hammer hit the wall. With design decisions nailed down early, Jo swears the final look matched exactly what they had pictured.
Who Built the Dream?
They didn’t go with some random contractor; just Build was the name that made it onto their shortlist. Why?
- Recommendation Power: Their ID suggested they hit up just Build.
- Workmanship Cred: Word on the street was that the crew could actually finish the job without pulling a disappearing act.
- Reliability Needed: “We didn’t want them to vanish like a magician’s rabbit,” Jo said. “Everything needed to stay on track.
Bottom line: Just Build passed all the checks with flying colors.
Furniture Finds: Comfort Meets Aesthetics
When it came to the homely pieces, Jo’s priorities were simple: comfort first, color second. They grabbed most of their furnishings from Commune.
- Convenience: The one‑stop shop made shopping a breeze.
- Color Harmony: The palette “ticked all the boxes” for their interior vibe.
- Discount Deal: Spend big, save big – a 20% discount when they hit a certain price threshold.
It’s that kind of thoughtful planning that turned a simple renovation into a recipe for success.
Takeaway: Planning Wins
From getting the right contractor to picking furniture with style and savings, Jo’s team showed that pre‑planning is the secret sauce for renovation triumph.
Turning a Tiny Apartment into a Custom‑Made Haven
Why We Needed Custom Furniture
The old HDB apartment was a bit of a quirky puzzle: low ceilings, oddly shaped corners, and a general sense that standard pieces wouldn’t fit. To make the space feel right, we had to turn to custom-made furniture.
The Warehouse Hunt
We made a game of it—visiting random warehouses across town, looking for unique items that would match our unconventional layout. No map needed, just a nose for a good find.
Our Star Piece: The Low‑Ceiling Fan
At only 15 centimetres from the floor, the ceiling fan was a rare treasure. We snagged it in an industrial estate, where the selection is as eclectic as it is affordable.
Key Takeaways
- Custom furniture can turn a cramped space into a personalized oasis.
- Don’t underestimate the power of a good warehouse search—you might just score a hidden gem.
- Low ceilings don’t have to be a limitation; with the right items, they can become a unique design feature.
Home Makeover: Turning a Warehouse Hunt into a Hand‑Made Masterpiece
Stone Dining Table – A DIY Dream
Did you know that the centerpiece of their kitchen wasn’t just a store‑bought slab? They found a warehouse shop online and had a custom stone dining table made to fit their exact wishes. No cookie‑cutter piece here – just pure, that‑you‑wanted style.
The Coziest Console – Only the Couple Could Have Made This
Even the entry console is a hand‑crafted gem, lovingly built by a local couple they spotted online. When you walk in, you can feel the personal touch – it’s like a warm hug from a friend.
The Secret Dimension That Ties Everything Together
- Every piece, from the table to the console, is built around a 30‑centimetre backbone.
- That exact width matches the little indentation next to their door, giving the room a subtle, seamless feel.
- It’s a nifty trick that makes the whole space look balanced and just right.
What Makes Their Kitchen the New Hotspot
After the renovation, the kitchen and dining area have become the couple’s favourite spot. “We made much better use of certain kinks which weren’t utilised before,” Jo says, laughing at the clever way they turned every awkward corner into a stylish feature.
So if you’re planning a revamp, remember: a few online finds, a dash of DIY spirit, and a neat 30‑centimetre guiding factor can turn a plain room into something truly unique.
Inside the Newly Transformed Kitchen: Jo’s Big Upgrade
What was the Problem?
Picture this: a lone sink sitting in a random depression on the wall, a space that was practically begging for better use. It had no purpose beyond holding those dreaded food containers that people hate to carry around.
Enter the Trendy Solution
- A new storage chotto placed above a freshly installed chute – it’s like having a pantry that’s actually available now.
- All the cleaning supplies find a new home, no more hidden corners or accidental spills.
- A proper service yard that didn’t exist before – the secret behind smooth kitchen operations.
Dining Area – Size Is the New Dark
The dining space has been amplified considerably. It comfortably fits a two‑metre dining table, making it a perfect spot for family gatherings, dinner parties, or those impromptu spaghetti nights.
Lighting That Says “Wow!”
- Bright, lovely pendant lights now hang above the dining area.
- They bring a touch of sophistication that was previously missing.
- Everyone is now shouting (in a friendly way): “This room’s looking a bit more ‘posh’!”
With these changes, Jo’s kitchen has evolved from a simple, underused space into a fully functional, stylish hub. The result? A room that feels fresh, organized, and just a little bit fancy. Cheers to the makeover!
Lessons learned from a successful renovation journey
Renovation Ramps: The Beast That Was Jo
It’s easy to think a home makeover is a walk in the park—just paint a wall, toss in a sofa, and voila! The reality? Jo and her crew walked into a jungle. Here are two of the biggest bugs that almost turned their renovation into a horror movie.
1. The “Stop‑by‑Every‑Day, Blink‑Moment” Slip‑Up
“We found loads of glitches, but we only dropped by the site in the last two weeks—almost daily.” That’s the gist. If you’re only swinging by the job site once a month, you’ll miss the sneaky mistakes that slip through the cracks. The good news? They caught the errors before the handover. That’s a win. By prioritizing a steady presence, they avoided a massive surprise in the move‑in phase.
2. The Mysterious Measurement Madness
“The shotgun precision of the plans had to be tweaked when construction kicked off.” In other words, the blueprints weren’t on point. Tiny misalignments can ripple into bigger issues—think faulty pipes and columns sizzling into a hastily repaired mess.
Thankfully, the ID team stepped in like a puzzle‑solving superhero. They pin‑pointed glitches, threw in creative alternatives, and even laughed at the classic “random pipe” fiasco. These quirks aren’t rare in a seasoned HDB flat; they’re more like characters in a dated sitcom.
Bottom line: Going Hands‑On and Adapting on the Fly Make All the Difference
With a frequent site presence and a sharp eye on measurement accuracy, Jo’s crew turned what could have been a nightmare into a triumphant finish. Each hurdle was a lesson, and every challenge was met with a bit of ingenuity and a dash of humor—proving that even a renovation can be a pretty satisfying adventure when you stay ready to tweak the plan on the fly.
Renovation Revelations: Jo & Sam’s Journey to Functionality
Tucked between shag rugs and the sweet scent of new paint, Jo and Sam discovered two priceless lessons on their latest home makeover. Spoiler alert: they weren’t the ones who opened the paint cans with their bare hands.
Lesson 1 – Function Comes First (Before Fancy)
“Clients come in with a vision, but if the space can’t actually work, the vision is just a dream,” Jo recalls. She’s spotted that tricky balancing act between practicality and style.
- Start with the function – decide how rooms will be used.
- Design can follow – once you know the ‘what’, the ‘how’ becomes a creative playground.
- Throw out the “paint first, then plan” mindset and flip the script.
Lesson 2 – Budgeting Isn’t a Guessing Game
Even the most relaxed homeowners can fall into the budget‑budget‑budget trap. “We let the cost slip by like a slippery banana peel,” admits Sam. Their remedy? A tighter, more transparent financial plan.
- Set a strict bonus‑budget limit.
- Shop around for contractor rates and get at least three detailed quotes.
- Save the magic bucks for those crucial surprise details that make a home sing.
Golden Nugget From Jo
For anyone about to dive into a Reno, Jo has the one‑sentence steely wisdom: “Choose a design‑savvy contractor.” Not all builders can see beyond the hammer. Some rush to get the job done, neglecting how it will look in the final layout.
Our couple was lucky—“They were the secret sauce that blended aesthetics into everyday function,” Jo beamed. “If a professional can give you alternatives that don’t break the bank, you’ve hit the jackpot!”
Wrap‑Up Advice
- Prioritise functionality first.
- Get your numbers right – a ‘budget bible’ is your best friend.
- Pick a contractor who can translate your dream into reality without compromising on style.
This article was first published in Stackedhomes.
Renovation | Interior Design | HDB | Home Works | Tips