To Buy List

1. Hasegawa tatami mat
- $79.90 + 10% discount
- lookout for June & Dec 09
- at Takashimaya

2. Electric Cooker

3. Sofa

4. Bedroom set

5. TV Console

6. Home Theater System

7. Kitchenware

8. Kitchen Towel

9. Shoe Cabinet

Things to ask/tell contractor

Things to feedback to Contractor :

1. Kitchen Countertop - ???

2. Kitchen door - all change, frame with color

3. MBR Wardrobe - no need change glass to wood door

4. Change storage heater

5. Home surveillence system - how many points???

6. MBR L-Box - ???

7. Bathroom Pelmet - get Kelvin to design

8. Switches type - ??

9. Mini curbing - Masterbathroom change from marble to tiles

10. Plastering - wanna remove electrical wiring first?

11. Plastering - wanna limit to a few wall?

12. Study room - wiring for shelfs (trunking at tiles)

13. Downlights - E27??, e ballast ??

14. pan collar - need silicone??

15. Speaker power point maintain

Sequence of Reno

1. Concept Design
2. Design presentaion with sample board, plans and 3d
3. Detail Dwgs.
4. Completion.
5. Rectification of Defects.

Kitchen Wish List

The *Kitchen Wish List:
- For homeowners renovating/ remodelling a new or existing kitchen.
- Helps to organize your thoughts, ideas, needs and wants for your kitchen.
- This list can be used to communicate better with your interior or kitchen designer.
*This Kitchen Wish List is for personal use only.

Simply click on this link, download and save it for your reference:
Kitchen Wish List2.pdf

The list covers areas such as:
- Analyze your kitchen
- Kitchen size
- Ceiling type
- Kitchen layout
- Kitchen uses
- Physical amenities
- Storage (by item type)
- Storage accessories (for access, convenience)
- Physical properties
- Large appliances & food-prep areas in kitchen
- Small appliances
- Budget
- Other considerations

Any feedback/suggestions to improve this Kitchen Wish List are welcomed.

Organisation : Kitchen

After trying to find many ways or systems in organising the kitchen - through books, magazines, whatever – I learnt it the hard way, and I’m still learning.
So, here’s a mantra when organising your space or area: a place for everything, and everything in place.

Things to consider for the kitchen, after taking the inventory of all items in your kitchen:
- Proper organization keeps the items you need visible, saving space and time and of course, money. Being able to quickly & easily locate items will keep money in your wallet because you won't have to run out to buy a replacement when an item ends up missing.

- Keep only kitchen items in the kitchen. Other household items should not clutter your kitchen space.

- Measure the length, width, and height of your most frequently used pots, pans, woks, bowls, appliances, and utensils. And pay close attention to how measurements change when particular items are grouped or stacked for storage. This will help gauge what you can store comfortably without cramming the kitchen cabinets, drawers, and shelves.

- Designate a specific place for each and every thing. Once you have done so, you will be more likely to put things back where they belong and less likely to lose or unknowingly duplicate items. For example, you realised that the number of teaspoons keep on decreasing over time and you know that you didn’t throw them out accidentally. And that your cup saucers did not match the same numbers of matching teacups that you have.

- Think logically and group like items together for easy retrieval.

- Save steps. Place items closest to their point of use. For example, store cups and glasses near the sink or fridge. Place pots, woks & pans near the stove/hob, and put spices and oils in proximity to the prep area. For easy retrieval, plates are generally stored in the upper cabinets nearest the sink or dishwasher; but to help youngsters set the table, consider drawer storage. Items for eating should be closer to the sink, fridge or even the dishwasher.

- Assign everything else a space based on frequency of use. Store seldom-used items such as extra place settings used only for special occasions in the dining room or elsewhere to avoid taking up valuable kitchen space. Put holiday/entertaining items in the back of cabinets, selecting an upper or lower cabinet location based on each item's weight. And store frequently-used and heavier items - be it small or hand appliances – near the relevant work areas within easy reach.

The Electrical Layout Plan

So, what is exactly the purpose of having and keeping the issued electrical layout plan?



Mirror image:


Electrical layout plans are sometimes are on a separate page to make reading them a little easier. By keeping the electrical layout on its own drawing, the electrician can begin wiring the home without reading through the entire building floor plan. Electrical diagrams usually include a legend or key on the page, which explains what each symbol represents. From this diagram the electrician can determine the location of electrical outlets, fixtures, light fixtures etc. Electrical diagrams may also include legends for heating/cooling systems, door swings and sizes. The electrical layout plan that is issued by HDB, is usually the Single-Line diagram.

Prior to start getting quotes from reno companies or IDs, it helps if the new owner can take abit of time to look through the electrical layout first, especially if the unit has concealed electrical wiring by default. For newer flats, usually you can see two layouts on the same page: ceiling layout and floor layout.

If you notice this in the ceiling layout plan: L1, L2, L3 and so on...it means it is the individual lighting (ceiling) point. If you see this in the floor layout plan: P1, P2, P3 and so on....it means it is the individual power point.
At each lighting point circle, you will notice that there's an arrow-like line pointing in different directions. If you trace or follow the direction of the arrow point, it will lead to the nearest switch point.

Count the total number of default lighting and power points based on the electrical layout plan, as this will help you in getting a rough idea how much electrical works will cost you, excluding the projected number of ceiling fans, lights, appliances and additional power points & lightings that you intend to have. At least, you can set aside a comfortable budget so that you are not in for surprises

What to Save, What to Spend

Windows:
SPEND ON: The curtains
Don’t be tempted to go for cheap fabric as it will show. Whether you choose silk, linen or a weave, make sure it’s good quality and drapes evenly. Don’t try to save money by buying less fabric, either – cutting down on the fullness of your curtains will just spoil the effect. Pay attention to getting the style of the heading right, too – for e.g. go for simple eyelet headings in a contemporary setting, or extra-deep pencil pleats in a more traditional scheme.
TIP: Lining your curtains will add to your cost, but is essential to add fullness and weight to your fabric, making it hang better. Lining also protects fabric from sunlight.

SAVE ON: The curtain pole
If your curtains look beautiful, you don’t need a fancy pole so you can cut costs by choosing a simple design. Metal or wrought-iron poles tend to be cheaper than wooden ones, though just as sturdy, and come in a range of colours and finishes. Think about the proportions of the window – with smaller windows you can get away with using a narrower (and therefore cheaper) pole.
TIP: For a touch of glamour, add decorative finials to a plain pole – they’re less expensive than the whole pole.

Lights:
SPEND ON: The lamp base
A lamp is a key finishing touch in a room, so invest in a good-quality lamp base in a classic style that won’t date. Choose one that is non-specific in colour – glass or crystal is ideal – so it can be teamed with cheaper lampshades in different styles and colours.
TIP: Look for quality fittings such as metal holders, woven flexes and sliding switches – inexpensive white plastic fittings are a big quality giveaway.

SAVE ON: The lampshade
The shade you choose can completely change the look of the lamp, making it bold and flamboyant or simple and understated. Be brave – if you tire of it, it won’t cost much to replace. Modern drum-shaped shades give a contemporary look and are inexpensive to buy, whether in plain white cotton or colourful silks. Or follow fashion with one of the latest punchwork shades, featuring intricate lacy designs punched out of card. They look stylish and are good value, too. Pick a shade that is in proportion with your base – as a rough guide, the diameter of your shade should be equal to the length of the lamp base (not including the bulb fitting).
TIP: Use the bulb wattage recommended by the base and shade manufacturers – if the wattage differs, opt for the lower of the two. A bulb with too high a wattage could blow fuses or cause a fire.

Seating:
SPEND ON: The sofa
A good-quality sofa should last 10 to 15 years, so spend as much as you can afford. Invest in a design with classic features and hardwearing neutral upholstery that will stand the test of time. Make sure it’s well constructed – a zigzag sprung model with a hardwood frame is a good option for both strength and comfort. Choose a fibre fill with a foam core for the sofa back as it’s soft yet supportive; keep its shape and need less plumping. A fibre and feather mix is soft, but needs regular plumping, which is tricky with any fixed sections.
TIP: To keep your sofa looking good, invest in a stain-protection treatment when you buy it.

SAVE ON: The cushions
Accessories like cushions are great finishing touches, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to get that wow factor. Look for the latest high-street buys to keep your living room looking bang up to date.
TIP: If you’re buying them at a bargain price, go for a pile of cushions rather than one or two, to create a more luxurious look.

The floor:
SPEND ON: The carpet
Laying new carpet is not something you’ll do often, so it pays to buy as good a quality carpet as you can afford. Neutrals and natural weaves are an obvious choice rather than bold shades and patterned designs that can date. Areas of heavy wear will need a hard-wearing carpet, such as an 80/20 wool/nylon mix. In areas like bedrooms, a lighter grade, less hard-wearing carpet will be fine – and cheaper, too.
TIP: Good quality underlay will prolong the life of your carpet. Don’t try to cut costs by fitting new carpet over old underlay or by choosing cheap underlay.

SAVE ON: The rug
A rug is a brilliant way to add impact. It’s easy to pick up a stunning design at a reasonable price, which makes it simple to replace when you want a new look.
TIP: Choose a rug that will suit the room’s scale – a small version will look lost in the middle of a big living room, but if you use it for a purpose – to unite furniture in front of a fireplace or TV, for example – it will work.

Sleeping:
SPEND ON: The mattress
Buy the best-quality mattress you can, as an inferior one will sag. Your choice depends on your budget, but a good mid-priced option is a continuous-sprung mattress rather than an open-sprung design as the interwoven coils are smaller, giving a higher spring count and a more responsive feel. For ultimate comfort, opt for a pocket-sprung mattress, where springs in individual pockets work independently so there’ll be no transmission of movement from one partner to the other.
TIP: You can also buy sprung mattresses with a foam layer that moulds to the contours of your body.

SAVE ON: The bed
If you’ve invested in a good-quality mattress, you can afford to economise on the bed frame, but this doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality. Avoid designs with rigid wooden slats that are widely spaced, as they will cause wear and tear on your mattress. For comfort, opt for flexible slats no more than 9 to 10cm apart.
TIP: Mattress manufacturers recommend slat spacing to suit their own mattresses, so check the bedstead is compatible before you buy.

SPEND ON: The pillows
At worst, a cheap pillow will give you a stiff neck or persistent headaches. Invest in a good-quality pillow that will hold your head, neck, shoulders and upper back in a straight line. The filling and firmness you choose depends on personal preference, but synthetic-filled pillows come in a variety of softnesses (keep to branded fibres for quality), are easy to wash and keep their shape. Down and feather versions are plumper and softer – opt for these if you like to sink into your pillow.
TIP: Make sure you’re sleeping in a healthy environment by replacing your pillows at least every two to three years to avoid a build-up of skin and dust mites.

SAVE ON: The bed linen
When it comes to bed linen, it is looks that are important. Most stores sell sets at reasonable prices, so you can afford to replace them without blowing your budget. Top-quality Egyptian cotton looks fabulous, but it can be a nightmare to iron, so opt for easy-iron sets (usually a polycotton mix) instead – they’re much less pricey, too.
TIP: Buy inexpensive sets in plain toning colours so you can layer the look.

Kitchen:
SPEND ON: The handles
It’s often the details that make all the difference – the plainest kitchen units can be transformed with smart new handles. Invest in a good design – even though the price per handle might seem expensive, quality fittings really do stand out.
TIP: Choose high-quality materials such as pewter, chrome, leather and resin for a superior-looking finish.

SAVE ON: The doors
As long as the carcasses of your kitchen units are solidly made, you can economise when you’re updating by replacing the doors with budget buys. The plainer and simpler the design, the cheaper the doors will be. What’s more, unfussy styles with minimal detailing are far less likely to date than high-fashion styles.
TIP: Opt for inexpensive plain white doors rather than cheap wooden ones – it’s more difficult to spot that they’re not top quality. They’re more versatile, too – white looks great with just about every colour scheme.

Bathrooms:
SPEND ON: The taps
Quality taps will lift the look of an average suite or bathroom. Remember, they are working parts, too, so a superior design will be less likely to go wrong. High-quality materials such as chrome will also stay tarnish-free.
TIPS: Try taps out in the showroom – if the handle or spout wobbles when you turn them on, they’re of a lesser quality.

SAVE ON: The basin
Keep to clean lines and classic styles – with simple shapes, it’s hard to differentiate a top-end basin from a lower-priced option.
TIP: Shop around for a bargain – you don’t have to get your taps and basin from the same supplier.

Dining:
SPEND ON: The chair
Quality is vital when you’re choosing dining chairs as they come under more strain than the table. Hardwood frames are the most durable. Fabrics suitable for chairs need to have passes the 25,000 ‘rub test’, so check this is marked. Nylon glides on the feet will protect the chair and the floor, and are a good indicator of quality.
TIP: The chair should be wider than the gap between your elbows when placed on the table (52cm to 56cm). There should be around 18cm to 20cm between the seat and the underside of the table.

SAVE ON: The table
A ridiculously cheap table is a false economy as you’ll only get what you pay for. But a good table need not be expensive – check that it’s strong and feels well made. Wood tables are the sturdiest and have the advantage that a damaged top can be sanded back and re-varnished.
TIP: Table heights range from 73.5cm to 77cm and over, so make sure any existing chairs will fit comfortable under it. There should be at least 60cm of space for each diner on a rectangular table, or 75cm on a circular table.

Sample letter to inform neighbour

(Date)


Dear Neighbour,


You may wonder who we are, and why we have gone to the trouble of writing this to you and your neighbours. We are your new neighbours, a married couple.

The reason we are writing this is to inform you that we are starting renovation works in our home. It will begin tomorrow approximately for the next six to eight weeks in which the dates are from (day-date) (earliest) to (day-date) (latest).

We look forward to renovating our maiden home and living in this new neighbourhood. We sincerely apologise for any dust, debris, noise and inconveniences caused. Thank you and have a nice day!


Yours sincerely,

The new neighbour (#unit)

ASSESS YOUR NEEDS

The following questions will prompt you to consider your lifestyle and needs, area by area, so that you will be able to identify the elements, plans, and style choices that suit you best:

LIVING
The quality and comfort of life in an interior depends on how much space you can create and how well adapted it is to your lifestyle.

- Do you find it easier to relax in a small intimate area, or do you like the sense of freedom found in a large open space?
- Would you prefer to define different areas by varying the floor coverings and wall colours, or do you want to maintain a unified, open-plan space?
- Can you arrange your living space to make the most of natural light?
- If your space is limited, do you want to keep it uncluttered by using furniture that can be moved aside when it is not needed?
- When you have friends to visit, are they happy to relax on floor cushions, or would they prefer more conventional seating?
- If you have a large collection of books, can they be stored in high-level shelving in spaces that would otherwise be wasted?
- Do you have collections of objects that you wish to display? If so, can they be housed in alcoves or wall units, or would a mobile storage unit be more useful?
- Would a mini or portable audio unit be adequate for your needs, or do you have a system that needs special installation?
- Would different kinds of lighting for relaxing, reading, or working improve your enjoyment of these activities?
- How important is a garden to you? Would a window-box or indoor plant display provide a replacement?


COOKING AND EATING
The most important influence on the design of this area is whether you see cooking and eating as important activities or as transient necessities.

- Would you like to separate the kitchen in some way, or would you rather include it in the general living space?
- When you are working in the kitchen, would you like to face into the living area, or would you prefer an outside view?
- Would you like to close off the kitchen, or would you rather make a feature of it by displaying attractive equipment?
- Are you a convenience cook, who needs only a microwave oven and fridge, or do you need space and equipment to prepare adventurous meals for yourself and guests?
- Do you use some pieces of equipment more frequently than others? Can they be stored so that they are accessible, with heavy equipment stored at low levels?
- Do you like to sit down at a table for everyday meals, or are you happy with a more informal tray or breakfast bar?
- Would you like a dining table that can be extended when necessary or could you manage with a folding or trestle table that can be put away when not in use?
- If space is limited, would a slimline or table-top dishwasher fit? Do you really need such equipment?
- If you spend a lot of time in the kitchen area, are you sure that the flooring is durable but “giving” and easy to clean?
- Is your cooking area in an unventilated or tight space? Have you considered an extractor fan or waste disposal unit?


WASHING
Your bathing habits will determine the setting and design of your bathroom. With imaginative planning, a bath can be installed even in restricted spaces.

- Which do you prefer: a shower or a bath? If space is limited, would you consider devoting the entire space to a luxury shower-room, or could you install a space-saving bath?
- Do you need a separate bathroom or could you incorporate a bath or shower cubicle into your living area?
- Can you make use of space above the bath and WC for bathroom storage? Do you have enough shelves and cabinets for toiletries so that the basin area does not become too cluttered?
- If your bathroom is likely to be used by visitors, have you considered how much of the contents you might prefer to conceal?
- Do you have the space for a large cupboard for spare towels, or will they have to be stored elsewhere?
- Have you made provision for clothes such as hooks for bathrobes, a laundry hamper, and a bathroom chair/stool?


SLEEPING and DRESSING
Would you feel happier with a semi-private, defined “bedroom” area, or must the bed double as seating during the daytime, and the sleeping area be used for working and relaxing?

- Can you be bothered with the inconvenience of a foldaway bed, or one that doubles as seating during the day, or would you prefer a permanent bed, either on the floor or on a raised platform?
- Is privacy in your sleeping area important? Would curtains provide adequate screening, or would you prefer something more substantial?
- What do you like to keep by your bed? Have you provided for storage of your alarm clock, reading material, and so on?
- If you plan to set up a platform bed, is there a source of natural light and ventilation nearby?
- How much hanging, shelf, and drawer space do you need for clothes? How do you like to store out-of-season clothing?
- Would you like a dressing area with a full-length mirror and good lighting?
- Are you likely to have guests to stay? Do you have room to store a foldaway bed, or could you have seating that doubles as a bed, such as futon, sofa-bed, studio couch, or truckle bed?


UTILITIES
In the early stages of planning, allocate spaces for cleaning-equipment storage and for clothes drying, as well as for plumbing in a washing machine.

- Will you need facilities to do your own laundry, or do you send it out?
- If space is limited would a half-size or table-top washing machine suit you?
- Will you need to install a clothes drying rack or pulley, or do you have a dryer?
- Have you planned for a ventilated cupboard for storing bulky cleaning equipment, such as vacuum cleaners?
- Could you have a space-saving fold-out ironing table fitted into a kitchen unit, or do you have room for a full-size model?


STORAGE
A good storage system is an absolute necessity for small spaces/studio living in order to reduce clutter and keep belongings in some degree of order.

- Do you prefer to hide clutter behind doors, or do you like the idea of using open containers, such as baskets and hanging wall pockets?
- Will you need space for long-term storage, such as gardening and sports equipment, tools, and DIY material?
- If you don’t want a fitted appearance in your kitchen, can you adapt existing pieces of furniture for storage?
- Do you have equipment that requires storage at a controlled temperature?
- Will items in long-term storage need protection from dust and insects?
- If you have valuables, is it worth investing in a safe for security?


WORKING
The design of your work area depends on whether you are happy working on the kitchen table, or whether you need privacy and a businesslike atmosphere.

- If you work from home, do you need a dedicated work space, or would a surface that can be folded away or double as a dining table suffice?
- Have you taken into account your realistic day-to-day and long-term work storage needs? Can you plan in sufficient file and shelf space near your work area for easy retrieval?
- Does your work require much specialist equipment? Can you arrange your work space so that there is access to ample power and telephone points?
- Would a purpose-built mobile computer table with shelves for printer and keyboard suit your needs?
- Is good natural light or task lighting essential for your work?
- Can you concentrate easily or do you need some sort of barrier, such as screens or a room divider, to prevent distraction?
- Can you adjust your work furniture and equipment in order to achieve maximum comfort and efficiency?
- Do you want your work area to look like an office, or would you prefer it to blend in to your interior scheme?
- Would screening your work area give a more professional impression when clients visit you?
- Is it important to you that your household accounts are well organized and accessible?

Free services related to Renovation work

1. For checking of home security system, can request for Security Officer from Police post :

Refer to eHDB website


2. After electrical rewiring is done, SP Services can provide free testings of wiring installations :

What to look out for when looking for contractor / ID

1. Ask questions to gauge their competency, eg :

a) How many projects have you undertaken? Can you show me your on-going projects? Can I meet the owners?

b) Who are the workers? Are they your sub-contractors or employees in the same company as you? How long have you worked with them? How can I be sure you are not using workers who may be learning-on-the-job at my expense? What happens if they make mistakes? What is the standard and quality of work I can expect? What happens if I am not happy with the workmanship?

c) I want to hack my bedroom wall to create a larger living space. Are you able to get HDB approval for that?

d) I wish to replace all the old sliding windows to casement windows, including the louvre windows in my bathrooms. How long would it take to get HDB approval?

2. Job scope discussion

On job scope it is important you give him a broad and detailed idea of what you want for the renovation. That means you should have done your homework and decided

a) what you want to renovate e.g. change the floor tiles, replace all the windows, replace old chute, hack the bedroom wall, rewiring, false ceiling, etc

b) the type of materials you want e.g. granite flooring, bamboo flooring for bedrooms

c) possibly the color and texture you want. Must remember to keep a sample with color/design code stated in the sample, just in case for future reference in case there is conflict in future.

d) Look at the range of material color/design they have. If not, later may need to top up if they don't have the range you want.

e) on the workmanship quality you are looking for

f) the time schedule to complete the entire renovation.

3. View their past projects

Always ask to see an ID's work, whether he has been highly recommended or not. See for yourself the standard of workmanship done. Ask to see not only one job site but a few, to guard against "passing-off".

Generally if the owner of the flat is around when you see the project, you could ask the owner for his/her opinion of the ID too.

4. Quotation and pricing of the renovation.

Note you should only commence negotiation after

a) you have ascertained the ID / Contractor's competence and
b) he knows clearly the works you want completed within the timespan you have specified.

Prepare a checklist of what you want to be done in detail. Get the contractor to use your checklist template if possible, so that it is easy to compare with one another.

Living Room without Sofa (Proposed New Projector Screen position)

Living Room (Proposed New Projector Screen position)

Living Room (Original Projector Screen Position)

My Furniture List

Lovenest :
Size:
Renovation ID:
Tiles (living room):
Laminate flooring (bedrooms):
Hob :
Taps:
Lightings:
Curtains:
Bedframe:
Mattress:
Instant Heater:
Aircon:
Sofa:
Sofa-bed:
Single bedframe:
2-door wardrobe:
DVD player:
Wrought Iron Grilles:
Home Theatre System:
Sofa bed:
Single bedframe:
2-door wardrobe:
Study table:
Dining table:
Lock:
Fridge:
Dect Phones:
Vacuum Cleaner:
Washing Machine:
Desk Fan:
Teppanyaki Steamboat:
Microwave Oven:
Coffee table:
Wall clock:
Carpets:
Blender:

Renovation Planning & Schedule

1 House inspection
1 Inspection Checklist
2 Safety Inspection (Police - Crime Prevention Officer)

2 Set Renovation Objective

3 Budgetting
1 Reno
2 Furnishing
3 Appliances

4 New Design
1 Overall objective/theme
2 Modification scope
3 Draft layout
a. MBR
b. MBR Toilet
c. Common Toilet
d. Balcony
e. Dining
f. Living

5 Measurements

6 Material & Fixture selection
a. Floor
b. Wall
c. Ceiling
d. Fixtures
e. Electrical wiring points
f. Piping

7 Get Permit

8 Choose Contractor
1 Quotation Comparison
2 Check with RADAC
3 Plan & Drawing
4 Material Designation & Identification

9 Renovation Work
1 wet work - hacking, laying of tiles
2 windows if you are changing
3 plastering
4 electrical point
5 false ceiling
6 painting
7 these 3 can be any sequence
a. plumber - if changing to stainless steel water pipe
b. install lightings & down light
c. install window grilles
8 carpentry
9 curtains
10 Inspection
* http://www.singaporebrides.com/forumboard/messages/409/362178.html?1212119913

10 House cleaning

11 Furniture & Appliances Buying
1 List
2 Quotation Comparison
3 Purchase
4 Inspection