by Montie Mahtani | Jan 19, 2017 | Home Upkeep
Not many people have heard of Energy Vampires or are aware of its presence at home. M3 designers not only have your interior design interest at heart, we are also concerned about helping you live effectively in the home that we lovingly designed with you. You’re welcome.
Energy Vampires is what it’s commonly called but it also goes by two other terms – standby power and phantom load. Admittedly, “vampire” sounds a lot cooler. So what’s this Energy Vampire we speak of? It’s the electric power consumed by electronic devices when they are switched off (but still plugged in).
On average, a household has about 15 devices constantly plugged in at any given time. Have a look around your house; I’m guessing that there’s a least one hand phone charger hanging off the socket and the LED clock on your microwave is still flashing.
Before you rush around unplugging everything from its socket, let me give you some quick guide to shaving off the bills without the hassle on messing around with every single plugs in the house.
(Photo courtesy of pexels)
Devices with Digital Clock
The digital clock on your microwave may look innocuous but considering the number of times you use the microwave versus the number of hours the device is left idle, I daresay it consumes more electricity powering the clock than it does heating food. Coffee makers and ovens are the other two common culprits in the kitchen.
Computers and Entertainment Devices
You probably guessed it by now that the television, the cable box, game consoles, stereos and DVD players are all huge consumers of standby power. To mitigate this energy waste, hook up your entertainment system and related to power strips connected to a master switch. That way you can easily switch the whole system off when the family goes to bed or when everyone is out at work. According to industry experts, you can save a couple of hundreds a year if you keep up with this habit.
Hot Water Heater
This is an easy one. Turn off your water heater when not in use. Though most might be aware of this energy vampire, it still bears mentioning it as a reminder.
Smart Home Solutions
There are apps and products available in the market that will allow you to remotely control appliances like your air conditioning unit so that you don’t have to leave it running all day. Smart Home systems are able to connect to your mobile devices as well thus empowering you to save electricity and money at a touch of a button.
(Photo courtesy of pexels)
by Montie Mahtani | Dec 21, 2016 | Design Tips, Trending Styles
The kitchen, back in my grandparents’ era, is the most important part of the home. In the Peranakan culture, the kitchen is also known as ‘The Heart of the House’. While modern couples may not utilize the kitchen with the same frequency and enthusiasm their parents did, the kitchen still remains as one of the most important part of the home when it comes to design. You can’t get into an impromptu romantic swing dance routine in the kitchen without breaking some crockeries. But – hey – if that’s your kind of thing, I’m totally supportive of that.
The topic I’m exploring today is on 5 features you must consider when designing a beautiful yet functional kitchen for your new home in 2017.
(Picture by M3 Studio)
The kitchen island! That’s on most people’s wish list but how can we make that option feasible in a HDB kitchen? The best option would be to break down the wall between the kitchen and the dining area and have the kitchen island double up as the barrier between both rooms. The kitchen island is great for mingling with friends while having a glass of wine of if you need to prepare a quick snack.
Another interior design secret I’m going to share with you is The Work Triangle. The triangle should allow the chef to have easy access to the stove, the sink and the refrigerator without obstruction. That path forms a triangle. If you plan your kitchen design following The Work Triangle rule, you would be able to fit a spouse and a pet cat in the kitchen and work together in harmony.
So you got a beautifully designed cabinet and you marvel at your choice of material selection, then you start to unpack your groceries and grandma’s delicate Chinaware, and that’s when you realize the horror of horrors. The cabinet doors clash with adjacent doors and walls and some are even poised in angles that are accidents waiting to happen.
(Picture by M3 Studio)
When designing your kitchen, think about every door and how you’ll use them. Your concept drawings should include the geometry of appliance doors. This includes the swing of the refrigerator doors, the cabinets in their open position, and any other key operations like drawers and dishwasher door. While there will definitely be overlapping areas, the idea is to plan which doors will be operational at which part of the process.
The sink, rubbish bin and dishwasher should be situated close together. Many people may not consider this relation until its too late. The design of a kitchen should consider the convenience of cleaning up after a meal. Ideally you want to have these things out of sight but yet situated close enough to the dining area.
(Picture by M3 Studio)
And for my final and probably the most important tip – food preparation space. Never underestimate the space you require. The space you will require and the material of your kitchen top will differ with your ethnic group. Western meals generally require more surface space than oriental meals. Oriental meals, usually piping hot when served would do better with a more resilient kitchen top. Indian food, with its sauces and spice, will require even more space.
If all these points sounds really confusing, just remember one thing: Your lifestyle should determine the functionality of your kitchen, not the other way around. Come talk to your friendly designers at M3 and we would be happy to factor all these considerations in your design so you don’t have to worry.
by Montie Mahtani | Sep 7, 2016 | Design Tips, Trending Styles
Taiwan is one of the most progressive countries in Southeast Asia. Many people who visit the country are surprised to learn that it is a place where tradition and modern technology meet. With that being said, it is also a country not afraid to step outside the boundaries in interior design. A rising trend in Taiwan gears homes towards minimalist and zen designs. This is the main reason why it should be a no-brainer to look for Taiwan interior designs as a source of inspiration.
1. This home incorporates rustic and industrial elements into the whole design. The de-cluttered atmosphere reflects the Taiwan lifestyle where simplicity and functionality matters most. The halogen spotlight in the ceilings support the natural light coming through the glass walls. This interior is a great set-up for younger people as pop art also plays a big part in brightening up the whole place.
2. A more contemporary take on the first interior results to the second one. Instead of using wood and spotlighting, this interior goes for a subtler approach with cove lighting and white colors complimenting the concrete floor. This creates a spacious illusion that is relaxing and comforting for the dwellers. This design definitely utilizes more storage opportunities. With multiple shelves and even a bookshelf beside the window, it is wonderful space for anyone who has collected memorabilia throughout the years. There are also more seating options for someone who enjoys various activities from guitar playing to just chilling and watching TV.
3. By now, anyone can see that a prominent feature of Taiwan-inspired designs is focused on organization. This modern design has thrown a splash of retro with the accent chairs. The patchwork design on the two chairs as well as the red rug bring an exciting element to the monochrome colors.
4. This completely modern apartment is a great reflection of Taiwan embracing technology. Various modern components can be found in the interior including the side drop ceilings, edgy furniture and wall panels. At some places where wood floorings may not be available, laminate flooring as showcased in this example is a great option if you wish to have one in your home. Surprisingly, the stone wall by the fireplace adds an earthly element that keeps part of this design grounded.
by Montie Mahtani | Aug 22, 2016 | Design Tips, Home Upkeep
We know: in Singapore, your HDB may be the size of a shoebox– but the quality your HDB interior design should never be compromised. Whether you’re looking to free up more space into your living room, or to declutter your bedroom for a mess-free rest, we’ve collated 6 space saving interior design hacks.
- Let there be light
Feel like your room is a little too dark and dingy? Maybe it’s your curtains. Some curtains block out a large amount of light. Avoid those and swap them out for light, material that will let in the light even when they’re drawn for privacy. Adding more light fixtures will also help in making your little home feel lighter, brighter, and more beautiful.
- Do double duty
Get flexible furniture that does more. In a small home like a HDB flat, furnishings with two or more functions can be a real lifesaver. Some pieces include ottoman seats that allow you to stow away any stray items, or foldaway beds that can be concealed to make way. While these might be a little more on the pricey side, consider these costs as the price for two items. The cost savings do add up, and you just might get your home dolled up for less.
- Put up your pictures
While you might not have room to place more décor, you can certainly hang them up. Show off your personality by adding some artwork to your small space. Best of all, some hooks can be removed cleanly, so feel free to experiment without the commitment.
4. Pick something distinct
In a small space, décor displayed can make you feel like your home is in a mess. Cut down on the clutter and pick out a particular piece of furniture that speaks of your personality. Maybe it’s a bright red couch, a slouchy beanbag, or maybe even an avant-garde lamp.
Related: 5 Frugal Ways to Decorate Your Home
5. Don’t fear heights
Floor space is always restrictive in a small HDB interior design flat, so turn your attention upwards. Attach shelving to your walls to display any mementos and books. Or they could serve a more practical purpose like keeping Fido and Felix’s treats out of reach.
6. Tiny spaces make for great storage
Have an odd space you don’t know what to do with? Slot a skinny spice rack in that awkward gap between the fridge and the kitchen sink. Lay a ladder against a wall to hang up your clothes. Don’t be afraid- be creative and make use of dead space that could bring your home to life.
by Montie Mahtani | Aug 22, 2016 | Design Tips
Looking to decorate your crib, but haven’t got the cash? Whether home is a swanky condominium apartment in the buzzing business district of Singapore, or a humble 3 room HDB flat in the heartlands, here are 5 ways to refresh your home with these nifty HDB interior design tricks; all guaranteed to keep you (and your wallet) happy.
- One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.
Don’t knock it just because it’s cheap. Some people are simply looking to make room in their homes, and are selling their old, but high quality furniture at rock bottom prices on online platforms like Carousell or Gumtree. Should cashless transactions not be your cup of tea, you can always opt for thrift stores like the Salvation Army, or even the weekend flea markets. While often disorganised, these places are usually full of little gems that need just a little digging around. Find anything from second hand picture frames, chairs, tables, and other decorative pieces. You’ll get the chance to find if there are any pre-loved clothes that catch your fancy too. If you don’t find anything the first time, go back! Inventory in these places are always expanding and changing, so you’ll never have to look at the same things twice. It makes for a great idea for a family outing, or lovely afternoon date to discover the best bargains in town.
Flea market in Hietalahdentori, Helsinki, Finland/ Janne Hellsten
- Change it up with Spray Paint.
Consider spray paint; these unassuming cans can change the look of almost everything. Want to give a fresh coat of paint to the second hand picture frames you found at a weekend flea? Spray paint is the answer. Want to give an old chair an avant-garde twist? Spray paint it with a bunch of colours. What’s even better is that they cost only 12-15 dollars a pop, so you can experiment with a couple of colours without breaking the bank.
If you’re looking for something more natural, try a wood staining project that could give your wooden furniture a subtle shift in style.
- Go Green
Like going for nature walks in our green city? This one’s for you. Make yourself a mini garden. Try these common plants: Areca Palm, Dracana Corn Plant, Rubber Plant, Peace Lily and the Snake Plant. These plants are not only well suited to Singapore’s humidity, but also remove toxins from the air.
Related: Budget-Friendly Upgrades for Your Home
If you’ve got a green thumb. Why not keep a garden that grows your own food? Singapore’s climate is hot, sunny, and ideal for growing your own vegetables. Not only will this mean that you will have an abundance of healthy greens to pick from, but it’s also healthy for your wallet, too.
- Change the look of your furniture
So your throw pillows are a boring shade of grey. Cover them with bright red cushion covers. Or maybe the pictures on your wall are starting to get a little dated– swap them out for something new. Even changing your shower curtains from a transparent sheet to a happy yellow could make a cheery difference to your life-contemplation session in the shower.
If your budget is absolutely zero, simply shift your furniture for a fresh new look. This way, you’ll get two or more looks with the exact same furnishings.
- Colour your Ceilings
You don’t have to be the next Michelangelo to paint your ceiling, so don’t ignore it. While most people paint their ceilings white on default, opt for something a little more interesting. Pale blues, lavenders, and yellows draw the eye to the ceiling, not only expanding the feel of the room, without being overly harsh.
With these 5 budget-friendly interior designer hacks, make your condo or HDB interior design stand out from the homes of your Singaporean friends. Have you got any other budget friendly ways to revamp your home? Share it with us, because we’d like to know!
