Singapore’s shophouses are an iconic architectural style that has been around for over a century. Originally built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, these traditional two- or three-story buildings served as combined living and business spaces for local merchants and traders. Today, shophouses are highly sought after as residential properties and many homeowners are renovating them to enhance their modern comforts while preserving their historical charm.
If you own a shophouse in Singapore, you may be considering renovating it to make it more livable while retaining its unique character. Here are some tips on how to approach interior design and renovation for shophouses.
Work with the architectural features
One of the biggest challenges when renovating a shophouse is how to incorporate the building’s existing architectural features into the new design. Shophouses typically feature long, narrow layouts with limited natural light and ventilation, which can be both a challenge and an opportunity.
To make the most of your shophouse’s architectural features, consider incorporating features like exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and wooden shutters into your interior design. These features will add character and warmth to your living space while also creating a sense of openness and airiness.
Embrace natural light
Another challenge when renovating shophouses is the lack of natural light. To maximize natural light in your space, consider installing skylights, light wells, or glass floors to allow more light into your home. You can also use lighter paint colors and reflective surfaces like mirrors to make your space appear brighter and more spacious.
Choose functional furniture
When choosing furniture for your shophouse, it’s important to choose pieces that are functional and space-saving. Look for furniture that can be used for multiple purposes, such as a sofa that doubles as a guest bed or a coffee table that can be used as a desk. Consider custom-built furniture that can be designed to fit the unique layout of your shophouse and maximize your living space.
Incorporate modern amenities
While it’s important to preserve the historical charm of your shophouse, you also want to make sure it’s a comfortable and functional living space. Consider incorporating modern amenities such as air conditioning, central heating, and smart home technology into your renovation plans. These upgrades will not only make your shophouse more livable but also increase its value and appeal to potential buyers in the future.
Hire a professional designer
If you’re unsure of how to approach the renovation of your shophouse, consider hiring a professional designer who specializes in shophouse renovations. A professional designer can help you navigate the challenges of working with an older building and create a design that maximizes your living space while preserving its historical character.
In conclusion, renovating a shophouse can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and the right design approach, it can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. By working with the architectural features of your shophouse, embracing natural light, choosing functional furniture, incorporating modern amenities, and hiring a professional designer, you can create a beautiful and livable space that retains the unique character of this iconic Singaporean architectural style.