In the vibrant city of Singapore, where the equatorial climate reigns supreme, interior design takes on a whole new level of challenge and innovation. As a boutique interior design firm, we understand the unique demands posed by the tropical environment and strive to create spaces that not only exude beauty but also stand the test of time. In this article, we delve into the world of hardy materials, exploring their remarkable qualities and how they can be effectively incorporated into interior design projects in our tropical city.
Singapore’s hot and humid climate can be harsh on traditional materials, often leading to deterioration, warping, or fading. However, rather than viewing this as a hindrance, we see it as an opportunity for creativity and adaptation. By carefully selecting hardy materials that possess the ability to withstand the challenging tropical conditions, we can create interiors that remain resilient and stunning for years to come. Join us on this exciting journey as we explore the possibilities of resilient design in a tropical city.
Wooden doors in tropical Singapore often face the challenge of warping due to the high humidity and fluctuating temperatures. This can lead to issues such as uneven fit, sticking, or even complete malfunction. Fortunately, there is a cost-effective solution to this problem: relaminating the door.
Relaminating involves applying a new layer of laminate to the substrate of the door, effectively addressing the warping issue without the need for a complete replacement. It’s essential to understand the difference between veneer and laminate in this context.
Veneer is a thin layer of real wood that is applied to the substrate of the door, providing a natural and authentic appearance. Attached in an example of a re-veneered door with hidden hinges.
On the other hand, laminate is a synthetic material made of layers of paper or plastic that mimic the look of wood. On the left, we have an example of a re-laminated door.
While both options can be used for relaminating doors, veneer offers a higher-end and more luxurious finish, while laminate provides a more budget-friendly alternative. By relaminating a wood door with either veneer or laminate, homeowners in Singapore can restore the functionality and aesthetic appeal of their doors without breaking the bank.
Hardy materials are renowned for their durability, longevity, and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. Manmade materials such as sintered stone, large format tiles, and quartz have gained significant popularity as countertop choices, particularly in tropical climates and kitchens. Their inherent hardiness and ability to withstand constant exposure to heat and water make them ideal for these demanding environments.
Sintered stone, a durable and non-porous material, offers exceptional resistance to high temperatures, stains, and scratches, making it an excellent choice for kitchen countertops.
Quartz, known for its remarkable durability and low maintenance, is also highly resistant to heat, stains, and water damage.
In the next image, a DEKTON quartz top selection on our custom bedside floating table.
Large format tiles provide a seamless and visually appealing surface that can withstand the rigors of daily kitchen activities.
Pictured, we used a large format tile from FLORIM to spruce up an existing kitchen bench. If you are not looking to spend too much on your kitchen, it would be a great idea to add a large format tile to your counter top and / or backsplash wall.
Swipe left to right for before and after.
These manmade materials combine both functionality and aesthetics, ensuring that your countertops remain stunning and resilient in the face of tropical climates and the demanding conditions of kitchen usage.
In addition to their durability, hardy materials possess remarkable resistance to moisture, heat, and wear and tear. By using and combining materials such as ceramic tiles, porcelain, or solid surface countertops, we ensure that our clients’ spaces remain visually captivating and functional, even in the face of Singapore’s tropical climate.
Pictured on the left, we combined subway tiles with large format Onyx tiles from LuxxNewHouse in the bathroom where humidity and frequent usage can take a toll on conventional materials.
Embracing hardy materials allows us to strike a balance between functionality and style, ensuring that our designs stand the test of time in Singapore’s unique climate.
