How to Style a Modern Luxury HDB Flat, From an Expert
You might think that creating a luxurious and modern HDB flat is a challenge - given the limited space. But, gone are the days when luxury was confined to expansive mansions; today, it's about maximising style in every square foot.
In this comprehensive guide, our interior stylist, Adrika, will explore the nuances of styling a modern luxury HDB flat, encompassing everything from furniture choices to design elements that will transform your living space into your dream home.
For Adrika, no two homes are ever the same. With clients’ narratives always at the forefront, it’s her passion to help bring spaces to life! With a wealth of design knowledge built up over the last 8 years in the Interior Design industry, Adrika has styled thousands of homes - between Australia and Singapore!
Moving into a new home? Explore savings to help you elevate your space. Eligible for upcoming HDBs and condos only.
6 expert tips to style a modern luxe HDB
Invest in timeless furniture pieces
With interior trends appearing left and right, it can be tempting to want the latest trendy furniture you see online. But, when it comes to modern luxury, quality surpasses quantity.
“Invest in furniture pieces as they are built to last - both in time and style,” says Adrika.
Investing in durable furniture ensures that your HDB interior maintains its elegance and sophistication over the years. Opt for furniture that is made from high-quality materials like leather, marble, and solid wood.
@hoos.home.seah creates a luxurious dining area with the Kelsey Marble Dining Table in White Wash and Simone Performance Bouclé Chair.
Additionally, Adrika mentions that pieces with enduring aesthetics contribute to the design continuity, creating a refined look that aligns with the modern luxe style. This is particularly important in a modern luxe setting where longevity, in terms of aesthetics and quality, is key.
Opt for stylish yet functional pieces
“Over the years, choosing functional furniture doesn't mean you have to sacrifice quality or style. Many high-quality, well-designed pieces are crafted with both form and function in mind,” shares Adrika.
That said, keeping the modern luxe factor in mind, go for furniture that boasts clean lines and uncluttered aesthetics. You don’t want to pick furniture that has complicated embellishments.
Additionally, consider pieces that serve dual purposes, like a coffee table that can also be used as a desk or a sofa that transforms into a bed. Opt for beds with built-in storage, or ottomans that double as storage bins. This not only makes your space more versatile but also caters to the dynamic needs of modern living.
The Dawson Storage Bed is the perfect example of uncluttered aesthetics using an Ottoman storage system to keep clutter away.
Layer your lighting
Adrika mentions that lighting is an extremely important yet often overlooked factor when revamping your home. “Lighting can instantly elevate your space without even having to change your layout or furniture (yet).”
Instead of relying solely on a single light source, create layered lighting by combining ambient, task, and accent lighting, as well as natural sunlight. This adds depth and dimension to the space.
@coco.camellia allows ample natural sunlight to brighten up the space and uses the Cedric Floor Lamp for task lighting.
“Dimmer switches are a must-have,” Adrika adds, as this helps to control the intensity, allowing you to set the perfect mood for different occasions.
Recommended read: What’s The Best Lighting for Every Room in Your Home?
Stick to a monochromatic scheme with pops of colour
While neutral tones dominate modern luxury design, consider adopting a monochromatic colour palette with strategic pops of colour.
@annieleebnb uses shades of beige and brown to maintain a minimalist and clean aesthetic. Pictured: Dawson 3 Seater Sofa with Ottoman.
Choose a base colour and layer different shades of it throughout your space. Introduce vibrant hues like jewel tones or earthy palettes through accessories like throw pillows, artwork, or other small furniture pieces like side tables or small coffee tables. This creates visual interest and prevents the space from looking too monotonous.
Mix textures, materials, and finishes
“The right combination of different textures, materials, and finishes can elevate the aesthetic appeal of your HDB flat, making it more inviting and luxurious,” says Adrika.
Incorporate a variety of textures, such as velvet, marble, and polished wood, to create a visually rich environment. Choose luxurious fabrics for your upholstery and drapery, adding a tactile dimension to your living space.
The Theo Round Dining Table features a wooden base and a glass tabletop, paired with the cane seats of the Austen Chair in Walnut Stain. Picture credits: @elainshan.id
Here are some combinations recommended by Adrika:
Leather and metal: Combine the richness of leather with the sleekness of metal for a contemporary and luxurious feel. Consider a leather sofa paired with metal-framed coffee tables or accent chairs.
Marble and brass: Marble exudes luxury, and when paired with brass accents, it creates a timeless and opulent combination. Use a marble dining table with brass legs, incorporate brass lighting fixtures, or choose brass-framed mirrors to add a touch of glamour to your space.
Wood and mirrored or glass surfaces: Balance the warmth of wood with the reflective quality of mirrored and glass surfaces. Consider a wooden dining table paired with a glass tabletop, or mirrored sideboards or dressers.
Velvet and gold: Velvet is a sumptuous fabric that adds texture and warmth. Pair it with gold finishes for an elegant look. Consider a velvet-upholstered headboard with gold-trimmed bedside tables or velvet dining chairs with gold metal legs.
Concrete and matte black: For an urban and contemporary feel, combine the raw texture of concrete with matte black finishes. Consider concrete countertops in the kitchen paired with matte black cabinet handles, or use matte black fixtures in combination with concrete-look tiles in the bathroom.
“Don’t forget to keep the space balanced. If you have a lot of hard surfaces like glass, metal, or stone, soften the space with plush fabrics. Conversely, if you have soft furnishings, consider incorporating some harder textures to maintain equilibrium.”
Have at least one statement piece
Establishing a focal point adds interest and drama to the space, which is a key characteristic of modern luxe design. That’s why Adrika recommends having at least one statement piece in the space.
Whether it's a glamorous chandelier, a striking armchair, or an art installation, it establishes the mood and style of the space. This cohesion is essential in achieving a modern luxe look that feels intentional and well-curated.
The Marlow Performance Bouclé L-Shape Sectional Sofa creates a beautiful focal point in @ahoneohome’s living room as a statement piece.
Other than the functional aspect, a statement piece also allows you to express your personal style and make the space uniquely yours.
Styling a modern luxury HDB flat isn’t about spending a fortune on the most expensive furniture pieces or buying the biggest flat. It involves a combination of timeless furniture (that doesn’t have to break the bank), thoughtful arrangements, and proper planning to create an elegant and functional space.
Follow these tips to create a space that not only reflects your style but also offers a sanctuary of sophistication within the confines of urban living. Elevate your space and redefine luxury in your HDB flat!
If you need more help creating a modern luxe home, book a styling consultation and enjoy personalised space planning and styling advice from our Interior Stylists!