How to Renovate Your Bathroom? (HDB & BTO Guide)

Combining the master bedroom with another room allowed for a large vanity area to be created outside the bathroom. Bi-fold doors separate the two areas. Watering can and framed bird print from Egg3. Interior design by Box ID Studio
Combining the master bedroom with another room allowed for a large vanity area to be created outside the bathroom. Bi-fold doors separate the two areas. Watering can and framed bird print from Egg3.
Share this article

Many homeowners opt for bathroom renovations to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their space. This may involve updating tiles, choosing modern fixtures, and incorporating stylish design elements to create a more visually pleasing and contemporary bathroom.

Renovations are often driven by the need for functional improvements. Homeowners may want to optimize storage space, improve ventilation, or reconfigure the layout to make the bathroom more efficient and user-friendly.

Content

Black and white bathroom sink cabinet set against a clear glass panel with black frames. Bathroom laid in neutral cream marble wall and floor tiles.
Renovations may make bathrooms more accessible

Should I renovate my HDB toilet?

The desire for better-quality fixtures and appliances is a common reason for bathroom renovations. Homeowners may choose to upgrade to energy-efficient water heaters, modern faucets, or smart bathroom technologies to enhance convenience and efficiency.

Over time, bathrooms can experience wear and tear due to moisture, aging fixtures, and general usage. Renovations provide an opportunity to address these issues by replacing worn-out components, repairing leaks, and ensuring the overall durability of the bathroom.

Renovations may be undertaken to make bathrooms more accessible, especially for elderly family members or individuals with mobility challenges. This can involve installing grab bars, non-slip flooring, and other accessibility features.

Homeowners who want to stay current with interior design trends may choose to renovate their bathrooms to incorporate the latest styles, color schemes, and design concepts.

It's important for homeowners to carefully plan their bathroom renovations, taking into consideration their budget, needs, and desired outcomes. Additionally, consulting with experienced renovation professionals can help ensure that the renovation process is smooth and meets the necessary standards and regulations.

Back to top

The homeowner of this four-room HDB flat in Sengkang is an assistant Chinese art gallery manager. His bathrooms are inspired by Olden English Country decor style.

The homeowner of this four-room HDB flat in Sengkang is an assistant Chinese art gallery manager.

White bath tub in an Old English Country style bathroom for this 4-room HDB flat in Sengkang

White bath tub in an Old English Country style bathroom for this 4-room HDB flat in Sengkang

How to renovate a HDB toilet?

Renovating an HDB (Housing and Development Board) or HDB BTO (Built-to-Order) bathroom in Singapore involves careful planning and execution. But, hey, with some careful renovation, the HDB toilet sure can be stunning and beautiful just like this (above pictured) Old English style bathroom in a 4-room Sengkang HDB flat.

The white ceramic washbasin, cistern and bidet adorned with blue floral patterns, had been in the showroom since 1996, waiting for the right buyer.
White ceramic toilet, cistern, and bidet with blue traditional old English floral patterns cost $17,000. All solid brass features plated in 18K gold.

White ceramic toilet, cistern, and bidet with blue traditional old English floral patterns cost $17,000. All solid brass features plated in 18K gold.

11 Steps to renovating HDB toilet

Here are eleven key steps you can take to successfully renovate their HDB bathroom:

  1. Plan and Budget: Identify your specific needs and preferences for the bathroom. Consider factors such as the number of users, storage requirements, and the desired aesthetic.
  2. Engage a Professional Renovation Contractor: Seek recommendations from friends, family, or online reviews to find reputable renovation contractors. Verify their credentials and past projects to ensure they have experience with HDB renovations.
  3. Design and Layout: Engage with a professional designer to help plan the layout and design of the bathroom. They can provide insights into optimizing space, selecting suitable materials, and achieving the desired aesthetic.
  4. Select Materials and Fixtures: Select durable and water-resistant materials suitable for bathroom environments. Common choices include ceramic or porcelain tiles for flooring and walls, as well as moisture-resistant paint.
  5. Comply with HDB Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with HDB renovation guidelines and regulations. HDB has specific requirements related to structural alterations, plumbing, and electrical works, and it's essential to adhere to these guidelines to avoid issues with your renovation.
  6. Coordinate and Supervise the Renovation: Work with your renovation contractor to establish a realistic timeline for the project. This includes demolition, construction, installation, and finishing touches.
  7. Set a Budget: Establish a realistic budget for the renovation. This should include costs for materials, labor, fixtures, and any additional features or accessories you plan to incorporate.
  8. Obtain Quotations: Get quotations from multiple contractors. Compare prices, but also consider the contractor's reputation, expertise, and communication skills.
  9. Consider Practicality: Keep practicality in mind when designing the layout. Ensure there is sufficient space for movement, proper ventilation, and storage solutions that meet your needs.
  10. Pick Functional Fixtures: Choose fixtures that are functional, easy to clean, and space-saving. Consider energy-efficient and water-saving options for faucets, showerheads, and toilets.
  11. Regular Site Visits: Visit the site regularly to ensure the renovation is progressing as planned. Address any concerns or changes promptly to avoid delays.

Remember to obtain any necessary permits from HDB before starting the renovation. Engaging professionals, thorough planning, and adherence to guidelines contribute to a successful HDB bathroom renovation in Singapore.

Back to top

If you live in a larger HDB flat with spacious bathrooms, consider having two sinks. Interior design by Project File.

If you live in a larger HDB flat with spacious bathrooms, consider having two sinks. Interior design by Project File.

Double Washbasin for HDB Toilets

Before you tell your interior designer or contractor what fancy tiles, features and sanitary fixtures you'd like in your bathroom, go through this list of common bathroom design flaws and ensure you don't fall trap to any.

If you know that you'll be sharing a bathroom with your spouse, consider how the two of you will be using the bathroom in the most efficient way possible. Got a spacious bathroom? Have two sinks. No more jostling for the tap or the use of the mirror. Ensure that each of you have your own space for your toiletries, too.

Back to top

All white and wood bathroom vanity sink countertop. Interior design by JQ Ong from The Association

All white and wood bathroom vanity sink countertop. Interior design by JQ Ong from The Association

All white and wood bathroom vanity sink countertop.
Interior design by JQ Ong from The Association

HDB Toilet Sink Height

No matter what type of sink or tap you choose, follow these height measurements for a comfortable wash: 85cm from floor to top of basin, and 30cm from the top of the basin to the mirror's edge.

Also, follow the manufacturer's specification for mounting your taps accordingly.

Back to top

Most seamless way to incorporate storage into your bathroom is to have cabinets behind the mirror.
Kelvin Teo, Space Sense Studio
The easiest, and most seamless, way to incorporate storage into your bathroom is to have cabinets behind the mirror. Interior design by Space Sense Studio

HDB BTO Toilet Storage Ideas

Storage has always been an essential part of the home — regardless of the amount of floor space you have — and is an effective and easy way to help keep your home looking neat and tidy.

The same goes for your bathrooms; you won’t want your toiletries hanging out on your countertop, where they’ll get wet and grimy over time, so plan the design of the bathroom with sufficient storage in mind.

A built-in ledge in the shower to store and place bathroom accessories like towels, toilet paper, shampoo, and bath gels. Trolleys and waterproof baskets will help with organisation and can be hung over glass panels in shower stalls. Interior design by KZ Designs.

A built-in ledge in the shower to store and place bathroom accessories like towels, toilet paper, shampoo, and bath gels.

Trolleys and waterproof baskets will help with organisation and can be hung over glass panels in shower stalls.
Interior design by KZ Designs

Dennis Cheok, design director of Upstairs_, shares his bathroom design strategy for the Overlap apartment, a two-room condominium unit. “The bathroom (pictured below) was reconfigured and the shower area and water closet are enclosed within smaller cubicles, each flanking a shared vanity area,” he says.

The shower area and water closet are enclosed within smaller cubicles, each flanking a shared vanity area. Interior designby Upstairs.

Aside from concealing the main storage space behind the vanity mirror — which is actually a roomy niche that spans 1.7m — Dennis designed a “laundry basket” within the cast-concrete washbasin counter, and concealed it using flip-up powder-coated metal panels.

The top panel opens up for ease of dropping laundry in, much like a covered bin; and the front panel swings open so you can remove laundry for washing.

Back to top

The common toilet can be accessed from the kitchen, and it echoes the home's light wood and white theme.

The common toilet can be accessed from the kitchen, and it echoes the home's light wood and white theme.

A jumbo unit made up of a 3-room and 4-room HDB flat totaled $64,000 in renovation excluding furniture
Interior design by Desmond Ong

Neutral Bathroom Design for HDB

Neutral bathroom designs are quite popular in Singapore, especially in HDB (Housing and Development Board) homes.

Neutral colors such as whites, creams, beiges, and light grays are often chosen for bathroom designs.
Interior Design by Museum Homes
Simple white and neutral HDB bathroom. Interior design by Museum Homes

You can never go wrong with a neutral colour scheme, which gives your space a clean, uncluttered look. Mix in wood tones, for added warmth. Wood tones also complement light colours, such as white and grey. This (above pictured) HDB flat bathroom may have a simple design, but look chic and trendy, thanks to the colour scheme!

Hooks and snaking light cables on the ceiling continue to make a statement in the master bathroom.

Hooks and snaking light cables on the ceiling continue to make a statement in the master bathroom.

Hooks and snaking light cables on the ceiling continue to make a statement in the master bathroom.
Interior design by Free Space Intent

Neutral colors have a timeless and classic appeal, making them a popular choice for homeowners who want a bathroom design that will remain stylish over the years. They create a clean and sophisticated look.

Back to top

27764

Light and neutral colors can make a space appear larger and brighter. This is especially beneficial in HDB bathrooms, which may have limited square footage. Neutral tones help create a sense of openness and airiness.

A modern boutique hotel-like bathroom in a HDB flat with neutral mosaic wall tiles and brass sink countertop.
Interior design by 19sixtyseven
White mosaic tile bathroom walls with a stark brass sink countertop gives this bathroom a clean, neutral, yet modern boutique hotel bathroom design vibe.

Neutral color palettes are versatile and can easily adapt to different styles and design elements. This flexibility allows homeowners to personalize their bathrooms with various accessories, towels, and decor without clashing with the overall design.

Back to top

What was once the master bedroom is now a large space incorporating the powder room and walk-in wardrobe. Interior design by I-Bridge Design

What was once the master bedroom is now a large space incorporating the powder room and walk-in wardrobe.

What was once the master bedroom is now a large space for both powder room and walk-in wardrobe.
Interior design by I-Bridge Design

Light-colored surfaces, such as white tiles and fixtures, can give the impression of cleanliness and are often perceived as easier to maintain. Neutral tones can hide water stains and soap scum better than darker colors.

This inset sink counter in the master bedroom frees up space in the bathroom proper.
Interior design by Box ID Studio
This inset sink counter in the master bedroom frees up space in the bathroom proper, and allows husband and wife to use either area independently. Interior design by Box ID Studio

This inset sink counter in the master bedroom frees up space in the bathroom proper, and allows husband and wife to use either area independently.

Neutral bathrooms can have broad market appeal, which may be advantageous when it comes to resale. Potential buyers often appreciate a neutral and well-maintained bathroom as it provides a blank canvas for them to envision their own style.

Back to top

A walkway links the master bedroom to its adjacent room, which the previous owner had converted into a walk-in wardrobe. Interior design by Sponge

A walkway links the master bedroom to its adjacent room, which the previous owner had converted into a walk-in wardrobe.

A walkway links the master bedroom to its adjacent walk-in wardrobe room.
Interior design by Sponge

Many bathroom fixtures and fittings, such as sinks, toilets, and tubs, are commonly available in neutral colors. This makes it easy for homeowners to coordinate these elements seamlessly.

Neutral designs can easily accommodate changing design trends. Homeowners can update the look of their bathroom by changing accessories, such as shower curtains, rugs, or towels, without having to overhaul the entire design.

Back to top

Share this article