With over two decades of experience in the interior design business, Selina Tay, founder and principal designer of Collective Designs, is a stalwart in her own right. Here are her top six home-styling tips.
Designs by Collective Designs.
Go for design influences that are more suitable for Singapore’s light and climate conditions. Some colours look too garish in our light. Selina prefers cooler shades such as white, off-white and ivory, because they make a home feel “breezier”, even amid heat and humidity. She also gravitates towards clean lines and contrasts, similar to the Japanese and Scandinavian styles.
Use a mixture of textures such as raw wood textures and cool marble. “A good mix and balance allows the eye to wander and discover depth, even in a plain, square room.”
Take into account your collection of appliances when planning the kitchen space. Too often, the kitchen is almost fully built, before homeowners realise there’s no space for appliances, such as a rice cooker, toaster and coffee machine, to be used simultaneously or stored properly.
Consider also who cooks and how often, and if one entertains. These factors determine how much storage is required for heavy pots and pans), glassware and party essentials.
For an ornate, plush interior: Keep the look sophisticated and elegant with the right colours, textures and layers. “It also depends on the clients at the end of the day; they have to use the ornate space in a way that is relevant to them.”