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Hear hear! I just can't put it in words how much I agree with you. Hehe..actually I kinda 'borrowed' the inspiration from a blogger who really went all out to design their home, what it takes to create a living space one can truly call their own. Until I figure out how to upload picts of our first home..which is currently just an empty 'shell'..ceramic wooden flooring, granite kitchen counter & sink, hacking of walls for open concept kitchen & painting in neutral colour scheme..still looking for a suitable powder-grey blue shade for Master bedrm (similar to Paul's Bakery at Nee Ann City) Any suggestion,anyone? Nippon's range of blues are too bright for me.. Phase 1 of renvo should be completed by end Dec..here's some inspiring ideas & tutorials from their wonderful design blogs..Do check it out for yourself! http://jonesdesigncompany.com/decorate/painted-wallpaper-a-tutorial/ So tempted to try this 'Painted Wallpaper' in our master bedroom..with a colour combi of powder blue & off white..maybe sometime after cny..if I can figure out the process! http://www.thehandmadehome.net/our-spaces/ Another talented team who have taken an average house and turned it into a colourfully charming home with so much personality. Enjoy!

Another new year will soon be upon us all..we'll be decorating our first home together. Since we have the luxury of time to decide what we like..our renvo progress will be decided along the way..we have only completed flooring (wooden ceramic tiles) & painting. We may get kitchen cabinets and souurce for lighting next year..love French Country decor..but not sure if we should have invest in built-in carpentary for the whole house..since we're not sure if we're going to move..came across this wonderful design site..just to share some thoughts from JonesCompany.. "I get an idea (however unconventional it is) for my walls or cabinets or lighting, but I'm afraid to actually follow through with it out of fear that it will somehow ruin our home. We love where we live, but we don't feel like it is our 'forever' home. So in the back of my mind, the term 'resale value' is always lingering when these crazy ideas pop up. And if it isn't 'resale value' it's the thought that I should just wait until we are in a house that is our dream home and then I can really make it ours." Sounds familiar? But here's the deal..we could learn to embrace where we are now, fully live in the house we get to call home and enjoy it despite what a future homeowner might think..it's all about living in the present and allowing your home to reflect your family (even if you don't plan on being in it forever) So if you're feeling stifled in your decorating by the what-ifs of the future sale of your home, or waiting for something better to come along - let loose. Have fun. Take some risks. Really LIVE where you live. If that means putting a hole in your wall to hang some artwork - go for it. You can always fill a hole. And if it means painting the wood floors in your kitchen with a distressed checkerboard pattern like you've been wanting to do for years - then do it! Here's to 2013 Can't wait to see what it holds.

It really depends on the type of tiles HDB has to offer. At my friend's BTO, flooring was ok. However, we chose to hack hdb tiles after a year. Imagine a floor that actually looks DIRTIER after mopping..with watermarks and greyish stains. Really lousy tiles, but cost only $500 (including doors) back in 2009. The timber skirting strip just fell out when my contractor gave it a tap..he even shook his head, exclaiming the poor workmanship. Decided that it was worthwhile to spend a bit to get the flooring we like, since it's for long term. All my aunties agreed it was worth hacking. Our contractor specialised in tiling works. We choose textured wooden ceramic tiles. Hacking cost was very reasonable. But it is the labour cost that is expensive. We did not visit the site during renvo process..only after flooring works was completed. Peace of mind, complete faith & trust are worth paying for. In 2010, my friend paid few thousand for hdb tiles..lousy quality. We paid the same amount for our tiles (minus labour) but now we have a floor that we enjoy looking at. As a fourmer mentioned, better to spend more on something that looks good. In the long run, the costs are worth it. No complaints about hdb doors, quite decent.

Agreed whith what 70wood mentioned. We chose textured wood ceramic tiles which are rectangular and longer than the standard length. Therefore, we had our tiles laid out parallel to the windows of our home. It would be very odd if it was laid out in a vertical angle..

As someone mentioned, there are non slipperly, matt, 'textured' tiles available. We specifically looked for tiles that looked like wood. After looking at White Horse, SBH and Hafery, we chose a textured tile..it is not completely flat, but it's colour and texture looks like wood grain. There is a variety of to choose from, ranging from white, beidge and darker wood colours. Some are smooth, others are textured. It was easier than looking at entire showroom collection of matt tiles, since we had already decided to focus on tiles that looked like wood. The main reason we were looking for a non slippery tile is because of our senior dog who has severe arthritis..apparently, smooth tiles are harder for him to walk/grip on thus causing more 'shock' negative impact on his joints. We consider him as part of our family..and since we like the cosy look of wooden flooring..minus the maintenance of laminates, tiles are our preferred choice.

For anyone else who is considering engaging *spam for air con installation services..do so at your own risk.. We purchased a Joven Storage Water Heater, requested for the horizontal model as this is the only one that can fit our bathroom (due to beam structure). Item delivered was a vertical model..reason being that the one we ordered was out of stock..after making arrangements and installation..we encountered leaking issues..another appointment.. Air con installation was arranged for 11am. The crew arrived much earlier without informing me. Didn't have much choice but to let them go for their 2nd appointment. Called EJ..reason given was "they are harworking mah". While I appreciate punctuality, it makes it incovenient if there is no advance notice/simple phonecall, especially since we do not drive, live quite a distance away, running errands.. When they arrived to install the air con, one of the crew burst our water pipes..had a 'mini fountain' gushing water into the bathroom & air con ledge. They told me they had a case which happened in another estate also..apparently the concealed pipe is very close to the interior wall..please note this is a new bto with the blue & red tape markings still on the bathroom walls..but still.. Earlier on, I had specifically requested for a 1 day installation, but I guess most cases fix trunking first before paint works and so on..because when I reminded them, there was a long pause on the phone before he answered me. Never ONCE did they call me to arrange a follow-up. I had to continually CHASE them to request for another appointment. At least provide an estimated date but...haiz.. All this while, the water heater was leaking away..had to get a plumber from their contact to rectify the burst water pipe. Plumber said the damage was quite serious, so higher repair fee than quoted earlier. After installation was done, had to engage our tiler to replace the bathroom tiles for the damaged corner. It is an absolute NIGHTMARE to coordinate such arrangements!!! Not to mention we experience continuous flooding (excess water from main pipes). It is an absolute waste of annual leave and time. And have to put up with their really BAD attitude as well.. I understand that we may be one of the few cases and 'accidents' do occur, but there was no acknowledgement, apology, responsiblity..just bad service and attitude. Anyone else who needs electrical applicances, please get from Jerome (Zero). Even though we only place a deposit for our items, he has been very generous with advice, even with unrelated topics like kitchen cabinets, sink, mixer etc. Very paitent with dealing my many enquires.

Hey there, How goes the selection process? Hope you have found what you liked. I was also looking for ceramic wooden tiles (did not like laminate flooring) also because our 12-yr old arthritic dog could walk better on a textured surface, as adviced by the vet.. Went to White Horse Ceramics, Soon Bee Huat and Hafery (hope I got the spelling right..) also to GF+A.. It depends on what colour/texture one is looking for. Initially, I wanted dark (with reddish tones) but because our flat seems quite dark..thought white would be better. My favourite tile (colour off white/smokey grey) had an uneven edge..was advised against taking it (unless for balcony use)But in the end, we settled on a cream/light wood tone instead. Reason being difference in texture. I prefer long tiles..and have seen layouts/pict that you posted above which is a combination of different widths. My concern was that I did not want a tile with many 'grooves' that are too 'deep'..maybe rougher texture, or dirt gets more easily trapped? But I suppose one gets used to it over time.. The tile we chose is much longer and broader than the usual measurements of the other tiles. It is textured and the markings are like natural wood. It is also a flat tile (no uneven edges). For kitchen, went with a white tile (different model) pity it does not come in the longer length.. Easy to care for..just mop..no worries about humidity/water issues. Was fortunate to have a good tiler/contractor (hacked the flooring as well) and the lines look great, even & neat. We only went down twice during the renvo process, once to confirm the layout of the tiles, second time my cousin wanted to visit. I didn't see the tiling process at all..just the finished floor..heh..even though it is our first time renvo, I think in most cases, have to drop by every now & then to check? I just left my contractor & team to it

Hi Jerome, Was hoping that you could help me out..after visiting numerous showrooms and reading up various forums.. need to make some decisions,so that renvo can proceed smoothly in March. Kindly provide a quotation for the following products: 1. Cooker Hob - Rinnai RB-2CG - Rinnai RB-3CG (understand these 2 models have Inner Burner, Ceran Glass top) - Rinnai RB-3SS (GB) (this tempered glass model uses the 'normal' flame??) 2. Cooker Hood - FX900R (for HDB use) I am concerned that over time, moisture will build up and damae the top kitchen cabinets? Is it advisable to have a glass pannel installed beneath the top cabinets? Hood will most likely have to be installed beneath top cabinets, next to our kitchen wall (the left side) Does it require top & side cabinets? 3. Refrigerator - Hitachi R-S37SYPS - Hitachi R-SF37SWPS(2-door) - Toshiba GR-R35SDV3 - Toshiba GR-R455DVZ - Pansonic - Mitshibushi I am looking for freezer at the bottom. 2 or 3 door. Was told by a salesperson that for 2-door fridge, the rubber seal at the door tends to have water dropplets during rainy weather.. Advised to get a 3-door fridge instead..can you recommend any other models? Will consider those with larger capacity, but not those multiple 5/6 door type please. 4. Steam/Oven combi - Meile? I understand you do not carry Meile products, but I am looking for an oven that can steam veg, fish, as well as bake cakes, cookies, for grilling and roasting as well. Self-cleaning, prefer auto-timing. Due to space constraints, I am looking for ONE appliance that can perform both functions - perhaps Brandt? Have already invested in a Meile Washer & Dryer set..excellent quality Steam ovens seem to be relatively new..just few years on the mkt? Hence limited variety.. But I would like to know if there are other options available, so that I may make an informed choice. Rather than paying for such an expensive product, just becos it's the only one that's available on the market.. Even if it's the only model available, the price must justify the quality, functions and customer service. What is the leadtime for deliveries? And if the item is out of stock, what is the average waiting period? What is the payment process? (understand receipt & warrenty will be given) Do you accept credit card payment? (we prefer this method, as it earns points/rebates) Hope you don't mind the long list of enquires..just being cautious. Appreciate your reply. Thanks in advance!

Hi everyone, Am new to this forum..I enjoyed reading this thread for built-in ovens and appreciate the advice, especially from Kitchen Matters. Looking for a steamer cum oven which can steam, bake, grill and roast. Though I am new to baking & cooking, I intend to invest in a good appliance since I maybe using it daily in future.. Due to space constraints, the oven will have to be placed next to the refrigerator. While not advisable, I understand having wooden partion and sufficient gap space should overcome this problem. Have decided on Rinnai hob - RB-3SS and Fujoh hood - FX 900/900V after visiting various showrooms, as well as reading reviews from renotalk and other forums. the Fujoh hood is the only model that can fit beneath our kitchen cabinets, but from what the dealers told me, they recommend Fujoh hoods for the most powerful suction. I do have a problem with built-in oven. Since I am looking for a combi steam/oven function. I do not wish to have 2 separate appliances. The reason why I opt for a steam/oven function is because I do not like cook stir-fry. I am willing to spend more time preparing, chopping ingredients, popping them in an oven.. than having to stir-fry anything on the stove. Why then invest in a good cooker hob & hood when any brand will do? Reason being: less oily fumes, cleaner walls..easy cleanup Would appreciate any advice..as well as users of Meile ovens. They do have a steam oven..but I need the oven for baking and roasting as well! I have invested in a Meile Washer & Dryer set..and it is a worthwhile investment. But I would like to know if there are any other brands available for steam/ovens. While one can do no wrong with a Meile appliance, I would like to know of other options, so that I may make an informed choice. I believe in paying for good quality and function. Aesthetics are a bonus (although I'm particular about this as well!) Kitchen Matters, have enjoyed reading your insightful comments, would appreciate any advice from you. To all fellow renotalk forumers, may your new built-in oven (whichever brand one chooses) bring you much joy and pleasure. Your efforts will be appreiated by your family & friends!

Own a Meile vacuum cleaner (111th Anniversary edition, gold colour). I received it as a free gift when I purchased a Meile Washer & Dryer set from CK Tangs. Meile products are truly outstanding, although their price point is a factor. I am seriously considering their steamer/oven for cooking. back to vacuum cleaners..for people who own pets..especially very furry pets..myself the owner of one..you will understand that their fur gets everywhere.. And I mean literally everywhere..clothes, furnishings etc..fur gets settled down on a surface even after you have just cleaned it.. I do not like using vacuum cleaners..give me a mop and bucket any day. And I even considered selling the free with purchase vacuum cleaner.. but after using it a few times, their quality is really excellent. And definately helps in keeping our home cleaner..while not exactly a fur-free environment, the Meile vacuum does help with their excellent suction. Plus, cleaning out those dust bags are much easier. In terms of quality and function, Meile gets my vote. They have the widest range of vacuum cleaners created for specific uses. (Those who have pets whould appreciate their turquoise Dog&Cat vacuum) For everyone else who uses the vacuums as part of their usual household chores, Meile definately makes the job easier. The washer and dryer set works like a dream..during spin dry process, the vibrations are very quiet..like a purring engine.. Same goes for the experience with Meile vacuum cleaners..their products may be expensive, but definately worth the investment in the long run. For those interested in more savings, CK Tangs offers 6% rebate for CitiBank members and 12% for Tangs cardholders. If you have a Takashimya card, can benefit from earning points at Best Denki, which can be exchanged for Takashimya vouchers.

Dear all, I have been using an Elba front loader washing machine, and although it still works after 15 years, it has not aged well.. Which is what is to be expected after an appliance has been in use for the past 15 years. However, I have to close the water tap, otherwise the water will continue to leak non-stop on the kitchen floor. I am still in favor of front load washing machines, because the clothes appear to be less crumpled, even after the spin dry process. On the other hand, my friend who uses a Hitachi top loader, I notice that the clothes are much more crumpled after the washing process.. Moving into a new home, I invested in a Meile Washer (front load) and Dryer set, after reading up on other reviews in renotalk and other forums. Although the price is really expensive..neither do I have a high income..I still consider it a worthwhile investment which will hopefully last for the next 20 years. The saleslady at CK Tangs was very helpful, and I also had a 6% rebate for Citibank card users, which meant that I could use it to purchase other electrical appliances. The Meile team has so far prvided excellent service, their consultant explained its uses and functions, how to maintain the machine etc. Both washer & dryer are extremely quiet. Even during the spin dry process, the vibrations are minimal..I imagine an engine that purrs gently.. The drum is unique, since they had their design patented, it definately comes with less holes and a different surface compared with the interior drums of other machines I have seen. Washing laundry with Meile is like a dream..while I realise this may sound a bit much..but for housewifes who have to cook & clean everyday after work.. laundry tends to pile up..so it is especially helpful to know one can depend on such a machine. I never have to hand wash ever again.. since their drums are said to be so gentle that one can wash rose petals without tearing them..very curious to test this theory.. While I realise this is topic is for front or top laoding machines, for readers considering getting a dryer, Meile is the best brand currently on the market. It really does remove all the lint and dust from all clothes, bedsheets, soft toys..etc. Plus it has an ironing function for fabrics that are wrinkle free, it definately saves a lot of time on ironing (especially our husband's shirts!)..in fact..the only laundry that I iron is .... hmm..my iron seems pretty idle these days! My vote is definately a front load machine. Have seen the difference from a top load. Both serve their function, but in terms of aesthetics, and taking care of your laundry in the long term, I'd go for the front load. The only minor inconvenience is that one has to bend over to retieve the wash..but I load it all in a basket so it's easier on one's back. And while any brand on the market can claim that their "diamond drum", ion washer is the best..and I have no doubt it will serve the household well. If one can afford it, go for Meile. Their qualty and service are unbeatable. I myself took some time to get used to the fact that I paid such a price for an appliance, but after using it, I was convinced that I had made the right choice. We use such appliances at least once, twice weekly so in the long run, it is worth the investment. I am considering getting their steamer/oven for cooking, although the price point is definately a factor. Btw, I looked at a lot of washing machines, and read quite a few forums (does not make me an expert, but I did make an informed choice) from the prices I saw, Meile is not the most expensive washer out there. If you purchase it separately from the showroom, then yes. But if you purchase a washer & dryer set, you will see the savings in the long run. I'd rather pay $2.5K for a Meile washer than pay the same price for some crystal studded machine. Hey..I'm very particular about aesthetics, must look good and function well. But crystals? It doesn't realy add on to the functions for me.. I believe in paying for good quality, function and aesthetics. But on the other hand, a top brand may not always have good quality. Thus it is better to do one's research. Fortunately, there are brands that achieve excellent standards on function, and quality. The aesthetics is a bonus. Am just an ordinary housewife..not associated with Meile in any way.

Hi joshlong, You can purchase Miele Washer & Dryer from CK Tangs, Best Denki (Takashimya, Nee Ann City). Both departmental stores are at Orchard. If you have a Citibank card, you can earn 6% rebates from CK Tangs. Miele is also sold at Harvey Norman, Millenia Walk. The latest promotion for a Miele Washer & Dryer set is for W 1914 and T7944. It retails at $3880. http://www.miele.sg/media/haushalt/VG_SG/VG_SG_News_Promotions_W_1914_T7944_POP.pdf I purchased the 111th Anniversary Washer&Dryer set (last piece!) from CK Tangs during promotion, received $600 worth of vouchers and rebates. The package also included Miele's laundry care detergents and a $560 vacuum cleaner. This is my first time using Miele. Care to share your experience? I am also interested in getting their oven/steamer combi in future. Hope this helps, inesy