Clever Designs To Consider For An Inspired Refresh

Whether you’re contemplating new configurations or refreshing your existing cabinetry, experts share clever designs to consider for an inspired refresh

- Cheryl Lai-Lim

A home is the sum of its parts, and cabinetry plays a fundamental role in its interior design. Beyond the functional purpose of providing storage, such bespoke joinery can also elevate the overall aesthetics of a space.

“Think about cabinetry as a form of defining space,” says Rene Tan, co-founder of homegrown studio RT+Q Architects. “Cabinetry (can be like) little buildings, rather than little things that fit into corners.”

Zurich-based interior designer Ina Rinderknecht agrees. “Cabinetry offers you a large creative playground,” she says. “Think outside the box to create a statement piece; there are so many decorative options and materials one could use, from wood and glass to wallpaper and metal mesh.” She also recommends incorporating ambient lighting in your display shelves to highlight the decorative pieces you’d like to showcase.

In a tropical country like Singapore, warm temperatures and intense humidity can easily affect the condition of your wooden furnishings. Give your cabinetry a woodfriendly environment to extend its lifespan.

“Moisture should be wiped from surfaces immediately to minimise damage,” says Rinderknecht. “Wood expands as humidity increases and shrinks as humidity decreases. You can use dehumidifiers and air-conditioners to control excess humidity.” Tan agrees: “Airconditioning dries the space, so moisture will not build up.”