Tell us a bit about yourselves and what led you to buy this flat?
Hello, we are Sha and Jim, and we’ve been married for 13 years now (as of this June), and this is our first BTO and home. After our wedding, we lived in rented bedrooms while waiting for the project to be completed. We've lived here for about 10 years now. The motivation behind getting this place was to create a home of our own—a space that would ebb and flow with us through the different phases of life.
What inspired you to take a DIY and thrift-focused approach to decorating your home?
I’m (Sha) the resident DIY-er and thrifter. My approach comes from my upbringing and growing up with super creative and resourceful parents in Penang, Malaysia. My parents taught me the value of repairing things to extend their life, and how to be resourceful by upcycling when needed. My dad is an artist and maker who creates furniture and paints murals around the house. He also tends to a lush common corridor garden that grows enough vegetables to not only feed their family but also share with neighbours. My mom enjoys thrifting and finding great deals, often taking me along to flea markets and garage sales. It's a joy we share together.
My parents' influence has a significant impact on how I style and decorate our home. Jim is the family's financial manager, ensuring we stay within our means. Thrifting is a great way to find unique items without breaking the bank.
What was the first DIY project you tackled in your new home?
This story is from the IdealHomes Vol.16 2024 edition of SquareRooms.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the IdealHomes Vol.16 2024 edition of SquareRooms.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Transform your laundry routine
Designed for the demands of modern urban living, Samsung’s Bespoke AI Laundry Combo redefines convenience by combining washing and drying in a single, space-saving unit.
Personal moments and timeless design
In a cosy flat filled with curated art and travel mementos, Amirul and Clarice's home tells a story of love, inspiration, and evolving tastes. From mid-century elements to modular classics, the couple shares how they shaped a space that reflects their journeys-and how it's still growing with them.
Old meets bold
Tim and Nicole were so enamoured with their Tiong Bahru rental that they bought it, preserving its midcentury charm while personalising the pre-war unit.
Branching out
With a tree at its centre and a mix of global influences across the ages, this home feels more like a living art gallery than a typical apartment.
Minimalist marvel
Thoughtfully designed by Ray Seah and Kate Sitchon, the space combines sleek aesthetics with practical solutions, offering the perfect balance of style and comfort.
Petite Paris
Channelling Parisian charm with a touch of Peranakan flair, this 4-room HDB flat looks like it belongs on the set of Emily in Paris.
Across the ages
In this one-of-a-kind home, the tastes of three generations— Baby Boomer, millennial, and Gen Z-converge.
Living artfully
Explore how Kave Home's Gala, Aiguablava, and Jondal collections bring together comfort, craftsmanship, and timeless style to transform any space into a haven of modern living.
A new chapter
Caesarstone adds 9 styles to its Porcelain Collection
The natural balance
Inspired by the serene beauty of dewdrops, the Antao Collection by Villeroy & Boch transforms bathrooms into wellness sanctuaries, combining sustainability with timeless elegance.
