Introduction
Renovation costs in Singapore are no joke. With labour, materials, and carpentry all adding up quickly, it’s easy to blow your budget before you’ve even finished the living room. But cutting costs doesn’t have to mean cutting quality. Here are 8 renovation hacks our team at Empire Works recommends to get more out of every dollar.
1. Retain Your Existing Layout Where Possible
The most expensive renovation work involves changing the structural layout — hacking walls, re-routing plumbing, shifting electrical points. If your existing layout is functional, work with it rather than against it. Even small changes like relocating the kitchen sink to the opposite wall can add thousands to your bill.
2. Reface Rather Than Replace Cabinets
If your existing kitchen cabinets are structurally sound, consider refacing them instead of replacing them entirely. New doors, handles, and a fresh coat of paint or veneer can transform dated cabinetry at a fraction of the cost of full replacement. This hack alone can save you $3,000–$8,000 in a kitchen renovation.
3. Overlay Tiles Instead of Hacking Them
Hacking existing floor or wall tiles is time-consuming, noisy, and generates significant debris — all of which cost money to manage. If your existing tiles are in good condition, laying new tiles over the top (overlay method) is significantly cheaper. Note that this adds height to the floor, so check thresholds and door clearances first.
4. Choose Vinyl Flooring Over Timber
Luxury vinyl planks (LVP) have come a long way. Today’s high-quality vinyl flooring is virtually indistinguishable from real timber at a distance — but costs 40–60% less and is more durable in Singapore’s humid climate. It’s also easier to maintain and replace if damaged.
5. Limit Feature Walls to One Per Room
Feature walls — whether textured paint, timber slats, fluted panels, or wallpaper — are a popular design element but can be pricey if applied liberally. Limit each room to one feature wall and keep the remaining walls simple. This focuses visual impact and keeps material costs controlled.
6. Source Your Own Fixtures and Fittings
Contractors typically mark up fixtures and fittings — bathroom accessories, light switches, tap fittings — by 20–40%. If you have time, source your own from suppliers like Sim Siang Choon, Hafary, or even Taobao. Provide them directly to your contractor for installation. Confirm this arrangement upfront, as some contractors don’t allow client-supplied materials.
7. Phase Your Renovation If Budget Is Tight
If your total renovation wishlist exceeds your current budget, consider phasing the work. Complete the essential works (wet works, electrical, flooring) in the first phase. Live in the space before committing to carpentry and feature elements — you’ll have a much clearer idea of what you actually need versus what seemed like a good idea in the showroom.
8. Don’t Over-Specify the Guest Bedroom
Homeowners often spend disproportionately on guest bedrooms that are used only a few times a year. A simple, functional guest room with good lighting, a quality mattress, and accessible storage is sufficient. Redirect those savings to the spaces you use daily — the master bedroom, kitchen, and living room.
Smart Renovation Starts With the Right Partner
At Empire Works, we help clients make smart decisions — not just beautiful ones. Our transparent quotation process means no hidden surprises, and our design expertise ensures you get the most impact from every dollar spent. Reach out to us for a free consultation today.
