Straits Times
SINGAPORE - Flat buyers can get fresh design ideas from the Housing Board's new show flats in the My Nice Home Gallery, launched on Wednesday.
Located on the third floor of the HDB Hub at Toa Payoh, the gallery was previously known as the HDB Habitat Forum and had two- to five-room flats on display.
These units have now been renovated with modern, themed interiors, including open concept kitchens which the HDB has introduced as options for new flats.
A studio apartment show flat has been added, so the public can see the special features of such units, such as grab bars and built-in wardrobes.
And there is an interactive display allowing visitors to design and furnish their own virtual flat, choosing from colour schemes and furniture items which they can arrange in digital 3D models. A special photobooth allows visitors to take a photograph of themselves 'inside' the flat they have designed and and email it to themselves as reference.
Singaporeans spend a lot of time and effort in transforming their flats, with some outstanding results, said National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan at the launch of the revamped gallery.
"As the standard of HDB interiors climbs, our gallery has to move forward too."
Such stylish flat designs were highlighted in the HDB's My Nice Home photo contest last December, with 15 winners announced at the launch. Winning designs included a two-room flat with a white-brick feature wall and a mini counter instead of a dining table, and a minimalist four-roomer with white walls and pale wood creating an airy, spacious feel.
The My Nice Home Gallery is open to the public from 8am to 5pm, Mondays to Fridays, and 8am to 1pm on Saturdays.