Introduction
Designing your HDB flat is an exciting journey — from envisioning your dream space to seeing it come to life. However, before selecting colour palettes and furniture styles, there’s one critical question that every homeowner in Singapore asks: How much does HDB interior design cost?
Whether you’re a young couple moving into a BTO or upgrading your resale unit, understanding the real cost of HDB interior design will help you plan effectively, avoid budget blowouts, and get the best value for your investment. In this guide, we break down the cost factors, budget ranges, and tips to maximise your renovation dollars.
1. Factors That Influence HDB Interior Design Costs
There’s no fixed price when it comes to interior design — the total cost depends on a mix of technical, aesthetic, and practical decisions.
The main cost factors include:
- Type of HDB flat (2-room, 3-room, 4-room, 5-room)
- BTO vs. Resale (Resale units often require more hacking, electrical, and plumbing work)
- Scope of work (Cosmetic updates vs. full overhaul)
- Type of design theme and materials (Scandinavian costs less than luxury modern, for example)
- Built-in carpentry (Custom wardrobes, TV consoles, kitchen cabinets)
- Furniture, appliances, and styling
- Designer or contractor fees
Understanding these factors will help you assess quotations and plan your renovation budget accordingly.
2. Average Interior Design Cost by HDB Flat Type
To provide a clearer picture, here’s a breakdown of average renovation and interior design costs in Singapore (inclusive of design consultation, labour, materials, and fittings):
| Flat Type | BTO Renovation | Resale Renovation |
|---|---|---|
| 2-Room | $15,000 – $25,000 | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| 3-Room | $20,000 – $35,000 | $30,000 – $45,000 |
| 4-Room | $30,000 – $50,000 | $40,000 – $65,000 |
| 5-Room | $40,000 – $65,000 | $50,000 – $80,000+ |
Note: Prices vary depending on material selection, design complexity, and renovation scope.
3. Cost Breakdown by Work Category
Let’s further break down where the money typically goes in an HDB interior design project.
1. Carpentry ($8,000 – $25,000)
Carpentry work usually makes up the largest portion of your renovation cost.
- Kitchen cabinets: $5,000 – $10,000
- Wardrobes: $2,000 – $6,000 each
- TV feature wall: $1,500 – $4,000
- Study desks, bookshelves, shoe cabinets, etc.
2. Hacking and Masonry ($2,000 – $8,000)
This involves removing walls, tiles, or flooring — usually more relevant in resale flats.
- Wall hacking: $100 – $150 per meter
- Tiling: $8 – $12 per square foot (floor), $6 – $10 per square foot (wall)
3. Electrical and Lighting ($2,000 – $5,000)
Includes rewiring, lighting installation, and power points.
- Rewiring entire flat: $2,000 – $4,000
- Light fixtures: $30 – $300 per unit
- Smart switches or dimmers add extra cost
4. Plumbing ($1,000 – $3,000)
Plumbing is essential for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Relocating sink or toilet: $300 – $600 per point
- Water heater installation: $150 – $500
- Piping replacements for resale units
5. Painting and False Ceiling ($2,000 – $6,000)
Adds the finishing touch to your home.
- Painting entire flat: $1,500 – $3,000 (depending on number of coats and paint type)
- False ceiling for lighting: $1,000 – $3,000
6. Interior Designer Fees ($2,000 – $10,000)
This covers consultation, space planning, 3D drawings, and project coordination.
Some ID firms offer packages or rebates depending on the size of the project.
4. Additional Costs to Consider
There are several non-renovation costs you should factor into your overall interior design budget.
1. Furniture and Appliances ($5,000 – $25,000)
- Sofa, dining table, bedframes, mattresses, wardrobes.
- Fridge, washer, oven, hob and hood, air conditioning.
2. Curtains and Blinds ($800 – $3,000)
Window treatments often get overlooked but are essential for comfort and style.
3. Soft Furnishings and Decor ($500 – $2,000)
Includes rugs, art, cushions, lamps, plants, and other aesthetic details.
4. Smart Home Systems ($500 – $5,000)
Home automation for lighting, security, climate, and sound systems.
5. Application and Permit Fees ($200 – $1,000)
You may need to pay for:
- HDB renovation permit
- SCDF fire safety approval (if gas works are involved)
- Town council debris removal fees
5. BTO vs. Resale: Why Resale Costs More
Resale flats usually come with higher renovation costs because:
- More hacking of tiles, fittings, and non-load-bearing walls is required.
- Electrical and plumbing systems may need to be redone or relocated.
- Old materials like flooring or toilets must be replaced for hygiene or style.
- There may be underlying issues (e.g., water seepage, uneven floors).
However, the higher cost often comes with a larger space — resale 4-room and 5-room flats tend to be more spacious than BTO counterparts.
6. Should You Hire an Interior Designer or Contractor?
This depends on your needs, timeline, and budget.
Interior Designer (ID):
- Best for homeowners seeking design expertise and full project management.
- Provides 3D drawings, concept development, space planning.
- Coordinates with carpenters, electricians, tilers, and other vendors.
- Fees range from $2,000 to $10,000+ depending on scope.
Direct Contractor:
- Ideal if you already have a design in mind.
- Typically lower cost, but you’ll need to manage the project yourself.
- Less customisation and fewer visualisation tools.
Some homeowners go the hybrid route: hire a freelance designer for drawings, and then engage a contractor for execution.
7. How to Budget Smartly for Your HDB Renovation
Here are some tips to stay on budget while still achieving a beautiful, functional home:
1. Prioritise Your Needs
Focus first on essential renovations (e.g., kitchen, bathrooms, storage), then move on to decor and styling.
2. Avoid Over-Customisation
Built-ins are expensive. Opt for ready-made furniture where possible, especially in areas like the study or guest room.
3. Get Multiple Quotations
Always compare at least 3 different ID or contractor quotes. Ask for a detailed cost breakdown before committing.
4. Consider Packages Cautiously
Some ID firms offer packages (e.g., “4-room renovation for $25K”) — ensure they include quality materials and workmanship.
5. Allocate a Contingency Budget
Set aside at least 10–15% of your total budget for unexpected costs or design changes during the project.
8. What Does a $30K / $50K / $80K Budget Get You?
Here’s a rough idea of what to expect at different price points:
$30,000 Budget (3-Room BTO)
- Basic carpentry: kitchen and one wardrobe.
- Basic tiling, electrical works.
- Simple lighting and painting.
- No extensive custom furniture.
$50,000 Budget (4-Room Resale)
- Hacking of old flooring and fittings.
- Full kitchen renovation.
- 2–3 carpentry items (wardrobes, feature wall).
- Improved finishes and lighting.
$80,000 Budget (5-Room Luxury Makeover)
- Custom design and 3D renderings.
- Extensive carpentry across the home.
- Premium flooring, bathroom upgrades.
- Smart home integration and styling.
Conclusion
The cost of HDB interior design in Singapore varies widely depending on your flat type, goals, and lifestyle preferences. Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist BTO setup or a full-scale resale transformation, knowing the true cost of interior design helps you plan smarter, avoid hidden costs, and build a home you’ll love.
Remember: good interior design is not just about spending more — it’s about making intentional, well-planned decisions that deliver maximum comfort, function, and style within your means.