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Attract Good Fortune with These Feng Shui Tips

Feng Shui isn’t just ancient wisdom tucked away in dusty scrolls. It’s a living, breathing philosophy that continues to shape the way we build, decorate, and live in our spaces. Rooted in Chinese tradition, Feng Shui is all about working with the flow of natural energy, or chi, to create balance and invite prosperity into our lives.

Look closely at some of Singapore’s most iconic spots and you’ll notice these principles at play. Think of the open palm facade in Suntec City or the thoughtful resemblance of the number “9” at Marina Barrage. These places weren’t just designed to look good as they were created to feel good too.

If you’re ready to bring that same kind of thoughtful energy into your own home, use these tips to boost your well-being and invite abundance into every room.

#1: CREATE YOUR WEALTH CORNER

Every home has a wealth corner, and it’s easier to find than you might think. Stand at your front door facing inside. The far-left corner of your home is traditionally considered the wealth sector.

To activate it, add symbols of abundance like a flourishing plant, a bowl of coins, or accents in rich purples and greens. Keep this area clean, well-lit, and clutter-free. Let it reflect the kind of financial luck you’re ready to welcome.

#2: KNOW YOUR GOOD & BAD SECTORS

Just like the seasons, the energy in your home shifts from year to year. Feng Shui takes cues from the positions of flying stars, which affect different sectors of your space each lunar year. A room that once brought prosperity might need a little extra care now.

Check in with a Feng Shui calendar or expert to understand which areas of your home are currently considered lucky, and which ones could use a gentle energy cleanse.

#3: MAKE YOUR ENTRANCE WELCOMING

Your front door is where all energy enters your home. That means it’s more than just a door as it’s the gateway to your life’s flow. Keep it open and welcoming.

Clear out any shoes, bags, or clutter that might block the way. Add a cheerful doormat, a touch of greenery, and make sure the space feels bright and alive.

#4: CELEBRATE THE KITCHEN

In Feng Shui, the kitchen represents nourishment, both physical and financial. An organized kitchen supports wellness and prosperity.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Remove the clutter in the counters and display fresh fruits or colorful vegetables. Make it a space where abundance feels natural and everyday life feels a little more vibrant.

#5: USE MIRRORS TO REFLECT POSITIVITY

Mirrors aren’t just decorative as they’re energetic amplifiers. When placed thoughtfully, they can bounce light, expand space, and double the energy of whatever they reflect. Position mirrors to highlight something beautiful, like a garden view or a favorite piece of art.

Avoid placing them directly opposite the front door or beside the bed, as this can disturb your rest or send energy right back out of the house.

#6: LET FURNITURE SUPPORT YOU

Ever feel unsettled with your back to the door? That’s your instincts speaking. Feng Shui encourages placing key furniture (e.g., bed, desk, or sofa) in what’s called the commanding position.

You should be able to see the entrance to the room without being directly in line with it. This gives you a subtle but powerful sense of control and stability, helping you feel safe, focused, and more at ease in your space.

#7: FIND BEAUTY IN BALANCE

One of the biggest misconceptions about Feng Shui is that it’s about strict rules or perfect symmetry. In reality, it’s about balance. A few well-placed cushions can feel cozy, but too many can overwhelm a space. Choose decorations that makes sense visually and emotionally. When your surroundings feel balanced, your life starts to feel that way too.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Feng Shui invites you to tune in to the energy around you. When you create a space that flows well and feels good, you are not just decorating; you are designing a lifestyle that welcomes luck, peace, and possibility.

Sources: 1 & 2

Your Guide to Home Renovation Costs in Singapore

One of the most expensive possessions that you can acquire in Singapore is a home. Given that it is an investment, people want to make their home as comfortable and presentable as possible. However, doing a home renovation can cost you a lot.

HOW MUCH DOES IT ACTUALLY COST?

In Singapore, the ultimate cost of renovation depends on the several factors. Firstly, the type of home will determine the scope of renovation. This refers to whether you live in a condominium, an HDB flat or a landed property. The next factor is the age and condition of your home. The extent and type of renovation work for a brand new BTO differs from a decade-old resale flat.

Thirdly, the type of materials to be used for the renovation must be considered. It is up to you to choose affordable or high-end materials. The contractor or interior design firm is also up to you. Shop around to find the firm that suits you best. Lastly, your total cost will be influenced by how much work you want done. Starting with a blank canvas can cost more than renovating a single room.

You can expect to pay from S$5,000 to over S$100,000 when you are renovating a 4-Room HDB flat (i.e., approximately 90 sq m). Remember that all the aforementioned factors will influence the renovation costs. In fact, Qanvast stated that the average 4-room HDB BTO flat renovation was estimated to cost about S$43,000 to S$45,000 in 2020. Since renovating a resale flat is more extensive and expensive, the expected cost was from S$45,000 to S$52,000.

WHAT ARE YOUR LOAN OPTIONS?

If you are looking for financial aid, you will apply for a renovation loan. Renovation loans are different from personal loans. With personal loans, you receive the money in cash. The institution does not know what you are going to do with the money, so it is riskier for them to lend it to you. As a result, personal loan interest rates are generally high.

On the other hand, renovation loans work by giving the money directly to your contractor. Because the bank knows exactly what you are going to do with the money, they can charge you lower interest rates. Renovation loan interest rates are usually less than 5% p.a.

Before you can apply for the renovation loan, you need to have the contractor’s invoice or quotation signed by both parties. Renovation loans can let you borrow up to S$30,000 or 6 times your monthly income, whichever amount is lower. You can repay this in monthly installments.

HOW CAN YOU REDUCE YOUR RENOVATION COSTS?

Image Credits: pixabay.com

#1: Determine what you want.

Not all design styles are created equal – some cost more than others. Experts suggest that the most affordable style is the Scandinavian interiors as it involves simpler aesthetics and fewer built-in carpentry.

Knowing which design style you want, and which rooms you want to renovate will help you determine the total renovation costs.

#2: Paint your walls.

You can save money by painting your walls or an accent wall instead of using wallpaper or building a feature wall.

It is a practical choice if you want to change your home’s look every couple of years. You see, wallpaper or stone are notoriously difficult to remove.

#3: Have less built-in furniture.

Carpentry can take up a substantial chunk of your renovation costs. To reduce your expenses, you can make a list of your top five carpentry must-haves. Your priorities must revolve around custom solutions that require real design work that you cannot easily purchase. For things that you can easily purchase, you can buy as you go along with the renovation.

#4: Compare the available renovation firms.

There are a myriad of renovation, interior design, and contractor firms in Singapore. Different companies tend to provide different price structures. It is best to research all the available options to find the best company that suits both your budget and preferences.

#5: Keep or sell unused items.

When renovating your home, you may find some unused items such as excess paint or wood. It is recommended that you sell these items to make some money. This money can be used to reduce your overall renovation costs.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

Inexpensive Ways To Improve Your Home Office

For most people, working from home is their fantasy come to life. However, it comes with its own challenges. Mentally transitioning from “personal mode” to “professional mode” can be difficult if you are physically on the same place and just steps away from your bed. How can someone be inspired to produce outputs on such cozy conditions?

While it is easy to wear sweatpants in the home office, you need to establish new routines to improve your productivity. Take time to thoughtfully choose the right setup. Improving your home office is a worthy investment of your time and money.

#1: INVEST ON A BACK PILLOW

If you do not have the budget to purchase an ergonomic chair, revamp a standard chair by adding a back pillow. You can buy an affordable curved foam cushion for your chair or roll up a towel to act as your back support. This will give you the comfort you need for countless hours of working.

#2: RAISE YOUR DEVICE

Notice how you are working. Usually, your monitor or laptop screen is too low. This is why many people hunch over or crack their necks in the working process. There are two simple solutions. Firstly, you may purchase a laptop stand or riser. The stand allows a few inches of height and tilt. Secondly, you can add a few books under the base of your monitor. Raise it to a comfortable height. You will know what is best!

#3: ORGANIZE YOUR CORDS

There is nothing more annoying than tangled cords. If you are working from home, you are more likely to rely on several devices to keep your efficiency up. Manage the excessive cords by using zip-ties or double-sided Velcro. You can add labels too.

#4: KEEP A CLOTH BESIDE YOU

Do not let pet hair or dust distract you. Keep an inexpensive microfiber cloth on your desk to wipe your screen or your table. You can use two cloth towels – one for wet substances and one for dry substances. Replace these towels every day. Alternatively, you may use a pack of disinfectant wipes to clean your surfaces.

#5: BOOST YOUR LIGHT

Lighting is the key. Having a good light can have a significant impact on one’s concentration and productivity. In fact, a study showed 16% increase in efficiency by using good office lighting. Boost your productivity by repurposing a vintage or antique table lamp.

#6: ADD SOME PLANTS

Image credits: pixabay.com

You must never underestimate the power of nature. Adding a few plants on your home office will not only make it aesthetically pleasing, but also make it a suitable place to work. Plants have positive effects on one’s body and mind. Improve your mood by adding indoor plants to your space. The snake plant is my personal favorite!

Sources: 1 & 2

6 Storage Solutions For Small Spaces

As we celebrate the 2020 Singles’ Day (11.11) in Singapore, more and more retailers have converted their promotions into the e-commerce platform. According to The Straits Times report, this year’s 11.11 sales will most likely shatter the 2019’s 11.11 sales record.

Physical stores in Singapore, such as Isetan and Marks & Spencer, have started selling their products online through Lazada. Metro, will also be joining Lazada’s 11.11 promotions this year. I know it is tempting to purchase items today due to the good deals. However, being mindful is more important that giving in to your impulse purchases.

If purchasing storage items are necessary for your home, you may consider these storage ideas and other inexpensive alternatives to decorate your small space.

#1: MAXIMIZE THE SPACE BEHIND THE DOOR

For flats with tiny laundry areas, you may take advantage of the storage space behind the door. Use stick-on hooks or over-the-door racks to keep your laundry supplies and accessories. You may also mount a hook rack, if you are looking for a long-term solution.

#2: USE PEGBOARDS FOR MULTIPLE PURPOSES

From cubby holder to tool organizer, pegboards have multiple uses in one’s home. Simply mount a pegboard above your desk and use hooks or zip ties to attach your art materials and other items.

Image Credits: familyhandyman.com

Most pegboards come in two colors – white and brown. Dress it up by rolling a coat of paint with a gloss or semi-gloss finish. Remember to apply light coats to avoid clogging up the holes. You can get a 36×56 cm pegboard for S$15 at IKEA Singapore.

#3: PURCHASE AN OTTOMAN STORAGE

Investing your money on an ottoman storage can help you store unnecessary items scattered around your living area. You may either purchase a new one or revamp an old one. Aside from adding a functional furniture and a dash of glamour to your space, an ottoman storage will keep the clutter out of sight.

Lazada Singapore offers ottoman storages such as this fabric option, which retails for S$13.86.

#4: ADD A MAGIC MIRROR

Adding a mirror to your space gives an illusion of a bigger and a brighter room. If you have a blank wall space on your flat, take advantage of it with a full-length mirror. Max out the space on a small entryway by adding the mirror without the need to add a bench.

You can get a long mirror an IKEA for as low as S$7.90.

#5: CONSIDER A FLOATING WORKSPACE

Instead of filling up a cramped space with bulky tables and dressers, you may opt for floating shelves and cabinets. They can store your needs without occupying an overwhelming amount of space.

IKEA Singapore sells the EKBY ALEX for S$89. For corners and short walls that can be hard to utilize, you may use wall-hung shelves and cabinets like EKBY ALEX. Pull up a chair underneath and you are ready to go!

#6: KEEP YOUR SHOES IN ONE PLACE

The abundance of the shoes your family owns may cause a major headache when you have a small space. Do not fret! Use your creativity to tuck away your shoes in a tidy manner. You can either purchase a dresser with pull-out drawer or a shoe hanger. These will provide extra surface area for other necessary furniture in your home.

You can grab a 24-pocket hanger for your shoes in Lazada Singapore for only S$15.20. Look for other options to reap the best value for your money.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

Cheap Storage Hacks To Organize Your Home

Due to the safety measures and social restrictions brought by the pandemic, we tend to spend most of our days at home. Now is the perfect time to declutter and reorganize your own space! From creating your own key holders to storing your stuffed animals, these tips will squeeze your creative juices without breaking the bank.

Use what you have as you organize your home with these cheap storage hacks:

#1: MULTI-PURPOSE FILE DIVIDERS

Do not throw your shoe boxes just yet! Shoe box, usually made of paper, is more than just a storage for shoes. It can also be used in packaging several items in retail stores or in your home. If you have a collection of bills, photos, sewing supplies, tools, and other small items, you may store it inside a shoe box for easier access.

Divide the sections of the shoe box by cutting the cover into rectangular and square pieces. Get creative! You may also cover the shoe box with a patterned fabric to echo the décor of your room.

#2: HAIR TIE HOLDERS

Let us face it! Hair ties always get lost. The solution? Store your hair ties on an empty tissue roll core. Widen the hair tie and insert it on the empty tissue roll core. This way, you will know where to find them.

Aside from hair ties, the empty tissue roll core may be used to store your cords. Prevent getting your cords tangled by tucking in the cords inside an empty tissue roll core. Put a label on the cardboard tube so you will know which cord is which.

#3: STATIONARY VASES

Jars can be ideal for preserving jams, jellies, sauces, mustards and flavored vinegars. Basically, it is storage for your food. But aside from that, you may organize your office supplies with a jar. Let the jar act as a stationary vase for your paper clips, pens, staplers, highlighters, and more.

You may also style your jar by painting it with enamel or a chalkboard paint. A chalkboard paint allows you to create a blackboard area with a durable black finish. This product can be applied to any smooth non-porous surface such as drywall, plaster, metal, and glass.

#4: STUFFED ANIMALS STORAGE AREA

Keep all your child’s stuffed animals in one area by sticking a few Velcro strips or hook-and-loop fasteners on the wall. Attach the half of the strip on a lightweight stuffed animal and the other half on a wall. Use the soft side of the Velco or the hook-and-loop fastener to avoid getting potential scrapes on your beloved little one.

#5: REUSABLE STORAGE BAGS

Tired of seeing your children’s toys scattered around? Do not forget the smaller ones such as the action figures or doll clothes that are lying on the floor. Well, re-sealable or reusable zipper bags may come in handy. The most famous brand is the Ziploc bag, but you may also use other variations of this. The see-through exterior provides easy identification of the stored contents.

Just store your child’s toys, crayons, and markers in a labeled reusable storage bag to keep it organized. You may also keep some manuals and brochures inside.

#6: FRAMED KEY HOLDERS

You will be surprised to know that a picture frame may be revamped as a key holder and a dry-erase board. Let us start with the key holder. Create your own aesthetically pleasing key holder with a single picture frame. Simply remove the glass and paint the background or cover it with fabric or colored paper. Then, attach several key hooks using a strong adhesive. Hang the frame near the exit door. This will ensure that all keys are kept in one place.

Lastly, you may create a dry-erase board with a picture frame. Stay on top of your tasks and errands with a DIY dry-erase board. Use an old picture frame and put a fabric or a wallpaper inside. Use a whiteboard or a dry-erase marker to note down your reminders on the glass.

#7: BEDDING BAGS

Tote bags, made of canvas, are usually inexpensive. Take your beddings and blankets and put it inside the tote bags for heightened organization. You may also put your old or underused clothes inside the tote bags and donate it to those who need it the most.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Sources: 1 & 2

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