How Much Is the Renovation Cost of a 3-Room Resale HDB Flat?

Renovation of a 3-room resale HDB flat in Singapore is an exciting yet cost-conscious endeavour. Unlike brand-new BTO flats, resale units often require additional work due to the need for hacking and demolishing existing structures. Coming in at a budget-friendly S$40,000 to S$45,000*, our 3-room resale HDB flat renovation cost approach focuses on clever hacks throughout the house. Expect a complete overhaul to create your dream space without breaking the bank!

*Disclaimer: All the costs mentioned within the blog are for reference purposes only; exact costs may differ according to location, size of the home, nature of requirements, materials/finishes chosen and the scope of work.

Luxury bedroom remodel on a dime

Tastes and trends change over time and your master bedroom’s decor, fixtures, or layout might feel dated and no longer reflect your current style preferences. Renovations can improve noise insulation, upgrade the lighting for a more calming ambience, or create a dedicated spa-like bathroom experience.

Here’s what a Livspace master bedroom (with attached bathroom) renovation cost range looks like for a 3-room HDB resale flat:

Bedroom 2, which doesn’t have an attached bathroom, is set for a makeover with a budget of S$4,500 to S$5,000*.

Design tips for bedroom renovation

• Define your luxury: What does luxury mean to you? Is it a spa-like atmosphere, a touch of Hollywood glamour, or a cosy library vibe? Identifying your desired mood will guide your design choices
• Maximise natural light: Large windows bathed in soft, diffused light create a sense of openness and serenity. Consider sheer curtains that allow natural light to flow while maintaining privacy
• Strategic placement: Arrange furniture to promote a feeling of spaciousness. Avoid overcrowding the room and allow for ample walking space
• Invest in quality materials: Opt for luxurious materials like silk, velvet or cashmere for bedding and throws. Use natural stone or high-quality wood for furniture and accents
• Statement pieces: Incorporate a statement piece like a dramatic chandelier, a hand-woven rug or a piece of oversized artwork to add a touch of grandeur
• Layered lighting: A well-layered lighting scheme sets the mood. Include ambient lighting, task lighting for reading areas and accent lighting to highlight specific features

Living and dining area makeover: The S$10K solution

Over time, materials like flooring, paint, and fixtures can wear down, become outdated, or suffer from general wear and tear. Renovations can refresh the space and address any existing damage. The specific reasons for renovating the living and dining room in your 3-room HDB resale flat will depend on your individual situation and priorities, but here’s a generic price range of such makeovers:

Design tips for living/dining room renovation

• Open the space (if possible): If the layout allows, removing walls between the dining and living areas can create a sense of spaciousness and enhance the flow of conversation
• Strategic furniture placement: Use the back of a sofa to partially separate the living room, or position a console table between the spaces
• Continuous flooring (consider transitions): Using the same flooring material throughout the living and dining areas can create a sense of visual continuity and flow. Choose durable and easy-to-clean materials like hardwood, tile, or laminate
• Area rugs: Define separate areas within the open space with strategically placed area rugs. Consider a larger rug under the dining table and a smaller rug in the living room seating area
• Multifunctional furniture: Opt for furniture that serves multiple purposes, like a console table with storage or a coffee table with a lift-top compartment

Also Read: Borrow Practical Design Ideas From These 5 Best Livspace Living Rooms

Kitchen CTRL+ALT+DEL: Hit restart on your space

Resale flats have already been lived in, and the kitchen and utility room, being high-use areas, are especially prone to wear and tear over time. Over time, cabinets, flooring, countertops, and plumbing fixtures can deteriorate, requiring replacement for safety and hygiene reasons. Livspace renovations often aim to create a more open and integrated feel between the kitchen and living areas, fostering a sense of connection and togetherness.

Design tips for kitchen renovation

• Assess your needs: Do you need more storage? Better traffic flow? A designated workspace for baking?
• The kitchen triangle: Plan the placement of your sink, stove and refrigerator in a close, efficient triangle to minimise unnecessary movement
• Smart storage solutions: Utilise vertical space with tall kitchen cabinets, pull-out drawers with dividers, and clever corner solutions like carousel shelves
• Statement backsplash: Use the backsplash as an opportunity to add a pop of colour, pattern or texture
• Flooring: Choose durable and easy-to-clean flooring like tile, laminate or vinyl plank
• Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation above your stovetop to eliminate cooking odours and grease

A bathroom reno you’ll love

Older bathrooms might have features like chlorine tiles, pedestal sinks, and chrome fixtures that are no longer considered stylish or modern. Renovations can improve functionality by incorporating space-saving features like wall-mounted toilets, floating vanities, or corner shower units.

Design tips for bathroom renovation

• Accessibility: If you’re planning for future needs or have someone with mobility limitations, incorporate grab bars, a shower seat, and wider doorways
• Flooring: Choose water-resistant and slip-resistant flooring options like ceramic tile, vinyl plank flooring, or natural stone. Consider heated floors for a luxurious touch
• Make the most of vertical space: Utilise wall-mounted cabinets, mirrored cabinets, and shelves to maximise storage without sacrificing floor space
• Built-in niches: Create built-in niches in the shower or walls for storing shampoo, soap, and other toiletries
• Walk-in shower: A great space saver and provides a luxurious feel. Consider a rainfall showerhead or handheld shower for added functionality
• Bathtub with shower combo: A good option if you enjoy baths but also need a shower. Look for space-saving soaking tubs or consider a bathtub with a shower curtain instead of a glass door

Also Read: Are You Planning A Bathroom Renovation? Read This!

Shelter refresh with no extra charge

The household shelter, typically included in the living room painting cost due to its limited scope of work, can also be freshened up with a new coat of paint. Since it’s not a frequently used space, painting it falls under the umbrella of living room renovation and doesn’t require a separate budget allocation.

Design tips for bomb shelter renovation

Remember, safety regulations come first! Always consult a professional and ensure any renovations comply with local building codes.

• Emergency supplies: Dedicate a designated area for storing emergency supplies like water, non-perishable food, first-aid kits and a flashlight
• Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation to maintain good air quality, especially if the shelter lacks windows
• Moisture control: Bomb shelters can be prone to dampness. Invest in a dehumidifier to prevent mould and mildew growth, and consider moisture-resistant materials for furniture and flooring

Also Read: What Can You Do With Your HDB Bomb Shelter? Here’s What You Should Know

How can Livspace help you?

Livspace can help you design your 3-room HDB resale flat effectively. Our transparent pricing structure gives you a clear idea of costs upfront, and our design experts can help you optimise space and functionality, avoiding unnecessary expenses.

If you want customised designs for your space, book an online consultation with Livspace today.

• We have delivered over 20,000 happy homes
• We use high-quality and durable materials with assured 215-quality checks
• Our project tracking timelines are reliable

Get experts to create your dream home. Visit our Experience Centres at Suntec City, Ubi, Balestier and East Coast.

Disclaimer: All contents of the story are specific to the time of publication. Mentions of costs, budget, materials, finishes, and products from the Livspace catalogue can vary with reference to current rates. Talk to our designer for more details on pricing and availability.