Insights from Interior Designers Who Have Seen It All

As interior designers who have helped countless BTO homeowners build their first homes, we’ve seen all the mistakes that they’ve made. From overly complicated layouts to costly oversights that only reveal themselves months after moving in, the difference mostly comes down to proper planning.

If you’re preparing for your first renovation, here are three common BTO mistakes that many new homeowners make and how you can avoid them.

1. “Can we really complete our renovation before our planned move-in date?”

Why this matters in Singapore
Many first-time BTO homeowners underestimate the BTO renovation timeline. It is tempting to think everything can be done in a few short weeks, but renovations involve getting permits, sourcing the right materials, and coordinating multiple teams. We have seen delays happen simply due to missing approvals or delayed dates of certain materials.

What to consider
Always add a buffer of two to three weeks beyond your expected move-in date. Ask your interior designer to explain the full schedule clearly (and ensure there is a tight follow-up with them!)

From design and submission to handover and post-renovation cleanup, a thoughtful timeline helps the BTO renovation process feel far less stressful and ensures a better result overall.

2. “Where exactly are we losing space, and are we designing with storage in mind?”

Why this matters in Singapore
Newer BTO flats may list similar square footage to older units, but awkward layouts, bomb shelters, and structural beams often reduce the actual usable space. Homeowners who have no clue about effective storage often end up with cluttered homes with very little space to store everything they need.

What to consider
Ask your designer for more solutions on maximising practical storage. Vertical shelving, under-seat compartments, and concealed storage can greatly increase your home’s storage capacity without cluttering your home. Good BTO flat planning should look good and support your daily lifestyle in quiet, effective ways.

3. “Are we planning based on how we live or just how we want the house to look?”

Why it matters
It is easy to fall in love with design trends, but homes that don’t feel good to live in will surely cause you lots of frustration. We have met homeowners who were initially thrilled with their fluted panels or open shelves, only to realise they lacked practical prep space, privacy, or areas that matched their actual daily routines.

What to consider
Think about your actual lifestyles. Where do you leave your keys? Do you sit to tie your shoes? Where do you charge your devices? These everyday habits should guide your layout decisions more than any online trends. A home that reflects your lifestyle will always be more fulfilling than one designed solely to impress (but who are you trying to impress anyway?).

There is no such thing as a perfect first home, but asking the right questions early helps you avoid the most common BTO mistakes. With careful BTO flat planning around time, space, and how you live, your flat can become a home that works for you now and continues to support you for years to come.

📩 Contact us for inquiries: +65 8224 2612
📍 Visit our studio: 625 Aljunied Road Aljunied Industrial Complex #02-02 Singapore – 389836
🌐 Website: janreno.com
📸 Follow us on Instagram: @jan_renovation