NEW SPIN

SMART AND STYLISH UPGRADES TO SPRUCE UP AN OLDER FLAT.

- YUEN YIYING

Older homes often come with larger floor plans and are situated in more established neighbourhoods with better amenities. However, several updates are often needed to maximise your new dwelling’s full potential and make it feel like your own. These tips can give you a headstart.

REFRESH AND RENEW

Resale home looking a little worse for wear? These moves will take years off its appearance.

Turn back time

If the built-ins, doors and floors are in good shape, consider getting pros to refinish them rather than replace them. Stone tiles and counters can be repolished or honed for a contemporary matte texture, and wood surfaces can be sanded and bleached or darkened to suit your aesthetic. Good for the environment and good for your pocket!

Save the good stuff

Old homes come with several defining features, some desirable (larger kitchens and communal areas) and some less so (tile counters and tiny bathrooms). Don’t feel pressured to retain all the details, or even the floor plan, but do repair and preserve some elements like trim, vintage materials and old-timey glass if you want your house to be unique. Replicate these details through your dwelling for a more intentional look, or repurpose them as art!