Beat The Heat in Singapore: Interior Design Tips That Can Help You Stay Cool at Home
Living in hot and sunny Singapore, dealing with heat and humidity is a daily reality. Most Singaporeans have grown up acclimatised to this sticky weather, often opting to seek refuge indoors or rely on air-conditioning. However, with temperature records repeatedly broken in April and May this year—soaring above 35°C—and climate experts warning this is likely the new norm, staying cool has never been more challenging.
Even remaining indoors is no longer enough without taking the right measures to ‘heat-proof’ your living space. To help you adapt, our team at Redbrick Homes has gathered some of the best advice from leading interior design firms in Singapore, all aimed at keeping your home as comfortable as possible. You can find more practical solutions in our post on affordable interior design ideas for HDB living.
Avoid East or West-Facing Units (If Possible)
If you are currently house-hunting for a new property—whether a condominium, BTO, or resale flat—pay careful attention to the orientation of your unit. To avoid the direct, blazing sun, it’s wise to steer clear of East or West-facing properties. East-facing units bear the brunt of the morning sun, while West-facing units can become uncomfortably warm later in the day as temperatures peak. When embarking on your search for the ideal home, it may help to explore tips for choosing the right interior design for Singapore homes to ensure your new space is a perfect fit in every way.
Tip: Opt for North or South-facing units to minimise direct sunlight exposure during the day.
Minimize Heat Penetration Through Window Coverings
If your current home does not offer an ideal orientation, don’t worry—there are alternatives. A highly effective way to keep your interiors cooler is by using appropriate window treatments that block out sunlight and insulate your indoor space, whilst providing additional privacy. For a deeper dive into stylish yet functional solutions, you might be inspired by our feature on transforming spaces with the power of curtains.
One of the most affordable and efficient solutions is to install blackout curtains. Unlike conventional curtains, these feature multiple layers, including a specialised reflective backing that helps block sun rays almost completely.
If you prefer to retain your window view, consider investing in UV-blocking films. These transparent films adhere directly onto your existing windows and act as an effective shield against heat and UV rays, while letting in light.
Air Circulation is Key
Almost every interior designer we spoke to emphasised the importance of good ventilation within the home. Adequate air circulation not only helps to remove hot air but also lowers humidity levels, reducing that all-too-familiar sticky feeling. With open-concept layouts becoming more popular, you’ll see that spacious living and open-plan living rooms are an increasingly attractive option for improved airflow.
Here’s how to improve air flow within your home:
- Embrace open-plan layouts that allow air to move freely.
- Choose dividers with ventilation features, rather than solid partitions, to define spaces.
- Install ventilation fans in humid areas such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Strategic Placement of Fans and Air-conditioning Units
Ceiling fans and air-conditioning units are tried-and-tested ways to cool a space quickly, but their placement is crucial for maximum effectiveness. If you’re thinking of upgrading, consider exploring the best smart ceiling fans available in Singapore for an efficient and contemporary touch.
Consider these tips when installing fans and AC units:
- Avoid placing units where airflow will be blocked by furniture or walls.
- Install air-conditioners at about 2.2 metres above the floor—high enough for wide airflow but not so high that cool air dissipates ineffectively.
- Choose ceiling fans with larger blades for larger rooms to boost air movement.
Go With a Lighter Colour Palette
According to basic scientific principles, dark surfaces absorb heat, while lighter shades reflect it. This is why interior designers in Singapore frequently recommend lighter colour schemes to help combat the heat. For those still on the fence about colour schemes, our article comparing light and airy versus dark and moody interiors might help you decide which approach works best to create a cooler and brighter feel at home.
Studies consistently show that white and pale colours significantly reduce surface temperatures. For maximum cooling effect, paint your walls, ceilings, and even floors in white or light shades.
Use Materials That Dissipate Heat Effectively
The choice of materials for flooring, furnishings, and fixtures can play a significant role in controlling indoor temperatures. Opt for materials that dissipate heat rather than retain it. If you’re considering new flooring, you may want to review our guide on telltale signs that it’s time to change your flooring and the various options available for cool and comfortable living.
Surface options like marble, ceramic tiles, granite, and certain metals not only feel cool to the touch but also release heat rapidly. For upholstery, choose breathable fabrics such as linen, cotton, bamboo, or Tencel—these tend to trap less moisture and heat than synthetics or heavy materials like leather, velvet, or suede.
Conversely, materials like wood, parquet, vinyl, and carpets can trap heat, gradually making the space warmer.
Make the Switch to LED or Fluorescent Lighting
Beyond sunlight, artificial lighting can also contribute to indoor heat. The more lights you have on, the warmer your home may become. Limit their use where possible and replace old incandescent bulbs with modern LED or fluorescent alternatives. For more expert advice on contemporary lighting options, don’t miss our easy guide to achieving luxe lighting on a budget, which covers styles that are energy efficient and stylish.
Not only are they more energy-efficient, but they also emit significantly less heat, helping to keep your interiors cooler.
Are you looking to upgrade your space? Look no further! Drop us an enquiry at [email protected] and let us help you transform your home into a smart and efficient living space. Our experts are here to assist you in finding the perfect smart home devices to suit your needs and enhance your lifestyle.
Designing your dream home can be an exciting journey, but it can also be overwhelming. With so many options and styles available, it can be challenging to decide what is best for you and your family. However, by considering factors such as functionality, color palette, furniture, materials, and personal style, you can create a space that is not only beautiful but also practical and comfortable.
When it comes to achieving a successful interior design project, choosing a provider with a rock-solid reputation and exceptional skills is paramount. At Redbrick Homes, we understand that inspiration is key. That’s why our top-quality interior design partners are ready to wow you with beautiful, personalized spaces brimming with exceptional Singaporean ideas.
Remember to take your time, do your research, and work with a professional if needed. With the right interior design choices, you can transform your house into a dream home that you’ll enjoy for years to come.
