The Reality of Outdoor Spaces | Can Outdoor Living Really Work in Singapore?

The Reality of Outdoor Spaces | Can Outdoor Living Really Work in Singapore?

Outdoor living sounds great in theory. A cosy balcony, resort-inspired decking, outdoor dining, lush greenery and a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.But how practical is it in Singapore's climate?In this episode of The SIXiDER Show, Astley Ng aka The Designerd sits down with Marcus from Atrellis Zip Blinds & Home Decor and Serene from XingFloors to explore the realities of designing and maintaining outdoor spaces in Singapore homes.From balcony decking and zip blinds to roofing systems, WPC decking, natural wood maintenance and common homeowner misconceptions, this conversation uncovers what it really takes to create an outdoor space that looks good and remains functional over time.Whether you are:• planning a balcony renovation• considering decking for your condo or landed home• deciding between natural wood and WPC decking• exploring outdoor blinds, awnings or roofing solutions• or simply trying to maximise your outdoor spaceThis episode offers practical insights from professionals who work on these spaces every day.Topics Covered in This Episode• Common misconceptions homeowners have about outdoor spaces• Balcony design mistakes and functionality considerations• Decking drainage and maintenance concerns• WPC decking vs natural wood decking• Heat management and outdoor comfort• Retractable awnings, roofing and balcony regulations• Why outdoor renovations often cost more than expected

What is RCMA? | What RCMA Does for Homeowners & the Renovation Industry？

Renovation is more than beautiful designs and completed homes.Behind every project is an entire ecosystem of contractors, suppliers, accreditation bodies, and industry professionals working together to uphold standards, improve accountability, and protect homeowners throughout their renovation journey.In this episode of The SIXiDER Show, Astley Ng aka The Designerd sits down with Melvin Ong from Chapter 13 Interior (RCMA Sub-Committee Member) and Jimmy Hong from Livinci Interior Design (My NICE Home Speaker & RCMA Board Committee Member) to explore the role of RCMA (Renovation Contractors and Material Suppliers Association) and how it contributes to Singapore's renovation industry.From homeowner protection and CaseTrust accreditation, to industry regulations, renovation education, sustainability initiatives, and the newly launched RCMA Awards, this episode sheds light on the work that happens beyond good design.Whether you are:• planning your first home renovation• comparing different interior design firms• trying to understand RCMA and CaseTrust accreditation• looking to avoid renovation scams• or simply curious about how Singapore's renovation industry worksThis episode offers a perspective that many homeowners rarely get to hear.

Colour Can Change A Space | Choosing Colours Without Fear

Colour is more than decoration.The colours we choose for our homes influence mood, emotions, comfort, and even the way we experience a space daily. Yet for many homeowners, choosing colours still feels like taking a gamble.In this episode of The SIXiDER Show, Astley Ng aka The Designerd sits down with Si Qing, R&D Lead from Dulux and Si Hui from SIXiDES to unpack the psychology, science, and emotional impact behind colour choices in interior spaces.From why paint is more than “just paint”, to how colour affects emotions, lighting, perception, and functionality, this episode explores why colour confidence is something many homeowners struggle with during renovation.Whether you are:• planning your first home renovation• struggling to choose colours for your home• afraid of making the wrong colour decisions• trying to better understand how colours affect mood and atmosphere• or curious about the science behind paint and colour psychologyThis episode offers a perspective many homeowners overlook when designing their homes.

The Realities Behind Renovation | What Homeowners Only Realise Too Late | The SIXiDER Show Highlight

Some of the biggest renovation lessons are the things homeowners only realise after renovation begins.Behind every finished home are contractors solving problems on site, designers balancing form and function, and conversations that quietly shape the entire renovation journey.In this special highlight episode of The SIXiDER Show Season 2, Astley aka The Designerd brings together key moments from Episodes 9–11, featuring honest conversations with contractors, homeowners, and interior designers across the industry.Featuring insights from:Wesley and Ah Keong from Cowboy, Siang Seng from Wallstan Pte Ltd, Shaun from Verse Concept, Averse from A Blue Cube Design, Yu Ting, homeowner, Dennis Cheok from UPSTRS_, and Jackie Lai from MCC Singapore / Jia Studios LLPWhether you are:• planning your first home renovation• currently working with a designer or contractor• struggling with renovation expectations• trying to better understand renovation costs and processes• or simply curious about what really happens behind good homesThis episode offers perspectives many homeowners only realise too late.

Good Design or Good Living? | Can Interior Design Really Have Both?

Form and function have always been one of the biggest balancing acts in interior design. A beautiful space may look good on social media. But if it doesn’t work for the people living inside it, that’s where function fails.In this episode of The SIXiDER Show, Astley Ng aka The Designerd sits down with Dennis Cheok from UPSTRS_ and Jackie Lai from MCC Singapore / Jia Studios LLP to unpack the realities behind designing homes that are not only aesthetically pleasing, but practical to live in.From shrinking renovation budgets and sustainability challenges, to durability concerns and homeowner expectations after move-in, this episode explores the difficult decisions designers constantly navigate behind every completed home.Whether you are:• planning your first home renovation• struggling between aesthetics and practicality• trying to maximise functionality in a smaller home• or curious about how designers make real-life design decisionsThis episode offers a perspective many homeowners only realise after moving in.Topics Covered in This Episode• Can $30,000 still renovate a home today?• Why form and function often conflict in design• The pressure designers face balancing beauty and practicality• Durability vs sustainability in modern homes• Why some aesthetic choices fail in daily living• The realities behind homeowner expectations• Small homes and functional space planning• What designers wish homeowners understood earlier• Why good design is more than just visual aesthetics• Advice for homeowners before renovation