What to Prepare Before Meeting Your ID

Written By Ivan Ang

Planning a home renovation or interior design project in Singapore can feel exciting, but also overwhelming — especially if you’re not sure where to start. Meeting your interior designer (ID) prepared can save time, reduce stress, and ensure your vision is executed perfectly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you should prepare before meeting your ID, from lifestyle requirements to budget planning.

1. Understand Your Lifestyle Requirements

Every home design starts with understanding how you live. Ask yourself:

  • How many people will live in the space? (Number of pax)

  • Do you entertain guests frequently?

  • Do you need a dedicated workspace, children’s area, or pet-friendly zones?

  • Are there any lifestyle habits that affect design decisions (e.g., lots of cooking, hobbies, or collections)?

Clearly outlining your lifestyle needs helps your ID design a home that is both functional and comfortable, tailored to your everyday life.

2. Determine the Number of Occupants (No. of Pax)

Knowing the exact number of people who will use the space is crucial for:

  • Room sizing and spatial planning

  • Furniture selection and layout

  • Storage requirements

For example, a 5-room HDB for a young couple may prioritize a home office and guest room, while a family with children will need play areas and extra storage.

3. Pick a Theme or Design Style

Your ID needs to know the aesthetic direction of your home. Popular themes in Singapore include:

  • Modern Minimalist

  • Scandinavian

  • Contemporary Luxury

  • Industrial Chic

  • Japandi (Japanese + Scandinavian fusion)

Gathering inspiration images, moodboards, or Pinterest boards can help your designer understand your taste, color preferences, and style expectations.

4. Set a Realistic Budget

Budgeting upfront is essential to avoid unnecessary stress later. Consider:

  • Overall renovation budget

  • Breakdown by rooms or areas (kitchen, bathrooms, living spaces)

  • Contingency fund (around 10–15%) for unexpected costs

Being transparent about your budget allows your ID to propose materials, finishes, and solutions that are feasible without compromising your vision.

5. Prepare a Wish List

Think about features or elements that are important to you:

  • Open-plan living vs. separate rooms

  • Built-in storage solutions

  • Smart home integration (lighting, security, entertainment)

  • Special requests (statement walls, artwork display, feature lighting)

Having a clear wish list ensures your designer prioritizes what matters most to you.

6. Collect Reference Images & Inspiration

Visual references help bridge the gap between ideas and reality.

  • Save photos from Pinterest, Instagram, or magazines.

  • Highlight colors, furniture, layouts, and textures you like.

  • Identify designs you dislike — knowing what to avoid is equally valuable.

Tip: Use these references to create a moodboard that summarizes your vision for your ID.

7. List Practical Considerations

Don’t forget functional details:

  • Existing furniture you plan to keep

  • Appliances or fittings (kitchen, bathroom)

  • Lighting preferences (natural vs. artificial)

  • Flooring and material constraints

Addressing these upfront avoids costly adjustments later.

Final Thoughts

Meeting an interior designer prepared is the first step toward a smooth, stress-free renovation. When you clarify your lifestyle, number of occupants, theme, budget, wish list, and practical requirements, you give your designer the tools to turn your dream home into reality.

Renovation and interior design can get overwhelming — but don’t worry. Contact Built Different — we got the expertise, we got your back. From concept to completion, we make sure your Singapore home is functional, stylish, and uniquely yours.

Ivan Ang