House Renovation - designers or ala-carte?

[Gecko]

Is the reno going to be major? or something simple?


If it is simple, I think you can do it yourself, I guess.

I did have a very good contractor when I first shifted in 10 years ago. Unfortunately, these days he is a bit more \"atas\". He is now a \"designer\". More expensive too ......

Gecko

[buds]

It can be cheaper ala-carte when you go direct to source/supplier.


Like paint job for whole house can be 800 for whole house as
compared to 1k and above with the designer. Choice of paint
will also be factored in for eventual cost.

Laminates are also cheaper from source. A friend did her 3-bedrooms
for like 1.7k thereabouts instead of 1.9k at the designers…

Guess the cost will also depend on the quality, the brand and whether
your selections are the latest IN ones or not.

Lightings can also be cheaper from Balestier sources as compared to
the ones offered by the designers too.

[smurf]

I opt for reliable contractor! really can save a lot of stress…but if u r just renovating few things, then ala carte may be a better choice.


if u want, PM me for my contractor…

[verykiasu2010]

just painting one room ? DIY lah ! and do it with the kids are the best


unless you want built-in wardrobe, else go to those Ikea or HDB-shop furniture shops (better value)

for electrical, you better get a qualified contractor to do it. since it is ad hoc, some visible trunking should be acceptable, and get it done before the painting

[mintcc]

For painting for me I will probably get the painter in. I think most of the paint companies have those kind of service.


As for remake of kids room, I will probably DIY…and get furniture instead. There are lots of wall stickers available now a days to give the kids room a unique look.

[verykiasu2010]

mintcc:

For painting for me I will probably get the painter in. I think most of the paint companies have those kind of service.

where got free one ?

[Yong HL]

Thanks for all the advise i really appreciate them.

After reading the posts you guys made, i think to save costs (though i do have a strong urge to go contractor to save the stress part), i'd better go for alarte carte.. in fact, a fren of mine recommended me a fantastic website and it gave me an immediate \"inspiration\" on how to deco my girl's room.. (in case you are interested, the website is http://www.houzz.com).. And thanks to verykaisu2010, you just reminded me that paint works should come last (which i thot it should come 1st)... Thanks everyone!

[angel04]

For painting, when you choose the color, please note that the outcome will be like 2 tones darker… Many years ago, we painted our old hse on our own. While it surely looked pastel peach on the catalogue, the color came out hot orange color!! We had to bear it till we sold the flat 2.5 yrs later…


Paint companies shd be able to provide more info concerning color tone, do consult them before you get the paint.

Good luck!

[Yong HL]

Thanks angel04 for the tip

[flametree]

Hi mmm,


can i have the contact of the engineer that doubles up as architect for your a&a work?

we are planning for a&a work to be done next yr … now sourcing for contacts.

thanks!!

flametree