Eco-Friendly Condo Renovation Ideas to Create a Sustainable Home

What Singapore’s Green Plan Entails

The sustainable goals presented in the Singapore Green Plan 2030 are aimed at guiding Singapore towards a more sustainable and resilient future. Here is a summary of the key sustainability goals outlined in the plan:

1. 1. 1. 1. Green economy – to pursue green growth and create sustainable jobs by promoting green industries, investing in research and development, and adopting sustainable practices in various sectors.
         2. Sustainable energy – to enhance energy efficiency, increase the deployment of renewable energy sources, and reduce carbon emissions to mitigate climate change and ensure a sustainable energy future for Singapore.
         3. Sustainable living – to encourage sustainable consumption and production patterns among individuals and businesses, i.e. promoting recycling and reducing waste, adopting sustainable modes of transportation, and fostering a sustainable and liveable built environment.
         4. Resilient city – building a resilient and climate-ready city by improving infrastructure resilience, enhancing climate change adaptation measures, and ensuring sufficient green spaces and biodiversity conservation.
         5. Sustainable food – to strengthen food security and promote sustainable food production and consumption through innovative farming methods, local food production, and reducing food waste.
         6. Green transport – to shift towards sustainable and low-carbon transport options, including promoting electric vehicles, enhancing public transportation networks, and improving active mobility infrastructure.
         7. Water and waste management – aside from optimising water resources, enhancing water management capabilities, and promoting efficient water use, it also focuses on promoting a circular economy and reducing waste through recycling, waste-to-energy initiatives, and sustainable waste management practices.

Most goals are fulfilled by carefully considering sustainable options in your home renovation project (emphasised in bold and italic text). The next section presents how you would do it.

Sustainable Materials for Condo Renovation

A key aspect of sustainable home renovation is the careful selection of materials. Explore various types of sustainable materials for flooring, walls, and ceilings, highlighting their advantages over traditional alternatives.

Types of Sustainable Materials for Flooring, Walls, and Ceilings

For flooring

1. 1. 1. 1. Look for flooring options made from sustainably sourced timber that is either Forest Stewardship Council- (FSC) or Singapore Green Label Scheme- (SGLS) certified. Examples include Chengal, Merbau, and Burmese Teak.
         2. Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource and an eco-friendly flooring option. Search for bamboo flooring products that meet quality standards and have low formaldehyde emissions.
         3. Made from recycled tires, rubber tiles are durable, shock-absorbent, and suitable for areas with high foot traffic, such as gyms or playrooms.
         4. Engineered wood is a sustainable alternative to solid hardwood flooring that consists of a thin veneer of real wood on top of high-quality plywood. This construction method maximises the use of wood and reduces deforestation.
         5. Laminate flooring is made of composite wood and is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice. It replicates the appearance of natural wood or stone and is highly durable and easy to maintain.
         6. Vinyl flooring has become increasingly popular due to its versatility, durability, and eco-friendly features. Look for vinyl flooring options that are phthalate-free, have low Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), and are made with recycled content. It is also recyclable at the end of its lifespan.
         7. Choose carpets made from natural fibres such as wool, sisal, seagrass, or jute. They are renewable, biodegradable, and offer a softer and more natural feel underfoot. Also, consider carpets with recycled content or those that have obtained eco-label certifications.
         8. Eco-resilient flooring combines the durability of vinyl flooring with sustainable and renewable materials. This type of flooring is often made from natural minerals and is free from harmful chemicals. In addition to being a sustainable flooring option, it is slip- and scratch-resistant and easy to maintain.

When comparing traditional and sustainable materials, it becomes evident that sustainable options offer distinct advantages in terms of environmental impact, health considerations, and longevity. Traditional materials such as solid hardwood flooring, conventional paints, and standard gypsum ceilings often involve resource-intensive extraction, high VOC emissions, and limited recyclability. Sustainable materials, on the other hand, prioritise renewable resources, minimise emissions, and offer more eco-friendly disposal options.
By selecting eco-friendly materials for your condo renovation project, you can contribute to a greener future while creating a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing living space. It is advisable to consult with local suppliers or engage the expertise of interior designers in Singapore to ensure the availability and suitability of these sustainable materials in the local market.

Energy-efficient Lighting and Appliances

Optimising energy usage is another key to creating an eco-friendly condo in Singapore. Incorporate these condo renovation ideas into your renovation plans to significantly reduce energy consumption and condo renovation cost, lower utility bills, and contribute to a greener future.

Energy-efficient Lighting

1. 1. 1. 1. Light-Emitting Diode (LED) Lighting
            LED lighting has revolutionised the lighting industry with its exceptional energy efficiency and longevity. LEDs use significantly less energy and last much longer compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. They are available in various shapes, sizes, and colour temperatures, which makes them suitable for different lighting needs in your home. Look for LED bulbs with the Energy label for optimal efficiency.
         2. Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs)
            CFLs are another energy-efficient lighting option that can replace traditional incandescent bulbs. While not as efficient as LEDs, CFLs still offer significant energy savings and have a longer lifespan. They are available in different wattages and colour temperatures, providing versatile lighting solutions for different areas of your home.

Energy-efficient Appliances

Before we proceed, let us discuss Energy Efficient Rating (EER). The unit’s relative energy efficiency rating can be expressed in words: one tick on the check marks represents a low energy efficiency rating, while five ticks mean excellent energy efficiency.

1. 1. 1. 1. Refrigerators
            Refrigerators are rated from one to four ticks. Choose models with features like inverter technology and high EER (in this case, 4 ticks) for optimal energy savings. Refrigerator models may vary, so checking the energy labels and specifications of individual models available in Singapore is advisable.
         2. Air conditioners
            Like refrigerators, choose air conditioning units with high EER and inverter technology because they offer better energy efficiency compared to non-inverter models.
         3. Washing machines
            Select washing machines with high energy and water efficiency ratings. Front-loading machines are generally more energy-efficient and use less water than top-loading models. Look for washing machines with features such as variable temperature control and load-sensing technology for optimised energy and water usage.
         4. Water heaters
            Consider energy-efficient water heaters, such as heat pumps or solar water heaters. Heat pump water heaters extract heat from the air and transfer it to the water, consuming less energy than traditional electric storage heaters. Solar water heaters utilise the sun’s energy to heat water, reducing electricity consumption. It is recommended to consult with local suppliers or professionals to ensure the availability and suitability of these options in Singapore.

Improving Indoor Air Quality

Creating an eco-friendly condo goes beyond energy efficiency and eco-friendly materials. An often overlooked aspect is indoor air quality, which is vital in maintaining a healthy and sustainable living environment.

Understanding Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality refers to the cleanliness and healthiness of the air inside our homes. Poor indoor air quality can lead to various health issues, including allergies, respiratory problems, and even long-term health risks. Factors such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), dust, mould, and pollutants from household products and materials can degrade indoor air quality.

Importance of Improving Indoor Air Quality

Maintaining clean and healthy indoor air reduces our reliance on medications and healthcare resources, contributes to a healthier environment for ourselves and our families, and minimises the need for energy-intensive air purifiers or ventilation systems.

Sustainable Materials for Improving Indoor Air Quality

1. 1. 1. 1. Low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints
         2. Formaldehyde-free materials for furniture, cabinetry, and flooring
         3. Natural and sustainable fibres for upholstery, curtains, and carpets

Adequate Ventilation is Also Crucial

Make sure your condominium has sufficient ventilation, allowing fresh outdoor air to circulate and dilute any indoor pollutants.

• • • • Open windows regularly
      • Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms, and
      • Consider installing energy-efficient mechanical ventilation systems to improve air circulation

Regular Condo Cleaning and Maintenance

• • • • Regularly vacuum, dust, and mop to reduce dust and allergens.
      • Keep an eye out for mould growth
      • Address any water leaks promptly
      • Regular maintenance of HVAC systems, filters, and air-conditioning units.

Engaging an Interior Design Company for Eco-friendly Renovations

Engaging an experienced interior design company like Style+Space can make all the difference in creating a sustainable home through eco-friendly renovations. In Singapore, where many homeowners reside in condominiums, partnering with a knowledgeable and reputable interior designer ensures a seamless and eco-conscious renovation process.

Their expertise in sustainable design, customised condo renovation packages, access to sustainable materials, and continuous support will help you create a stylish and environmentally responsible home.

Have any questions about more sustainable options for condo renovations? Do not hesitate to contact us. Together, let’s transform your condominium into a beautiful, sustainable haven for you and your family.