Open Concept Living Room Design: MRETTY’s Singapore Expertise

Introduction: Why Open Concept Living Reigns in Singapore

In Singapore’s fast-paced urban landscape, where space is premium and modern lifestyles demand flexibility, open concept living rooms have become the heart of contemporary homes. Unlike traditional segmented layouts, open concept designs dissolve walls to create fluid, multi-functional spaces that blend living, dining, and entertaining areas. For homeowners in Singapore—where 80% reside in HDB flats or compact condos—this style isn’t just aesthetic; it’s a practical solution to maximize square footage while fostering family connection and social interaction.

At MRETTY, Singapore’s leading high-end custom furniture brand, we’ve mastered the art of open concept living room design. With over a decade of experience crafting bespoke wooden and panel-based furniture, we combine global design trends with local insights (think tropical humidity resistance, compact floor plans, and cultural preferences for natural materials) to deliver spaces that are both beautiful and built to last.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about designing an open concept living room—from planning steps to material selection—while showcasing why MRETTY stands out from competitors. Whether you’re renovating a 600 sq ft HDB flat or a sprawling landed property, our expertise ensures your space is functional, stylish, and uniquely yours.

Step 1: Define Zones Without Walls – The Art of Spatial Flow

The biggest challenge in open concept design? Preventing chaos. Without walls, you need intentional “zones” to guide movement and activity. For Singaporean homes, where space is limited, this requires precision.

Tip 1: Use Furniture as Dividers

Instead of physical walls, leverage sofas, low bookshelves, or console tables to subtly separate living and dining areas. For example, a 3-seater sofa angled toward the TV can act as a soft barrier between the seating area and a dining table placed perpendicular to it. At MRETTY, we often use our 25MM-thick solid wood console tables (crafted from ENF-grade plywood) as functional dividers—they’re sturdy enough to hold decor but slim enough to avoid blocking sightlines.

Tip 2: Align Key Elements

Create visual harmony by aligning focal points like sofas, rugs, and artwork along a central axis. In a recent project for a Marina Bay condo, we aligned the sofa with a floor-to-ceiling window, making the space feel airier while directing attention to the city skyline.

Singapore-Specific Hack: Maximize Natural Light

Singapore’s tropical climate means abundant sunlight, but harsh UV rays can fade furniture. We recommend placing low-emissivity (Low-E) glass windows (common in local homes) near seating areas and using sheer curtains to diffuse light. Our E0-grade lacquer finishes (5-coat system: 3 primer, 2 topcoat) resist yellowing, ensuring furniture stays pristine for years.

Step 2: Prioritize Durability – Materials That Withstand Singapore’s Climate

Open concept living rooms see heavy foot traffic, spills, and exposure to humidity—all of which demand robust materials. At MRETTY, we never compromise on quality, especially when it comes to the foundation of your space: the structure.

Our Secret Weapon: ENF-Grade Plywood + Aviation Aluminum Honeycomb

Most competitors use E1 or E0-grade particle boards, which are prone to swelling in high humidity. MRETTY’s custom furniture is built with ENF-grade (≤0.025mg/m³ formaldehyde emission) birch plywood—the gold standard for indoor air quality and durability. To further enhance structural integrity, we sandwich this plywood between layers of aviation aluminum honeycomb, a material used in aircraft for its lightweight yet high-strength properties. This hybrid design reduces weight (critical for Singapore’s high-rise homes) while increasing load-bearing capacity by 40% compared to traditional solid wood.

Comparison: MRETTY vs. Typical Competitors

Step 3: Smart Storage Solutions – Hide Clutter, Highlight Style

In open concept spaces, clutter is the enemy. Singaporean homeowners often struggle with limited storage, so integrating sleek, functional storage into your design is non-negotiable.

MRETTY’s Hidden Tech: Recessed Cabinets & Soft-Close Drawers

We specialize in “invisible” storage solutions that maintain the open feel. For example, in a recent project for a family in Tampines, we designed floor-to-ceiling cabinets with hidden hinges (no visible screws) and soft-close mechanisms. The interiors feature adjustable shelves (25MM-thick plywood) and pull-out baskets, perfect for storing toys, linens, or kitchen gadgets.

J-Channel Edge Design: Beauty Meets Function

Our signature J-groove edge profile (a 2mm-deep slot milled into cabinet edges) serves two purposes: it adds a modern, minimalist aesthetic while preventing dust and spills from settling into gaps. This detail is especially popular in Singapore, where maintenance is a priority.

Step 4: Lighting – Layer for Ambiance and Function

Lighting can make or break an open concept living room. In Singapore, where evenings are warm and humid, we recommend a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create depth.

Ambient Lighting: Ceiling Fans with Integrated Lights

Ceiling fans are a Singapore staple—they keep the air circulating without bulky AC units. We pair them with LED downlights (4000K warm white) to provide even, shadow-free illumination. At MRETTY, we custom-build fan blades from aviation aluminum (lightweight yet durable) and match their finish to your furniture (e.g., matte black, oak veneer).

Accent Lighting: Under-Cabinet Strips

Under-cabinet LED strips (3000K soft white) highlight your ENF-grade plywood’s natural grain while illuminating task areas like dining tables or reading nooks. We use dimmable strips with motion sensors—ideal for late-night snacks or late work sessions.

Step 5: Soft Furnishings – Add Warmth Without Overpowering

Open concept spaces need texture to feel inviting. In Singapore, where homes often feel “sterile” due to concrete and glass, soft furnishings like rugs, cushions, and curtains add warmth and personality.

MRETTY’s Soft-Furnishing Service: Tailored to Your Lifestyle

We offer a free soft-furnishing consultation with every project. Our in-house designers will:

• Recommend fabrics (e.g., moisture-resistant linen for tropical climates)

• Suggest color palettes (neutral bases with pops of green or terracotta, popular in Singaporean homes)

• Source custom-made cushions and throws (using OEKO-TEX certified materials)

In a recent project for a couple in Orchard Road, we paired a large jute rug (hypoallergenic, easy to clean) with olive-green velvet cushions and brass floor lamps—creating a cozy yet sophisticated vibe.

Case Study: Open Concept Living in a 700 sq ft Bukit Batok HDB Flat

The Client’s Challenge

Mr. and Mrs. Lee, a young professional couple with a toddler, wanted to transform their cramped 700 sq ft HDB flat into an open, family-friendly space. Their main concerns:

• Limited storage for toys and baby gear

• Poor natural light in the dining area

• Need for a dedicated workspace (Mrs. Lee works from home)

MRETTY’s Solution

We designed a seamless open concept layout with three key zones: living (sofa, TV), dining (extendable table), and workspace (floating desk). Here’s how we addressed their needs:

1. Storage: Built-in floor-to-ceiling cabinets (ENF-grade plywood + aviation aluminum frame) along the living-dining divider. The lower cabinets include pull-out toy bins (child-safe, soft-close), while upper cabinets house kitchen appliances.

2. Lighting: Recessed LED downlights above the sofa, under-cabinet strips in the dining area, and a wall-mounted LED panel above the workspace (adjustable color temperature).

3. Workspace: A floating desk (25MM-thick solid wood top) with integrated power outlets and a wall-mounted shelf for plants. The desk is positioned near the window to maximize natural light.

4. Durability: All surfaces feature our 5-coat E0 lacquer finish (resistant to scratches, stains, and UV rays) and hidden hinges (no visible hardware).

The Result

The Lees now enjoy a bright, uncluttered space where they can entertain guests, work, and spend time with their child—all without feeling cramped. “MRETTY’s attention to detail—like the anti-humidity coating and custom storage—made all the difference,” Mrs. Lee noted. “Our toddler can play safely, and we finally have a home that feels like us.”

Why MRETTY Stands Out in Singapore’s Competitive Market

Singapore’s custom furniture market is saturated with brands promising “quality” but delivering generic designs. At MRETTY, we differentiate ourselves through:

1. Material Innovation

Our exclusive use of ENF-grade plywood (the world’s strictest emission standard) ensures your family breathes easy. Paired with aviation aluminum honeycomb, our furniture is lighter, stronger, and more adaptable to Singapore’s high-rise living.

2. Local Expertise

We understand Singapore’s unique challenges—humidity, space constraints, and cultural preferences for natural materials. Our designs are tailored to local needs, from anti-termite treatments (required for HDB flats) to compact storage solutions for small kitchens.

3. End-to-End Service

From initial consultation to final installation, MRETTY handles every step. We offer 3D rendering (to visualize your space before construction), on-site measurements, and a 10-year structural warranty—peace of mind you won’t get from generic retailers.

Conclusion: Transform Your Open Concept Living Room with MRETTY

An open concept living room in Singapore is more than a trend—it’s a lifestyle upgrade. By prioritizing flow, durability, and smart storage, you can create a space that’s both functional and beautiful. At MRETTY, we combine global design excellence with local expertise to deliver custom furniture that stands the test of time.

Ready to reimagine your home? Book a free consultation with MRETTY today and let our award-winning designers bring your vision to life.

FSC-Certified Materials: All our wood products are FSC-certified, ensuring responsible forestry practices and traceability from forest to furniture.

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About the Author

Yang Song is a lead interior designer at MRETTY, with over 8 years of experience in Singapore’s custom furniture industry. A graduate of the National University of Singapore’s Design Programme, Yang has won multiple awards, including the 2022 Singapore Interior Design Awards (SIDA) for “Best Small Space Transformation” and the 2023 Asia Pacific Design Excellence Award for Sustainable Furniture. Her portfolio includes high-profile projects like the Marina One Residences open concept renovation and the orchard Road luxury condo redesign. When she’s not designing, Yang enjoys exploring Singapore’s street art scene—finding inspiration in the city’s vibrant culture.

MRETTY: Premium Bespoke Kitchen & Cabinet Systems Provider in Singapore.