With construction times of up to 5 years for a BTO, Singaporean homeowners have plenty of time to think about the styling of their future home. Most homeowners spend this time lining up a full renovation so the space is personalised on move-in, but often forget about critical furnishing elements such as window blinds, curtains, and shades.
The right window covering shapes how open and breezy a BTO feels, and how much privacy and sun protection it offers in return. Light, aesthetics, and ease of use are all factors that tie into the choice of window covering.
When Do Window Coverings Need To Be Decided for a BTO Renovation?
Window coverings like curtains and blinds are installed at the very end of the renovation. However, considerations for height and depth need to be made from the start..
Installing window grilles can result in less depth clearance for a double curtain track (sheer and blackout layers). As a rough estimate, you’ll need 12-15cm of clear beam depth to install a double curtain track. Consult the building plans of your flat and your renovation specialist to determine the space needed for both window grilles and your desired window covering.
A recessed curtain box can be created using a false ceiling – this is a popular choice that hides the curtain track or blind mount from view. The recess will also minimise light leaking from the top of the window coverings. Choosing this option requires the recess to be designed as part of the renovation – retrofitting a recess is more costly and requires a redo of the ceiling.
It’s also worth checking whether the casement windows swing inwards or outwards. Most HDB casements open outwards, which leaves blinds free to sit flush. Blinds do not work with windows that open inwards.
Window Covering Recommendations for BTO Flats
Curtains
Curtains are the most versatile option for BTO flats. Day and night curtains are ideal for living rooms and bedrooms where privacy is needed, and there is a wide array of fabric options to fit different aesthetics. Sheer curtains are especially useful for blocking heat from direct sunlight while letting in natural light.
Curtain tracks are best installed in a ceiling recess to hide the hardware – this includes manual and motorised curtain mechanisms. Decorative curtain rods are more traditional and do not need to be hidden in a recess.
Blinds
Roller blinds are a simple option, available in sunscreen, dim-out and blackout fabrics depending on how much light the space needs to filter. Blinds are easy to clean and operate, and are best placed in kitchens, laundries and study rooms.
In living rooms and bedrooms where lighting changes throughout the day, adjustable blinds are a better option. Korean Combi blinds or Venetian blinds offer more control over the amount of light that enters the space.
Additional Considerations for BTO Window Coverings
Motorisation
If you are considering motorised curtains or blinds, ensure that the electrical systems are in place to support them before installation. Hardwired motors need a power point above the window, so the renovation plan should account for one.
Window Direction
West and east-facing windows get the most direct sun, so the rooms behind them need more coverage.
West-facing windows get direct sun from roughly 2pm until sunset, entering at a low angle late in the day that causes glare and heat buildup. East-facing windows get direct sunlight from sunrise to late morning.
Dim-out or blackout curtain layers work best for these windows to reduce heat and block out light. Choose light coloured curtains to reduce heat absorption and diffusion indoors.
Blinds work well to reduce sunlight glare, but are less effective than curtains at reducing heat.
If you are planning for your BTO and need some inspiration on window coverings that match your desired aesthetic, we can help. Craft Axis offers showroom consultations where you can view and handle fabric options for curtains and blinds in person before placing a custom order. Consultations are available by appointment.
