Living Life in Colour

This eclectic 4-room BTO flat in Bidadari bursts with colour and texture. While one might think creatives designed this space, homeowners Jason and Vanessa were simply inspired by their love for colour and quirky finds. Their Instagram handle, @dillydally.home, reflects their unhurried approach to bringing their vision to life – putting thought into every step, from hand-sketching designs to scrutinising wood grain patterns in laminates.

After more than 3 years of living in their space, they share 5 valuable lessons from their journey.

1. Stay True to Your Style

“When we first got our flat, Scandinavian was the trend. We almost went with it as the ‘safe’ choice,” Jason recalls. As they explored different styles, they found themselves drawn to mid-century modern design with its use of shapes and textures. They decided to blend this style with their love for quirky, colourful pieces, creating their eclectic home.

“We have no regrets following our instincts! This style gives us the freedom to keep adding pieces that speak to us,” says Jason.

One of their latest additions, the vibrant rug unifies the varied tones in their living room. The vintage floor lamp, Vanessa’s favourite, features a distinctive silhouette that evokes the shape of kueh pie tee.

Pink shelves with a matching painted arch create a clever illusion of an enclosed shelf. This eye-catching feature frames the dining space, which they relocated beside the window to dine while enjoying views of the greenery below.

Inspired by mid-century modern design’s use of geometric shapes, their dining table features rounded and angular ends – custom-built from their own sketch. Deliberately mismatched chairs add to their eclectic style.

In the living area, round and square coffee tables are paired to create a charming display area, echoing the contrasting ends of their dining table.

2. Embrace the Learning Curve

Creating a cohesive yet colourful home was not straightforward. “Colourful doesn’t mean anything goes,” Vanessa explains. They learned through trial and error, sometimes purchasing items that did not quite fit their vision. These pieces were stored away rather than forced to work. “We enjoy how our home evolves over time,” Jason adds.

A sideboard in their study room showcases an assortment of quirky finds – nose-picking art parodies by a Taiwanese artist sit beside a lamp crafted from a real croissant.

Their study room also features another ‘arched shelf’ – this time in yellow, tucked neatly into the corner to maximise space.

3. Take Time to Make It Right

After receiving their keys, the couple spent nearly a year planning before renovation started, from sketching their ideas to visiting multiple tile shops. “This is our first home – we wanted it to be a space that we really love,” explains Jason.

The master bathroom combines geometric elements– circular cutouts with fluted glass on the door, and tiles with jewel-like prints. Psst: Vanessa personally oversaw the tiling to ensure a cohesive pattern.

4. Plan for Your Home Early

The couple’s biggest advice? “Start discussing housing options with your partner early and keep track of HDB’s sales launches,” Jason says. “These conversations help uncover preferences and resolve differences constructively.”

They opted for a BTO flat as they were not in a rush. While they don’t regret their careful approach to renovation, they suggest starting research at least a year before key collection to avoid delaying the move-in date.

Their open kitchen features a more muted palette, paired with a thoughtful mix of materials such as metal, wood, and rattan.

Adjacent to the kitchen, the common bathroom is elegantly concealed behind a fluted door.

An arched opening for their corridor – continuing the curved motif throughout their home.

5. Budget Smart — and Don’t Be Afraid to DIY

Jason and Vanessa chose a home that they could comfortably afford – they financed their $520,000 flat through an HDB loan paid using CPF contributions. When it came to renovation, they found creative ways to save, such as creating their own limewash paint for one of their bedroom walls.

Jason acknowledges that creating the limewash paint look for their bedroom was a bit of a gamble, but it turned out great and saved them thousands of dollars.

Their wardrobe features arched accents and fluted details, creating an elegant statement piece.

Their distinctive home serves as testament to their patient, thoughtful approach to balancing style with functionality. For Jason, this space represents far more than just beautiful design. “Home is a place of comfort, love, and where the most cherished memories are made,” he reflects.

Story by: Desiree Tan