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Unlocking Space: Smart Design for Your 2025 2-Room Flexi BTO Planning your new home for the 2025 BTO launch? Many Singaporeans are eyeing the 2-room Flexi flats. These compact homes offer a smart entry into homeownership, especially for singles or couples. Despite their smaller footprint, with clever interior design and space-saving solutions, your 2-room Flexi can feel surprisingly spacious and functional. This guide helps you navigate the design process, offering practical tips and insights to transform your compact living space into a dream home. Understanding the 2-Room Flexi Layout in 2025 BTOs The 2-room Flexi flat, typically around 36 to 45 square metres, usually comes in two types: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 is smaller, generally offering a living/dining area, a kitchen, a bedroom, and a bathroom. Type 2 is slightly larger, sometimes providing more flexibility in layout, perhaps with a slightly larger living space or a more defined dining nook. These layouts focus on efficiency. When renovating your BTO, HDB has specific guidelines you need to follow. These are important for safety and structural integrity. Structural walls cannot be removed. Wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens have regulations on fixture placement and waterproofing. Always get the necessary […]

Getting Your 2-Room Flexi BTO Ready: Smart Design for Compact Living Thinking about your 2025 2-room Flexi BTO? Many homeowners wonder how to maximise space in a compact HDB flat, what design choices truly make a difference, and which interior designers are best for smaller homes. A well-planned renovation can transform a modest 2-room Flexi into a functional and stylish living space, proving that size does not limit design potential. This guide will walk you through practical space-saving ideas, smart flooring options, and essential tips for choosing the right interior designer, all while keeping HDB guidelines in mind for your upcoming BTO. Making the Most of Your Compact Space The beauty of a 2-room Flexi BTO lies in its efficient layout, but it often prompts questions like “How do I make my small flat feel bigger?” and “What’s the best furniture for limited space?” It’s all about smart planning and choosing the right elements. Here are some of my go-to strategies: Open Concepts: Where HDB regulations allow, consider an open-plan living and dining area. This creates a continuous flow, visually expanding the space. Multi-functional Furniture: Think sofa beds, dining tables that fold or extend, and storage ottomans. Every piece should […]

Thinking about renovating your 3-room BTO? You are in for an exciting journey. Maximising space, managing budget, and creating a comfortable home are key. This guide will help you navigate your renovation. We cover everything from smart layout ideas to choosing the right flooring and finding a good renovation partner. Understanding Your 3-Room BTO Renovation Cost One of the first questions homeowners ask is, “How much does a 3-room BTO renovation actually cost?” Renovation costs for a 3-room BTO in Singapore can vary quite a bit, typically ranging from S$25,000 to S$55,000, depending on the scope and materials. This figure covers everything from hacking and electrical works to carpentry, painting, and the installation of fixtures. Factors like custom built-ins, specific flooring choices, and whether you opt for an extensive overhaul versus a simple refresh heavily influence the final price tag. Budgeting for around 10-15% contingency on top of your estimated cost is always a smart move. This covers any unexpected issues that pop up during the renovation process, giving you peace of mind. From my experience, here’s a rough breakdown of what typical renovation scopes might look like for a 3-room BTO: Basic Renovation (S$25,000 – S$35,000): This often includes […]

Unlocking Your 4-Room HDB Living Room’s Full Potential Transforming your 4-room HDB living room into a stylish and comfortable sanctuary is definitely achievable. Many homeowners often wonder how to maximise space, incorporate modern design, and choose the right elements to reflect their personality. We'll explore practical design ideas, from embracing open layouts to selecting smart furniture, ensuring your living room becomes both functional and a joy to relax in. Embracing the Open Concept Layout An open concept layout is a game-changer for 4-room HDB living rooms, creating an illusion of greater space and allowing natural light to flow through your home. It breaks down visual barriers between the living, dining, and sometimes kitchen areas, fostering a more connected living environment. This setup encourages family interaction and makes entertaining guests much easier, as everyone can feel part of the conversation. Pros of Open Concept Cons of Open Concept Spacious and airy feel Less privacy for individual activities Enhanced natural light penetration Noise from one area can affect others Better flow for entertaining Defining distinct zones requires clever design Improved family interaction Odours from cooking can spread easily From my experience, when going for an open concept, consider using large area rugs […]

Smart Renovation Strategies for Your Three-Room BTO Flat Embarking on a three-room BTO renovation journey in Singapore is exciting. Many homeowners dream of a comfortable, stylish home but face a common challenge: making every dollar count. Finding that sweet spot between cost and comfort is key. With careful planning and smart choices, you can achieve a beautiful space without overspending. This guide offers practical advice for navigating your renovation budget and creating a home you love. Understanding Your Three-Room BTO Renovation Budget A common question on homeowners’ minds is the actual cost of renovating a three-room BTO flat. The truth is, renovation costs vary significantly. Factors like the scope of work, materials chosen, and the complexity of designs all play a role. A basic renovation, covering essential works like flooring, painting, and simple carpentry, generally costs less than a full-scale overhaul with extensive built-ins and custom features. Budget planning upfront helps avoid surprises. Typical Renovation Cost Breakdown From my experience, here is a general breakdown of how renovation costs are typically allocated for a three-room BTO flat in Singapore. These are estimates; actual costs depend on your specific choices and the contractor you engage. Renovation Component Estimated Cost Range (SGD) […]

Table of Contents Carl Okay, so you’re planning your home renovation, and thinking about air conditioning is totally essential in Singapore’s weather, right? Getting the aircon installation sorted properly is key to a comfortable home, and honestly, it can save you quite a bit on your electricity bills if done right. Choosing the right aircon contractor and understanding brands like Mitsubishi Electric, plus knowing about energy efficiency, makes a big difference. Getting Your Aircon Right During Renovation Many homeowners ask whether to install aircon before or after other renovation works. From my experience as a contractor, it’s often best to plan for aircon early in your renovation timeline, especially if you need concealed piping or trunking that integrates with ceiling or wall designs. Coordinate with your interior designer and renovation contractor – that’s me! – to make sure the piping and electrical points are properly laid out before painting or false ceiling works begin. This avoids messy touch-ups later and ensures a cleaner finish. Finding Reliable Aircon Contractors SG Trusts Choosing an aircon contractor isn’t just about finding the cheapest quote. You need someone reliable who knows what they’re doing. I always tell my clients to look for a contractor […]

An HDB accent wall transforms your living space, adding depth and personality. It serves as a focal point, enhancing aesthetics and potentially increasing perceived space. Popular choices include wood panelling, textured wallpaper, and bold paint colors, often integrated with a stylish TV wall design. Selecting the right material and colour palette ensures a cohesive and inviting home environment. Designing a Standout Feature Wall for Your HDB Living Room Why Consider an Accent Wall for Your HDB? Many homeowners ask me, ‘What exactly is an accent wall?’ Think of it as a specific wall in your room designed to draw attention. It stands out from the other walls, becoming a visual anchor. For HDB flats, where space can be tight, an accent wall works wonders. It adds depth, character, and can even make a room feel larger. This creates a focal point, directing eyes to a specific area, usually behind the sofa or your TV console. Advantages of a Feature Wall in Limited Spaces Visual Interest: Breaks monotony, preventing a plain, boxy feel. Space Perception: Strategically designed, it can make a room appear longer or wider. Personal Expression: Reflects your unique style and personality. Defined Zones: Helps delineate areas within an […]

Maximising Your Dual-Key Unit: Clever Designs for Modern Living Dual-key units offer a fantastic solution for many Singaporean families, blending the best of both worlds: individual privacy and collective convenience. Whether you are thinking of having your parents close by, accommodating adult children, or exploring a supplementary rental income, these units provide unique opportunities. It is all about creating two distinct living spaces under one roof, each with its own private entrance, while maintaining a sense of cohesion across the entire property. The key is to design smart, ensuring both privacy and comfort for all occupants. Understanding Dual-Key Units: More Than Just Two Homes Many homeowners ask me what exactly defines a dual-key unit. Simply put, it is a single property title, but it contains two separate living spaces, typically a main unit and a smaller, self-contained studio or one-bedroom unit. Each unit comes with its own entrance, bedroom, bathroom, and often a kitchenette. This setup is really popular here in Singapore because it addresses a few common needs head-on. Benefits of Dual-Key Living in Singapore Multi-generational Living: It allows elderly parents or adult children to live independently yet close by. This arrangement offers support without compromising personal space. Rental […]

Thinking of renovating your home and wondering about the best flooring? It’s a big decision, right? Many homeowners in Singapore ponder between durable, easy-to-maintain options like Premium Resilient Flooring (PRF) and newer eco-friendly choices. Choosing the right flooring impacts your home’s look, feel, and even its environmental footprint. We’ll explore why PRF is so popular here, what makes a floor eco-friendly, and share some pointers on picking a contractor for your project. Choosing Your Home’s Foundation: Premium Resilient Flooring and Eco-Friendly Options in Singapore Premium Resilient Flooring: The Singaporean Homeowner’s Favourite? You might have heard of Premium Resilient Flooring, or PRF. It’s becoming a go-to choice for many HDB and private homeowners across Singapore. What exactly is it? PRF covers a range of materials like Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) and Stone Polymer Composite (SPC) flooring. These aren’t just your regular old vinyl; they’ve evolved quite a bit. They are engineered to be tougher, more stable, and often waterproof, making them ideal for our humid climate. From my experience, folks often ask, “Is vinyl flooring good for Singapore?” The answer, especially with newer PRF, is a resounding yes. Its resistance to water and termites, coupled with easy maintenance, makes it a […]

Keeping Your Outdoor Sanctuary Shipshape: Wood Decking Care in Singapore Wood decking offers a wonderful spot to chill out, but with Singapore’s hot and humid weather, it needs a bit of love to stay good as new. Many homeowners wonder how often to maintain their deck, the best way to clean it, and if sealing is truly necessary. Regular decking maintenance, including proper cleaning and timely sealant application, is key to preventing rot and inspecting for damage. This keeps your decking looking sharp and extends its life for many years, giving you a beautiful, durable outdoor space. Why Your Wood Decking Needs Regular TLC in Singapore’s Climate Our sunny island weather, while great for outdoor living, can be a real challenge for wood decking. High humidity and heavy rains create a perfect breeding ground for mould, mildew, and algae. These not only make your deck slippery and unsightly but also trap moisture, accelerating wood rot and decay. From my experience helping clients with their interior design plans, a well-maintained deck significantly elevates the overall look and feel of a home, especially when it seamlessly blends with the indoor aesthetic. It is not just about aesthetics, it is about protecting your […]

Heard good things about Evorich’s HERF flooring for your Singapore home? Many homeowners are curious about its durability and waterproof claims. This popular vinyl flooring option offers an appealing wood aesthetic, but understanding real customer feedback and installation quality is crucial before deciding. Let’s dive deep into what Evorich HERF really offers and what to look out for. What is Evorich HERF Flooring Anyway? Evorich HERF flooring is a popular High End Resilient Flooring (HERF) brand in Singapore, essentially a durable luxury vinyl plank (LVP) known for mimicking natural wood. It’s often chosen for its purported water resistance, ease of maintenance, and click-lock installation system, making it a common alternative to traditional parquet or laminate. Many homeowners consider it for a contemporary yet practical finish. HERF stands for High End Resilient Flooring, which basically means it is a type of vinyl flooring designed to be tougher and more aesthetically pleasing than older vinyl options. Evorich markets it as a great choice for those who love the look of wood but want something easier to maintain and more resistant to daily wear and tear. Its click-lock system makes installation quicker than traditional methods, which is a big draw for many. The […]

Navigating Flooring Choices: An Honest Look at Floor Xpert from a Contractor’s Lens Thinking about new floors for your Singapore home? Many homeowners check out Floor Xpert. This comprehensive look at Floor Xpert covers important aspects like their vinyl flooring, customer service, installation quality, and pricing. We break down common homeowner questions to help you make an informed decision for your home renovation project. Our analysis provides direct insights, making it easier to understand if Floor Xpert aligns with your specific needs for durable and stylish Singapore flooring. Diving Deep into Floor Xpert: What Singapore Homeowners Say When it comes to picking a flooring supplier, homeowners in Singapore often ask if Floor Xpert is a reliable option. Based on my experience and observations from the ground, they are a well-known name in the industry. Many clients consider them for their extensive range and established presence. Is Floor Xpert a Good Choice for Singapore Flooring? Many homeowners ask, “Is Floor Xpert good?” The answer often depends on what you prioritise. They offer a wide selection, particularly in the vinyl flooring segment, which is popular here. Their showrooms are quite comprehensive, allowing you to see and feel the materials. My clients appreciate […]

Transforming your home office into a hub of productivity involves more than just a comfortable chair and a fast internet connection. Many homeowners overlook the subtle yet powerful impact of their workspace’s energy. Integrating ancient feng shui principles can significantly boost focus, creativity, and overall well-being. Think about how your surroundings make you feel. A well-designed office, harmonising with natural energy flows, truly makes a difference. We are looking at creating an environment that supports your career aspirations and daily tasks. Crafting Your Productive Home Office Sanctuary Mastering Your Desk Placement for Optimal Flow One of the most crucial elements in home office feng shui is your desk’s position. This determines your comfort and control over your environment. The Command Position Explained The “command position” is ideal. Your desk faces the room entrance, but you are not directly in line with the door. You see who enters, maintaining a sense of security and control. Your back should have a solid wall, offering support and stability. Imagine an important CEO’s office; they can see the door without being exposed. This setup cultivates confidence and a feeling of being in charge of your work. A common PAA question asks: “Where should I […]

Transforming your HDB flat into a tranquil, nature-inspired haven is very achievable. Incorporating elements like indoor plants, warm wood tones, and maximizing natural light brings a sense of calm and boosts overall well-being. It creates an inviting atmosphere, promotes better air quality, and often aligns with sustainable living practices. Homeowners can enjoy a space that feels more open, airy, and deeply connected to the outdoors, right in the heart of Singapore. Bringing Nature’s Touch into Your HDB Sanctuary Why Embrace Nature in Your HDB? Many HDB homeowners in Singapore ask about making their flats feel less “concrete” and more like a retreat. The answer often lies in natural elements. These designs go beyond aesthetics. They genuinely enhance living quality. Studies show exposure to nature reduces stress and improves mood. Think of your HDB becoming a personal sanctuary. Benefits Beyond Aesthetics Improved Air Quality: Indoor plants naturally filter air pollutants. NASA’s Clean Air Study highlights specific plants’ abilities. Enhanced Mood and Well-being: Biophilic design, connecting humans to nature, has proven psychological benefits. Better Thermal Comfort: Strategic use of materials and ventilation helps regulate indoor temperatures. Timeless Appeal: Natural materials age gracefully. They offer a classic look that doesn’t go out of […]

Choosing an interior designer for your dream home renovation can feel like a massive task, especially with so many firms out there. Homeowners often look up reviews for specific companies, and firms like Interior Times frequently come up in searches. But reading reviews is just one step. As a contractor, I’ve seen firsthand what goes into a successful reno, and it is more than just pretty pictures or flashy showrooms. It really boils down to understanding customer experience, workmanship quality, and how to effectively pick the right design firm for your needs. Understanding Interior Times and Singapore’s ID Landscape Many homeowners start their journey by searching for “Interior Times review” or similar queries for other firms. They want to know if these firms deliver on their promises. Generally, reviews for any large design firm will be a mixed bag. Some clients rave about the design concepts and smooth execution, while others might share experiences about delays or communication hiccups. What is truly important is not just the review itself, but knowing how to interpret it and what other steps you should take to ensure a good partnership. What Homeowners Ask About Interior Times and Other IDs I often hear homeowners […]

Designing Your Dream Kitchen in a Three-Room BTO Transforming a compact three-room BTO kitchen into a functional and stylish space is totally achievable. Many homeowners wonder how to best utilise every inch, what appliances fit a smaller footprint, and which materials like quartz countertops really make a difference. This guide will walk you through smart small kitchen layout ideas, advise on suitable kitchen appliances, explore the benefits of quartz countertops, and showcase how sleek cabinetry can elevate your cooking area. Maximising Space in Your Three-Room BTO Kitchen Three-room BTO flats in Singapore typically offer cosy living, and that includes the kitchen. The average floor area for a 3-room BTO flat is around 60-65 square meters, meaning kitchen space is often at a premium. The key here is not just fitting things in, but making the space feel open and efficient. We often get asked about making the most of a compact area, and it really boils down to clever design and smart choices. Smart Layout Solutions for Compact Kitchens For a three-room BTO kitchen, traditional layouts might feel cramped. Here are some of the most effective small kitchen layout options we see working well: L-Shaped Kitchen: This layout uses two […]

Crafting a Big Life in Your Cosy Two-Room Flexi Living in a Two-Room Flexi BTO means embracing a compact lifestyle, but it certainly doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or style. Many homeowners wonder how to make their limited space feel expansive and functional. The trick lies in smart design choices: integrating multi-functional furniture, optimising every inch for storage, and employing visual strategies to create an open, airy feel. With the right approach, your cosy flat can become a highly efficient and beautiful home tailored to your needs. Smart Layouts That Open Up Your Space The layout of your Two-Room Flexi is the foundation for maximising its potential. Unlike larger flats, you have to be clever about how zones are defined without erecting too many walls. Open Concept vs. Defined Zones An open concept design is a popular choice for smaller homes. It visually extends the living area, making the entire flat feel larger. However, some homeowners prefer a sense of separation. **Open Concept Pros:** Enhanced spaciousness and natural light flow. Easier for entertaining guests. Greater flexibility in furniture arrangement. **Open Concept Cons:** Less privacy between areas. Noise can travel easily. Requires careful organisation to avoid clutter. For those who prefer some […]

Thinking about giving your four-room HDB flat a fresh, modern look? Many homeowners in Singapore are keen on open concept layouts for the enhanced visual spaciousness and abundant natural light they offer. It transforms your living space, making even a compact HDB feel significantly larger and more inviting. This approach removes physical barriers, promoting a seamless flow between common areas like the living, dining, and sometimes even the kitchen. Deciding to knock down walls requires careful consideration of structural integrity and HDB regulations, but the result is a home that looks and feels more expansive, often bathed in daylight. Transforming Your 4-Room HDB with an Open Concept Layout Why Go Open Concept for Your HDB? An open concept HDB layout is a popular choice among homeowners for good reason. It immediately addresses the common challenge of limited space in urban apartments. By removing internal walls, you create a continuous area that tricks the eye into perceiving a much larger room. This visual spaciousness is a game-changer for 4-room HDB flats, making them feel less confined. Natural light also plays a huge role here. With fewer walls blocking its path, sunlight can penetrate deeper into your home, brightening up previously dark […]

Transforming your HDB into a serene, functional sanctuary feels like a dream for many Singaporean homeowners. Many wonder if the clean lines and bright spaces of Scandinavian design really fit our compact HDB layouts. The good news is, absolutely! This style is practically made for HDBs, emphasising smart solutions and a calm vibe without feeling cold or impersonal. Embracing Scandinavian Minimalism for Your HDB Thinking about a home refresh with that popular Nordic touch? Scandinavian design, at its core, champions functionality, simplicity, and natural elements. When applied to HDBs, it translates into a space that feels open, airy, and incredibly practical. It is about creating a home where every item serves a purpose and contributes to a calm atmosphere. The Essence of Scandinavian HDB Design Getting that Scandinavian feel in your HDB involves a few key principles. It is not just about aesthetics; it is a way of living. We are talking about smart use of space, bringing in natural light, and keeping things clutter-free. This approach ensures your HDB feels bigger and more inviting. Mastering Muted Tones and Clean Lines The colour palette for Scandinavian HDBs typically revolves around whites, soft greys, beiges, and light blues. These muted tones […]

Table of Contents Carl Alright, thinking about renovating your HDB flat? Whether it’s your first BTO or an older resale unit, getting the design right is key to making your space truly feel like home. Everyone wants a functional, stylish place, and in land-scarce Singapore, mastering space-saving ideas is a must. We’re talking about creating that dream home vibe without breaking the bank or cluttering up your precious square footage. Picking the right renovation path, understanding BTO renovation packages, and finding trusted help makes a huge difference. Planning your HDB renovation journey involves many steps, from finalising your desired aesthetic and understanding potential costs to navigating the options for BTO renovation packages. A big part of successful HDB design is implementing smart space-saving ideas to maximize your living area, especially in smaller flats. You also need to consider practical aspects like choosing durable flooring materials and, crucially, finding the right interior designer in Singapore who understands HDB specificities and your personal needs. It’s about balancing beauty, function, and budget for the best HDB design result. Planning Your HDB Renovation Budget Okay, first thing first, money matters. Renovation costs in Singapore can feel like kena shock sometimes, lah! But it’s manageable […]

Choosing the right flooring for your Singapore home can feel like a big decision. With our tropical weather, you need something durable, easy to maintain, and stylish. Many homeowners ask what type of flooring stands up best to humidity and daily wear and tear. We’ll dive into popular options like SPC, vinyl, HERF, and timber flooring, comparing their pros and cons so you can make an informed choice for your renovation. Understanding Popular Flooring Options for Singapore Homes Singapore’s climate, known for its high humidity and heat, significantly influences flooring choices. What looks good might not always be practical or durable here. It’s crucial to pick materials that can withstand moisture, resist warping, and still look fantastic for years to come. Here’s a look at some of the most sought-after flooring types homeowners consider. SPC Flooring: The Modern All-Rounder SPC flooring, or Stone Plastic Composite, is a relative newcomer gaining immense popularity. It’s engineered with a rigid, waterproof core made from natural limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride, and stabilisers. This construction makes it incredibly durable and resistant to water, making it a strong contender for humidity-resistant flooring. Pros of SPC Flooring Highly waterproof, great for areas prone to spills like kitchens […]

“ Table of Contents ” Choosing the right flooring is a big decision for any Singaporean home renovation. Two popular options homeowners here often consider are vinyl and laminate flooring. Both offer the look of natural materials without the high cost, but they have key differences affecting their suitability for our climate and lifestyle. Understanding the Basics Before we compare, let’s look at what each flooring type is made of. What is Vinyl Flooring? Vinyl flooring is a synthetic product made primarily from PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Modern vinyl comes in planks or tiles and often has multiple layers, including a wear layer, a design layer (with the pattern), a core layer (often SPC – Stone Plastic Composite, or WPC – Wood Plastic Composite), and a backing layer. This construction gives it flexibility and inherent water resistance. Singapore homeowners increasingly choose vinyl flooring Singapore because of its practical benefits in our climate. What is Laminate Flooring? Laminate flooring is made from compressed wood fiber or particleboard, topped with a printed design layer and a protective wear layer. It mimics the look of wood, tile, or stone very well. The core is wood-based, which is the main difference compared to vinyl. Key […]

SPC Flooring Explained: A Singaporean Homeowner’s Guide to this Popular Choice Thinking about giving your home a fresh new look, starting from the ground up? SPC flooring, short for Stone Plastic Composite, is a type of `rigid core vinyl` that’s becoming a real favourite among Singaporean homeowners. It is well-known for being extremely `waterproof flooring`, super `durable`, and relatively easy to maintain, making it a practical and stylish option for our local climate. If you’re weighing your options and wondering if SPC is the right fit for your living space, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from `flooring installation` to `cost` and how it stacks up against other materials like `laminate`. What exactly is SPC Flooring? (And why is it rigid core vinyl?) Let’s break down `SPC flooring`. It is a multi-layered floor plank with a core made primarily from powdered limestone, polyvinyl chloride, and stabilizers. This unique composition is what gives SPC its signature “rigid core” characteristic – it is much denser and more stable than traditional `vinyl plank` flooring. This stone-plastic composite core is what makes it so tough and resistant to impacts, which is definitely a plus for busy households here in […]

Wood decking offers a fantastic way to extend your living space outdoors, creating a cozy spot perfect for unwinding after a long day or hosting friends and family. For Singaporean homeowners, this outdoor feature can transform a balcony, patio, or garden into a lush, inviting area that truly feels like an extension of the home. However, choosing and maintaining a wood deck in our tropical climate comes with its own set of considerations, from selecting the right timber to understanding proper installation and upkeep. We often get questions about how wood decking performs here, what upkeep is truly needed, and whether it is a worthwhile investment. This guide will help you navigate these decisions, ensuring your decking project brings lasting enjoyment and beauty to your home. Bringing the Outdoors In: Why Wood Decking Charms Singaporean Homes There’s something uniquely appealing about wood decking that draws homeowners in Singapore. It adds warmth and natural beauty, softening the lines of a modern home and creating a tranquil retreat. Imagine a morning coffee on your timber deck as the city wakes up, or an evening gathering under the stars. Wood decking creates an inviting zone for outdoor living, a valuable addition especially in […]