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Transforming Your Space with Modular Furniture Magic

Forget traditional carpentry. Are you ready to embrace a material that is more superior than wood for your home’s furnishing system?

From shelves to cabinets – be it for your bedrooms, kitchen, bathrooms, living area, service yard, or anywhere around your house – aluminium furniture system reigns supreme in creating a modern living space for your family that offers unmatched durability, sophistication and robust customization that is free of formaldehyde and susceptibility to moulding and termite infestation.

Introducing Ximula, the Flexible Aluminium System that provides you all the versatility that you can ever dream of, plus a lifetime warranty to boot. This article takes you exploring some of Ximula’s masterpieces of actual homes – get ready to ignite your design dreams that match aesthetics with functionality.

1. Bedroom – Ximula Offers Modular Wardrobe System to Maximize Space Potential

Being able to configure a space to individual’s need is a key to maximizing limited real estate space. When it comes to customized wardrobe, there are so many elements for thoughtful configuration – type of closet doors, layout and size of hangers or drawers, mirror placement, lighting, potential for inbuilt vanity or hidden safety deposit box, etc.! Make a list of your requirements and work with your designer to tailor your ideal wardrobe system.

↳Leverage on Ximula modular wardrobe system to achieve flexibility as shelves and hanging rods can be easily adjusted to different heights, enabling the customization of storage space for various clothing types and better adaptation to one’s evolving wardrobe and lifestyle.

Ditch traditional carpentry if you want to build a sleek walk-in wardrobe to complement modern design sensibilities. The pole system used here is designed to accommodate the owner’s requirement for accessibility and versatility.

↳Open pole system can create a more airy and spacious feel in a room as compared to closed wardrobes.

In addition, Ximula allows seamless integration with various surfaces – from wood laminates, to mirrors or glass – as well as integration with LED lights to illuminate closet interior and display.

↳This pull-out tray forms part of a vanity table using Ximula system. The individual compartments prevent pieces from scratching each other.

2. Kitchen – Ximula Enables Innovative Storage and Worry-Free Beauty

Unlike wood, aluminium kitchen cabinet won’t warp or crack due to heat and moisture, ensuring exceptional cabinet longevity. Also, aluminium doesn’t harbour bacteria or mould as easily as wood, making it easier to maintain a clean and healthy kitchen environment.

Utilizing vertical space by installing cabinets or shelves all the way up to the ceiling is a common way to maximize kitchen space – however, pull-down shelving for easier accessibility to the higher cabinets is only achievable with the innovative aluminium system.

With Ximula, homeowners can maximize hidden cabinet corners – simply communicate your storage needs and the specialists at Ximula will do their best to bring your idea to life.

If you’re creating a wet kitchen, like the one featured below, Ximula aluminium system and sintered stone surface make a strong pair for their weather-resistant properties. While available in three inhouse colours – silver, black and gold – the frame of Ximula’s aluminium system can be powder-coated and customized to any colour of your choice with a fee, so you can achieve seamless blend with different materials.

Below is one featuring the Ximula aluminium frame with a white powder-coated finish that echoes the light tones of the Quartz countertop beautifully, creating a unified and airy aesthetic.

Consult with an experienced Ximula specialist to design the best aluminium kitchen that is optimized for storage and functionality.

3. Bathroom – Resist Moisture Related Damages with Ximula

The water resistance property of aluminium cabinet makes it ideal to be used for bathroom shelving and cabinets. Besides avoiding issues like mould growth, Ximula system will not warp, swell, or crack due to moisture exposure, making it ideal for the humid environment of bathrooms.

4. Living Areas – Ximula is Built for Strength and Designed for Customization

Crafted from premium aluminium, Ximula allows you to display light or heavy objects with confidence! Enjoy the flexibility of versatile shelving units that adapts to your collection, offering endless display possibilities.

↳ Ximula pole system handles high weight loads with ease.

↳Here’s a closer look at its adaptable components seamlessly interlock.

5. Service Yard – Ximula is Perfect for High Humidity Areas

Unlike traditional carpentry, aluminium cabinets and shelves are better fit to withstand the moisture and humidity common in service yards. Ximula’s premium aluminium eliminates the risk of rust stains, ensuring the cabinets and shelves remain strong and functional for years.

6. Outdoors – Ximula is Built to Withstand the Elements

Rain or shine, you can trust on Ximula to be a steadfast solution for outdoor storage needs. As a weatherproof material, there is no need to worry warping, cracking or termite infestation. Featured below is a Ximula’s customer outdoor shoe cabinet.

About Ximula

Ximula is one of the brands under Bellus Group Pte Ltd. Established in 2004, Bellus has grown from a mere2000 sqft production facility to a now 60,000 sqft production and manufacturing facility. As a multi-faceted surface specialist that customises, fabricates, supplies and installs, Bellus offers an extensive product line such as Natural Marble and Granite, Solid Surface, Cultured Marble, Engineered Quartz and Sintered Surface.

Wish to see more Ximula products in person? Get connected with Ximula specialists via their website and schedule a visit to tour the largest aluminium system showroom in Singapore.

As part of Bellus’ 20^th anniversary, enjoy 20% off when you create your space with Ximula Flexible Aluminium System. Offer ends 31 August 2024. Discount applies to complete orders only; purchase of parts and accessories are not eligible. Terms and conditions apply, contact Ximula for details.

↳Here’s a glimpse of Bellus’ showroom. Featured in the foreground is Ximula aluminium system in gold.

Unlock the Power of Period 9 to Improve Your Residential Feng Shui for Better Luck & Health – Tips from Master Yang Feng Shui

In Feng Shui term, ‘Period 9’ (known as九运) is a 20-year cycle that officially begins on February 4, 2024. We are in the last quarter of 2023 but “we are essentially entering Period 9,” according to Master YangLi, founder of Master Yang Feng Shui, “there is no better time than now to improve your residential fengshui so as to boost your personal luck and health.”

In this article, we share three key areas and tips by Master YangLi, who has over 30 years of Feng Shui consultation experience, to improve your residential Feng Shui in Period 9.

1. Create a living room to promote financial prosperity

The living room is of significant importance in Feng Shui as it is the central gathering space of your home. When designed well, it is believed that the energy of the living room can influence positive energy that is conducive to homeowner’s financial prosperity, as well as health and relationships.

In Period 9 Feng Shui, the Fire element plays a dominant role. As lighting is a representation of fire, a bright and well-ventilated living room evokes vitality and promotes the flow of Chi (energy). Here are some tips by Master YangLi for you to consider when designing or arranging your living room:

Avoid cluttering the living room as it blocks the flow of positive energy.
It is vital for the living room to be larger than the bedroom. Should a bedroom be bigger than the living room, it may cause unstable luck in the household.
The living room space must be amplified, do not downsize the area to build another room as it will affect a couple’s relationship.
Chairs placement in the living room is better in pairs.
Avoid beams in the ceiling – exposed ceiling beams may give you that depth and texture for aesthetics, but in Feng Shui terms, ceiling beam poses the most lethal energy, all the more threatening in Period 9.

2. Locate your Wealth Spot to Enhance Your Financial & Overall Well-Being

To be prosperous, first and foremost, you will need to locate the wealth spot in your residence (usually Northwest or Southwest facing). Depending on your type of residence, the wealth spot of landed properties is assessed on the ground level whereas determining the wealth spot of single-storey HDB flats will take the entire flat into consideration. In Feng Shui, the wealth spot does not just affect your fortune, it can affect your health when the flow of energy in the environment is impaired.

After identifying your wealth spot, follow these recommendations by Master YangLi to boost your fortune:

The wealth spot must be well-lit. Add a light if needed. A poorly lit wealth spot hinders your fortune.
Keep sharp and thorny objects, such as scissors and cactus, away from the wealth spot.
Keep the wealth spot clean.
Maintain positive, vibrant energy in the wealth spot by placing large, live plants that are firmly grown in soil (according to Master YangLi, water-grown plants symbolize unstable foundation)
If you’re able to sit or sleep in the surrounding area, spend more time there to reap the good fortune.

It will be ideal if your wealth spot is backed by a wall as this as this symbolizes solid support and the ability to retain wealth. Master Yang stresses that a wealth spot must not have missing corners, otherwise it is equivalent to having no wealth spot and you will have challenges in gathering or retaining your wealth. Should you find your home Feng Shui in such less-than-ideal scenarios, consult Master Yang for advice on Feng Shui remedies.

3. Eliminate Water Elements in the South to Safeguard your Health

In Period 9 Feng Shui, the south sector of your home is associated with the fire element. Since fire and water are opposing element, having water elements in the south sector will cause a clash of energy and weakening of the fire element that may lead to health problems for the homeowners.

Hence, Master YangLi recommends avoiding the following:

Avoid placement of water elements such as washing machine and aquarium
Avoid painting colour blue if the room is situated in the South
Avoid construction or view of swimming pool
Avoid unstable and wavey components or designs

The best area to have water elements is in the Southeast. If your bathroom is situated in Southeast, you are sure to be prosperous!

About Master YangLi

Master YangLi founded Master Yang Feng Shui and is the 41st generation successor of Yang Gong, a Chinese geomancer widely respected as the founder of Feng Shui. Master YangLi entered the Yang Family at the age of 13 and began his apprenticeship; he further honed his knowledge and skills the Beijing Academy of Yi Jing (北京易经学院). Master YangLi takes his mentor’s teachings to heart: “Providing Feng Shui consultation is akin to doctor treating a patient. However, if a doctor misdiagnoses a patient, it will only harm one person; if a Feng Shui master makes a mistake, it will harm three generations. When providing feng shui consultation, one must not be blind or motivated by profit. One must be a good person and do one’s best to be a feng shui master with integrity to promote Yang’s Feng Shui.”

Hence, Master YangLi strongly believes in using Feng Shui to help improve lives; he is committed to making his Feng Shui consultation services and packages affordable, so that more people can benefit from his knowledge. To book a consultation, Whatsapp to +65 9825 6867 or fill up the contact form on https://masteryangfengshui.com.

Follow Master YangLi on his Facebook page to watch his FB Live and videos to learn more about Feng Shui: www.facebook.com/MasterYangLi

Elevate Your Sleep Experience: Exploring the Innovative Features of Zinus Mattresses

Sleep is the foundation of a healthy mind and body, and is essential for optimal performance and well-being. Besides sticking to a regular sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine, other common tips to achieve good sleep are to make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet and cool, and best to avoid caffeine, alcohol and exercising before bedtime. If you’ve checked all the boxes to the above recommended tips, but still not sleeping well, perhaps it’s time to evaluate whether your most important sleep tool – the mattress – is right for your individual need.

Mattress is an understated, essential piece of furniture that can essentially help you improve sleep quality by reducing pressure points, aligning the spine and providing a comfortable temperature. If you’re ready to sleep better, try Zinus mattresses. Zinus is an American brand that specializes in manufacturing mattresses with more than 260 patents and innovations under their belt.

Find out how Zinus innovative mattresses can benefit you:

1. Zinus makes their own foam so you get mattresses that are non-toxic and sustainably made

Most memory foams are made with petrol-based chemical oils, but Zinus makes their own foam in state-of-the-art factories using only Natural Seed Oil. You can sleep with a peace of mind knowing that your Zinus mattress is made with natural ingredients like green tea, olive oil and charcoal, to eliminate harmful phthalates, chemical flame retardants and formaldehyde. Depending on your individual needs, you can choose from either Green Tea Memory Foam, Copper Memory Foam, or Cool Gel Memory Foam.

Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress
Embedded with green tea extract, Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress ensures you a refreshing sleep by removing any sweaty odour and keeping the mattress smelling and feeling fresh with the antioxidant and naturally antimicrobial properties of green tea.

Copper Memory Foam Mattress
Infused with microparticles of natural copper, Zinus Copper Memory Foam is highly conductive, which means it draws heat away from the body, helping to keep you comfortable throughout the night.

Cool Gel Memory Foam Mattress
If you’re simply looking for a mattress to help you stay cool at night, Zinus Cool Gel Memory Foam is infused with ultra cooling-gel to regulate body temperature so you can stay comfortably asleep.

2. Zinus invented iCoil so you get mattresses that are more durable and supportive

There are many different types of pocket springs used in mattresses, but they are hidden under the foam layers, so it can be difficult to know how well they will support you. Zinus’ patented pocketed spring, iCoil, is a taller and thicker pocket spring than what is typically used by other companies.

3. Zinus is CERTIPUR-US certified to meet the highest standard for safety and environmental performance

Zinus’ foam is tested and meets strict standards for durability, performance, emissions and environmental stewardship.

4. Zinus mattresses are delivered vacuum packaged in a box so that you can easily move it to any room in your home and set it up whenever you’re ready

Zinus uses special patented machines in its factory to make foam and springs that can expand quickly after you unbox your mattress.

Get a 100-Day Free Trial to experience Zinus mattress in the comfort of your own home today. Terms and conditions apply.

For more information on Zinus products – including bedframes, toppers, sofas and other furniture – visit www.zinus.com.sg.

3 Reasons Why CIMB Green Renovation-i Financing Is Your Best Choice For Home Renovation Loan

Financing is possibly one of the most critical aspects of renovation that concerns homeowners. In this article, we share three simple reasons why CIMB’s new Shariah-compliant Green Renovation-i Financing product, besides being the only Islamic renovation financing in Singapore, is easily your best choice when it comes to renovation loan for Muslims and non-Muslims.

1. Attractive rates

It doesn’t get as straightforward as this – homeowners can enjoy rates as low as 4.65%* per annum (Effective Profit Rate from 5.29% per annum)! Here’s a simple table to help homeowners compare the interest/profit rates offered by Singapore banks for the standard renovation loan/financing currently:

**2. Enjoy discount up to 0.20%* p.a. by fulfilling the Green Renovation Checklist**

Going green is not just a trend, it’s the way forward. As a bank that takes conscious effort in managing and minimizing environmental impacts, CIMB also urges homeowners to partake in the sustainability journey by providing guidance in the form of a 14-item checklist. Simply fulfil at least five items in the checklist to qualify for discount of 0.20%* per annum from the Islamic Standard Renovation rate.

CIMB Green Renovation Checklist covers four key areas where homeowners can achieve sustainability, including Energy & Electricity, Health & Safety, Building Material and Water

¹LED: Light-emitting diode
²VOC: Volatile Organic Compound
³FSC: Forest Stewardship Council
⁴LEED: Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
⁵WELS: Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme

**3. One day* in-principle approval**

Lastly, with CIMB one day* in-principle approval for a complete application, homeowners can have one less thing to worry about!

If you wish to find out find more about CIMB Green Renovation-i Financing, you can leave your details here to request a call back from a bank personnel or visit their website.

*Terms and Conditions apply.

If you are planning to renovate, visit HomeRenoGuru, Singapore’s No. 1 renovation portal, first. It’s the fastest, most objective way to obtain an overview of the market, view IDs’ portfolios, and obtain obligation-free, competitive quotes. What’s more, if you engage your ID through HomeRenoGuru you can take advantage of the first-in-industry HRG Guarantee. It protects your renovation contract up to 50% of your contract amount, up to $50,000, in the event that the Interior Design company winds up. It even comes with free legal advice if you need it.

At a time when so much is uncertain, it’s good to know that you can trust ‘the Guru’.

Content sponsored by CIMB Bank Berhad, Singapore Branch (“CIMB”). The information shared above is provided strictly on a non-reliance basis, and does not constitute any form of advice from HomeRenoGuru or CIMB. You should make your own assessment of your financial situation and needs

2023 Top 5 Renovation Trends in Singapore

Need ideas to renovate or spruce up your home? Here are the top five interior design and decoration trends you will need to know this year.

This article is sponsored by HSBC Singapore.

Incorporate Curves

The arch design was a big hit in 2022 and we expect its popularity to continue this year, but beyond the door archways, painted arch motifs, shelving nooks or arch shape home accessories, we are expecting to see more curves incorporated in cabinet corners, countertop ends and greater preference for curvy furniture such as curved sofas and statement display sculptures.

(Picture source: Mr Designer Studio)

Renovation requires a big financial commitment, even more so if extensive hacking, masonry and carpentry works are involved. If you need help with enhancing your financial flexibility, consider HSBC Personal Loan that facilitates one of the longest loan tenure in the market, allowing you to spread your loan repayment to a maximum tenure of 7 years so that you can repay your loan at a comfortable pace.

(Picture source: Design 4 Space)

Go Bold with Colours

Bid goodbye to the white-and-wood colour palette of the Scandinavian design style. Warm and earthy tones will find their way into homes this year.

Be sure to get acquainted with Viva Magenta – dubbed the colour of the year 2023 by Pantone, this vibrant hue from the red family exudes strength and fearlessness. Incorporate this colour to energize and empower your home – watch as your space manifests the vigour and optimism Viva Magenta brings.

(Picture source: Pantone)

Luxe it with Marble

Using marble in interior design almost never goes out of style. Coupled with a good design, marble adds sophistication and an effortless elegant touch to the space. It is said that marble with deeper colours, patterns and textures will make a comeback this year. Marble is versatile and can be used on different elements in a home, such as: countertop, tabletop, sink, bath tub, accent piece, flooring or kitchen backsplash etc.

Many homeowners think that marble is an expensive material, however there is a wide price range depending on colours, thickness and grades. It is certainly worth the investment as marble is a durable material; if a little financial help is what you need to ease your finances, HSBC Personal Loan can help secure you some extra cash with a quick turnaround of approval in principle within one minute.

(Picture source: U-home Interior Design)

(Picture source: Swiss Interior)

Expand Living Space with Clever Designs

HDB owners, especially those of the new BTO flats, will need to get more creative in ‘expanding’ the limited living space. There are many ways to leverage on designs such as hidden vanities, efficient storage spaces, or opting for open-concept layouts etc. All you need is a professional and experienced interior designer that can help create the home you envisioned – choose from Homerenoguru’s list of trusted interior designers.

(Picture source: Sky Creation)

Most renovation loans only allow you to borrow up to SGD30,000 and it cannot be spent on furnishings, household appliances, display items, smart home devices, curtains and more. With HSBC Personal Loan, you can get credit limit of up to 8x your monthly income and have the flexibility to use it on any purchases – including your Grade A marble table, home gym equipment, appliances for your chef’s kitchen and more!

(Picture source: U-Home Interior Design)

Decompress with a Wellness Area

Regardless of your work arrangement, be it working from home or the office, who doesn’t wish to return to a safe space that help to facilitate some self-care after a long day at work? Think a small home-gym corner, or a quiet space where you can practice yoga and mindfulness. Comforting furnishing and scents are important features that can help enhance the quality of your home wellness area. With HSBC Personal Loan cashback promotion, you can earn up to 1.5% or SGD3,000 cashback – this cashback savings can potentially help to furnish your wellness area!

(Picture source: Mr Designer Studio)

Keen to secure a HSBC Personal Loan to help finance your home renovation? Get a quick calculation on how much your monthly instalment would be based on the amount you would like to borrow. Enjoy promotional interest rates from as low as 4.0% p.a. with no processing fee!

3 Key Reasons Why You Should Make Aircon Servicing a Routine

Air-conditioner is a common appliance in a Singapore household – almost 80 per cent of Singapore households own air-conditioners, according to the Department of Statistics. While air-conditioning can be enjoyed with the easy press of a button, air-conditioner failure can become an agonizing problem.

Newway professional cleaning an air conditioner

Here are 3 key reasons why you should make aircon servicing a routine:

Reduce Major Aircon Breakdowns & Save Cost in the Long Run
By getting your aircon units serviced regularly, you can prevent small issues that may eventually lead to malfunction or a major breakdown. Should major repair be required due to poor maintenance – think expensive replacement parts and major overhaul – the repair fees will be much higher than regular servicing.

Ensure Efficiency of Your Aircon Performance & Lower Electricity Bill
Clogged, dirty aircon filters reduce the amount of airflow and significantly reduce a system’s efficiency while consuming more power to operate. With regular maintenance, you can reduce your unit’s need to work harder and lower your electricity bill.

Better Indoor Air Quality & Save the Earth
Besides cooling your home, the air-conditioners also play a role in helping to keep air circulating in your home clean and healthy. A dirty unit breeds mould, bacteria, and germs – when switched on, it contaminates the air with harmful particles that may expose you and your family to a variety of respiratory infection and trigger asthma attacks. Last but not least, we all have a responsibility to protect the earth. When your air-conditioner faces problem such as refrigerant leakage, it will release hydrofluorocarbons, or man-made greenhouse gases – these harmful gases promote global warming.

Save yourself from the heat and frustration of aircon breakdown. Just remember, regular aircon servicing allows you to enjoy continual flow of quiet, cool air and extended lifespan of the unit. A unit without regular maintenance can cost you much more on monthly electricity bills and high repair fees.

If you are looking for an expert in air-conditioner servicing and maintenance works, reach out to Newway. The team is competent in providing general to major servicing, chemical overhaul, condenser servicing, troubleshooting, as well as indoor air quality testing.

Established in 1987, Newway is a Singapore company that is BCA and NEA registered. Besides providing reliable residential air conditioning solutions, Newway has won several industry accolades and its portfolio includes big brands across different sectors, such as Audi, Changi Airport Group, Gleneagles, Honeywell, Keppel Land, Marina Bay Sands, SPH and more.

Start a routine servicing and maintenance package with Newway today, contact +65-6481-0111 or sales@newway.sg. Learn more about Newway services on https://newway.sg.

First-Time Customers Exclusive Promo Code: NEWWAYXHRG

Enjoy 10% discount on General Aircon Servicing (click here to find out about the Basic Probiotic HydroClean)
Enjoy 10% discount on Major Aircon Servicing (click here to find out about the Advance Probiotic HydroSteam)
Enjoy 10% discount on Condenser Servicing (click here to find out about the Condenser Servicing)

Read below to find out what customers are saying about their experiences with Newway.

Lorraine Ho, a Lorong Ah Soo resident:
“I just want to commend your installation supervisor and his team. Kudos to them for carrying out their work diligently and professionally although they have to work really late through the evening. It was unfortunate that the installation and testing had taken a longer than expected time but I appreciate the hard work that they put in.

The supervisor, in particular, was patient in answering my queries. Although it was late at night, he did not just go off after installation. He was testing the air con system to ensure that they are working well as it should be. I am glad that I chose Newway for the installation job. Many thanks for the great job done!”

Eric Vidallon, an East Coast Road resident:
“I am very impressed by the way your company and personnel handle the customer. The two gentlemen who went to our home last Saturday were very professional. They performed their job without any complains and no time was wasted. I am so pleased to smell and see how clean our air-con unit afterwards that I forgot to asked their names. My girlfriend said that the air-con looks whiter and cleaner than before.

Anyways, thank you for everything and I am glad I tried your service. I will be recommending your services to my friends and colleagues. Actually, it should be highly recommended.”

Patrick Ng, a Lorong Sarhad resident:
“I wanted to let the managers know that the installation was completed last week, and that we are very pleased the aircon units are all functioning well. I was impressed by how careful the team was with cleanliness during and after install, and I thought the re-painting of the sections of wall and ceiling that were worked on, was a nice touch.

I especially wanted to highlight the high standard of service and professionalism demonstrated by your technical supervisor. He personally supervised and demonstrated to his technicians how each part of the install was to be done. The supervisor then took the trouble to show my wife and I around each newly installed unit, and demonstrated and explained the remote-control functions. After the numerous problems working with our previous aircon servicing company, I found Newway a refreshing experience, and I look forward to continuing to work with your company.”

Check out more Newway’s customer testimonials here.

Why Choose A Star Aluminium Furniture?

Upper and lower kitchen cabinets and island counter by A Star Furnishing – Tai Hwan Terrace

Throughout Singapore, more and more homeowners and business owners are choosing aluminium furniture from A Star Furnishing over the usual laminated wood options. Here is why.

Durability and Longevity

A Star Furnishing uses premium high-grade aluminium, which offers several real advantages over laminated wood. Most importantly, items made with aluminium tend to last much longer than their laminate counterparts.

The relatively long lifespan of A Star aluminium furniture is due to a few factors. Unlike laminated wood, which is prone to warping from expansion and contraction when temperatures fluctuate, A Star aluminium items remain stable and maintain their structural integrity. This delivers a consistently hassle-free user experience, devoid of the all-too familiar and frustrating problems of jammed drawers, misaligned doors, and unsightly lifting laminates.

Unlike laminated wood and solid wood, aluminium is moisture-resistant. When exposed to rain, condensation, or leaking pipes, it will not rot, become mouldy or infested with termites. This is especially desirable for cabinets that accommodate drainage pipes for taps and dishwashers.

Moisture-resistant aluminium cabinets ease cleaning and maintenance in this outdoor wet kitchen by A Star Furnishing – Jalan Labu Ayer

Another factor that contributes to the durability of A Star aluminium furniture is its fire-resistance. A Star aluminium can withstand high temperatures without catching alight or deforming. Even in the unlikely event that it catches on fire, the fire-resistant powder-coating remains intact after several seconds of burning. This delivers a window of opportunity for fires to be contained and extinguished, potentially saving properties from extensive damage and even lives.

Aesthetic Appeal and Creative Possibilities

A sampler of the range of available aluminium finishes that A Star Furnishing offers

If you thought aluminium furniture was confined to the uniform silvery-white colour of the natural metal, think again. A Star Furnishing uses an innovative range of finishes and application techniques to offer homeowners a palette of colours and patterns that will amaze you.

Wood-lookalike aluminium kitchen cabinets add warmth to this luxury interior at Carisbrooke Grove

For homeowners who favour the traditional, warm appearance of wood, A Star offers a range of lookalike wood finishes that are virtually indistinguishable from real wood.

Aluminium cabinets provide an attractive contrast with various nature-inspired patterns and hues

Ease of Maintenance and Hygiene

Unlike laminated wood that can scratch, stain or lift, depending to a degree on the quality of the material and the installation, A Star Aluminium Furniture is stain-resistant and scratch-resistant. It can be wiped clean with a wet cloth and mild cleaning products. There is no need to spend money and clutter up your storage areas with specialised metal cleaners or tools.

The interiors of aluminium cabinets can be easily wiped clean

Stellar Service

A Star Furniture provides every customer with an obligation-free appointment with a professional designer, a detailed quotation, and complimentary customised 2D/3D computer drawings.

To cope with increasing demand and serve its broad customer base, A Star operates 24 hours a day, providing after-sales and solutions services via a live WhatsApp chat function on its website.

Superior Workmanship

A Star’s furniture is fabricated and installed by experienced tradespeople who commenced their careers working with traditional laminated wood. They bring their wealth of experience in old-school carpentry to working with aluminium.

A Star Furnishing applies old-school carpentry techniques to aluminium

Advanced technology and precision engineering tools ensure perfect fits and joins. Eco-friendly screws are used, with no toxic chemical-laden adhesives, and all materials are certified formaldehyde-free.

A Star’s confidence in the calibre of its workmanship and materials is backed by a 10-year quality assurance guarantee and the promise of lifetime maintenance.*

Sustainability and Certification

Thankfully, the world is waking up to the urgent need for society to embrace sustainability. Responsible homeowners are now questioning the environmental impact of wood, which may or may not have been produced using sustainable forestry methods. Even mined stone can disfigure the landscape and displace biodiversity. Compared to the alternatives, aluminium is an easy choice.

A Star Furnishing is certified ‘green’

A Star Furnishing is proud to have been certified ‘green’ by the Singapore Green Building Council (SGBC).

Fun fact: Aluminium is one of the greenest metals on the planet, since it can be recycled repeatedly. Recycling this material saves 95 percent of the energy required to produce primary aluminium, or aluminium from raw materials. That is good for the planet and the pocket!

Aluminium Wins

For all these reasons and more, aluminium is clearly a better choice than laminated wood, for many if not all applications. If you would like an obligation-free consultation with an A Star Furnishing designer, or more information on the compelling advantages of aluminium for furniture in residential and commercial settings, contact A Star Furnishing at 6200 8588 today or visit astarfurnishing.sg to chat on WhatsApp or send an email enquiry.

*Terms and conditions apply.

Why You Should Do An Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Assessment Before Moving In

Moving house is a big project and the checklist always only seems to get longer. While homeowners diligently inspect their new homes for critical visible defects such as wall cracks or pipes leakage, one thing that is invisible but essential is often overlooked – indoor air quality (IAQ).

Newway professionals checking air quality

“The quality of the air you’re breathing at home is just as important, if not more so, than the quality of your carpentry, flooring, painting or furniture,” says Zachery Tan, Certified IAQ Manager (CIAQM) and Business Director at Newway, an established local company that specialises in Air-Conditioning and Mechanical Ventilation (ACMV) and IAQ services for residential and commercial spaces.

Here are 5 common sources affecting the air quality in your new home:

Furniture and Cabinetry

New furnishing and finishes can release harmful chemicals (volatile organic compounds) into the air for years through a process called off-gassing. Excessive concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can have adverse health effects – long-term exposure to VOC vapours can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation; headaches and loss of coordination; nausea; and damage to the liver, kidneys, or central nervous system. For example, formaldehyde is a colourless, flammable, strong-smelling chemical that is used in resins (i.e., glues) found in manufactured wood products such as desks, beds, cabinets, and more.

Paint

Many paints contain VOCs; the fumes from a fresh coat of paint may cause symptoms including lung irritation, headache, dizziness, and vision problems. Some people may experience more symptoms than others depending on their level of exposure and any prior health conditions.

Flooring

Vinyl is a popular flooring option in Singapore homes due to it being budget-friendly, durable and low-maintenance. However, most vinyl flooring, made from reprocessed plastic, contained toxic phthalates, lead, cadmium, brominated flame retardants, and other toxic chemicals – these chemicals can contribute to indoor air pollution by drifting out of the flooring and into the air and dust inside homes. In addition, certain laminate flooring is found to contain high levels of formaldehyde.

4. Moulds

Moulds produce allergens, irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins). Mould can cause detrimental health effects, especially for children or people with pre-existing health conditions. Asthma is the most common health issue associated with long-term indoor mould exposure.

5. Air Conditioners

If the air in your home is polluted with VOCs and allergens, your air conditioner is likely worsening the situation. Also, if the air conditioner is poorly maintained, for example if it is leaking any excess fluid or has more condensation than usual, it may be harming your indoor air quality as well.

Hence, to safeguard your family’s health and ensuring an optimum living space, it is essential to have professionals like Newway to perform an indoor air quality assessment before moving in.

Newway is a Singapore company with three decades of expertise in both residential and commercial air conditioning systems. The company is BCA and NEA registered, and has won several industry accolades and its portfolio includes big brands across different sectors, such as Audi, Changi Airport Group, Gleneagles, Honeywell, Keppel Land, Marina Bay Sands, SPH and more.

Newway professional cleaning an air conditioner

With strong capabilities in air conditioning servicing, Newway has recently expanded its services to provide a one-stop solution that includes indoor air quality testing and management, all in accordance to the guidelines of WSHC and Singapore Standards. Costing from S$80 onwards, homeowners have the choice to perform a general IAQ assessment or a detailed one where markers are sent to laboratory for testing. Some of the parameters being tested include formaldehyde, total volatile organic compounds, respirable suspended particles, total viable bacterial count and more.

To get a quote for an IAQ assessment for your home, contact +65-6481-0111 or sales@newway.sg. Learn more about Newway services on https://newway.sg.

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EcoFlow presents DELTA Max for all your power needs

EcoFlow, the company behind the world’s first eco-friendly portable energy storage line of products that equips you with clean, quiet, and renewable power, presents the EcoFlow DELTA Max just in time for the outdoor season. DELTA Max is designed to meet the growing interest in mobile as well as remote adventures and is a reliable and safe power source for anyone on the move.

The EcoFlow DELTA Max has a capacity of 2016Wh, which can support a family’s emergency use needs (four lights, a fan, a router, a laptop, a fridge, and charging of smartphones) for half a day. When connected with two DELTA Max Smart Extra Batteries, the capacity can go up to 6048Wh, which enables a family to comfortably survive a two-day blackout. The EcoFlow DELTA Max at its peak capacity can also support a Recreational Vehicle’s (RV) energy use (an average RV uses 20kWh electricity per day) for more than seven hours.

Even with an upgraded capacity compared to the EcoFlow DELTA (from 1260Wh to 2016Wh), the EcoFlow DELTA Max requires the same amount of time to be fully recharged – less than two hours. The EcoFlow DELTA Max can be charged at 1800W through standard AC outlets.

The battery also supports dual charging — charging with an AC outlet and two 400W Solar Panels simultaneously, which levels up the charging input to a 2600W. This input enables the EcoFlow DELTA Max and a Smart Extra Battery to be fully recharged from 0% to 100% in 2.3 hours, which is two times faster compared to similar products on the market.

With a 2400W AC output, the EcoFlow DELTA Max can power 99% appliances, including electric kettles, air conditioners, steam irons, and electric clothes dryers. With EcoFlow’s patented X-Boost technology, the EcoFlow DELTA Max can even power some 3400W devices, leading all competitors with the same capacity level.

Additional upgrades for the EcoFlow DELTA Max include more efficient solar charging, enhanced ability to control and monitor the device via the EcoFlow App, and the battery exterior is designed for more reliability and durability.

DELTA Max connects with up to 2x 400W EcoFlow solar panels to deliver 800W Max solar charging speeds. The EcoFlow solar panels can convert sunlight into clean, renewable energy using 400W portable solar panels, perfect for camping, recreational vehicles, and home use.

The solar panels are portable and lightweight. With an input of 400W, these are one of the most powerful foldable solar panels on the market. Weighing only 12.5 kg, the lightweight design and built-in shoulder strap make it ideal for outdoor adventurers. The protective case conveniently turns into a stand that adjusts from 40-90° allowing the solar panels to capture the most rays.

By using the universally recognized MC4 connector, the solar panels are compatible with all EcoFlow DELTA Series portable power stations and many other third-party generators too.

Join EcoFlow’s Double 11 sales now. Get yourself a power station at: https://www.lazada.sg/shop/ef-ecoflow

EcoFlow is also looking for dealers across Singapore. For more information, please contact sales.rest@ecoflow.com

About EcoFlow

EcoFlow is a portable power and renewable energy solutions company. Since its founding in 2017, EcoFlow has provided peace-of-mind to customers in over 100 markets through its DELTA and RIVER portable power stations and eco-friendly accessories. EcoFlow’s mission is to reinvent the way the world accesses energy by creating quiet, lighter, and longer-lasting renewable batteries.

Latest Trends in Digital Locks

Not all digital locks are made equal. Before making your purchase, it is best to first understand the different types of locking mechanisms so that you can install a digital lock that is suitable for your home and security needs.

In this article, we will briefly share about the three types of locking mechanisms — Mortise, Deadbolt and Rim — and highlight the latest trends in digital locks.

Mortise Locks

Mortise lock requires a pocket—the mortise—to be cut into the edge of the door where the lock is to be fitted; it has a latch as well as a bolt to secure the door into the door frame. Due to the several notches and levers that make up the mechanism, it provides dependable security and is commonly seen in Singapore’s HDB BTOs, condominiums and landed properties. There are two types of mortise locks: push-pull and lever handle.

Lever handle digital lock – attached Push-pull digital lock is highly favoured
with traditional lever handle for its sleek design

Deadbolt Locks

Deadbolt lock comes in a solid cylindrical piece made of either steel, bronze or brass. It offers a good level of security because deadbolt lock needs to be engaged when the door is shut; it has a unique locking device built into the bolt, that can’t be forced back into the door, thus preventing unwanted entry.

It is usually paired with a latch or knob as Digital deadbolt lock
the lock itself does not have a handle

Rim Locks

Rim lock is surface-mounted to the inside of a door and uses a latch that slides into the keeper on the door rim or frame to secure the door. Rim locks are easy to fit and generally cheaper than mortise and deadbolt locks for homeowners who are looking for convenience and value for money. However, for a higher level of security, rim locks are better used in addition to mortise and deadbolt locks

Facial Recognition Lock

Kaadas x Lamborghini (The Legend) Face Recognition Digital Lock (SGD 1489 sale price) is the first in the world to incorporate the design of Lamborghini onto a digital lock. Equipped with Facial Recognition technology, it uses a three-dimensional (3D) structured light that covers the entire face through tens of thousands of recognition points with millimeter-level accuracy. It captures 3D dynamic information of the face by extracting facial features and bone structure to build a 3D face model – now, you won’t even need to touch the lock itself to unlock it.

Video Lock

Philips EasyKey DDL702 VL Digital Door Lock (SGD 1249 sale price) with its remote video monitoring enables smart video door lock and two-way audio talk.

Smart Locks

igloohome Push-Pull Mortise Digital Lock (SGD 769) features unique algoPIN™ technology – unlike conventional smart or digital locks, there’s no need to be near the lock to set up PIN codes for your guests. As igloohome’s products work offline, the locks are more reliable against WiFi hacking and instability. No need to worry about needing an internet connection for the lock to work.

Solity GP-2000BK Digital Door Lock (SGD 799 sale price) is suitable for most door types in Singapore and is meant to replace your current handle lever or handle bar. Equipped with smart app, you can unlock it with your smartphone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi (iOS, Android) – there’s a total of 6 different authentication methods to unlock!

Philips EasyKey 9300 Digital Door Lock (SGD 1180 sale price) allows you to double your security with dual verification unlock. Enjoy greater security assured by IoT, as you can check unlocking records and distribute a one-time PIN code at any time via the gateway. The smart door viewer will also record photos or videos, and when it is connected with the door lock you can upload them to the App under the abnormal alert.

Solity GD-60BK Digital Gate Lock (SGD 699) can be used alongside Solity GM-6000BK Digital Door Lock (SGD 799 sale price) to realize dual unlocking – upon unlocking the gate (remotely, even), the wooden door which is synchronized, will unlock as well.

If you are looking at digital locks with greater affordability, you can also check out Hafele GL5600 (Gate Lock) (SGD 589) and Hafele EL7800 Digital Lock (SGD 599 sale price).

For expert advice on finding a suitable digital lock for your home, visit An Digital Lock, or call them at +65-6966-6788. An Digital Lock carries a wide range of locks from brands such as Solity, Kaadas, Philips, Hafele, Igloohome, Schlage, Loghome, EVVA, Kaiser+, Gateman, Samsung, Asus and Dormakaba. Showrooms are available at Boon Lay, Paya Lebar and Sembawang.