Darwin Interior

Share your review:

Disclaimer: this is a very long review. What do all homeowners want when it comes to finding an ID for their renovation project? Someone who has experience in handling the project, allowing homeowners a fuss-free process, providing advice and design direction after understanding the homeowners’ needs and preferences. Things like drawings, mood boards, tile selections, laminates and space planning, and of course, ensuring quality of work done, project management and scheduling, should be something that everyone can relate to. At the end of the day, everyone would want to have a fairy tale type ending to this stressful endeavour. Unfortunately for us, we got a nightmare. Despite our best efforts to meet with more than 8 IDs, we ended up choosing a dud. 1.) 3D renders that didn’t look like reference projects that we had provided before, were provided 2 days before tile selection. No tile designs were shortlisted to highlight the proposed design. Wasted a day being overwhelmed by all the tiles available, and ended up taking an additional week of our own time trying to choose by ourselves. 2.) Tiling work started a few days before the ID disappeared for a holiday without prior notice. Honest mistake perhaps? Anyway, insufficient tiles were ordered, and we wouldn’t have found out if we didn’t do a house visit 3.) Met up a week or so later to discuss designs, electrical plans and laminates. Again without details around space planning and design (eg line drawings). Laminates proposed were 1 white and 2 wood grains. 4.) Noted that skirtings were inconsistent in thickness, and were too fat in some areas (> 18mm, up to 28mm at some areas), and we couldn’t get a reason at first because the tiler was away. 5.) Was pushed to make a decision regarding electrical plans, however each revision seemed to be missing things here and there. At this point, we still didn’t have line drawings to base our decisions since we were uncertain of the final design 6.) Explanation finally given regarding skirting, but we didn’t think it was reasonable that we were not informed before hand, and had to now live with fat, ugly and dangerous skirting (imagine if someone trips and hits their head at the corner where the skirting is). Some advice from friends (also in the trade) and family and all agreed it was unacceptable, and we requested for it to be redone, but was challenged in return to find someone else who could do this for us properly and the ID would personally pay. 7.) Received drawings that showed it wasn’t practical - we originally had a large wardrobe with an enclosed dresser but had to shorten it due to a shift in the aircon, so the new design had a small wardrobe (smaller than my current one) still with dresser, which made no practical sense. We challenged the decision making process of having to commit to electrical plans before having these drawings eg. Having lighting points for the dresser then realising we don’t have space for a dresser. 8.) ID couldn’t agree with what we were saying, and stated that such drawings wouldn’t normally be provided before 95% of the contract was paid up (we’re still not talking carpentry measurements here). And then, he informed us that it’s better to terminate this contract and the balance from our initial 50% would be returned. No rectification of skirting, no apology, no solution. 9.) We went to find the first ID’s team lead the following day to discuss the solution. Explained the issues outstanding and met up multiple times to review the house status. Many things had to be rediscussed, new drawings and plans had to be adjusted, and everyone recognised that this should have been done earlier, prior to tiling selection. 10.) After 2 weeks of intense discussions, we seemed to have gotten closer to where we should have been earlier, in terms of design and materials. But then came the VOs - $6k+ for some tweaks to carpentry and removal of door frames. $6k+ additional for electrical works despite an initial estimate of $1.5k in the quote, and this represented a 20% increase from the original 11.) Things were on a standstill for about 2 weeks while I was away for work, but the cost was still an issue, and we asked whether there would be any form of compensation - for the time wasted trying to rectify and re-discuss everything, for the issues caused etc. In response, the team lead wasn’t able to commit and had to seek advice from management. Unfortunately, Darwin’s management didn’t think there was anything wrong, and stated that hiccups are inevitable in any project, so no compensation was necessary. All they could do was to do their best to rectify and schedule the project if we would continue with them. And if we didn’t agree on this approach they wouldn’t proceed with work, so ultimately we suck thumb, since our current home was sold and the deadline to vacate was looming closer 12.) Finally proceeded with work, with the rectification of the skirtings (as it should), but not without first having to speak with the BSC regarding “uneven walls” - which were mostly proven to be straight in the end 13.) Had another incident where I tried verifying a quote for toilet doors (after measurements) because I was given a cheaper quote from the same supplier (before measurements) - ID misunderstood and got upset, mentioning he didn’t want to continue.. honestly, is this a common theme, to threaten to give up and leave the homeowner hanging? 14.) Managed to speak amicably to smoothen relations, but was also given confusing explanations about inter-company relations of the suppliers (different branches) as the reason for the $400+ quote difference, and was told that I had to choose between their higher quote or liaise directly with the supplier and that these toilet doors would be excluded from the contractor warranty. I later verified with the supplier that there shouldn’t be price differences even between their branches. Again, I had to swallow our concerns and questions lest we risk another “I give up” situation, since we were still waiting for carpentry to be installed 15.) Was informed 1.5 weeks after confirming carpentry designs that the laminate we chose for the kitchen was out of stock until 1 month later, even though we had already settled on this laminate about a month prior. Imagine the disappointment of potentially having to change visual design or delaying the project further 16.) During the lull period waiting for carpentry installations, visited the unit and spotted some minor issues like cracked tiles, scratches on tiles, messy silicon, scratched window frames etc, so suggested to meet with the ID to review these together. Was told off that if we cannot accept such minor issues then he doesn’t want to continue with the project. Not something I was expecting from a big company. 17.) Since then, there were little communications other than arrangement of item deliveries and some hook locations, until day 1 of the carpentry installation. At 5pm, was informed that our kitchen bottom cabinet was flushed to our yard door frame, with the table top and drawer doors sticking out into the door way by 22mm. Like huh? Even if 22mm doesn’t sound like much, who expects to see the table top jutting into the doorway? Was later told that because we requested for deeper (inwards) drawers of 500mm, we needed to use longer tracks and therefore deeper cabinets, all of which was never brought to our attention earlier, otherwise we would have known the implication and therefore make necessary changes. Given the closeness to our existing flat sales handover we had to suck thumb and proceed 18.) We finally managed to move in mid July, 18 weeks since we started work, and unfortunately for us the issues haven’t ended. In one cabinet section where the display and altar was, we found 8 screw holes in 2 compartments, 4 per compartment, and we clarified later with the carpenter that this was due to a need to shift the shelves as the pre-set shelf supports clashed with the hinges, an issue with either miscommunication between factory and design or bad planning. Either way, when we asked the ID for a resolution, we were told that these were screw holes, so they can just put screws back, and they give a small discount, which seemed more like a cover up for a defective product rather than goodwill. When pressed further for other solutions as we were dissatisfied with the response, we were told that the carpenter can come by to remove all the cabinets, and I find another contractor to do it up instead (another “I give up” moment). At this point in time, this kind of response wasn’t surprising anymore 19.) 2 weeks after moving in we noted that the water flow from my common toilet mixer when set to cold water was very small, compared to when it was set to the mix and hot water portions. We got in contact with the tapware supplier (Grohe) and they send their plumbing team down to check if it was an issue with their product. Upon checking, it was noted that a used cigarette butt was lodged at the inlet valve of the cold water pipe. When I raised this issue with my ID, the response was simply that their outsourced plumbing team did not smoke and thus denied responsibility, and suggested that it could be the pipe supplier who had placed this cigarette butt. 20.) When I brought the issue up to PUB, they came by to do an inspection as they noticed that they had not received any submission regarding work done at my unit. They highlighted to me that any heater installations would require the endorsement and submission by a licensed plumber, something that had not been done, either by mistake or because there was no LP involved. PUB later contacted the ID regarding this issue however 1 month later it doesn’t seem like the submission has been done yet. So now, while our project is finally considered completed, 6 weeks longer than planned, and it doesn’t look like we’d be free of headaches. Looking back, things I have learnt: 1.) Big name in the industry doesn’t count for much if the IDs they employ can’t do the job properly 2.) Big company doesn’t always mean that there is going to be willing support for the customer by the ID or otherwise 3.) Years of experience doesn’t always mean quality or breadth of experience 4.) IDs should ideally be equipped on 4 essential skills - Design, Planning, Communication and Listening! Communication is really really key. I don’t mean asking questions such as “is the switch on the left of the power point or the right side” but things like “if you ask for deeper drawers, the table top will be sticking out into the doorway” - then again this may also boil down to the ID’s lack of experience 5.) To new homeowners, be prepared for sleepless nights, frustrations and headaches, and be ready to be very patient - it can be tiring trying to manage the egos and tantrums of some IDs 6.) No amount of homework can prepare you for what’s to come in any reno project, so cross your fingers and pray 7.) That being said, do your own checks on quotations of items when things don’t seem right

Would you recommend this Interior Designer and why?

Of all the IDs we met, we felt most comfortable with Gary from Darwin Interior Design (Bukit Batok Branch). We were very pleased with how patient and thorough Gary was explaining the quotation and proposed designs even though it took us several meetings before we finally confirmed our plans and placed a deposit. Gary is very patient, willing to listen and understand what we want and very attentive to details. We told him what we needed was a quality renovation without the headaches that usually accompany one, and true to his words. He is very responsive to queries and messages on time via whatsapp group chat, and would constantly update me through the entire renovation process. Along the way, there were a couple of minor defects here and there, but they were promptly rectified by him.

What advice would you give to future homeowners?

Very impressed how Gary single-handedly managed our house renovation given the scale of the project and the tight timeline we were working on. Cannot thank him enough for making our dream house a reality! The overall coordination was well done and they complete the project on time. Two thumbs up for his fantastic service and will recommend him to friends and family for sure.

Would you recommend this Interior Designer and why?

When some of my friends heard that I was engaging Darwin to renovate my new place, they all thought that I will be spending a bomb. But I was pretty confident of my choice because I had done some comparisons against some of the big names and smaller ID companies in the market and Darwin's quotation was surprisingly very reasonable. Senior designer Violet Kang from Darwin (Tampines Branch) handled my case with professionalism and was very responsive to my queries, requests and even some last minute changes. Overall, Violet was reasonable and flexible in supporting and meeting my expectations. There was a particular week when she continued to respond to my quries on whatsapp despite being sick and i realized it only when she called me to clarify some tricky issues. I really salute her dedication to her work but felt bad that she should have rested instead. I would definitely recommend Violet Kang to anyone who is looking for a friendly and trusted designer for their upcoming reno project.

What advice would you give to future homeowners?

My reno was scheduled for 4 weeks and i buffered for 2 weeks of overrun, but surprisingly she nailed it in 5 weeks except for some minor hiccups. Of course not everything was smooth sailing as there were the usual negotiations, mis-comms and a few touch ups that were still required after I moved into my new place. By maintaining a reasonable expectation and constant communication with Violet, i am sure that you will find Violet a great partner who can help you achieve your dream renovation.

Would you recommend this Interior Designer and why?

Yes most definitely Violet is the first and only ID we went to see. She was reassuring and guided us from the very beginning. She listened to us attentively and tried to give us as close as possible a home that we wanted. From picking out paint colours to advising us on the type of fixtures we should have in our bathrooms and kitchen, Violet was there for us consistently. Anything that we were worried about or needed to clarify, she was just a phone call away. we feel so blessed to have her design our first home. Thank you Violet & Darwin

What advice would you give to future homeowners?

Choose an ID that is reassuring and who truly listens to you. Even though the theme you want may not be their speciality, let them show you what they can do with it. Their years of experience truly makes the project amazing.

Would you recommend this Interior Designer and why?

Our renovation was smooth. No hustle . No delays. Irene Lee from Darwin Interiors is an amzing person to work with. She listen and answers even how many times you ask, even the same questions over and over. She’s easy to work with and is always available. I will surely recommend her to my friends who need a reliable designer and interior company. Kudos Darwin ❤️

What advice would you give to future homeowners?

Blinds vs shades must be clarified when choosing blinds for window. Its different when you choose in a dark place and then when its projected into light.

Would you recommend this Interior Designer and why?

I highly recommend Violet!! As she is very accommodating!! Willing to go the extea mile to help her client and going beyond her job scope to help us! Eventhough there was alot of hiccups during the reno, mostly the hiccups came from us.. she has been very positive and there is always a smile on her face when she meet us and she is willing to explain making sure we understand every step she takes in the process of our house! Definitely will recommend her to all of my family members, relatives and friends if they are looking for an ID. Thank you violet!!

What advice would you give to future homeowners?

Make sure that the ID is very transparent with you. That is important and you are able to relate and be comfortable with the ID. I would like to think Violet is a very easy going person to work with.. and a bubbly person too! Anyone would be happy with her service.

Would you recommend this Interior Designer and why?

I wrote this review in the comfort of my new home . That will not be possible if I have not engaged Darwin Interior. I like to thank Mr Heng Hwa Teck, the senior consultant for Bukit Batok branch who oversee my 3 room flat renovation. As it’s my first time getting my own place, there are a lot of things I am not familiar with regards to renovation. I checked up quotations of few interior firms but decide to let Mr Heng undertake the renovation as he come across as one who is very experienced and do not hard sell. For example, if certain aspects of the reno is not practical, he will advise against even though that will mean a higher quotation for those extras. Throughout the renovation process, he will follow through and update me the progress and I am happy to say it has been very smooth going. He don’t over promise and the renovation not only met the deadline, it was completed earlier before CNY. I do know of a friend who bought a unit around the same time as me and faced many unhappy issues with his ID from another firm and eventually paid much more because of the “hidden cost”. Over at Darwin , I am glad that whatever has been agreed, they deliver. I am thankful to Mr Heng as I don’t face any major issues. I don’t remember worrying about the renovation process but focus instead on looking for suitable furnitures and fittings. Somehow his experience gave me the confidence that the reno is in good hands and the result speaks for itself. I am quite pleased with the outcome and workmanship and will not hesitate to recommend Mr Heng to anyone planning to renovate their dream home. At the end of the day, renovation is not cheap. You got to get the right firm and the right person for the job. Highly recommended.

What advice would you give to future homeowners?

Get a good and responsible interior designer. Start sourcing furniture or items in advance, at least three months and above. Sometimes the items you like may not available in time. Make sure the right size to fit into your house. Always reconfirm the dimension or measurement with ID.

Would you recommend this Interior Designer and why?

The project Manager Ben is a professional, he is a fast moving and problem solving oriented person, it is easy to communicate and responsive to your needs. I would refer him/ Darwin to my friends to save much troubles in renovating.

What advice would you give to future homeowners?

Try to get comprehensive quotation before starts, this will save much effort to ask for price reduction, etc. Of course, you need to know what you want in the first place, any change will cost extra money.

Would you recommend this Interior Designer and why?

Designer really go all the way out to help, even for little items like shower curtain, door bell., application for the elderly support bars from HDB. He even ferry me to choose furniture, buy lamps as he know it is inconvenient for an old man to get all these done.

What advice would you give to future homeowners?

It is important to get the right company and designer that you can trust. I have recommended Mr Heng to several friends and non are disappointed. Workmanship is also good.

Would you recommend this Interior Designer and why?

Very helpful and provide valuable advice. Push the work to deliver in short time. The design is simple but practical. Designer is also open to implementing our ideas into design

What advice would you give to future homeowners?

Check the design drawings before fabrication to ensure it matches your requirements. There was some miscommunication to the storage drawer which is not exactly what is requested but overall still good.

Would you recommend this Interior Designer and why?

Yes, She is helpful, accommodating to my schedule due to defect delayed by condo management side, patience and prompt in addressing my issue. She gives ideas and select suitable design to match it.

What advice would you give to future homeowners?

Completion of work on schedule, prompt action in addressing issues. ID does check and follow up with contractors. Workmanship shall be in scale of 8. Homeowners just need to work directly with ID. She does all the back end works with all the contractors.

Would you recommend this Interior Designer and why?

I highly recommend my designer Sharon as she is very friendly and thoughtful. She would first go through with us what type of concept we would want for our new house and if we have any idea in mind then she would based on it and design our dream house for us. Along the way, she also advise us on what to use and what not too in order for us to save cost from our reno.

What advice would you give to future homeowners?

I advise for people who intend to renovate their house is that they must first decide on what concept they wants for their renovation. Can do so by reading up magazines, or visiting showflats for ideas.

Would you recommend this Interior Designer and why?

We are thankful to Rayson for taking the time and effort to explain details to us as we are first time home owners. His design is based on understanding our preferences and needs, and we really like the final product and the quality workmanship. He continued helping us even though the project was over. 

We chose Darwin Interior because it is an establised ID firm, hence gives us more assurance in terms of quality, warranty, follow up and defects rectification. It may be more expensive with GST added but still worth it at the end of the day. Research on the company's profile and reviews is essential before coming to a decision. 

What advice would you give to future homeowners?

My advice to future homeowners is to take time to source for a reliable interior designer that is established and provides you more assurance in terms of quality, warranty, follow up and defects rectification. Also remember to set a realistic budget and stays with it as much as possible.

Would you recommend this Interior Designer and why?

Yes I will definitely recommend my designer to future homeowners. As my husband & I are mostly out of Singapore, Briana took charge of everything during the renovation period, even contractors who weren't under her. She was very responsive & made real effort in understanding what we wanted for our new place. She also gave very good contacts for curtains, wallpapers, lightings, etc. Almost an one-stop shop! We were really glad that we engaged a responsible ID who bothers to update us constantly on the renovation status and of course completing the works within schedule!

What advice would you give to future homeowners?

I would think that future homeowners should only engage reputable IDs. If time is by your side, visit a couple of IDs, view their past works, & most importantly only settle for the ID who makes an effort to understand your needs/ wants for your new place! A responsive ID is important too, it's always great to be able to discuss ideas and recieve frequent updates on the status of your new home!

Would you recommend this Interior Designer and why?

Yes, Emma Tan was recommended by our neighbour, she was working for Darwin Interior as a designer. We approached her at the booth after we gotten our keys. She was rather friendly during our conversation. She explained to us the promotional package at that time, but we feel that not all the items inside is needed for us. So we tried to ask her whether we can customize the package by excluding some of the items we do not want. She was very helpful and gave us the option to minus off the price of the items we do not need and add a few more things on items we desired. She was patient and understand that we need to move in as soon as possible because we were renting a room and promise to complete the renovation in 1.5 months. During the renovation, whenever we got doubt or we see any defects, her team was always ready to help and resolved the issues immediately. Even after we paid, their after sales service was excellent. We can approach Darwin if we face any problems. Darwin’s design and workmanship is high quality. I strongly recommend to my friends as I am very satisfied with their services.

What advice would you give to future homeowners?

My advice to all future homeowners are the followings: 1. Information gathering of packages, deals given by all the interior design companies available in the market. Study and understand the kind of items offered in the packages. Filtered out the items you are looking for and items you don’t need. 2. Checkout for online reviews on these ID. Look out for things like rating whether the ID is good or bad and personal reviews of their customers saying about their services and workmanship. 3. Schedule a face-to-face meeting, and see what their services is about. Look out on how they response to customers and the ability to tackle questions to resolve an issue within a short timeframe. 4. Lastly, if the ID company is recommended by friends, colleagues or relatives, check for workmanship, services and the ability to complete the renovation within the given schedule. 5. Check the carpentry work to ensure no corners are cut.

Would you recommend this Interior Designer and why?

My favourite space is the mezzanine in my living room. The mezzanine was created for my children for them to showcase their books and acts as a reading/study corner. The area can only be accessed by a ladder and this gives my children much fun! My study area is quite unique with a Japanese styled sitting area which is flushed with the bed and the seating area acts as a storage to maximise the space in the bedroom.

What advice would you give to future homeowners?

Vincent of Darwin has done a good job but the time taken to renovate could have been better managed. The project took about 3 months to complete but I must say that it was worth it.