On a rainy Tuesday in Singapore, the Tan family stood in their small condo kitchen, staring at a cluttered entryway. The flat in Toa Payoh, a neighbourhood known for its bustling HDB heart, was just 80 square metres. Every inch counted. "We love the modern vibe of Midhill, but storage is a nightmare," sighed Maya, the matriarch. The monsoon season made things worse—damp towels and forgotten shoes collected dust.
The Tans weren’t alone. Singapore’s high humidity (often above 85% in coastal areas) and compact living spaces create unique challenges. A traditional credenza would look out of place in their minimalist dining room. They needed something stylish and functional. That’s when they spotted the Art Deco Geometric Contrast Sideboard – Diagonal Cream & Black Fluted Buffet with Brass Triangle Handles and Tapered Legs. It cost S$3570.00 and promised to solve their woes.
The sideboard’s bold diagonal design caught their eye. A cream-white oak-grain finish on the upper left met a charcoal-black fluted ribbed panel on the lower right. The brass triangle handles added a touch of elegance. It was 120 cm wide, 60 cm deep, and 180 cm tall—perfect for their entryway. The manufacturer, a local artisan collective, emphasized its durability. Still, the Tan family worried about maintenance in Singapore’s unpredictable climate.
Installation took two hours. The Tans chose to place it in the dining room entryway, near the sliding glass door that faced a narrow balcony. This spot offered both style and utility—storing shoes, umbrellas, and handbags while serving as a stylish divider between the kitchen and living area.
Here’s what they learned:
The Tans tracked their expenses meticulously:
Total: S$3758.00
They noticed the sideboard’s finish stayed intact despite Singapore’s humidity. The diagonal design even complemented their Midhill apartment’s modern aesthetic.
The Tans’ neighbourhood, Midhill, is known for its blend of HDB and condo living. Many residents prioritize both functionality and fashion. The Art Deco sideboard fit perfectly here. Its geometric contrast stood out in their 1-bedroom condo, which measured just 55 square metres.
"We got compliments from neighbours," said David, the father. "They love how the sideboard doubles as a coffee table when we’re entertaining."
In Midhill, humidity is a constant concern. The Tan family learned this the hard way when a cheaper, non-breathable sideboard they owned in their previous flat started warping after just six months. The new piece, however, with its fluted design and breathable materials, has held up flawlessly.
Here’s how the Tans maintained their sideboard over five years:
The total cost over five years: S$4,638.00. A small price to pay for a problem-free entryway solution.
The Tans also discovered ways to save:
"We even got a side gig selling excess desiccant packets to neighbours," Maya laughed.
After five years, the Art Deco sideboard still looked new. The diagonal design had not faded, and the brass handles gleamed. The only changes were cosmetic—the varnish added a subtle sheen, and the fluted panels had a slight patina, which the Tans loved.
"We’ll keep this sideboard for our next home too," David said. "It’s not just storage—it’s an investment in our lifestyle."
In Singapore’s humid climate, where even the best furniture can deteriorate quickly, the Tans’ sideboard stands out as a triumph of style and practicality. Their story offers a roadmap for other homeowners looking to elevate their living spaces without breaking the bank.