The SIXiDER Show

The SIXiDER Show

The SIXiDER Show is where Singapore’s interior design insiders reveal the truth. We talk scams, trends, and what really goes on behind your renovation. Real stories, real advice—straight from the industry.

  1. The Reality of Outdoor Spaces | Can Outdoor Living Really Work in Singapore?

    Jun 15

    The Reality of Outdoor Spaces | Can Outdoor Living Really Work in Singapore?

    Outdoor living sounds great in theory. A cosy balcony, resort-inspired decking, outdoor dining, lush greenery and a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.But how practical is it in Singapore's climate?In this episode of The SIXiDER Show, Astley Ng aka The Designerd sits down with Marcus from Atrellis Zip Blinds & Home Decor and Serene from XingFloors to explore the realities of designing and maintaining outdoor spaces in Singapore homes.From balcony decking and zip blinds to roofing systems, WPC decking, natural wood maintenance and common homeowner misconceptions, this conversation uncovers what it really takes to create an outdoor space that looks good and remains functional over time.Whether you are:• planning a balcony renovation• considering decking for your condo or landed home• deciding between natural wood and WPC decking• exploring outdoor blinds, awnings or roofing solutions• or simply trying to maximise your outdoor spaceThis episode offers practical insights from professionals who work on these spaces every day.Topics Covered in This Episode• Common misconceptions homeowners have about outdoor spaces• Balcony design mistakes and functionality considerations• Decking drainage and maintenance concerns• WPC decking vs natural wood decking• Heat management and outdoor comfort• Retractable awnings, roofing and balcony regulations• Why outdoor renovations often cost more than expected

    43 min
  2. Good Design or Good Living? | Can Interior Design Really Have Both?

    May 26

    Good Design or Good Living? | Can Interior Design Really Have Both?

    Form and function have always been one of the biggest balancing acts in interior design. A beautiful space may look good on social media. But if it doesn’t work for the people living inside it, that’s where function fails.In this episode of The SIXiDER Show, Astley Ng aka The Designerd sits down with Dennis Cheok from UPSTRS_ and Jackie Lai from MCC Singapore / Jia Studios LLP to unpack the realities behind designing homes that are not only aesthetically pleasing, but practical to live in.From shrinking renovation budgets and sustainability challenges, to durability concerns and homeowner expectations after move-in, this episode explores the difficult decisions designers constantly navigate behind every completed home.Whether you are:• planning your first home renovation• struggling between aesthetics and practicality• trying to maximise functionality in a smaller home• or curious about how designers make real-life design decisionsThis episode offers a perspective many homeowners only realise after moving in.Topics Covered in This Episode• Can $30,000 still renovate a home today?• Why form and function often conflict in design• The pressure designers face balancing beauty and practicality• Durability vs sustainability in modern homes• Why some aesthetic choices fail in daily living• The realities behind homeowner expectations• Small homes and functional space planning• What designers wish homeowners understood earlier• Why good design is more than just visual aesthetics• Advice for homeowners before renovation

    58 min
  3. The Hands Behind Your Home | The Unsung Heroes You Never See

    May 4

    The Hands Behind Your Home | The Unsung Heroes You Never See

    Behind every finished home is a group of people you rarely see. (Mixed Language)Renovation isn’t just about design, materials, or budgets. It’s about the people on site, the ones who build, fix, adjust, and solve problems every single day.In this Labour Day special episode of The SIXiDER Show, Astley Ng aka The Designerd sits down with contractors from different trades, Wesly and Ah Keong from Cowboy, Siang Seng from Wallstan Pte Ltd to talk about what really happens behind the scenes of a renovation.From common misconceptions about hacking, tiling, and painting, to the realities of working on site, this episode brings together perspectives that homeowners don’t usually hear.Whether you are:• planning your first home renovation• currently working with contractors on site• trying to better understand renovation costs and processes• or simply curious about how homes are actually builtThis episode offers a perspective that is often overlooked.Topics Covered in This Episode• What contractors actually do on site (beyond what homeowners see)• Why hacking, tiling, and painting are often misunderstood• The real reasons behind renovation costs• Common mistakes that affect the entire renovation process• Payment challenges and trust issues in the industry• Safety risks and physical demands of site work• Miscommunication between homeowners, designers, and contractors• What seems simple but is actually complex in renovation work• Advice for homeowners before and during renovation

    56 min

About

The SIXiDER Show is where Singapore’s interior design insiders reveal the truth. We talk scams, trends, and what really goes on behind your renovation. Real stories, real advice—straight from the industry.