We have worked on many commercial spaces over the years, from a fish-soup brand rooted in its own kelong culture to a wellbeing space built around motherhood. Along the way, we realized something quite important:

Commercial renovation is not just construction. It is designing how a business feels the moment someone walks in.

The receptionist design of Madam Partum: A warm and elegant reception that instantly makes guests feel calm, cared for, and welcomed the moment they step into the store.

Here is what actually happens behind the scenes, especially if you are planning your own renovation in Singapore.

It begins with understanding the brand

Before choosing tiles or furniture, we spend time with founders to understand:

• – What makes their business different
• – How they want customers to feel
• – What they want to be known for in the long run

 

For King Grouper Fish Soup, the story was not simply about serving soup. It was about responsibility to the sea and honesty in the food journey. That shaped the design: zinc roof textures, wood shingles and a little nod to rustic “kelong” architecture. The story guided every decision.

A commercial space becomes meaningful when it starts with brand truth.

Layout that supports real operations

A space can look good yet slow down staff or frustrate customers. So we think carefully about:

• – How staff move around
• – Where queues form
• – Natural customer behaviour
• – Where attention lands when someone enters

 

In F&B design especially, shaving seconds off every transaction adds up to faster service and happier guests. A well-planned space enables a business to perform at its best.

Approvals and compliance are not optional

Singapore has strict regulatory requirements that vary by industry. Depending on the project, we consider:

• – BCA submissions
• – Fire safety compliance by the FSSD
• – Licensing guidelines for F&B or wellness operators
• – Accessibility requirements
• – Landlord renovation rules

 

These are best handled early so the renovation does not get delayed later.

The build phase is where the details matter

During construction, hundreds of micro decisions take place:

• – The height of a backsplash
• – Positioning and angle of lighting
• – Junctions between two materials
• – Electrical and mechanical rerouting

 

Individually, they may seem small. Together, they determine whether the space feels well-made or awkward. Good spaces feel effortless because they were planned with care.

Soft blush tones, gentle lighting, and natural textures blend seamlessly to create a warm, nurturing space that makes every guest feel instantly cared for and welcome.

After opening day, the space continues to evolve. Once customers arrive and operations begin, the space reveals what works well and what needs fine-tuning. As designers, we observe and sometimes make adjustments.

Commercial spaces are living environments. They grow and adapt as the business grows.

What we have learned

Rooted in Kelong culture, the design immerses guests in the rhythm of the sea—where wave-like ceilings, deep ocean hues, and warm timber textures come together to align the brand’s coastal heritage with a dining experience that feels authentic, communal, and alive.

A renovation is not about making a place look “nice.”

It is about aligning brand, business and behaviour in a single environment. When that alignment is clear, a space quietly supports growth and everyday delight.