Neighbourhoods like Midhill in Singapore are known for their tightly packed HDB flats, where outdoor space is a precious commodity. For the Lim family, living in a three-storey condo in East Coast, the small balcony was their only escape. But the humid Singaporean monsoon and the constant battle against mildew posed a challenge. Their search for outdoor furniture that blended style with practicality took over six months, a journey that highlighted the importance of maintenance routines and long-term costs.
The Lim family envisioned a balcony that felt like an extension of their living room—a place to enjoy morning coffee, read a book, or entertain neighbours during the occasional Thong Song celebrations. But Singapore’s climate, with its high humidity and sudden downpours, made this dream difficult to achieve. Traditional outdoor furniture quickly fell into disrepair, requiring constant cleaning and repair. The family considered investing in metal pieces, but the risk of rust and the lack of comfort led them to explore other options.
During a visit to a furniture store in Bugis, the Lims stumbled upon the American Light Luxury High-Back Arch Queen Bed. The ivory leather with diamond tufting immediately caught their eye, offering a touch of retro elegance that complemented their modern HDB flat. The bed’s high-back design was particularly appealing, as it allowed for comfortable seating even in the limited space. The manufacturer’s promise of a quiet slat base and durable frame suggested it could withstand Singapore’s unpredictable weather.
At S$1450.00 per piece , the bed was more than the Lims had budgeted for initially. However, they were swayed by the potential long-term savings. The ivory leather was treated to resist moisture, and the acanthus carved frame with gilt accents promised to maintain its beauty with minimal upkeep. The family decided to proceed, hoping the initial outlay would pay off over time.
The first year was a learning experience. The Lims discovered that while the bed was low-maintenance, it wasn’t entirely maintenance-free. Here’s how they kept it in top condition:
By adhering to this routine, the Lims managed to avoid costly repairs and extended the life of the bed significantly.
Let’s look at the total cost over five years, factoring in the initial purchase price and maintenance expenses.
S$1450.00
The family spent S$75.00 per year on cleaning supplies and protective covers. Over five years, this amounted to:
S$75.00 x 5 = S$375.00
S$1450.00 (initial) + S$375.00 (maintenance) = S$1825.00
This total cost is significantly lower than what they might have spent on a metal bed that would have required constant repainting and rust treatment.
By the end of five years, the American Light Luxury High-Back Arch Bed had held up remarkably well. The ivory leather had resisted fading, and the carving details remained sharp. The family often mentioned how guests from other parts of Singapore, who visited during the Mid-Air Rainforest Sanctuary (MIDHILL) open house events, were impressed by the durability and style of their balcony furniture.
The bed had become a focal point of their outdoor space, transforming a small balcony into a comfortable and inviting area. The Lims realized that while the initial investment was higher, the low-maintenance nature of the bed had saved them both time and money in the long run.
The Lim family’s experience offers valuable insights for other Singaporeans looking to invest in outdoor furniture:
For families in Singapore, where outdoor space is often limited and the climate can be challenging, investing in durable, low-maintenance furniture like the American Light Luxury High-Back Arch Bed can make all the difference. It’s not just about buying furniture; it’s about creating a space that brings joy and comfort year after year.
Sourcing outdoor furniture for a project or resale? Midhill supplies distributors, wholesalers and contract buyers worldwide — see the outdoor furniture collection or send a trade enquiry.