In the heart of Singapore, where monsoon rains often bring humidity that seeps into every corner, the Tan family lived in their HDB flat in Bishan. Their small living room, around 12 square metres, was a challenge. "We wanted something stylish but practical," says Mr. Tan, "something that wouldn't fade after a year in this climate."
In the heart of Singapore, where monsoon rains often bring humidity that seeps into every corner, the Tan family lived in their HDB flat in Bishan. Their small living room, around 12 square metres, was a challenge. "We wanted something stylish but practical," says Mr. Tan, "something that wouldn't fade after a year in this climate."
The Tans weren't alone. Many Singaporeans face the same issue in high-rise apartments and condos. Traditional sofa sets often succumbed to the humidity, developing musty smells and losing their shape within months. "We saw neighbours replacing their furniture every two years," Mrs. Tan recalls. "It was expensive and unsustainable."
The Tans discovered the American Solid Wood Luxury Leather Sofa Set from Riyadh Villa AR while browsing online. Listed at S$2550 per set, it stood out for its combination of solid wood and luxury leather upholstery. The minimalist design appealed to their modern taste, and the corner sectional promised to maximize their limited space.
Key features caught their attention:
The Tans live near MIDHILL, a neighbourhood known for its greenery but also for crowded living spaces. Their HDB unit, typical of many in the area, had limited storage and needed furniture that wouldn't dominate the room. The modular nature of the Riyadh Villa AR set—available as single, double, 3-seater, chaise lounge, coffee tables, and TV cabinets—offered flexibility. They opted for a 3-seater corner sectional, a coffee table, and a TV cabinet, totaling S$2550.
"We chose solid wood because we heard it holds up better in Singapore," Mr. Tan explains. "Hardwood doesn't warp like softer materials in the humidity. The leather look is also great; spills happen with kids, and it's easy to wipe down."
After two years, the Tans began their planned maintenance routine to ensure the sofa set's longevity. Their S$2550 investment required minimal upkeep compared to their previous furniture.
Monthly tasks:
Quarterly tasks:
Annual tasks:
Total maintenance cost over five years: S$210.
By the fifth year, the Tans had saved significantly compared to their neighbours who had replaced their S$2000 sofa set twice. The American Solid Wood Luxury Leather Sofa Set had remained stylish and comfortable.
"The quality has been excellent," Mrs. Tan states. "We've had guests over for gatherings, and the sofa has held up well. The chaise lounge is a favourite for reading in the evenings."
The set's dimensions—approx. 200cm wide, 90cm deep, and 85cm high—fit perfectly in their corner living space without overwhelming it. The solid wood frame, weighing around 45kg, provided stability even with children jumping on the cushions.
Initial cost: S$2550
Five-year maintenance: S$210
Total estimated cost over five years: S$2760
vs. replacing a S$2000 set every two years: S$4000 over five years
The Tans' experience highlights a growing trend among Singaporean homeowners: investing in higher-quality furniture that withstands the climate and lasts longer, even if it means a higher upfront cost. Their story, shared with friends in nearby neighbourhoods like Ang Mo Kio and Yishun, has influenced several to choose similar durable options from Riyadh Villa AR.
In Singapore, where space is precious and conditions demanding, the Tans found their S$2550 solution not just a purchase, but a long-term investment in their home's comfort and value.