A must-visit home store!

If you’ve just moved into your new place, buying the basics will be first on the list. But you’ll also want to get it looking homey as soon as possible – and without spending too much money! Since Island Living opened their home store, it’s been a great place for finding affordable furniture for inside and out, but also all those all-important extras like rugs, lamps, plant pots and cushions.

We spoke with owners DENISE VRONTAS and KARIN RYSGAARD about their initial aims when they launched Island Living in Singapore, and why you need to head to this great warehouse home store, whether it’s for the first time or simply if you haven’t been for a shop there lately.

What were you trying to achieve that was different to other furniture home stores in Singapore?

When we first started Island Living, we really wanted to create a space that felt inspiring and approachable, not intimidating or over-styled. A lot of furniture shops in Singapore were either high-end designer stores or mass-produced chains. We wanted to sit somewhere in the middle: offering beautiful, affordable pieces that help people create a relaxed, tropical home.

We’ve also always made sure to carry not just furniture, but all the little touches that make a house feel like a home – lamps, baskets, rugs, soft furnishings, décor – things that bring warmth and personality.

The range is incredible, from the scented candles to the sofas – and mugs, wash baskets, towel racks and standing lamps too! How do you limit yourselves on buying trips?

It’s very hard! But we do stick to a clear vision: everything we bring in should work for a tropical, easy-living lifestyle. We also think about practicality – items that are beautiful but also functional. We always imagine how our customers would use them in their homes; nothing should feel too precious or difficult to care for. And of course, we keep affordability in mind. We want people to be able to refresh their homes often, without breaking the bank.

Are there any criteria for your choice of products – do’s and don’ts?

Yes, we’re very particular!

Do’s: Natural textures, earthy tones, relaxed silhouettes. Pieces that help create a calming space and complement Singapore’s indoor-outdoor living style.

Don’ts: Anything too glossy, too cold, or overly trendy. We steer clear of fast-furniture looks or anything that feels too stark or minimalist. We want people to walk into Island Living and feel inspired – like they’re on holiday or at a boutique resort.

Shop the range online or in the home store warehouse at #06-03/04 Mapletree Industrial Trust, 8 Kaki Bukit Avenue 1.
info@islandliving.sg | islandliving.sg

This article on the Island Living Singapore home store first appeared in the August 2025 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!

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