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Instagram makeover tips you need to know about

A home makeover to create an aesthetic vibe is easy with these inspiring tips on Instagram.

TEXT: MORGAN AWYONG

PHOTOS: @OURFIRSVTHOME, RICE LAB,  SHUTTERSTOCK, @LIGHKDARKSTARK_STUDIO, @JANNONKWAN & @LEMONFRIDGESTUDIO

If you’re looking to remodel your home, the good news is that finding inspiration to create your dream dwelling is easier than ever. However, renovating your home to fit a specific theme – like Japandi or Industrial – can take a hefty chunk out from your savings.

Rather than following trendy renovation themes blindly – that could soon fall out of style and date your home – why not pick up some makeover tips from Instagram itself?

For a more wallet-friendly makeover for instance, you could spruce up your existing home. Some of these changes just need a new piece of furniture, while others guide you on fundamentals that you can apply throughout your home.

CURVY IS IN

Putting a wall up can be a good thing, especially when it’s a curved one. These homeowners added a wall with a rounded edge to their main living space and it instantly elevated the feel.

Curved walls can help to soften the look of a space. It can serve as a design statement and add visual interest. They have strategically placed the curved corner at a central location, so it can transform the visual mood from multiple angles. And because the curve is only applied to the corner, the cost is reduced and occupies less space than a full wall. Plus, it’s safer if you have kids.

COLOUR STORIES

Architect Khai Toh believes that the best Insta-worthy shots work because of visual storytelling. You can do this in two ways: Adding a pop of contrasting colour to the existing home palette, or creating pockets of activity – like an armchair to read at.

The first is easy, and rather than just relying on furniture, consider items like paintings or a shelf of books to add dynamism to your pictures. Otherwise, you could also paint a single feature wall to add that visual interest.

The second works because the way the items are placed suggests an activity the homeowner partakes in. Khai explains: “What draws me into a picture is the used space; like half-open books or a pen by a sofa – as if someone had just left the spot”.

TILES HAVE CHANGED

Photo: Rice Lab

This company shows off the variety of possibilities available today, including sophisticated designs that appear seamless with clever visual illusions. Textures – unlike colours and forms – are often overlooked when designing homes, and you can include them easily with the right kind of tiles, even if it’s just in one room. Whether placed on the floor or a wall, their addition can transform a space, giving visual and tactile interest just by adjusting some lighting.

SERVE A THROW

Photo: Shutterstock

Combining two of the earlier points about colour and texture, a throw can instantly elevate your existing home setup. These mini decorative blankets might not make much sense in their original function in sunny Singapore, but they can serve another purpose – as an added layer of protection against dust, grime and sunlight.

A throw can be placed on a sofa, armchair, bed or even a side table to add a pop of personality, and with the many designs and materials out there, you’ll likely find one that speaks to you and fits your home. You don’t even need to buy proper throws. Experiment with mufflers or scarves to get the same effect without spending too much.

EXPRESS YOURSELF

When designing a home, we can sometimes lose ourselves to a theme. Magazine and social media-inspired designs might be great but it can feel strangely cookie-cutter if it doesn’t align with your own lifestyle. For instance, a minimalist design theme might appeal to you but may not be realistic if you have three kids and a dog.

Don’t be afraid to inject your own personality with hybrid styles. A colourful dog bed or play station might be just what is needed to differentiate your white walls. Add your favourite sci-fi toy, crocheted cushion cover, vinyl record – these will give your home your unique visual signature.

LIGHTING IS EVERYTHING

Photo: @lighkdarkstark_studio @jannonkwan and @lemonfridgestudio

The right kind of lighting can really impact in a photo, and it does so in three ways. First, having dedicated points of lighting can quickly add visual points of interest as well as suggest areas of activity, like a standing lamp by an armchair. Secondly, you can quickly transform the ambience with different lighting temperatures, especially with hue-changing bulbs.

Lighting can be statement pieces themselves. In this example, the off-kilter lights adds levity to the space with their playful angles. If fixed lightings are too fussy, consider portable versions and LED lighting strips to tuck light into neglected corners for depth and interest.

BRING HOME AN EMOTION

Sometimes the best inspiration comes from places you already love and know. Where’s your happy place? Is there somewhere you go to that makes you feel particularly relaxed?

Why spend all that money at (sometimes) overpriced cafes when you can recreate the café vibe at home? This local design installed a wall seating on one side of the dining table to simulate a cafe, with side embellishments. So be it a spa or bar or hotel room, let your favourite hangouts become your source of inspiration.

Combine one or more of these tips to spruce up your home, and see how easy it is to make it more photogenic. HomeTeamNS members can shop for more chic inspiration ideas at HipVan and enjoy 10 per cent off when they spend a minimum of $500 there.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

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In The Force

Our Role Model: A Father’s Day Special

This father, also a Citizens on Patrol volunteer shares why it’s important to be a role model for his children.

TEXT: HOME TEAM VOLUNTEER NETWORK

PHOTOS: SHANKAR TARAKAD

Portrait photographer Anne Geddes said: “Any man can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad.” On this special Father’s Day feature, Mr Shankar Tarakad, a Citizens on Patrol (COP) volunteer, shares his story of being a father and a Home Team volunteer.

VOLUNTEERING TO PROTECT THE COMMUNITY

As a COP volunteer, Shankar works with a team of volunteers to keep the area around River Valley, Havelock and Lower Delta safe. They patrol in groups of four or more, ready to answer any questions raised by residents. He shared, “The goal is to allow the residents to reach out to us when we patrol while keeping a visible presence of law, and keep Singapore safe.” Additionally, Mr Shankar also volunteers as a Crime Prevention Ambassador (CPA), which is also part of the Home Team Volunteer Network.

LEADING BY EXAMPLE

Shankar emphasised, “As a father, I believe children will learn by example when they see their parents stepping out to do something meaningful like volunteering. It allows them to see another perspective of life. This is something I truly believe in.” Since young, his children have witnessed their parents volunteering in many other organisations such as the Community Paying it Forward (CPF) and Samaritans of Singapore (SOS).

Through his volunteering efforts, his children learned that there is a positive impact in helping the community.

His son, Anshul Shankar, who is currently serving his national service with the Singapore Civil Defence Force, as well as his daughter, Anusha Shankar, mentioned that their parents passionately spend their free time volunteering and share with them their voluntary work experiences. In turn, they understood the importance of giving back to the community and being involved in their neighbourhood and society.

Mr Shankar with his family (from left): his daughter Anusha, his wife Anupama Puranik and son Anshul.
Mr Shankar with his family (from left): his daughter Anusha, his wife Anupama Puranik and son Anshul.

LEARNING BY DOING

Shankar discovered by being a volunteer, it teaches him many valuable lessons in life such as:

  • Two-way street communication: You learn from people and you impart your knowledge to them at the same time
  • Widen your vision to the undiscovered: You learn more about the neighbourhood and the residents. Besides giving crime prevention advices, patrolling comes with many “perks”. For example, Shankar now knows which fruit shop sells fresher and cheaper products than supermarkets. He also discovered new food stalls that he now enjoys, such as the Char Kway Teow at Zion Rd.
  • Fulfilment in life: Your life will feel complete and meaningful by doing things that you are passionate about and at the same time, benefitting the community.

Shankar’s acts of kindness and generosity in volunteering showed us that life is more than just work and family. 

Get to know Mr Shankar better through a game of ‘This or That: COP Edition’.

Find out more how you can make a difference in your community. Volunteer with the Home Team Volunteer Network today! You can also check out our Instagram and Facebook Page, @htvolunteers, to learn more about the 11 schemes.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

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Singapore Buzz

Then and now: Lazarus Island

Lazarus Island, once a penal colony, is now home to Singapore’s first tiny house accommodation – as well as a host of fun activities on land and at sea.

TEXT: MELODY TAN

PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK

Lazarus Island has long lain in the shadow of its more developed sibling, St John’s Island. But now it’s time for this hidden gem to shine among Singapore’s Southern Islands, and welcome visitors seeking sun, sand, and surf in an unspoiled setting.

Earlier this year, Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) announced that it was launching sustainable, ‘light-touch’ visitor activities on Lazarus Island, starting with Tiny Away Escape @ Lazarus Island, a uniquely small-scale accommodation operated by Singaporean tiny house ecotourism provider Big Tiny. More amenities and activities will soon follow, according to SDC.

No longer a well-kept secret among beachgoers and nature enthusiasts, Lazarus Island is ready to take its place in the sun. But how well do you know the island’s history, and what the future holds for it?

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Before the arrival of Sir Stamford Raffles, the Southern Islands of Singapore – and Singapore itself – were inhabited by the Orang Laut, or people of the sea. They called Lazarus Island Pulau Sekijang Kechil while the larger St John Island was termed Pulau Sekijang Besar.  

When the British arrived, the islands became collectively known as the St John’s Islands. It is thought that a corruption or mishearing of ‘Sekijang’ by the British resulted in the name St John, while the isolation hospital for contagious diseases built on Lazarus Island – termed a lazarette – gave the latter its name.

Another version of how both islands got their names states that two missionaries – named St John and Lazarus – on board Raffles’ ship were asked to disembark on the islands to look for water. St John was unable to find any water on the island he stopped at, while Lazarus found a spring.

THE DIFFERENT INCARNATIONS OF LAZARUS ISLAND

In 1873, a cholera outbreak on the mainland killed 357 people, which led to the building of quarantine facilities on St John’s Island where migrants – especially those from China, who formed the majority – could be observed for signs of contagious diseases such as smallpox or cholera.

During the same period, Lazarus Island was home to several inmate confinement sheds that were later abandoned when a prisoner escaped. The sheds burnt down in 1902, leaving the island to function as a graveyard for quarantined migrants who passed away.

By the 1960s, Lazarus Island transformed yet again – this time into a radar base for civil aviation. A decade later, it was slated for recreational uses under SDC management.

ACTIVITIES ON LAND AND SEA

Lazarus Island is currently a popular choice for families and individuals looking to reconnect with nature.

A short ferry ride (20 minutes from Marina South Pier, or 15 minutes from Sentosa Cove) followed by a stroll across the causeway between St John’s and Lazarus Islands will bring you to the latter’s beach, which some say is the best in Singapore. Its wide sandy expanses are perfect for activities like sunbathing, kite flying, and a game of beach volleyball. A row of trees also provide much-needed shade for picnics (be sure to bring enough food, drinks, and other necessities, as there are no shops yet on Lazarus Island).

Adventurous explorers will want to rent a bicycle at the Gogreen Southern Island Bicycle Rental to explore the island on two wheels, while those who prefer to explore the Lazarus Island lagoon can choose between kayaking and stand-up paddling.

As the island boasts a healthy reef eco-system, snorkelling and catch-and-release fishing are also fun options. If you plan to swim, do watch out for strong currents around the island’s coastline.

AN ECO-FRIENDLY DESTINATION

Tiny Away Escape @ Lazarus Island offers five Tiny House units for guests looking to reconnect with nature. These eco-friendly accomodations are powered by solar energy (PHOTO: Tiny Away Escape @ Lazarus Island Facebook page).

In the near future, more non-motorised water activities will be launched alongside other attractions such as overnight glamping experiences. But in the meantime, book yourself a little vacation at Tiny Away Escape @ Lazarus Island.

The five Tiny House units – which measure between 150 to 170 square feet – are decorated according to themes, such as unit 1900, which has a colonial black and white aesthetic, or unit 1960, which is inspired by industrial design. And yes – for those wondering, air-conditioning and wi-fi are included.

More importantly, they are powered by solar energy and feature eco-friendly features such as biodegradable shampoo and body wash, as well as high-tech food waste recycling systems, so that visitors leave almost nothing but footprints on the beach when they depart.

If you’re taking the kids on a green vacation, why not let them get involved with a trash-picking activity? Organisations like Our Singapore Reefs often hold beach clean-up activities at Lazarus Island, but if you want to start your own clean-up, check out these useful guidelines from the Public Hygiene Council. Keeping Lazarus Island clean will ensure it remains a beautiful natural retreat for generations to come.

HAVE A CLEAN AND GREEN EXPERIENCE

Planning to head south to Lazarus Island over the weekend? Here are some tips on how to be an environmentally conscious visitor.

TIP 1: BYOB

In this case, the ‘B’ stands for bag, as in, bring your own bag for trash so that you can take your rubbish with you when you leave. Even better, bring several bags so that you can divide recyclables from waste as well.

TIP 2: DON’T FEED THE ANIMALS

If you’re disposing food waste, tie your bag securely and keep it out of sight. In addition, be sure not to leave even a stray food wrapper behind. The last thing you want is for the island’s resident macaques to develop a junk food habit – and to begin accosting visitors for more.

TIP 3: LEAVE NATURE IN ITS PLACE

Similarly, teach your children not to touch wildlife. Creatures living in marine environments like the cone snail or jellyfish can deliver a nasty sting. To learn how to react when you spot common animals such as monitor lizards and snakes, check out this handy guide from the National Parks Board

TIP 4: KEEP THE NOISE DOWN

A beach day with your favourite tunes blasting out from a portable speaker is undeniably fun, but when the volume is too loud, nature pays the price. With noise pollution, many animals cannot rely on their hearing to hunt prey or escape predators. It also affects the visitor experience and mental wellness of other people looking for some peace and quiet in nature.

TIP 5: CAPTURE MEMORIES, NOT SOUVENIRS

Bringing home shells from the beach is also highly discouraged, as it disrupts the island’s fragile ecosystem. Besides being used as shelters by hermit crabs or even fish, shells play host to algae, sea grass and microorganisms, while birds use them in their nests. Instead of taking home a shell for memory’s sake, take a picture instead (the best part: you can take as many photos as you want).

 

For more ideas on eco-friendly activities that are fun for the whole family, click here.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App, and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

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Close Up Technology

What I learnt from playing Honkai: Star Rail

Gamer Mary Wu reveals beginners’ tips, hidden features and how this massively popular video game can help you level up in life.

TEXT & PHOTOS: MARY WU

“As a “semi-retired” gamer girl with a busy IRL (In Real Life) schedule, I’m extremely selective about the titles I pursue in the virtual world. Of late, I’ve been plugged into the virtual worlds of HoYoverse, a Chinese video game developer known for open-world action role-playing game (RPG) Genshin Impact, and recently, Honkai: Star Rail, another RPG that was released in April.

It is a wonder the game doesn’t lag, with a deluge of gamers flooding its servers 24/7. According to reports, it has been a runaway success, and recorded over 20 million downloads in just one day. Many of these players include HoYoverse returnees like me, who were enraptured by the cute yet realistically animated characters, smooth gameplay (even on mobile), intricate storyline and easy-to-learn battle mechanics. Did I mention that the graphics are gorgeous?

But before you dismiss Honkai: Star Rail (available on PC and mobile devices) as another battery-draining, storage space-eating monster (you need at least 10GB), here are some life lessons I’ve gleaned from this surprisingly thoughtful masterpiece.”

 

ROLL WITH THE PUNCHES

“As with life, not everyone is on equal footing and we all want to start out strong, right?

I start my journey in Honkai: Star Rail as a disoriented Trailblazer who has no recollection of who they are. Rescued by a faction that goes on space missions (and that I eventually join), I discover that there is a mysterious power imbued within me. I’m intrigued by such “chosen one” plots, so let’s go!

An RPG with a “gacha” system – inspired by its namesake toy capsule vending machines – Honkai: Star Rail entices players to purchase in-game mystery items as they advance. You can obtain new characters and Light Cones (items that provide boosts) by spending tickets. The game calls this Warping. New players will get their first Warp for free, but the character they get is totally random. However, players can earn their tickets to roll for characters and Light Cones as they play – but of course, it would take a lot more effort and time.

Thankfully, in this game, rerolls for a better outcome are possible! There is a pity system, in which a player will be guaranteed a 5-star character after a certain number of rolls. So, players can technically save their tickets for a future character that they want through playing the game.

By the way, Patch 1.1 just dropped on 7 June, bringing you three new playable and strong characters, as well as other fantastic in-game items. This is why “gacha” style online RPGs never get boring.

Gamer Mary W didn’t get Bronya, but I got four-star Herta (pictured, middle).
I didn’t get Bronya, but I got four-star Herta (pictured, middle).

If you’re aiming for a top-tier, ultra-rare character like Bronya, time and patience must be on your side. She’s awesome not only because she’s a five-star character but also as she excels as a powerful support for the team, especially in the game’s late stage, when enemies are much stronger. One of her most sought-after skills is enabling your hard-hitters to have two turns per round. 

To reroll, not only do you need to create new game accounts, you’ll also need to keep replaying the lengthy tutorial (think, 30 minutes or more, depending on your gaming style).”

THERE ARE NO SHORTCUTS

“I’ll admit that my impatience has gotten the better of me, in reality as well as virtual worlds. Having played other RPGs, I sped through Honkai: Star Rail’s tutorial and skipped as many stories as I could to save time (please don’t, the content is rich).

Did I tell you how many times my entire team got pawned on the battlefield? Sometimes, we lost to even low-level minions just because I didn’t bother to read or upgrade my characters and barrelled through the game, hack-and-slash style, using the auto-battle function.

While this is just a game with little consequence, playing Honkai: Star Rail reminded me that impatience and over-confidence won’t get me anywhere. I need to understand the situation before rushing in headlong, without a plan.

The importance of teamwork was another crucial takeaway. Your most powerful character can’t tank all the enemies alone, just as the most capable person can’t do everything on their own. It helps if you understand your character’s strengths and weaknesses, and figure out how your team would help make up for that weakness.

In addition, synergy is key. There’s no point combining four top-tier characters in a team if they can’t support one another. I needed a mix of the following: a main damage dealer, characters for healing and protection, and one that can execute an area attack.”

LIGHTEN UP, MAN

“You know those games that are so relevant, pop culturally speaking, it feels like you’re interacting with a friend? Playing Honkai: Star Rail, I’ve encountered references to the metaverse and —  possibly — Netflix animated series Castlevania, which players can banter about on a messaging system that looks like WhatsApp. It’s nice to have a game that stays on trend, and this is possible due to the frequent updates available to those with a stable internet connection.

I’ve also read about Easter Eggs such as (spoiler alert) the appearance of twins that pay homage to the movie: The Shining’s creepy sisters — definitely not looking forward to encountering them while playing at 3am!

So far, the game’s hidden surprises have amused me to no end. I wonder if I’ve invited weird stares on the MRT for giggling to myself. But why take things so seriously when you can have fun?”

VERDICT: HONKAI: STAR RAIL — SUPERSTAR OR SUPER BLAH?

Having spent a significant amount of my spare time engaged with Honkai’s heroes and riding its Astral Express (the space train that allows you to travel across galaxies), I can safely say that I regret nothing. Yup, it kept me up till 3am. My phone overheated on one occasion. And it took time for me to get used to the in-game terminology for the usual character boosts, skills and levelling up. But it was all part of a process that uncovered a new virtual world and levelled up my patience and determination.

If you’ll excuse me, I’ll get back to my game now.”

ABOUT THE WRITER

Back in her university days, Mary Wu spent time levelling up in video games instead of her studies (oops). Thankfully, she turned out okay and now has since evolved into a casual gamer who balances virtual reality with life and work.

Healthy gaming habits from Mary Wu

  • Minimise eye strain from screen time by looking into the distance every 20 minutes for at least 20 seconds. It helps that Honkai has a pause button.
  • As a former hardcore gamer, I once stayed awake for 48 hours at a stretch. Don’t sacrifice your health like I did and remember to set a timer so you get enough sleep, have your meals on time and interact with your family.
  • Be mindful of your posture. When we are too caught up in something, we may slouch or “sit like a banana”. This could result in “text neck”, where the neck muscles are strained, among other issues.
  • Exercise self-control. If you choose to spend your hard-earned money purchasing virtual items and characters, set a budget – no matter how strong the temptation to splurge.

They say that old is gold – let the nostalgia kick in as you play classic games such as Street Fighter and Tetris with your buddies at our ManCaves at the Khatib and Bedok Reservoir clubhouses, which are equipped with game consoles.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Categories
Shape Up Travel

What is altitude sickness and how do you prevent it when climbing mountains?

Learn how to prevent the condition that has led to tragic consequences for mountaineers during one of Mount Everest’s most treacherous seasons.

TEXT & INFOGRAPHIC: EVELINE GAN
PHOTO: FLICKR USER SCILLA KIM

In May, a Singaporean climber went missing after reaching the summit of Mount Everest. He was reportedly suffering from frostbite and altitude sickness when he got separated from his group. The news, which came amid a spike in fatalities on the world’s highest mountain, raised questions over whether a rising number of inexperienced climbers and guides led to this. What’s certain, is that another factor partially responsible for many of the deaths that occurred this year is altitude sickness.

According to American academic medical centre Cleveland Clinic, altitude sickness may occur in up to half of people who climb to elevations above 8,000 feet (2,440m). It is caused by ascending too rapidly, which doesn’t allow the body sufficient time to adjust to reduced oxygen and changes in air pressure.

Don’t ignore the signs

As mountain climbing becomes increasingly popular, being aware of the risks and red flags of altitude illnesses is key to a safe experience. The mildest form of altitude sickness — which can usually be treated by over-the-counter medication — is known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), with symptoms that recall a hangover. This can deteriorate into High-altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), a life-threatening build-up of fluid in the lungs, and High-altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), a severe condition where there’s fluid in the brain. Such cases require immediate medical attention.

Regardless of your climbing expertise, all high-altitude adventures come at a risk of potentially life-threatening altitude sickness, points out Mr Vijay Kumar, director of SGTrek, an outdoor travel platform that offers mountaineering expeditions. “Even experienced climbers may fall victim to altitude sickness if they disregard proper acclimatisation practices or ignore their body’s warning signals,” he explains. 

With that being said, individuals at higher risk of developing altitude sickness include those with lung or heart conditions, pregnant women and climbers who live at low elevation — such as in Singapore.

Mr Vijay adds that in some cases, climbers may benefit from using medication like acetazolamide (Diamox) to prevent and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness. However, it is important to discuss this option with a medical professional before use.

Never underestimate the mountain and its challenges, Mr Vijay cautions, adding that “the key to preventing altitude sickness is a gradual ascent, allowing the body to acclimatise to higher altitudes”. “Listen to your body and be aware of any symptoms of altitude sickness. If conditions or circumstances become unsafe, be prepared to turn back. The mountain will aways be there and your safety should be top priority,” he emphasises.  It is also important for people with medical conditions to obtain a doctor’s clearance before embarking on a high-altitude hike. 

Being physically and mentally prepared, and taking the necessary precautions during ascent can reduce your risk of developing altitude sickness. Here are more tips for ensuring a safer and enjoyable climb.

Sources from: WebMD, SGTrek, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Livestrong, and Cleveland Clinic.

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