Painting a small room might seem like a straightforward task, but when it comes to budgeting and planning, many homeowners in Singapore find themselves uncertain about the actual costs involved. Whether you’re freshening up your HDB bedroom, giving your study a new colour scheme, or adding personality to your guest room, understanding the small room painting cost estimate can help you plan better and avoid unexpected expenses.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the different factors that influence painting costs, provide practical cost estimates, and share some money-saving tips for painting small rooms in Singapore.
Why Repaint a Small Room?
Small rooms can benefit immensely from a fresh coat of paint. Despite their size, these spaces often play important roles in your home, such as being a nursery, guest room, study, or utility room. Here are a few reasons why people choose to repaint small rooms:
- Aesthetic Refresh: Breathe new life into old or dull-looking rooms.
- Mood Enhancement: Light, pastel shades can make rooms feel more spacious and inviting.
- Purpose Redesign: Change the room’s look to match a new purpose (e.g., converting a guest room to a home office).
- Property Value: A freshly painted room can improve overall home appeal, especially for rental or resale.
Key Factors Influencing Small Room Painting Cost Estimate
When estimating the cost of painting a small room, several variables come into play. Let’s explore the most significant ones.
- Room Size and Ceiling Height
A “small room” in Singapore is typically around 100 to 150 square feet (approx. 9 to 14 square metres). However, ceiling height can vary, and taller ceilings mean more paint and labour.
- Paint Type and Brand
Different paints come at different price points, depending on their quality, durability, and finish:
- Vinyl emulsion: Common and affordable; matte or silk finishes.
- Acrylic paint: More durable, great for moisture-prone areas.
- Odourless or eco-friendly paint: Often more expensive but healthier.
- Washable or stain-resistant paint: Ideal for kids’ rooms or high-use spaces.
Popular brands in Singapore include Nippon Paint, Dulux, Jotun, and Gush, each offering a range of options.
- Paint Finish
Paint finishes affect the appearance and maintenance level of your room:
- Matte: Soft finish, hides imperfections well.
- Eggshell/Satin: Subtle shine, more durable.
- Semi-gloss or gloss: Reflective and easy to clean but highlights flaws.
Glossy finishes typically cost more.
- Number of Coats Required
Most rooms need at least two coats of paint for a uniform finish. If you’re painting over dark colours or walls with stains, an additional coat or primer may be needed.
- Condition of the Walls
Prepping the walls is crucial. Costs can increase if:
- Old paint must be scraped off.
- Cracks or holes need patching.
- Mould treatment or waterproofing is required.
- Labour Costs
Labour is a significant portion of your small room painting cost estimate. In Singapore, professional painters may charge:
- Per room: A fixed rate (e.g., $200–$400 for a small room).
- Per square foot: Around $1.50–$3.50 per sq ft, depending on complexity and finishes.
- Additional Services
Optional add-ons can affect your final bill:
- Furniture moving or covering
- Protective sheetings
- Skirting, ceiling or door painting
- Feature wall or accent colour
Small Room Painting Cost Estimate in Singapore (2025)
Here’s a general estimate of what you might expect to pay for painting a small room in Singapore:
| Room Size (sq ft) | Paint Type | Wall Condition | Labour Included | Estimated Cost (SGD) |
| 100 sq ft | Basic Emulsion | Good | Yes | $250 – $350 |
| 100 sq ft | Premium Acrylic | Good | Yes | $350 – $450 |
| 150 sq ft | Odourless Paint | Fair | Yes | $450 – $600 |
| 150 sq ft | Eco-Friendly Paint | Needs Repair | Yes | $600 – $750 |
Note: These are average estimates. Prices may vary based on contractor, paint brand, promotions, or customisation needs.
DIY vs Hiring a Professional: Which Is Better?
DIY Painting
Pros:
- Cost-saving on labour
- Full control over timing and style
Cons:
- Time-consuming
- Physically demanding
- May lead to uneven results or mess
If you have experience and the right tools, DIY might be viable for a small room. However, many homeowners prefer the hassle-free experience of hiring professional painting services.
Professional Painters
Pros:
- Speedy and neat execution
- High-quality finish
- Repairs and prep included
- Warranty or satisfaction guarantee
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost
Ultimately, if you value precision, cleanliness, and convenience, hiring pros is worth the investment.
Tips to Save Money on Small Room Painting
- Compare Quotes
Always get at least 2–3 quotes from different painting service providers in Singapore. Check what’s included in their scope.
- Bundle Multiple Rooms
If you’re considering painting more than one room, ask for a bundle discount. Contractors may offer better rates for larger jobs.
- Choose Simple Colours
Neutral or light colours often require fewer coats, which can reduce paint usage and cost.
- Prepare the Room Yourself
Move furniture, remove wall hangings, and clean the walls. This saves the painter time and you, some money.
- Opt for Off-Peak Periods
Avoid peak renovation seasons (e.g., before Chinese New Year) when rates can rise due to higher demand.
Choosing the Right Painting Service in Singapore
When selecting a painting contractor for your small room, consider:
- Reputation and Reviews: Look for testimonials, Google reviews, or word-of-mouth recommendations.
- Experience: A seasoned team can handle unexpected issues smoothly.
- Warranty/Guarantee: Reputable services often provide touch-up guarantees.
- Transparency: Ensure the quote details everything – paint type, brand, coats, prep work, etc.
- Customer Support: Clear communication before and after the job is crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long does it take to paint a small room?
Typically, it takes 1–2 days for a professional team to complete a small room, including prep, painting, and clean-up.
Q2: How much paint is needed for a small room?
On average, you’ll need about 2–3 litres per coat for a room around 100–150 sq ft. Most walls need two coats.
Q3: Can I use leftover paint for a feature wall?
Yes, especially if it’s the same type and still usable. A feature wall requires less paint and can be a great way to save.
Q4: Will the painter handle repairs?
Most professional services include minor wall patching, sanding, and crack repairs in their package.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the small room painting cost estimate helps you budget more effectively and avoid unexpected surprises. In Singapore, costs typically range from $250 to $750, depending on factors like paint quality, wall condition, and service provider.
While DIY might be tempting for the thrifty, hiring a professional ensures quality, efficiency, and peace of mind—especially for homeowners looking to transform their space with minimal disruption.
If you’re planning to refresh a small room soon, contact a trusted painting service in Singapore for a detailed consultation and a free quote. A vibrant, polished room could be just a brushstroke away!