In 1996, the inclusion of household shelters in HDBs became mandatory. Even if you are an owner of a resale flat, there is still a high chance that your unit is equipped with one. As it’s not a structure that can just remove, the inability to modify the structure of the household shelter has undoubtedly become a pain point for many. This is especially prominent for units where it is positioned awkwardly. Still, there are solutions to maximise this space or at the very least, make them less of an eyesore.
1. Conceal It
Concealing your bomb shelter is probably the go-to solution for many. In a nutshell – out of sight out of mind. However, it is by no means the last resort solution nor a cop-out.
Modern panelling solutions can be rather compact and do not take up that much additional floor space. Additionally, certain designs act as neat accents for space, providing much-needed contrast for some homes. Louvred panels help to conceal their own door openings and are thus a great choice for a truly seamless look. Consider extending this design language by having the louvres wrap around the ceiling above as well.
Some are done so well, you’d never even know there was a space behind at first glance.
![screenshot-2022-03-24-at-11-11-15-pm-1024x682-1](https://sonadecor.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/screenshot-2022-03-24-at-11-11-15-pm-1024x682-1.png)
2. Extra Storage Inside-Out
Apart from concealing, seize this opportunity to include practical storage solutions into your panelling. Take this one step further by curating a built-in storage solution around the bomb shelter for a storage haven inside-out.
Doubling up your panel as a hidden shoe rack is one great option for bomb shelters located near the entrance. For kitchens, a neat spice and condiments rack could do the trick. This makes for efficient use of limited space that is practical and aesthetically pleasing. Moreover, this resolves existing storage needs and does away with the additional effort and space that would otherwise be required.
![screenshot-2022-03-24-at-11-11-22-pm-1024x681-1](https://sonadecor.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/screenshot-2022-03-24-at-11-11-22-pm-1024x681-1.png)
3. A Specialised Hobby Room
Everyone needs a healthy dose of “me ” time and space to engage in their hobbies every now and then. However, a conducive environment is not always easy to come by, especially when the expanse of others are at stake.
If not to engage in, household shelters still make for a compact space to collect and store hobby related items. Photo and video enthusiasts, for example, can consider turning the place into an elaborate equipment cum display room. On the quieter side of things, a small scale library could just be as desirable for avid readers with an extensive collection. To kickstart your hobby room, opt for flexible shelving solutions that can cater to a variety of needs and work from there.
![echo_290510_16-632x1024-1](https://sonadecor.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/echo_290510_16-632x1024-1.jpeg)