Japandi, modern farmhouse, maximalism… the list of interior design trends to choose from never ends. But if you think you’re all caught up with the latest, here’s one you might not have heard of. Cave core, or “modern cave style”, is a trend that transforms your home into a literal cavern. Imagine the Flintstones, but make it aesthetically pleasing: think textured walls, raw finishes, and beige hues that are easy on the eyes.
So why is cave core on the rise now? Now that the world is super fast-paced and hyper-connected, many of us are turning inward. We crave spaces that feel warm, enveloping, and restorative. The movement also fits right into 2025’s “material drenching” trend, where entire rooms are coated in a single tactile finish like stone or plaster. Combined with earthy tones and organic curves, cave core interiors bring nature indoors in a way that’s soothing and subtle.
Can cave core be done in Singapore?
Casa Spring.
Image credit: @met.interior
Absolutely. Cave core may have roots in far-flung design philosophies, but it adapts surprisingly well to our local context. For one, this trend’s focus on intimacy, texture, and smart spatial planning makes it ideal for both compact flats and larger units.
Take Arthur 118, a 3-bedroom condo styled by Fifth Avenue Interior, or Casa Spring @ Yishun, a 4-room BTO designed by MET Interior. Both projects showcase how cave-inspired aesthetics can thrive in Singaporean homes.
![cave core in singapore - arthur 118 [1]](https://i0.wp.com/uchify.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/cave-core-in-singapore-arthur-118-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&ssl=1)
Arthur 118.
Image credit: Fifth Avenue
For Arthur 118, Fifth Avenue Interior transformed a 3-bedroom condo into a moody, nature-inspired sanctuary. The space leans into a darker, grounding palette with greys and beiges, contrasted with black accents and rich, dark wood finishes. Organic textures take centre stage, with natural materials like stone and timber layered throughout. Soft, ambient lighting ties it all together, casting a gentle glow that makes the space feel warm, quiet, and lived-in.
The renovation came in at $187,000 and included everything from hacking and painting to flooring, electrical rewiring, plumbing, carpentry, and false ceilings. The end result is a thoughtful blend of wabi sabi and cave core.
Casa Spring.
Image credit: @met.interior
Casa Spring, on the other hand, takes a lighter, more breezy approach. With clean lines and a soft colour palette, MET Interior has transformed this ordinary BTO flat into a home that wouldn’t look out of place in Santorini. The renovation cost came in at $130,000 and covered everything from carpentry and a custom feature wall to flooring, hacking, false ceilings, tiling, painting, and plumbing.
Materials to use for cave core-inspired interiors
![cave core in singapore - arthur 118 [2]](https://i0.wp.com/uchify.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/cave-core-in-singapore-arthur-118-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&ssl=1)
Image credit: Fifth Avenue
When it comes to cave core, materials do the heavy lifting. The right ones can instantly transform your home into a grounded, tactile space. Plus, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort or function. Below are some key materials to consider when creating your own cave-inspired sanctuary:
| Material | How to use it |
| Stone | Use for feature walls, flooring, or pebble-like details in nooks and entryways. Smooth or rough textures both work depending on your design style. |
| Wood | Adds warmth and balance to cooler materials. Try curved beams, rounded furniture edges, or timber ceiling panels to create a softer, organic look. |
| Natural fabrics | Linen, cotton, and wool are ideal for textiles like curtains and cushions. They enhance comfort and give the space a relaxed, lived-in feel. |
| Clay and earthernware | Incorporate clay pots, ceramic vases, or artisanal wall art to bring in earthy, handcrafted touches. |
| Concrete | Great for walls, floors, or built-in benches and tables. The raw finish adds texture and works well with softer accents. |
| Glass | Use sparingly in smaller spaces. Glass doors or skylights bring in light and contrast heavier materials, making the space feel more open. |
| Metal and Recycled Accents | Add modern details with metal or recycled pieces in lighting fixtures or small decor items to complement the natural aesthetic. |
| Crystals and Stones | You can also decorate with quartz, amethyst, or other natural stones to add a grounding connection to nature. |
Construction and design tips for cave core interiors
Image credit: @the_designerds
To really lean into the cave core aesthetic, start with shapes. One way to do that is to opt for curved edges and organic forms in your furniture and built-ins. Think rounded sofas, arched doorways, and flowy lines that mimic the natural contours of a cave.
Cavern House.
Image credit: Stacked Studio
We’d also recommend sticking to a neutral, earth palette. Shades of brown, beige, grey, off-white, and muted greens all work beautifully to ground the space. You can add some pops of colour later with eclectic decor and other furniture. One example of this is Cavern House by Super Assembly, which was “inspired by the captivating formations and expansive spaces found within caves,” according to Arch Daily.
A design lover will appreciate the kitchen island and cabinets that feature swirling patterns and natural textures, evoke a sense of ruggedness and organic beauty that is central to the cave core design style.
Cavern House.
Image credit: Stacked Studio
Lighting plays a big role too. Swap harsh overhead lights for warm, ambient glows. You can do that by adding think wall sconces, concealed lighting, or lamps that cast a soft wash across textured walls.
What are the challenges of achieving a cave-like atmosphere in SG’s climate?
While cave core interiors look effortlessly calming and grounded, achieving that look in Singapore’s tropical climate isn’t without its challenges. Materials like stone and concrete, which are key to that raw, earthy vibe, tend to absorb and retain heat. Without proper ventilation or insulation, this could make your home feel more sauna than sanctuary. A practical workaround? Use these materials selectively, such as for feature walls or decorative surfaces rather than covering entire rooms.
Another project at Tengah Plantation.
Image adapted from: @the_designerds
Humidity is another factor to consider. Materials like stone and concrete can be prone to issues like salt damage, efflorescence, or even mould if moisture isn’t properly managed. Even plastered surfaces can be tricky to navigate. To keep things looking sharp, regular maintenance and protective treatments are a must. You can even consider buying a dehumidifier for your home.
With the right planning and materials, though, it’s possible to enjoy the cave core aesthetic without sweating through it.
Consider adding some cave core elements to your home
Cave core might sound like an out-there design trend. But at its heart, it’s all about creating a home that feels calming and connected to nature. That’s something many of us crave in fast-paced, high-rise Singapore. With its soft curves, textured surfaces, and earthy palette, it’s easy to see why more homeowners are drawn to this style.
That said, pulling off a cave-inspired interior here does take some thoughtful planning. From choosing materials that suit our climate to making sure the space doesn’t trap heat or moisture, small details can make a big difference. But with the right mix of textures, smart ventilation, and a designer who understands your vision, cave core be a good choice. Yes, even in a compact HDB flat.
At the end of the day, it’s not about replicating a literal cave. It’s about creating a space that feels cosy and a little more in tune with the natural world.
Cover image adapted from: Fifth Avenue, @met.interior
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