There definitely is more light with the new renovations, which I guess is to bring T1 & T2 into line with the new terminal. Also, they seemed to be upgrading the finish of the airport using marble and floor to ceiling glass in the departure hall. The part next to the SQ First Class Check-In area had just been finished and looks great.
I think that the end result would be that Changi will look very modern and luxurious without being cold or minimalist, like HKIA.