First-timers and those with pressing housing needs enjoy priority schemes that can improve your chances of getting balloted to book an HDB flat under the regular Build-to-Order (BTO) and Sales of Balance (SBF) sales launches. Learn more about HDB’s 7 priority schemes here!
Parents
Parenthood Priority Scheme (PPS)
First-timer married couples who are expecting, or have a young Singaporean child who is 18 years and below, will benefit from the Parenthood Priority Scheme (PPS). Up to 30% of BTO units and 50% of SBF units are allocated to applicants under this scheme.
Third Child Priority Scheme (TCPS)
Even better news for those with more kids – families with 3 or more children will enjoy priority under the PPS as well as the Third Child Priority Scheme (TCPS). Up to 5% of BTO/ SBF units are allocated under the TCPS.
Your application will first be balloted with other TCPS applicants. If that ballot is unsuccessful, your application will be balloted again under the PPS.
Assistance Scheme for Second-Timers (Divorced/ Widowed Parents) (ASSIST)
Under the Assistance Scheme for Second-Timers (ASSIST), up to 5% of 2-room Flexi and 3-room BTO flats in non-mature estates will be set aside for divorced or widowed parents with children aged 18 years old and below. This quota is shared with the 30% quota set aside for second-timer applicants.
Couples/ families wanting to live near or with their parents
Married Child Priority Scheme (MCPS)
Keen to move out to your own place, but want to keep your family close? The Married Child Priority Scheme (MCPS) improves ballot chances for new flat buyers who wish to live with or near their parents for mutual care and support.
You will qualify for the MCPS, as long as your new flat is a within 4km radius of your parents’ HDB flat or private property. Engaged couples, or parents looking to stay with or near their married child are also eligible to apply for the MCPS!
The following table summarises the quota of flats given priority under the MCPS in each new project:
Multi-Generation Priority Scheme (MGPS)
For married children wanting to live even closer to your parents, consider applying under the Multi-Generation Priority Scheme (MGPS)! This scheme allows you to submit a joint application for 2 flats in a single BTO project, increasing the ballot chances of both parties to stay within the same precinct and even on the same floor! A 60-year-old couple shares their story of purchasing a BTO flat under MGPS to be closer to family here.
Note that parents applying for a flat under MGPS would be eligible to apply only for a 2-room Flexi or 3-room flat.
Senior Priority Scheme (SPS)
The Senior Priority Scheme (SPS) supports elderly residents who wish to live near your married child i.e. within 4km radius from the HDB flat or private property that they reside in.
The SPS also applies to elderly residents looking to buy a new 2-room Flexi flat to age-in-place within a familiar environment i.e. within 4km radius of your current flat or private property.
At least 40% of the 2-room Flexi flats for each BTO project offered during HDB sales launches will be set aside for elderly applicants. Half of this quota i.e. 20% will be set aside for eligible elderly under the SPS.
Tenants of HDB rental flats
Tenants’ Priority Scheme (TPS)
Many rental tenants progress to owning a home . If you have been renting a flat from HDB for at least 2 years, and are looking to buy a flat, you can apply for a 2-room Flexi and 3-room BTO and SBF flats set aside under the Tenants’ Priority Scheme.
Download and share this infographic on HDB’s flat priority schemes, or visit the HDB InfoWEB for more details to improve your chances at the ballot. May the odds be in your favour!
5 Things to Know About the Community Care Apartments
Community Care Apartments (CCA) are public housing jointly developed by the Ministry of National Development (MND), Housing & Development Board (HDB) and Ministry of Health (MOH). The CCA combine senior-friendly housing with care services, offering an option for seniors to age in-place and independently in a community setting.
The first batch of CCA, which will be in Bukit Batok, was launched in February 2021. Seniors can look forward to the second batch of CCAs in Queenstown, to be launched later this year.
Harmony Village @ Bukit Batok
If you or your family members are looking to apply for a CCA, here are 5 key things to note.
1. Wide Range of Facilities and Amenities
The upcoming CCAs will be situated within the Health District @ Queenstown. There, HDB will work with partners to create a built environment conducive for healthy living and active ageing. There will be common facilities such as roof gardens, fitness stations, and community living rooms to promote social interactions between all residents. With Alexandra Hospital nearby, residents will have easy access to healthcare and medical services.
The first batch of CCAs is located at Bukit Batok West Avenue 9, close to parks such as Little Guilin, Bukit Batok Nature Park and Bukit Batok Central Park. Besides shopping malls and wet markets, there are also several healthcare facilities nearby, including Bukit Batok Polyclinic, St. Luke’s Hospital and Ng Teng Fong General Hospital. Within the development, residents have convenient access to an activity centre, a community garden, and fitness stations to maintain an active lifestyle. The CCA development will also house a hawker centre offering a variety of affordable food options.
2. Minimal to No Renovation Required
Interested seniors would be glad to know that little to no renovation is required for these units! Each 32sqm CCA unit adopts an open layout, with sliding partitions to separate the living room and bedroom for greater privacy.
Each unit comes with built-in wardrobes, cabinets and a furnished kitchen
The flat also comes ready with senior-friendly design features and other pre-installed fittings, including:
Wide wheelchair-friendly main door with a built-in bench at the side
Large wheelchair-accessible toilet with grab bars and slip-resistant flooring
Built-in wardrobe and cabinets
Furnished kitchen (without fridge and washing machine)
Service yard accessible from toilet, with clothes drying rack
Wheelchair-friendly bathrooms are outfitted with grab bars and slip-resistant
On each floor of the CCA block, there will also be a furnished communal space for residents to mingle, share meals and take part in group activities.
Residents can connect with each other at the communal space located at every floor of the CCA block
3. Integrated Care Services
Care services are provided at the CCA to meet seniors’ needs, to support independent living within a social setting for an enriching retirement life.
Residents will have to subscribe to a Basic Service Package. The package offers 24-hour emergency monitoring and response, basic health checks, and the service of an on-site community manager who will organise regular activities and programme for the residents. The community manager will also ensure that the following services are provided:
Care and support services
Simple home fixes
Activities at the communal spaces
Key card access to individual flats
Depending on their needs and preferences, seniors can also choose to add on optional services that cover different activities in day-to-day living.
4. Eligibility Conditions
As the CCA is intended as an affordable housing option for seniors, the applicant(s) and their spouse (if any) must be 65 years old and above. Applicants have the flexibility to choose a lease ranging from 15 to 35 years (in five-year increments), as long as it covers both the applicant and their spouse (if any) until at least 95 years old.
Those who have taken up housing subsidies twice, and have bought a Studio Apartment or short-lease 2-room Flexi flat before are not eligible to purchase a CCA.
Here’s a quick summary of the eligibility conditions:
5. Full Upfront Payment for Flat Purchase
Successful applicants for CCA are required to make full upfront payment for the flat by cash and/or CPF. For the mandatory Basic Service package, applicants can decide to make either full or partial upfront payment in cash, with a monthly fee throughout the lease term.
This is illustrated in the indicative prices for the CCA at Bukit Batok:
Using the 15-year lease tenure as an example, an applicant has 2 payment options.
While both options require full upfront payment of $40,000 for the flat itself, the applicant may choose either to pay $22,000 upfront (Option 1) for the Basic Service Package, or make partial upfront payment of $13,000 (Option 2) with the remaining fees to be paid monthly. If partial payment is chosen, the applicant would have to pay an estimated $50 per month throughout the remaining lease tenure of 15 years.
Another key difference between a CCA unit and other HDB flats is that it cannot be resold or rented out. Owners who do not require the CCA anymore can return it to HDB. They will receive a refund of the value of the remaining lease of the flat.
Another is more flats reaching their MOP, as these newer flats may command higher prices than older flats in the same location.
One phenomenon we’ve noticed is an increasing number of million-dollar HDB flats. Though they are only a fraction of the total HDB transactions, they’ve received a lot of attention.
Many of our readers have asked us whether it’s a good idea to buy these flats.
Here are my thoughts on why I (Ruiming) am strategically not inclined to buy one. And why this might apply to you.
Just to be clear: We’re not saying you SHOULDN’T buy a million-dollar HDB flat. Some people might have reasons for buying these flats, we’ll explain this later.
What makes a million-dollar flat?
A million-dollar resale HDB flat would typically have a few main qualities that allow it to command its hefty price tag.
The more of these qualities it has, the more likely it’ll reach the magical $1,000,000 price tag and beyond.
Size: The larger the flat, the more expensive it will be. This gives flats in less popular areas the ability to command higher prices. The recently sold jumbo flat in Yishun is one example.
Lease: Generally, the newer the flat, the more expensive it will be, and vice versa. The Singapore Land Authority (SLA) has a rough guide known as ‘Bala’s Table’, which kinda shows how property prices are affected by their lease.
Older flats also have a limited pool of buyers, because if the lease of the HDB flat doesn’t last the youngest buyer till 95, there will be limitations on how someone’s CPF can be utilised.
Why is understanding Location, Size and Lease important?
Because these are effectively the trade-offs you have to make if you want to buy a home within your means.
Why you might not want a million-dollar flat
Why?
It’s for the simple reason that more money spent on my home means less money elsewhere. As the saying goes, every decision for something is a decision against something else.
These are some things I’d keep in mind while buying a home.
Financial security:
Buying an affordable home means financial security during turbulent times.
If history serves as a guide, our adult lives – like our parents’ – will have its share of economic highs and lows. This could mean times of unemployment and uncertainty.
By buying a flat well within your means, you’ll need to worry less about your mortgage in bad times.
While millennials have only known the era of low interest rates, it’s important to remember this isn’t always the case. Singapore Interbank Offered Rate (SIBOR) actually hit interest rates of 3.56% in 2006, and home loans upwards of 7% during the late 1990s.
Case in point: Some readers who’ve signed up for floating mortgages during the pandemic are beginning to worry about interest rate hikes. They should. Paying 3.85% vs 1% interest on a six-digit loan definitely adds up!
Also, despite recent events, it would be wise to remember that prices of HDB flats don’t go up all the time.
From 2013 – 2019, both public and private property priceswere on the decline. The same can be said for the late 1997, where the HDB resale index fell by almost 30%, and only recovered in 2008.
Those who’re thinking of treating their flat like an investment, take note!
Don’t pay *too much* for centrality and convenience
“Time is money.
So, if you’re financially savvy, shouldn’t the smart thing be to save time, by living in a mature, central location closer to the CBD?”
This is something people often say to us when we advocate buying a more affordable but less centrally located home.
While I see the logic, perhaps it’s worth considering the following points:
More centrality and convenience always costs more. This is the same whether you’re in London, Tokyo, Paris, or Melbourne. If you need to spend a lifetime working to pay this difference, it might not be worth paying for.
For example, it might make sense for a couple earning a combined income of $20,000 to buy a $900,000 flat in a central location to save time. They can comfortably afford the payments, and it makes sense to reduce their commute time.
However, if you need to borrow money from your parents, or look for ways to get around the loan limits offered by financial institutions, it’s usually a sign you cannot afford the convenience you desire.
Not all workplaces are in the CBD. There are many smaller commercial centres around the island. Jurong East, Paya Lebar, Changi, One-North etc. Even if you work in the CBD, with flexi-work arrangements you might go into the office less and less.
If you intend to buy a car or a motorcycle/scooter (like many people do), then centrality might not matter as much. You are effectively already paying for convenience when you decide to own private transportation.
Finally, in places not as well served by public transport, some creativity can go a long way. Speaking from first-hand experience, I’ve found that using a bicycle can often help you get to your destination faster if it’s less than 10 km away. Otherwise, you can still use a bike to cover that last mile to the MRT station.
If you are able to make this lifestyle change and your workplace is supportive, you might not need to fork out hundreds and thousands of dollars for that unit in a central location.
Paying for space you don’t use:
As someone who might not have lots of kids (or even remain child-free), a large flat is wasted on me (and by extension, I’ll be wasting money on a larger flat).
Sure, having more space is always a luxury in land-starved Singapore. Or any city.
The question is whether it makes financial sense.
Don’t get me wrong; I like to have enough personal space. But not at the expense of my freedom to do other things.
For reference: I currently rent a 3-room HDB flat with my girlfriend that’s about 700 sq ft. It’s serviceable, though I certainly could be happier with 900 sq ft.
Do you have enough for other life goals?
A roof over your head is important. But I dare reckon that it won’t be the only aspiration you have in life.
My own personal goals include:
Experience working overseas at some point in life ($200,000 for living expenses) / be a digital nomad
Embark on a year-long cycling trip ($100,000)
Be able to choose to do a job that I like (have a passive income of at least $2,000 a month)
If I spend too much on a house, these goals will remain just that – dreams. Every single extra dollar spent here moves me further away
from reaching these goals.
Mind you, even if you do not know what your other life goals are, I think it doesn’t hurt to be cautious about overpaying for a home. The home you buy can limit the dreams you can chase.
So if you’re considering buying a million-dollar flat, weigh the opportunity costs of spending that sum on housing and ask yourself if you can live with the trade-off.
So why do people buy million-dollar flats?
I’m just going to say it: I think buying a million-dollar flat is a bad idea for the median-income Singaporean because of budget constraints.
That being said, above-median-income Singaporeans do exist. They can afford these expensive flats, and find them attractive despite the price tag.
Consider this: A million dollars for an HDB flat is certainly a lot of money, but to get a condominium of equivalent size at a comparable location will cost at least 3-5 times more!
In such scenarios, buying a million-dollar HDB flat may be more appealing despite the lack of private facilities.
Yes, there is little question it’s a seller’s market right now. And will be for a while. Be prepared to pay more than pre-pandemic times.
However, what is also true is that there are many choices on the resale market.
The cheapest HDB flat on PropertyGuru is asking for $250,000 as of the writing of this article. The most expensive one? An eye-popping $1.65 million.
Our advice? Calculate what you can afford first above all else. Use your judgement to determine whether the seller’s asking prices are reasonable.
If you want to be extra safe, buy something below your means.
Otherwise, for peace of mind, buy something within your means.
And unless you want to spend the foreseeable future stressing about paying your mortgage, never spend beyond your means.
Stay woke, salaryman
A message from our sponsor, HDB
There are many factors that come into play when looking for a new home – the location, proximity to loved ones and amenities, size and more.
But amongst all of these, affordability is one of the key factors in making a housing decision. After all, housing would likely be one of your first biggest ticket purchases, so it’s important that your future home fits your budget and your needs.
If you’re looking for a new home, check out the guides, articles and resources available on MyNiceHome.
Also, check out past content pieces we’ve developed with HDB to navigate through your home-buying decision:
Ready to purchase your own home? If you are single, 35 years old and older, you can purchase an HDB flat and may be eligible for housing grants. Here’s a comprehensive guide for singles looking to buy an HDB flat.
BTO Flat
A Build-To-Order (BTO) flat is priced lower than comparable resale flats in the same area, offering an affordable option for home buyers. Singles with a monthly income of $7,000 and below can apply for a 2-room Flexi flat in a non-mature estate, with a full 99-year lease. Depending on their monthly income, they can get up to $40,000 in CPF housing grants.
BTO flats are launched for sale every quarter. You can visit the HDB Flat Portal to check out the upcoming BTO projects and weigh your options. Find out how you can purchase a BTO flat with our step-by-step guide.
Resale Flat
Single Singaporeans aged 35 and above can also buy an HDB resale flat. There is a wide choice of flats with varying leases across towns. There are no income ceiling restriction except if you decide to get an HDB housing loan and/ or apply for CPF housing grants of up to $80,000.
Resale flats can be purchased anytime throughout the year. After finding the resale flat of your choice and negotiating the purchase price with the seller, you will only need to wait about 8 weeks from HDB’s acceptance of your resale application before collecting the keys to your new home.
You can choose to manage your transaction via the HDB Resale Portal or engage the services of an estate agent registered with the Council of Estate Agents.
Other Housing Options
Singles who wish to live on your own but have not met the minimum age criteria of 35 years old to purchase an HDB flat, have the option of renting from the open market. If you’re planning to do so, do take note of the following:
Request the flat owner to show documentary proof that they own the flat, and HDB’s approval letter to rent out the flat or bedroom
Refer to CEA’s templates when preparing your tenancy agreement and make sure that you fully understand all the terms and conditions
Ensure that you are included as an authorised tenant
Follow this cycling route to get from Tampines to Pasir Ris in less than 20 minutes
Speed on your feet and wind in your hair, cycling offers a huge adrenaline rush that has helped the sport grow in popularity over the years. Good news for cycling enthusiasts—by 2026, 8 in 10 HDB residents will have access to a cycling network within minutes under the new Islandwide Cycling Network (ICN) programme, where more cycling paths will be built near transport nodes and key amenities.
In some towns such as Pasir Ris and Tampines, comprehensive cycling networks are already in place, offering residents another convenient way to get around. For example, it is easy to cycle from Tampines Central to Pasir Ris Park!
Tampines Central (starting point)
As this route will take you along the Tampines Park Connector, you don’t have to worry about cycling on the main road.
Here are 6 landmarks you will come across along this route:
Tampines Central (Tampines MRT, Tampines One)
Sun Plaza Park
Tampines Eco Green
Tampines Expressway
Sungei Tampines
Pasir Ris Park
Photo Credit: NParks
Start your journey at Tampines Central and head towards Tampines Ave 4 – a path that will lead you to Sun Plaza Park. The route is sheltered, so rest assured you’ll be protected from the sun and rain!
Once you get to Sun Plaza Park, take a left. It’s a short ride, but don’t forget to enjoy the scenery! In March and August, look out for the blossoming Trumpet trees in the park. Its gorgeous pink flowers have even earned the nickname ‘Singapore’s Cherry Blossoms’!
After cycling through the park, cross the road at Tampines Avenue 9. There are two options – cycle along the park connector or through Tampines Eco Green. If you’re feeling adventurous and have time to spare, try the second route. The charming rustic vibes of Tampines Eco Green will make you feel like you’re cycling in the countryside!
Follow the teal route if you want to cycle through Tampines Eco Green. The coral route is more straightforward as it follows the Tampines Park Connector.
Both routes will lead you to an overhead bridge that helps you cross the Tampines Expressway safely. Remember to dismount your bicycle as you head up the ramp to cross the bridge!
Now you’re officially in Pasir Ris! Keep cycling along Sungei Tampines and cross the river to get to Pasir Ris Park. There are several bridges along the way, so don’t worry if you miss the first one!
Cycle along Sungei Tampines and enjoy the view!
Cross the bridge to get to Pasir Ris Park
Congratulations, you’re now at Pasir Ris Park! Watch the following video to learn more about the wildlife you can find here.
What other towns should we cover in our heartland cycling guides? Let us know in the comments below!
From taking leisure strolls in nature to exploring artworks in the neighbourhood, read on for different date ideas for every couple.
Café-hopping, movie-watching, window-shopping – these are some of the usual date ideas. If you’re looking for something different (whether it’s to spice things up or to impress a date), there’s plenty to do in the heartland!
For the Nature Lovin’ Duo
Enjoy the outdoors? There is a wide assortment of parks and trails nestled in HDB estates that are perfect for your different date ideas. These include familiar green spaces such as Ang Mo Kio Town Garden West, Coney Island located near Punggol and Bukit Batok Town Park (Little Guilin).
Make your way up the 120-step stairs for a panoramic view of Ang Mo Kio Town Garden West Park! Photo: @nparks
For a breath of fresh air (literally), take a journey to the West and check out Jurong Lake Gardens! Comprising the Lakeside, Chinese and Japanese Gardens, the recreational space was identified for renewal and further development under the Remaking Our Heartland (ROH) Programme in 2011. The revamped Jurong Lake Gardens will be opened in phases, with Lakeside Garden marking its first phase in April 2019.
Sunset walks at Jurong Lake Gardens
From Singapore’s largest nature heartland play garden (Forest Rumble) to a boardwalk experience through the freshwater swamp forest (Rasu Walk), get ready for a day’s adventure at Jurong Lake Gardens!
Located in Bukit Panjang is Chestnut Nature Park. At 81 hectares, this nature park is also Singapore’s largest to date. From hiking to birdwatching and even mountain biking, the park is the perfect for your outdoor date ideas!
There are two main hiking trails to choose from – the Northern Hiking Trail (3.5km) and the Southern Hiking Trail (2.1km). The former consists of more forested trails located next to water streams while the latter offers hilly walks that eventually lead to open lalang fields.
If you’re a couple that derives thrills from being on wheels, you can check out a cycling route that brings you from Tampines to Pasir Ris in less than 20 minutes. You’ll end up at Pasir Ris Park, where you can do some birdwatching, or just sit by beach listening to the lapping waves. For a more heart-pumping activity at Pasir Ris Park, hop on the multiple trails or the Mangrove Boardwalk and who knows you may just spot some of the park’s secret wildlife residents!
An HDBeautiful view while you cycle along Sungei Tampines
If the Tampines-Pasir Ris cycling route feels like riding on a training bike, how about challenging your date to a wheelie long ride on the Round Island Route? Stretching across 75km and covering the eastern half of Singapore, the first phase of the Round Island Route will take you on a journey round places such as Rower’s Bay at Lower Seletar where you may find Grey Herons and Copper-cheeked Frogs at the wetlands, and Changi Beach Park where the sights and sea breeze makes you feel like you’re on a beach vacation.
This one’s for the Instagram boyfriends and girlfriends! You’ve probably captured countless shots of your partner at our #HDBeautiful void decks, lush rooftop gardens, and against our colourful block facades. Here’s another location for you: our playgrounds!
The iconic dragon playground at Toa Payoh makes for a distinctive photo spot!
There are plenty of vibrant and quirky playgrounds in HDB estates – including the well-loved and iconic dragon playground in Toa Payoh! Other iconic spots include the watermelon and mangosteen-themed playgrounds at Tampines Central Park, and the tilting train playground at Tiong Bahru.
For something a little less conventional, visit the Dinosaur Playground at Woodland’s Fu Shan Garden and the shipwrecked-themed playground at Sembawang Park.
Our playgrounds have evolved in their design and functions over the years, and are definitely an Insta-worthy backdrop for your photos.
For the Art Lovers
Whether you’re a culture buff or someone who appreciates works of art, this date idea is sure to tickle your fancy!
Take a stroll around the blocks of Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3 and 4 and you will spot nostalgic murals of well-loved Singapore snacks such as ang ku kueh, satay, and old-school items like the traditional hot water flask.
These murals are part of the Wayfinding Project by the Alzheimer’s Disease Association, which uses these murals to help residents with dementia easily recognise their surroundings.
Murals of nostalgic items help residents with dementia find their way around Ang Mo Kio estate.
Photos: Dementia Singapore
For a dose of high art in the heartland, head to one of the Void Deck Art Galleries and you’ll find hand-painted murals of iconic and inspired artworks by artists Van Gogh, Andy Warhol and Picasso.
You don’t have to be in Netherlands to indulge in the world of Van GoghThese artworks can be found at Block 56 Pipit Road
For the Adrenaline Junkies
Save for the roller coasters and bungee jumps at Sentosa, there may not be many other heart-pumping activities in Singapore. But what if we told you there are unconventional date ideas for thrill-seekers, which can only be found in an HDB town?
Get your adrenalin pumping with a myriad of activities at Khatib Adventure HQ
Photo: HomeTeamNS
The Firemen Slides and the Roll Glider, Singapore’s first indoor aerial attraction that comprises hang-gliding, a coaster ride and proximity flight will definitely get your adrenaline going.
In addition to these date ideas in the heartland, you can also explore your neighborhood in the comfort of your home with our latest reads.
These housing projects effortlessly marry green and blue elements to bring nature closer to home.
While some may prefer to live amidst lush green spaces, others could prefer to be around calming water bodies. But why choose one when you can have both?
From waterfront living to resort-like views, we bring you 4 #HDBeautiful housing projects that effortlessly marry green and blue elements so residents can enjoy eco-friendly living right at their doorsteps. Some of these projects are also ABC Waters certified, which means they have incorporated Active, Beautiful, Clean waters (hence the term ABC) features within their design and landscape.
1. Alkaff Oasis
This project received a 2022 ABC Waters Certification
Located in Bidadari, Alkaff Oasis is surrounded by lush greenery and eco-friendly features. Within this Built-To-Order (BTO) project are rain gardens that can help to treat rainwater runoff. Seating spaces near the rain gardens bring people closer to the water, while signage provides more information about the rain gardens and their features.
Alkaff Oasis is also a place where residents can enjoy amenities, such as children’s playgrounds and fitness stations, amidst a green and relaxed environment. Roof gardens, façade greenery, and green roofs on the pavilion and covered linkway add to the beauty of Alkaff Oasis.
2. Waterfront I & II @ Northshore
These projects received a 2022 ABC Water Certification
Fancy the idea of resort-like living? Waterfront I & II are BTO projects situated along the Punggol seafront– just imagine the view! However, the view isn’t the only gorgeous thing about these projects, they also feature lush greenery— from the drop-off points to the eco-deck on the carpark roof, as well as roof gardens at various levels.
There are also footpaths, fitness corners and playgrounds that are close to bio-retention swales, vegetated swales, and a rain garden. These water features help to treat rainwater run-off.
Additionally, a coastal park connector runs the length of these developments, linking residents to other green pockets like the Sengkang Riverside Park, recreational facilities, amenities, and dining spots.
3. The River Vista @ Kallang
The River Vista @ Kallang is an HDB project flanked by the Kallang River. Along the river’s edge is a viewing gallery, as well as lookout decks that offer great waterfront views. On the opposite bank of the river is a floating pontoon and boat shed, for those who fancy some kayaking.
As with all HDB developments, plentiful greenery is located all around and there is also a community garden within The River Vista @ Kallang. A park connector, which runs alongside the development, leads residents to even more green spaces like Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, and even Gardens by the Bay.
3. Hougang Capeview
A fishing spot, multiple viewing decks (1 in the estate and 2 along the river), and a park connector that links you to Sengkang and Punggol – Hougang Capeview has it all. You can enjoy the scenic view of Serangoon River and maybe spot some otters!
The viewing decks are cosy communal spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy the breeze while relaxing or exercising. Lush landscaping can be found throughout the development—around the blocks, atop the carpark, along walking paths, and at the central landscaped space where the playground and fitness stations are located.
Interested to find out about more #HDBeautiful projects? Read about the ones that have won Design Awards here!
Instagram-Worthy HDB Blocks that Have Won Design Awards
Who says public housing projects can’t be #HDBeautiful? Take a trip to the heartland and uncover these Instagram-worthy HDB flats!
HDB flats comes in a variety of designs, some of which have achieved iconic status over the years. Whether you’re a budding photographer, exploring different photography styles or looking to spice up your Instagram feed, take a trip to the heartlands and discover Instagram-worthy HDB projects that have won HDB Design Awards.
1. Scenic Sea Views
Facing the Straits of Johor, Northshore StraitsView, as the housing project is aptly named, embraces the idea of waterfront living.
Northshore StraitsView is one of the housing precincts located in Punggol Northshore
Inspired by the scenes of a seafront oasis set against the backdrop of rolling mountains, the staggered blocks are designed to form a dynamic skyline along the waterfront. In addition to its architectural outline, the white and blue facade of the project also makes it an interesting photo subject, especially with the sea as a visual complement – definitely one of our top Instagram-worthy HDB projects!
Enjoy the sea breeze from the viewing decks
To enjoy the breeze as well as capture the perfect sunset-by-the-sea moment, simply head out to the viewing decks via the sheltered linkways.
2. Keeping It Minimal
As clichéd as it sounds, sometimes less is really more. Having fewer elements in a photograph can direct focus on the subject for greater visual impact. For a photo that pops, position yourself in the foreground of the minimalist Northshore Residences I & II blocks in Punggol. Breaking the sleek facade of the HDB blocks are vertical fins, which are also designed for rain protection.
Located in HDB’s first smart-enabled housing estate, the towering blocks of Northshore Residences are hard to miss
The unique play spaces within the project also make for interesting photo spots, especially when set against the backdrop of the towering Instagram-worthy HDB blocks.
The precinct is home to a variety of amenities, including play spaces
3. Home in a Garden
The perfect photo spot for nature lovers, the verdant greenery of Alkaff CourtView is reminiscent of an urban garden. Designed to capitalise on Bidadari’s rolling greens and rich heritage, the project also houses a wide verandah surrounded by lush landscaping.
Lush landscaping can also be found within the Alkaff CourtView
In addition to photographing the generous green spaces within the precinct, take the chance to explore Bidadari Greenway, a 1.6km-long green spine that traverses the entire estate!
4. Geometric Lines and Angles
Tall HDB blocks create opportunities for minimalistic shots of HDB flats with the sky as a canvas. This style of photography is not only easy on the eyes, it also makes your subject pop which is perfect for the ‘gram. Hougang RiverCourt is a good example of this.
An unobstructed view of Hougang RiverCourt
Venture within the blocks for a variety of landscaped spaces, and in other spots, shapes and lines in the surroundings can also be used to frame your photos.
Make use of the surroundings and amenities to better frame your shots
A quick search on Google for the most Instagrammable buildings in Singapore yields unsurprising results – Marina Bay Sands, Jewel Changi Airport and the Super Trees at Gardens by the Bay.
But here’s an open secret among the locals – a number of HDB blocks have also been quietly making it to the ‘gram. We share with you 6 IG-worthy HDB blocks and the inspiration behind them.
1. Singapore’s Tallest HDB Blocks
It’s hard to miss this cluster of 50-storey HDB blocks which are juxtaposed against the historic district of Chinatown. Completed in 2009, Pinnacle@Duxton boasts a modern façade that blends effortlessly into the iconic skyline of Singapore’s Central Business District. Made up of 7 blocks linked together by skybridges at the 26th and 50th storey, Pinnacle@Duxton is the tallest HDB development in Singapore. The skybridges on its 50th floor offer a panoramic view of the city and are a popular location for viewing the National Day fireworks display.
For the young millennials and Gen Zs, there was actually a time when television was the primary entertainment at home and when programmes weren’t running for 24 hours (cue gasp). When television broadcast ended each day, viewers were shown a test screen similar to what is now painted on several HDB blocks in Tampines, including Block 418 at Tampines Street 41. When their blocks were due to be repainted, residents were presented with various design options, and most voted to go with this nostalgic design which has since become one of the icons in Tampines.
Over the years, the block and its surrounding amenities have been continuously upgraded but the rainbow has remained, with only slight variations to its design.
4. Living in Nature
Block 86, SkyVille@Dawson, Dawson Road
Block 90, SkyTerrace@Dawson, Dawson Road
Dawson, in Queenstown, was among the first few towns and estates identified for comprehensive redevelopment under the Remaking Our Heartland (ROH) programme in 2009. As part of the renewal, HDB unveiled new-generation public housing projects there, starting with SkyVille @ Dawson and SkyTerrace @ Dawson which were completed in 2015.
Besides their stylish and eye-catching designs, the projects were developed with a ‘Housing in a Park’ concept which means residents get to live in homes surrounded by lush greenery.
5. Cascading Terraces
Inspired by the terraced rice fields across Southeast Asia, Waterway Terraces was the first public housing project along My Waterway@Punggol. Completed in 2015, a core design element of Waterway Terraces was to establish a strong relationship between buildings and the waterway. The cascading skyline, created by the landscaped terraces of the roof, serves to highlight this connection.
6. Geometry-Inspired
Each year in the period leading up to National Day, photographers flock to Blk 9, Selegie Road for this particular shot of the building façade with Singapore flags hung over its parapet wall. Not many know that the HDB block, at 180ft tall and 20-storey high, was one of the tallest buildings in Singapore when it was completed. It was officially launched in 1963 by then Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.
HOTH: Author Suffian Hakim on HDB Living and the Singaporean Identity
Suffian works include a Harry Potter satire starring Harris bin Potter from Tampines, and a horror comedy set in a Yishun HDB flat.
Author Suffian Hakim grew up in a 4-room flat in Bukit Panjang with his family, where he had to share a room with his late grandmother. “Every night, she would tell me horror stories about monsters as tall as HDB flats and fantastical stories about sentient grains of rice and talking animals.” Suffian reminisces. “I am a storyteller today because my grandma passed it on to me. We may have used different mediums and languages, but that spirit lives on in me.”
Author Suffian Hakim is best known for his novel, Harris Bin Potter and the Stoned Philosopher
Deriving Inspiration from HDB Living
From a Harry Potter satire starring Harris bin Potter from Tampines, to a horror comedy set in a Yishun HDB flat, Suffian Hakim’s works prominently feature the HDB heartland. “I write what I know,” he explains. “And I know HDB spaces because I’ve lived in them for most of my life. There is great food, arresting art and novel businesses in our estates. I always try to capture that energy when I’m writing stories set in Singapore.”
A proud HDB dweller, Suffian also says the heartland references in his stories help keep his quirky, offbeat works relatable to the local audience. In his debut novel, which has topped the national bestsellers list, the bustling Bizarre Night Bazaar— where the protagonist, Harris Bin Potter, first discovers one of his many magical abilities— brings to mind the sounds, smells, and chaotic energy of pasar malams.
In his second novel, the Yishun flat where a motley crew live, features a neighbourhood garden opposite it, not unlike the ubiquitous landscaped spaces around HDB estates. “I conceived it to be a sanctuary for them, a sliver of nature in their urban lives,” Suffian says.
A large part of Suffian’s work is influenced by the HDB living experience, including the surroundings and amenities.
WFH = Writing from Home
Suffian now lives in a Telok Blangah flat that he shares with his wife. “Telok Blangah is great. It’s so historically rich, near the sea, and near nature. I think it’ll make a really good setting for a story someday,” he says.
Suffian recently moved to his first home at Telok Blangah
Suffian does a huge chunk of his writing at home, having set aside a room which doubles up as a library and work space. “This room is my getaway. When I need to find inspiration and disappear into the fictional worlds I am building, I come here,” he says. “My book collection is here, and the decor items I have chosen remind me of what’s important as a writer.”
When he needs a change of scenery, Suffian heads to the closest public library to write, or nearer still—the void deck. “It’s very chill there!” he laughs. “People do stare out of curiosity at times but no one disturbs me.”
Suffian’s home office also doubles up as a library, adorned by posters of his works and favourite reads
On pursuing writing as a career, Suffian remarks that while the journey has been fulfilling, it hasn’t been easy.
“When I give creative writing workshops, I tell my students: Don’t follow your passion. Follow your pain. Writing is tremendously rewarding, but only if you can bear the pain of uncertainty and judgement that comes with, including the “you’re-wasting-your-life, you’re-never-gonna-make-it-as-an-author” look. If you can bear that pain, then chase the passion. If you cannot, then writing is probably not for you.”
