This article explores Singapore's public housing system (HDB - Housing and Development Board) through the lens of a Malaysian reviewer. The focus is on Hougang Citrine, a new HDB development, examining its design, facilities, and overall appeal. The review highlights the differences between Malaysian and Singaporean housing approaches.
Initial Impressions and Location
The reviewer begins by locating the Hougang Citrine development, noting its proximity to Kovan station (a 30-minute walk). He expresses surprise at the high level of security measures compared to Malaysian housing, which he finds both appealing and potentially restrictive to architectural connectivity. The reviewer also highlights the greenery and well-defined pedestrian and bicycle paths surrounding the development, emphasizing its focus on safety and inclusivity.
Project Overview
The project, named "Hougang Citrine," features heavy louvers on the facade and a dedicated drop-off area with pavers. The entrance includes a waiting lounge with built-in benches. The design utilizes simple I-beams for shaded walkways and incorporates landscape treatments. A small community center is present, constructed primarily with steel structures covered in plaster for aesthetic appeal. Thoughtful details include fans and textured shading aprons to minimize water splashing and provide shade.
Common Areas and Facilities
The review delves into the common areas, noting a chess set and letterbox area. The ground floor design emphasizes practicality with minimal decoration. The lift lobby features perforated steel ceilings and a ramp connecting the block to a bus stop. The reviewer examines the facilities plan, revealing shared carparking for multiple blocks and a central area with a children's playground, park court, fitness area, and community living rooms.
Seamless Connectivity and Amenities
The development prioritizes seamless connectivity and maximizes distance between blocks and roads, using greenery as a buffer instead of fencing. The lift is equipped with CCTV and advertisement space. The roof garden features exercise machines, stone floorings, a reflexology area, benches, and landscape hedges for privacy. A community garden provides space for planting herbs.
Elevated Carpark and Design
The elevated carpark uses a "Caesar's ramp" format for efficient space utilization and ventilation. The column arrangement features closer spacing for increased economy. The reviewer observes the refreshing color scheme, particularly the use of neon orange and mint. The ceiling height in the carpark varies, with the lowest point at 2.23 meters. The traffic noise from Hougang Avenue is noted.
Unit Review: Layout and Features
The reviewer notes the direct link bridge from the roof garden to the sixth floor of the building, requiring the sacrifice of one unit. The units are laid out along a double-loaded corridor with voids between them, and serviced by two lifts.
Entrance and Bomb Shelter
The unit features a ramp at the entrance for accessibility. A notable feature is the bomb shelter, a standard in Singaporean HDBs, which restricts renovation within its structure.
Living Spaces
The living room is described as bright and spacious, with 600x600mm tiles and timber skirting. Multiple plug points with USB ports are provided. A structural beam separates the living room from the dining area, but the reviewer notes that drywall partitions could be removed to create a more open space.
Kitchen and Yard
The kitchen is described as large with full-height walls. The reviewer points out the water point and potential for a sliding door to partition the cooking area. The yard is well-designed with default aluminum and glazing treatments, a holding door, a hanger for clothes, air con compressor area and outdoor plug points.
Bedrooms and Bathrooms
Bedrooms are equipped with laminated timber flooring and ample power points. The shared bathroom has full tiles, concealed piping, and a folding plastic door to save space. The master bedroom includes an en-suite bathroom with full height wall tiles and Johnson Swiss fixtures. The door to the en-suite is also a double fold door to maximize space.
Location and Community
The reviewer mentions a wet market on Hougang Avenue 1, a 10-minute walk away, and notes the comfortable walking experience thanks to shaded trees and park connectors. He highlights the intent of the designs promoting community.
Sean Stick Tree: A Comparative Analysis
The reviewer concludes with a "Sean Stick Tree" analysis, comparing the HDB to Malaysian building practices.
Positives
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Safety and Security: The integration of infrastructure with minimal fencing, emphasizing convenience and accessibility.
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Facilities: The good use of space for facilities, including garden spaces and rooftop gardens with equipment for all ages, emphasizing ease of maintenance and community interaction.
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Unit Layout: The flexibility offered by pre-cast walls and non-load-bearing brick walls allows for customized layouts based on individual needs.
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Larger Kitchen, bathrooms and Yard space.
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Space saving Innovations for the Bathrooms.
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Sense of architecture is not compromised in the design.
Negatives
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Structural Elements: The presence of beams and structural elements may require some adjustment to get used to and designers need to work around these areas.
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Noise Pollution: The loud noise from jets testing and road traffic.
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No Direct Connectivity to MRT: Requires reliance on bus services for access to MRT.
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