About Scents of Singapore
Ever caught a whiff of a smell that got you saying ‘Wow that reminds me of home’?
Maybe it’s the smell of freshly cut grass as home overlooks a green field in Punggol. Or it’s Mum’s special chicken porridge that’s only made during the rainy season.
As we journey through our little red dot, each of us develops a unique sense of home. This National Day, PropertyGuru is celebrating our roots by uncovering what home means to all of us in Singapore.
Watch, Smell and Share
We hit the streets to ask Singaporeans what scents best represent their neighbourhoods.
The Scents, Revealed
We teamed up with Oo La Lab to recreate 7 custom scents in a bottle, each one representing a neighbourhood in Singapore. It’s not rocket science, but we think we stayed true to the essence of each estate. Tell us if you agree or if there’s another scent more iconic to these heartlands, and to Singapore.
Yishun: ‘YP’
Inspired by YPs in the North – loud, proud, and always seen in black baggy t-shirts. You hear (or smell!) them before you see them.
What It Smells Like: The opening is a burst of vibrant citrus with hints of refreshing bergamot and pineapple. As it settles, you’ll catch a whiff of aromatic herbs like rosemary, intertwined with the subtle sweetness of violet. The scent deepens into a rich, earthy blend of cedarwood and vetiver, rounded off with a comforting touch of tonka bean.
Sengkang: ‘Florals’
Winding park connectors that cut through Sengkang infuses floral fragrances in this Northeast neighbourhood.
What It Smells Like: The scent begins with a lively mix of bergamot and lemon, giving it a fresh and zesty start. As you explore further, delicate notes of green and white tea, spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon, emerge, creating a serene experience. The fragrance gently rests on a base of warm musk, earthy cedarwood, and a touch of amber.
Ang Mo Kio: ‘Industrial’
Home to parkland and industrial areas, the smells of asphalt and roads were voted most representative of Ang Mo Kio.
What It Smells Like: The fragrance kicks off with the sharp and spicy aroma of anise, combined with the slightly resinous scent of olibanum. This transforms into a smoky, rich heart of tobacco, reminiscent of the industrial heritage. The scent lingers with a bold blend of birch tar and vetiver, capturing the essence of rugged Ang Mo Kio.
Woodlands: ‘Fried Chicken’
You might get hungry! Step into Woodlands via MRT and be greeted by the smell of…fried chicken. IYKYK.
What It Smells Like: The initial kick of pepper hits your senses, soon melding with savory thyme and oregano, evoking the mouthwatering allure of freshly fried chicken. The fragrance settles into a deliciously umami base, leaving you craving for more.
Jurong: ‘Chocolate’
No Willy Wonka here, but food flavouring factories in the West add a whiff of chocolate in the air.
What It Smells Like: The scent opens directly into the rich, intoxicating aroma of cacao, enveloping you in a chocolatey embrace. This indulgent experience is balanced with a warm, woody undertone and a hint of sweet vanilla, reminiscent of a cozy, chocolate-filled moment in Jurong.
Bedok: ‘Old Money’
Hello, old money. Imagine a bank vault filled with freshly printed notes and mint coins. That’s Bedok for you.
What It Smells Like: The scent starts with crisp aldehydes and a metallic edge, evoking the image of pristine new currency. As it develops, you’ll notice the intriguing combination of ink and cedarwood, adding depth and character. The base is a comforting blend of paper, musk, and vanilla, wrapping up the scent with a touch of sophistication and nostalgia.
Singapore: ‘Monsoon Soil’
That smell when it’s about to rain? Petrichor. Feel the rain on your skin, or wish the wet weather spells away.
What It Smells Like: The fragrance opens with the clean, fresh scent of ozone, reminiscent of an impending downpour. This is followed by the invigorating aroma of rain-soaked leaves, capturing the essence of a tropical monsoon. The scent anchors with earthy clay and wood, bringing the comforting, grounding smell of wet soil to life.
