Many neighbourhoods in Singapore have certain qualities that attract people to call these places home. For residents of Bukit Timah, the district’s tranquility and relative seclusion make the idea of living anywhere else seem unthinkable. On the other hand, those who prefer a more vibrant, city-centric lifestyle may be drawn to Downtown Core.
Fortunately, the top developers and developments honoured at the 14th Asia Property Awards Singapore have discovered the magic touch that transforms a location into an ideal residential environment for diverse residents.
Convenient Access to Transportation and Amenities
Finding the perfect residence that ticks all the boxes can feel overwhelming. A prime location, comprehensive facilities, a secure neighbourhood, and easy access to public transport are often at the top of the list of criteria.
It’s common to assume that a prime benefit, such as proximity to an MRT station, might mean sacrificing other desirable features. But this doesn’t have to be the case. Whether you’re looking for upscale surroundings, top-notch facilities, or easy access to schools and local amenities, there’s a neighbourhood in Singapore where all these are within reach.
One standout development is the highly anticipated Chuan Park (Winner, Best Mega Scale Condo Development). Developed by Kingsford Development Pte. Ltd. (Winner, Best Transnational Developer), the luxury high-rise condominium is strategically located in the well-established neighbourhoods of Serangoon and Ang Mo Kio. The project will offer abundant condo facilities and proximity to tech parks and reputable primary schools such as CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel and St. Gabriel’s Primary School.
This mega condo, which will feature 2- to 5-bedroom units, is just a short drive from Orchard Road and the Central Business District via the Central Expressway. It’s within walking distance of the upcoming Roong Chuan MRT Station on the Circle Line.
Seaside Living and City Views
For those dreaming of life by the sand and sea, Singapore presents select residential areas that provide coastal living opportunities. These neighbourhoods, including those in the East Coast, Marina Bay, Keppel Bay, and Sentosa, are highly coveted and residential developments in these areas are hard to come by. That’s because many dream of living at the water’s edge and waking up to unobstructed ocean views.
This is why upcoming waterfront projects such as MEYER BLUE should be eagerly awaited by those seeking an enviable residence by the water. Developed by UOL Group (Winner, Best Developer, Best Residential Developer, Best Sustainable Developer, Best Hospitality Developer), MEYER BLUE will let residents fully immerse themselves in coastal living. It will have impressive amenities, including clubhouse facilities inspired by Miami beach clubs, “sky gyms,” and sky terraces offering panoramic views of Marina Bay.
Balancing Urban Comforts with Nature’s Tranquility
When searching for a livable neighbourhood in Singapore, many people find themselves choosing between the excitement of urban living and the serenity of being close to nature. While some areas embody the energy of the city — characterised by towering skyscrapers, bustling retail spaces, and the dynamic pace of a CBD — others offer a more nature-focused lifestyle. However, the best choice doesn’t always require a compromise between these extremes.
TID Pte. Ltd. (Winner, Best Lifestyle Developer) delivers an ideal solution with its upcoming development, Lentoria (Winner, Best Private Condo Architectural Design). Inspired by hillside townhouses and cascading homes, the project thoughtfully blends architecture with the natural landscape.
Lentor Hill in District 26 is a superb example of a neighbourhood that embraces this idea of balanced living. Known for its peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere, Lentor Hill offers a desirable setting for those who wish to live closer to nature without sacrificing modern comforts. The area is also close to the Central Water Catchment Area, home to nature reserves and parks like Lower and Upper Pierce Reservoir Park, Ang Mo Kio-Bishan Park, and Thomson Nature Park.
The Allure of Living in a Historic Neighbourhood
Living in a historic district usually entails being part of a close-knit community where neighbours share a strong sense of belonging. Residents in these areas typically place great value on their homes, the history surrounding them, and the people they live alongside. This sense of pride and connection stems from living in a neighbourhood with architectural or historical significance, in which the area feels almost as though it has been preserved in time.
FRX Capital Private Limited (Winner, Best Landed Developer) is a developer that understands the market’s desire for such communities. Its 3 Merino Crescent project, for example, is situated in the heart of the Shepherds Hill Estate landed enclave, a prime area that is accessible and possesses the charm of a historically rich town.
Close to dining spots, malls, and public transport, the District 3 property offers a mix of modern convenience and historical significance. Besides its proximity to city amenities, the location remains deeply rooted in the heritage of Queenstown, a residential area in the southwesternmost part of Singapore’s central region.
Preserving heritage in modern neighbourhoods
Mixed-use developments combining residential and commercial spaces are fairly common in Singapore, but the traditional shophouse is becoming increasingly rare. Shophouses, which used to serve as both business premises and homes, are no longer as coveted in the city’s urban landscape. This decline is largely due to the rapid evolution of Singapore’s urban sprawl and shifting demands in property development.
That said, shophouses are far from obsolete. Preserving these iconic structures is vital for maintaining Singapore’s architectural heritage and unique identity. Developers such as The Assembly Place (Winner, Best Co-Living Operator) are doing their part to help ensure these spaces remain relevant by managing projects such as Hafary House (Winner, Best Co-Living Space).
Rather than being a relic of the past, shophouses in select neighbourhoods offer a refreshing contrast to the high-rise developments dominating the skyline. These picturesque buildings are highly functional; they house retail outlets, restaurants, and co-living residential units. Hafary House shows how conservation shophouses can be repurposed to serve modern lifestyles while still honoring the past.
