What Exactly is a DBSS Flat? A Look Into 8 of These Rare HDB Flats

Rare finds in the property market.

DBSS flats are like that slightly elusive cousin of the bigger HDB flat family: you know they exist, you’ve probably seen them pop up in the news now and then, but you may not be entirely sure what they actually look like, or what makes them different.

With their condo-like touches and larger layouts, they stand out from your typical HDB flat in many ways. Here’s what you need to know about DBSS flats, plus a peek into some beautifully renovated ones scattered across Singapore.

But first, what are DBSS HDB flats?

DBSS flats, or Design, Build, and Sell Scheme flats, are public housing developments that are – well, designed, built, and sold by private developers. Note: DBSS flats are still HDB flats and are not private properties, but unlike conventional HDB projects, each development was given more room for different designs and layouts.

In other words, think of them as something of a middle ground between a regular HDB flat and a condominium. Depending on the project, you may find features that aren’t as common in HDB flats, like balconies, bay windows, and the like, which is why some DBSS estates can look surprisingly condo-like from the outside.

In total, there are 13 DBSS developments in Singapore:

1. The Premiere @ Tampines
2. City View @ Boon Keng
3. Park Central @ Ang Mo Kio
4. Natura Loft (Bishan)
5. Parc Lumiere (Simei)
6. The Peak @ Toa Payoh
7. Adora Green (Yishun)
8. Centrale 8 (Tampines)
9. Belvia (Bedok)
10. Parkland Residences (Hougang)
11. Lake Vista @ Yuan Ching (Jurong West)
12. Trivelis (Clementi)
13. Pasir Ris One

If you’re wondering why you don’t hear about new DBSS launches anymore, it’s because the scheme is no longer used – making these 13 estates a rare find in Singapore’s public housing market.

Examples of DBSS HDB flats in Singapore

1. This dark, luxurious DBSS flat in Adora Green (Yishun)

Dark interiors can sometimes feel heavy and stifling, but this DBSS flat in Adora Green proves that they can still look warm and inviting. You’ll find deep brown and black finishes throughout the entire home, while warm lighting and wood-look flooring soften the overall look.

The home also makes good use of one feature commonly associated with DBSS flats: larger windows. In the study, full-height dark cabinetry frames a long desk positioned right by the windows, turning the greenery outside into part of the room’s backdrop.

It makes for a dramatic work-from-home setup — and a clear example of how DBSS features can shape a space's design.

2. This modern-luxe DBSS flat in Natura Loft (Bishan)

With its marble-look finishes, dark accents, and warm lighting, this Natura Loft DBSS flat leans fully into the sophisticated modern-luxe look without looking overly flashy.

A nice perk that the homeowners fully take advantage of is having not one, but two dining spots: a formal setup indoors, and another table out on the balcony.

It makes good use of one of the distinctive DBSS flat features, giving the homeowners (and their guests) more flexibility and room to relax around the home.

3. This minimalist DBSS flat in City View @ Boon Keng

The homeowners of this City View @ Boon Keng unit did something different with their balcony – instead of keeping it as a separate space from the living room, they essentially merged the two to create an extended, open-air space.

With the same light, simple colour palette across the entire communal area, the space looks seamless while also feeling breezy and airy. It’s a clever way to make the communal area feel more spacious while putting one of the home’s DBSS features to good use!

4. This warm wabi sabi DBSS flat in The Peak @ Toa Payoh

DBSS flats are rare enough as they are, but this unit at The Peak @ Toa Payoh is even rarer, boasting an exceptionally high ceiling which is close to 4 metres tall. FYI: this feature is found in only a small handful of units within this development!

Rather than let all that extra height go to waste, the homeowners made full use of it by creating full-length feature walls and carpentry, as well as a cosy loft for their child that consists of a play area above and the bed tucked below.

It’s a playful use of the space that feels almost like a cosy nook/hideout, while still fitting neatly into the home’s warm, wabi sabi look.

5. This cosy DBSS flat in Parkland Residences (Hougang) with an unblocked view

Who needs a feature wall when you’ve got a view as good as this? Overlooking Punggol Park, this DBSS flat in Parkland Residences enjoys a wide, unblocked stretch of greenery that is stunning enough to become the focal point of the home.

To draw attention to the view, the rest of the design remains warm, cosy, and understated, with warm wood tones and soft neutrals complementing the greenery outside.

6. This bright and airy DBSS flat in Centrale 8 (Tampines)

If the previous home was all about the view, this one is all about light. A soft palette of whites, greys, and warm wood tones keeps this home in Centrale 8 calm and uncluttered, while sheer curtains on the balcony let sunlight filter in gently through the living room.

Coupled with the clean lines and curved details, the space remains visually interesting without making the space feel busy or overwhelming.

7. This Japanese-inspired DBSS flat in The Premiere @ Tampines

All it takes is one glance for anyone to see that this home at The Premiere @ Tampines is inspired by Japanese design, with its light wood tones and pared-back aesthetic.

But the true star of the show is definitely the balcony. Instead of leaving it as a regular outdoor zone, the homeowners turned it into a little tatami-style retreat, complete with shoji sliding doors and a red maple feature.

It’s a touch that gives the home its character and makes the balcony feel like somewhere you’d actually want to rest and linger for a while.

8. This warm minimalist DBSS flat in Lake Vista @ Yuan Ching

This Lake Vista @ Yuan Ching home proves that minimalism doesn’t have to be cold or clinical. Here, creamy whites, browns, and light wood tones keep the space soft and simple, making it cosy rather than stark.

There’s a nice sense of ease and restraint to the home, too. Clean-lined furniture, simple furniture, and the wide glass doors help the communal area feel bright and open. It’s minimalist, yes, but also the kind that feels warm enough to relax in.