For the benefit of those of you who can’t differentiate your DBSS and BTO, here’s a quick walk-through. HDB launched the DBSS, which stands for Design, Build and Sell Scheme, in 2005. Flats built under the DBSS scheme supposedly share the same design approach as private condos, and were mostly situated in matured estates like Ang Mo Kio, Bishan and Toa Payoh. There are 13 of such DBSS projects, with the first one being the famous Pinnacle@Duxton. This year, three more DBSS estates will mature their MOP. This means they can be resold at what could be another record-breaking price. Think you won’t shell out a million bucks for a “HDB”? Wait till you see these…
THE PEAK @ TOA PAYOH
Located a short walk from Braddell MRT station and just next to the popular Lorong 1 wet market, these are plenty good reasons why these 40-storey blocks are so coveted. The units there range from three-room to five-room, and those on the top floors enjoys extra high ceilings. A key card access system beefs up security.
CONTEMPORARY BEAT
The owner of this five-room unit loves to mix finishes and textures. That’s as obvious in the living room and bedroom. The result is a clean, casual and comfortable home that is designed to handle parties up to 50, yet is cosy enough for the couple when they’re on their own.
Interior Designer: De Exclusive Design Group
Renovation cost: $24,000
MODERN FARMHOUSE
No reason not to have a faux fireplace as a mantel to showcase treasured photos, artsy bursts and collectibles. The elegant English sofa adds a huge amount of style and comfort with deep tufts and generous rolled arms and sits so well with the eclectic vibe.
Interior Designer: Linear Space Concept
Renovation cost: $65,000
COSY CORNER
This four-room flat has great ideas on how to squeeze serious style into 88 sqm. Furniture with streamlined profiles maximise seating without overcrowding. And notice how the small, overlooked corner at the dining area is given new life with word art and photos.
Interior Designer: Project File
Renovation cost: $35,000
NATURA LOFT @ BISHAN
Nestled amongst the Bishan North community, these three 40-storey point blocks are an instant hit with parents vying for a spot in the elite Catholic High school. It’s also close access to Bishan Park II and has a host of convenience for its residents: a vibrant wet market, and 24-hour coffee shops and NTUC Fairprice.
GOOD VIEW
The well-designed five-room flats at Natura Loft enjoys a large 120 sqm floor size, panoramic North-South facing views (yes, fireworks!), and lots of breeze. This unit boasts a wood framed doorway to the study instead of a regular door to add a layer of luxury and grandness to the large space.
Interior Designer: MET Interior
Renovation cost: $40,000
OPEN SESAME
This owner opened up the compartmentalised floor plan of his Natura Loft four-room flat so the home feels bigger, bright and airy. The kitchen door was removed and extended to make it look like an open kitchen. A run of fancy geometrical cabinets from the dining area into the bedrooms conceals the unsightly bomb shelter and DB box.
Interior Designer: Co. Prozfile Design
Renovation cost: $35,000
PARK CENTRAL @ ANG MO KIO
It’s less than 1km to Rosyth School, Anderson Secondary School, and a short stroll to Ang Mo Kio central and MRT station. If you’re shopping for a unit there, look out for the exclusive 20 loft units that have 3.6m high ceilings.
HOTEL BOSS
This five-room apartment with its hotel ambience is an escape from work life. Because the apartment has limited square feet, the owner focused on smart, function design. The extra long sofa is a crowd pleaser, and lamps and spotlights add an understated elegance.
Interior Designer: LU+C Studio
Renovation cost: $20,000
HIDDEN SECRETS
Bay windows can be quite a nuisance, so might as well make the most of it. In this four-room unit, a huge platform storage is built in the study so space is maximised, and clutter is kept at bay. No space for a dining table? Settle in for bar-style dining with tall, sleek, sculptural stools.
Interior Designer: Distinct Identity
Renovation cost: $25,000
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