Affordable and minimalist housing designed for low-income singles in Singapore.
Who said Singapore doesn’t look out for its singles? While they might not have extra BTO ballots or the perks that come with being a young married couple, help is on the way for low-income singles who need a place to call their own.
The Housing & Development Board (HDB) is introducing a new hostel-style public rental scheme for solo tenants, providing more privacy while fostering a community living environment. The pilot scheme, set to accept applications by the end of the year, will convert the former Anderson Junior College hostel into a space for 480 singles.
There are certainly pros to the new design: each tenant will have 9 square meters of personal space, equipped with a bed frame, wardrobe, table, chair, shelves, and a mini-fridge.
However, shared kitchens, bathrooms, and dining spaces bring their own set of challenges. Those familiar with hostel living will know the struggle of shared facilities and the occasional lack of cleanliness.
The design inspiration here appears to be Scandinavian, but not in the sleek, minimalist way one might expect. Instead, it’s reminiscent of a Scandinavian prison—a no-frills dormitory with a budget-friendly approach. After all, this project aims to support singles on a budget who lack family support or housing alternatives.
The rooms feature basic but functional designs, with a partition wall that splits the window in half—an avant-garde choice meant to maximize space. Although compact, the rooms are designed with utility in mind, evoking the property’s past as a student dorm.
The communal dining area, which was converted from a study room, retains much of its original design. The full windows let in natural light, creating an environment meant to encourage social interaction among residents. Each dining space is partitioned, offering some privacy even in a shared space.
Another shared area is the pantry, which is designed in minimalist grey tones, with enough windows to let in some daylight, which is appreciated in an otherwise utilitarian space.
While some may not find the bare-bones style of living ideal, the pilot scheme offers a significant improvement for singles who can’t afford the higher rent of co-living spaces or private rentals. Prices in the public rental scheme range from $26 to $275, depending on income level and application status, making it a much more affordable option.
For comparison, co-living spaces can cost around $800 per month, while renting a three-room flat in areas like Bukit Panjang or Woodlands ranges from $2,000 to $2,300. These costs, while manageable with housemates, are still significant for singles on a budget.
The decision to convert an existing hostel site instead of building new infrastructure helps reduce costs and time, allowing the pilot to move forward quickly. However, some argue that the space could be made more homely over the one- to two-year trial period.
Interestingly, Norway’s Halden Prison, often cited for its humane design, offers inmates individual rooms with TVs, personal toilets and showers, and views of nature. While the facilities in Singapore’s rental apartments are far more modest, they offer an affordable option for those in need of housing.
Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has acknowledged Singapore’s limited land space and cautioned that not every desire can be accommodated. However, as it stands, the new rental apartments are an affordable step toward helping low-income singles secure their own space.
As for those who find the hostel-style living too minimal, they can always explore other options. After all, sometimes it’s better to live independently than settle for an unsatisfying situation.
