The most photogenic housing estates in Singapore

The most photo-worthy spots in Singapore isn’t always the ones you see on Instagram. The skyscrapers, glittering city lights, the majestic green spaces and cute cafés are not the only places are not the only things about worth celebrating. The heartlands and HDB flats have so much character and charm. More than 80 percent of Singapore’s residents live in public housing and though some HDB neighbourhoods may look just like any other, there are a few gems worth checking out (after the ‘circuit breaker’ of course)

1. Hougang

Despite its age, Hougang is a mature HDB estate in Singapore that is brimming with character and charm. While its older blocks may lack the flashy appeal of newer ones in the city, they are brought to life by stunning murals that inject a burst of colour into the neighbourhood. Among the many eye-catching murals is the rainbow mural located at Block 316 Hougang Avenue 7, which has captured the hearts of many. The vibrant colours of the rainbow contrast beautifully against the drab concrete walls, serving as a beacon of hope and positivity. So, make your way to the end of the rainbow and snap some photos.

2. Toa Payoh

Dragons are real! But only at Toa Payoh’s Dragon Playground. This play area is a nostalgic landmark in Singapore’s old neighbourhood, adding charm to it and serving as a beautiful reminder of Singapore’s cultural heritage. As one of the last remaining dragon playgrounds from the 1970s and 1980s, it is a significant representation of Singapore’s architectural heritage. It is one for people of all ages to enjoy its unique design and whimsical appeal, and capture some picture-perfect photos while you’re at it.

3. Tiong Bahru

Tiong Bahru estate is a true paradigm of the beautiful marriage of new and old-world allure – a place where plush condominiums nestle against pre-war shophouses, and where time-honoured food markets sidle up to pristine cafés. You haven’t properly seen Tiong Bahru yet if you haven’t explored its charming laneways – and snapped a pic while you’re at it.

4. Tampines

Although Tampines is known for its clusters of retail malls and new developments, it really is the HDB flats that lend the neighbourhood its character. You’ll find the red-bricked estate near Tampines Junior College which is the spot of many photo opportunities – as seen on Instagram – and who can forget the blocks painted with the retro TV test pattern?

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5. Queenstown

The neighbourhood was named after Queen Elizabeth II to mark her coronation, but you can also find other royal references in the names of the estates in Queenstown. Singapore’s first satellite town is also where you might find some of the oldest HDB flats in Singapore. Some landmarks here include the pastel-coloured flats at Stirling Road, Forfar Heights (a cluster of 40-storey HDB flats) and Princess House which was the first dedicated building for HDB headquarters.

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6. Potong Pasir

You can spot the unique trademark sloped roofs of these HDB flats from a distance away. This stemmed from the early days where HDB wanted to create identities for different housing estates by building flats with prominent features. The estate was also a longtime ward of an opposition party and the community is less urbanised compared to the surrounding neighbourhoods.

7. Bukit Merah

Named after the reddish-brown hues of the soil in the area, Bukit Merah is a mature town near nature parks, the west coast and also the city – which means the views from the perfectly situated flat can be stunning.