Most HDB flats today are practical, efficient, and modern. But let’s be honest, they also look and feel a little more uniform. Back in the day, estates came with quirky touches and nostalgic HDB features that gave every block its own personality.
Think dragon playgrounds where kids scraped their knees but made lifelong friends, or little community libraries tucked away for book-loving children.
These old HDB features weren’t just random; they shaped everyday life, sparked neighbourly bonds, and gave us stories to look back on fondly. But over the years, many of these features quietly disappeared due to safety regulations, changing lifestyles, and the push for more streamlined designs.
The result? Flats today are sleek and standardised, but maybe a little less soulful. Which begs the question: should we bring some of these nostalgic HDB features back?
1. Spacious void decks as true community living rooms
Image credit: National Heritage Board, Wong YR
If you grew up in the older estates, you’ll remember void decks as giant open spaces that could magically transform depending on the occasion, like a Swiss army knife. One weekend, it could be a wedding banquet, and then a funeral the next.
Not to mention the weekend rituals—some corners were home to the older generation’s birdcages, filling the void deck with chirps and whistles. Others would gather at tiled tables for a game of chess or checkers, trying to show off their “strategic genius” to anyone watching.
These days, void decks tend to be smaller or more segmented, which means they aren’t quite as roomy or flexible as before.
Still, there’s something special about having a big, flexible space where neighbours can mingle or events can just happen. After all, void decks have always been the heart of HDB living, and with just a bit more breathing space, they can once again be the glue that holds the vertical kampong together.
2. Iconic mosaic playgrounds
Dragon playground in Toa Payoh (top), Dove playground in Dakota (bottom)
Image credit: Chainwit, Littlemisshy
Remember the dragon, pelican, and dove playgrounds that weren’t just for climbing? They were neighbourhood landmarks, sparking imagination and fantasy for kids, and for many, they were a rite of passage.
However, many of these iconic designs were overhauled to meet new safety regulations. The mosaic tiles, originally imported from Italy, were hard and jagged, which led to several injuries in the ’90s.
Fast forward to today, and the playgrounds are neat, safe, and modular, allowing designers to change the layouts as they see fit, which is creative in its own way. There’s nothing wrong with these updates, but they don’t quite evoke the same “wow, this is my playground!” feeling as before.
Image credit: National Heritage Board
Bringing back some of these iconic, sculptural mosaic designs, in a modern and safe way would give kids a playground to remember, and adults a perfect spot for that nostalgic Instagram-worthy photo.
3. Void deck “mama” shops
Image credit: The Road Less Travelled
Back in the day, every block had its little mama shop or snack kiosk tucked under the void deck. Need some potato chips, a can of Milo, or a last-minute birthday card? They had you covered, and you’d probably bump into your neighbour while doing some shopping.
These days, most of these tiny gems have been phased out, replaced by bigger malls or coffee shops just a short walk away. While convenient, it has become less personal and less buzzing with neighbourhood chatter.
Bringing back these small, local shops in void decks could give estates that warm “everybody-knows-your-name” vibe again. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to grab a snack and have a short gossip with your neighbours.
4. Individual rubbish chutes for convenience
Image credit: PS Home Maintenance
HDB estates now rely on a shared rubbish chute, usually near the lift lobby or at the base of the block. This mostly works until someone has something too big to squeeze in and just leaves it on the floor. Eventually, this piles up and becomes a breeding ground for clutter, bad smells, and, if food is involved, an infestation of insects.
Back in the day, older blocks had individual rubbish chutes for each flat. Tossing out the trash was quick and easy, and if it was too big to squeeze in, you’d have to head downstairs and place it in the common bin area.
Corridors stayed cleaner, and you didn’t have to leave your flat just to clear your rubbish. Reintroducing individual chutes with modern hygiene improvements, such as proper sealing to prevent cockroaches from entering, could save time, reduce mess, and make everyone a little less grumpy.
5. Terrazzo tile options
Nowadays, HDB flats come with pretty standard flooring, usually ceramic tiles or vinyl, which are practical but a little plain.
In the past, terrazzo tiles were everywhere, from living rooms to bedrooms. They were hardy, low-maintenance, and had a distinct speckled look that gave each home a bit of personality. Plus, they stayed cool underfoot—a huge lifesaver in our weather.
Bringing terrazzo tiles back, even as an option, could add some retro charm to modern flats. It’s durable, timeless, and already making a comeback in cafes and boutique interiors. Why not HDBs too?
6. External ornamental facade
Image credit: Darren Soh
Older HDBs were never purely about function; they had form, flair, and a quiet sense of identity. From stepped facades to clock towers and angular layouts, you could usually identify an estate from pictures based on the block design. These buildings were crafted with an architectural voice and had their own character, often reflective of the era in which they were built.
Fast forward to today, and most HDBs follow a streamlined template. While efficient, they tend to lack the kind of charm that makes a block instantly recognisable.
Maybe it’s time to bring back some of that architectural boldness, not for nostalgia’s sake, but to give our public housing some character and soul again.
7. Community Children’s Libraries
For illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: Yishun Superhero Library
Back in the 1990s, some void decks doubled as mini children’s libraries. Designed for kids under 10, these cosy spots featured colourful wall themes like underwater worlds and dinosaurs. They also had bean bags, low tables, and shelves stocked with storybooks. At one point, there were 46 scattered across Singapore.
By 2008, however, they were all phased out. Costs increased, usage declined, and larger libraries opened nearby. These were practical reasons, but it also meant the end of having a library just a stone’s throw away.
Bringing them back, even in small forms, could spark joy again. Parents would enjoy the convenience, kids would get a safe hangout spot, and neighbours could bond over storytelling sessions or reading corners. After all, wouldn’t it be nice to hear your kid say, “I want to go downstairs… to the library”?
HDB features that are worth reviving
These nostalgic HDB features helped shape everyday life, sparked memories, and gave neighbourhoods their own unique personality. From void decks that doubled as libraries to playgrounds that became adventure zones, these small touches made the estate feel alive.
Reviving a few of these gems, whether it’s mamak shops, quirky playgrounds or cosy reading corners could bring back that kampong spirit in a modern way. Because at the end of the day, HDBs aren’t just concrete blocks, they’re the place where lives, stories and connections unfold.
Sate your nostalgic appetite with these articles:
- Singaporean man’s HDB is a gramophone & telephone museum
- Unique upcycled furniture stores in Singapore
- By My Old School is a vintage shop in Commonwealth Drive
Cover image adapted from: Chainwit, The Road Less Travelled
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