Open-concept flats have steadily been gaining popularity as of late. From their spacious layouts to their potential for customisation, open-concept renovations are the go-to for many homeowners unhappy with the size of their flat. Evidently, it seems that even HDB themselves have taken note of how popular open-concept homes have become. To meet the demand for customisable, open BTOs, HDB have introduced a new type of BTO flat called an “Open-concept white flat”.
What is a HDB white flat?
An artist’s impression of a white flat interior.
Image credit: HDB
HDB white flats are BTO flats without pre-built partition walls in the living areas. This new flat type was conceptualised in response to Singaporeans’ growing desire for open-concept homes and the flexibility they bring.
What is the difference between white flats and Traditional BTOs?
Image credit: Desmond Lee via Facebook
The clearest difference between white flats and traditional flats would lie in the fact that the latter have fixed room layouts as a result of their pre-built internal walls, which is why most flats follow the same floor plan. Conversely, white flats lack living area partitioning within the home, making them completely open-concept.
As a result, white flats lack the rigid layouts that traditional HDB flats have. Additionally, they also do not have visible beams, which are generally present in traditional HDBs.
Pros a white flat: Lower cost, greater flexibility
The most prominent benefit to opting for an open-concept white flat would be their inherent flexibility. Due to the lack of internal partitions, homeowners are able to reconfigure their home layout according to their needs without the need to hack down any walls. This allows for innovative home designs that would not be possible otherwise.
The absence of walls is also factored into the cost of the home, which means that white flats are projected to be lower priced than traditional flats.
Cons of a white flat: Climate control, Future reno costs
One potential drawback to consider would be temperature control. Due to the lack of walls, open-concept homes have a larger volume of air to manage, resulting in air-conditioners having to work harder to maintain a cool temperature within the home.
Additionally, homeowners who eventually decide to add walls to their home will have to pay extra for renovation.
When will the first HDB development with white flats be launched?
Image credit: HDB
Projected to launch in October 2024, the new open-concept white flat layout will make its debut in a BTO project around the Kallang-Whampoa area. Since the new layout is optional, buyers who are not keen on the white flat layout may opt into buying a traditional flat instead.
Should I opt for an HDB white flat?
Buyers who want to opt into an open-concept white flat will want to first consider the massive lifestyle changes a completely open flat will bring. The lack of privacy will be one of the more prominent deciding factors that decides whether a white flat will be good for your lifestyle.
The HDB white flats will be best suited to homeowners like couples without kids or singles, who generally value flexibility and spaciousness above privacy. Additionally, homeowners who enjoy putting extra thought into their home’s design and layout will enjoy the ability to have multiple configurations within their home.
Read our other articles here:
- HDB’s voluntary early redevelopment scheme (VERS) explained
- Everything you need to know about ‘99-to-1’ loophole
- What DBSS flats are and where you can find them
Cover image adapted from: Huttons Asia
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