When we think of HDB windows, most of us imagine the usual sliding or casement panels. But tucked across the island are blocks with unique HDB windows that break the uniformity, not because of renovations, but thanks to the building’s original architecture.
HDB’s strict rules on exterior windows mean homeowners can’t freely alter their size, style, or placement, which makes these rare designs even more striking.
Over the decades, experimental layouts and one-off block types have produced unusual panes that stand out from the norm. Some older flats feature curved floorplans that create arched or rounded windows, while others have angular layouts that result in distinctive corner or arrowhead-shaped designs.
Edgefield Plains: Curved edge point block
Image credit: WHST Design
This flat stands out for its unusually curved edge, a rarity among Singapore’s public housing. While most curved window designs tend to follow a smooth semi-circular shape, this flat features a subtle curve that breaks the usual symmetry.
Image credit: Google Maps
The unique contour doesn’t let in as much natural light, but it gives the unit a distinctive character that’s hard to find elsewhere. For enthusiasts of quirky architectural details, this flat is a small gem tucked into the heartlands.
Choa Chu Kang & 1 Delta Ave: Semi-circular windows
Choa Chu Kang St 64
Image credit: Underrated Studio
Curves are a rare sight in HDB design, making these 2 flats at 1 Delta Avenue and Choa Chu Kang Street 64 stand out. Over in Choa Chu Kang, the blocks feature a mini semi-circular “balcony” in the living room that adds a distinct aesthetic to your home.
1 Delta Ave
Image credit: PropertyGuru
Meanwhile, over at 1 Delta Avenue, larger semi-circular balconies create a spacious, airy corner that lets in plenty of natural light and breeze. Unlike Choa Chu Kang’s smaller balcony, these are actually practical for use as a reading nook, mini garden, or even an indoor patio.
Image credit: Google Maps
Pinnacle @ Duxton: Condo-esque windows
Image credit: M2 Decor
This particular flat in Pinnacle @ Duxton takes HDB window design to another level with its sleek, full-length condo-esque sliding windows. Unlike the typical casement style found in most flats, these windows glide open effortlessly, making the entire floor-to-ceiling span feel like a glass facade.
Image credit: Google Maps
The design lets in far more light than the standard HDB layouts, where the bottom half is usually covered. This allows the unit to have a bright, airy, and almost luxurious vibe. With a view like this, it’s almost like living in a private condominium.
Admiralty Link: Living room with a sharp edge
Image credit: MET Interior
At Admiralty Link, the living room comes to a striking point. Shaped almost like a bow of a ship or an arrowhead, this sharp-angled design is rarely seen in HDBs, adding an architectural quirk that breaks away from the usual boxy layouts.
Image Credit: SRX
Believed to be part of HDB’s experimental phase with block designs, the angled windows not only create a unique feature, it also offers homeowners to play around with the space: either create a symmetrical setting or fitting in a custom feature.
Admiralty Link: Mini-hexagonal window
Image credit: Omni Design
Also found in Admiralty Link is a rare half-hexagon window design. With 2 distinct angled edges, the layout gives homeowners room to create symmetrical designs for frame the view in creative ways.
One standout feature is the floor-to-ceiling windows across the entire hexagonal cut, overlooking a wide, open field.
Image credit: Google Maps
The result is a flood of natural light and an almost cinematic view. Proof that even small geometric tweaks can transform the living experience in an HDB.
HDB flats with unique windows that stand out
These examples show that even within the framework of HDB guidelines, there’s still plenty of room for individuality. From curved windows to sharp edges and floor-to-ceiling features, unique windows can completely change the character of a flat to bring in light, frame views, and even express personality through design choices.
For homeowners, it’s a reminder that creativity doesn’t stop at renovations. Sometimes, the architecture itself offers opportunities to turn your HDB into something truly one of a kind.
We have more impressive and unique things to read:
- 10 HDBs with impressive views you never knew you needed
- 12 unique HDBs that look nothing like your cookie-cutter blocks
- 8 most unique 3-room HDB renovations
Cover image adapted from: Google Maps, Underrated Studio
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