Publication

3rd June 2000, The Straits Times

Aim to ensure privacy and optimal land use

IN THEIR letters, ""Old estate designs better'' (ST, May 27) and ""Why build flats so close together?'' (ST, May 29), Mr Chiang Ming Yu and Mr Wong Yew Kwan shared their nostalgia for older HDB estates.

While we note the desire for more space between HDB blocks, we cannot regress to the generous spacing of old HDB blocks.

To cater to the long-term housing needs of an ever-increasing population in land-scarce Singapore, the HDB has had to embark on high-rise and high-density development, to optimise the use of land and increase the flat yield.

However, in designing its flats, the HDB has tried to maintain a reasonable distance between blocks to ensure privacy and comfort for its residents.

While it is true that our developments have become more dense, the site coverage or footprint of HDB developments, at about 37 per cent of the net site area, is still below the maximum allowable site coverage of 40 per cent for high-rise developments.

The remaining 63 per cent of the site is retained as open space to ensure sufficient greenery and space for other facilities to meet the needs of residents.

Heat build-up in buildings is inevitable in Singapore due to its hot, tropical climate.

However, the HDB has put much effort and attention into the design of its buildings to ensure they are energy-efficient.

The measures include orientating the blocks in a north-south direction where possible, designing flats for effective natural cross-ventilation and using cavity walls or precast insulated walls at gable ends which face west.

In addition, shading devices such as sun breakers and projected canopies are provided above the windows of HDB flats, while roofs are designed with an extra secondary roofing system for better insulation.

Through the use of landscaping, we have also managed to reduce heat build-up in HDB estates.

Notwithstanding the measures that are already in place, we will continue to explore other ways of improving the energy efficiency of our buildings.

LOH SWEE SENG
HeadRegulatory Control
Section for Chief Architect Housing and Development Board

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