Design Through The Decades

1960s

Providing Basic Flats

On 1 February 1960, HDB was set up to address Singapore’s housing crisis. Flat designs were basic and functional to optimise space, keep costs low and allow for ease of construction.  Our goal was to house as many people as we could, within the shortest time possible.

1970s

Providing Facilities in New Towns

With more people resettled to modern flats, we expanded our role with the planning of comprehensive towns. Commercial, industrial, recreational, educational and transport facilities were planned for and developed in addition to housing, to provide a Live-Work-Learn-Play environment.

1980s

Planning Quality Living Environments

As HDB ramped up the development of towns, a new town structural model was established to guide planning. The precinct concept, comprising 7 to 8 blocks with about 600-800 flats, was also established to provide a more conducive environment for community interaction. A wide variety of recreational facilities for residents such as playgrounds, fitness corners, multi-purpose courts were located at each precinct centre.

1990s

Developing Places with Character

HDB began to develop distinctive identities for our towns, with new building designs and unique street architecture that leveraged the area’s heritage or topography, to foster pride among residents. We also introduced upgrading programmes that gave older homes and towns a new lease of life.

2000s

Innovating For The Future

HDB pushed boundaries to build homes that are innovative, modern, and green. The 50-storey Pinnacle@Duxton, with several sky gardens, was developed during this period and remains as HDB's tallest project. Treelodge@Punggol, our first eco-precinct and a living laboratory to test new ideas and sustainable technologies, was also launched. HDB also introduced new housing typologies and facilities such as 3Gen playgrounds and rooftop gardens.

2010s

Creating Sustainable and Smart Homes

HDB raised the bar and unveiled a new generation of public housing that are well-designed, sustainable, and community-centric. We also announced plans for our newest town Tengah, which will be Singapore’s first smart town, planned with smart technologies from the onset.