Could dual-key housing become the future of multi-generational living?
TEXT GWENDOLYN LEE

Living in family homes well into adulthood is a common arrangement in Singapore and parts of Asia. Even after marriage or starting a family, many still choose to stay with their parents, who are not only able to help enrich family relations but also lend an extra hand in caring for their grandchildren. And as Singapore’s population ages, family care and support towards seniors become increasingly important.

APPEAL ACROSS BORDERS

The dual-key-unit concept was established in 1986 by the Housing and Development Board to promote multi-generational living in Singapore. A dual-key home comprises two sub-units — typically a one, two- or three-bedroom apartment and a studio apartment — with two separate keys and, in some cases, separate entrances. The concept was later introduced by Frasers Centrepoint Limited in their executive condominium, Caspian, in 2009. Since then, it has been gaining acceptance among homeowners.

Elsewhere, dual-key units are also growing in popularity. New Zealand’s Lakewood Plaza, designed by renowned architectural firm Archimedia, is a great example. The 91 dual-key units offered in the upcoming property were the first to sell out. And a report on Yahoo! News in September 2015 stated that dual-key condominiums now account for approximately 10 per cent of new development projects in Malaysia.

The Business Times reported in May 2014 that locally, 35 of 74 large-scale private condominiums and executive condos (ECs) launched between 2011 and early 2014 produced 1,976 dual-key units. Allocation for dual-key units has also increased from 3.4 per cent in 2011 to 7.5 per cent in 2013. Many private residences, including RiverTrees Residences and Bijou, also feature apartments with dual-key layout options.

ALL IN ONE

It’s not hard to see the appeal of dual-key units. By conjoining two standalone apartments while providing a common area, it brings the best of both worlds to young couples living with their parents, or multi-generational families, where grandchildren, parents and grandparents live under the same roof.

The unique design of dual-key housing lets people enjoy the privacy, freedom and independence that comes with living in their own space, at the same time provide them with the comfort and security of knowing their family is always a door away. The two-in-one space also allows for greater versatility in terms of interior design and spatial allocation. Residents in each space can freely use and decorate their own area according to their preference.

A HOME FOR EVERYONE

For families who want the best of both nature and urban living, RiverTrees Residences is a recommended choice. Jointly developed by Frasers Centrepoint Limited, Far East Orchard Limited and Sekisui House Ltd, the property is located in Sengkang and sits along the Sungei Punggol Reservoir.

Designed such that apartment blocks are spread out in a crescent-shape just 10 metres from the reservoir’s edge, over 90 per cent of units get to enjoy close, scenic views of the reservoir — the most among other developments in the area.

Its idyllic location is not its only draw. Besides dual-key homes, there are also a variety of unit types, including apartments with private lift lobbies and strata-titled Cove Houses that cater to all types of homebuyers, from singles to large multi-generational families.

RiverTrees Residences’ strategic location also makes it convenient for residents to get around. It is a three-minute walk away from Layar LRT station, which connects to the North-East MRT line via Sengkang MRT station; while the Central Expressway, Tampines Expressway and Kallang-Paya Lebar Expressway provide easy access to all parts of Singapore.

Within the residential complex, there are also plenty of facilities, including a shop unit for everyday needs, and a 50-metre swimming pool. The highlight is, however, the River Villa, a communal resort that includes living and dining areas, bathroom and pull-out bed, and an adjacent outdoor spa, for parties and gatherings with family and friends.

Many malls, schools, parks and recreational areas are in close proximity. RiverTrees Residences is also nestled near Punggol Waterway, the first eco-town in Singapore, as well as charming neighbourhood Jalan Kayu, with its row of sundry shops and eateries. So there will be no lack of food and fun.

FLEXIBILITY OF USES

Besides encouraging multi-generational living, dual-key units offer attractive rental potential. The self-contained design of the dual-key units has a greater appeal to tenants who value privacy.

With a unique design that is flexible, functional and modern, dual-key units are viable housing options for owner-occupiers with growing families, investors, as well as tenants.

SOUTHERN COMFORT

Bijou, a Far East SOHO residence, features the three key dimensions of the brand: Strategic location, connectivity to various key hubs, and a flexible space for homeowners to extend their creativity into their own living spaces.

Bijou offers one-bedroom options, and two- and four-bedroom dual-key homes. What sets Bijou apart, is the option of a dual-key layout for designated top floor units with attic. Featuring a floor-to-ceiling height of 3.3m on the first storey and up to 4.6m on the upper storey, these units give residents the flexibility to configure the space to meet their diverse needs.

These attic units have direct access to the rooftop, lap pool and gym, offering fitness and relaxation space right at their doorstep.

Bijou sits at the heart of the new Greater Southern Waterfront that is positioned as Singapore’s next waterfront living belt. The area will soon be filled with new neighbourhoods, quaint shops and cafes along canals and lush open spaces for exercise and recreation.

With its strategic location at the junction of Jalan Mat Jambol and Pasir Panjang Road, Bijou is connected to various parts of Singapore through major expressways and is a mere five-minute walk away from Pasir Panjang MRT along the Circle Line.

There are no lack of dining and entertainment options in the vicinity either; VivoCity and Sentosa, along with nature parks like the Southern Ridges and Labrador Nature Reserve are all just a short drive away.