What is a bungalow or detached house in Singapore?
In Singapore, a detached house is often called a bungalow, regardless of whether it has one or multiple floors.
A detached house is an independent structure located within its land area, without any shared walls or roofs with neighbouring properties.
These houses are also one of the largest housing options available in Singapore. They are preferred because their walls are not attached to another property, providing residents with more privacy and exclusivity.
What types of detached houses are there in Singapore?
Detached houses in Singapore can take various forms and styles, including Colonial bungalows, also known as black-and-white houses, which may not be located in designated Good Class Bungalow (GCB) districts, as well as modern bungalows.
All of these types of houses are classified as detached houses in Singapore.
Recommended article: Black and white houses in Singapore: How to rent
What are Colonial bungalows or black-and-white houses?
The name “colonial house” comes from the dark timber beams and whitewashed walls that give these houses their distinctive appearance. Originally built and designed by the British in the 19th century, these houses were the homes of high-ranking government officials, judges, and wealthy businessmen.
Approximately 500 of these black and white houses exist today, mainly in locations like Seletar. Managed and preserved by the Singapore Land Authority (SLA), most houses are state-owned and rented out for commercial purposes, such as restaurants and businesses, with some reserved for residential stays.
These houses are highly sought after due to their limited supply and unique colonial-style architecture, which allows residents to live in a historic home with a rich heritage.
In addition to their design and historical appeal, colonial houses are known for their spaciousness, often rivalling the size of GCBs.
Some colonial houses can exceed 5,000 sq ft, with land areas of over 31,000 sq ft. These houses are typically two storeys high and feature large rooms, grand halls, spacious verandas, large windows, lush gardens, and sometimes even swimming pools.
What are Good Class Bungalows (GCB)?
GCBs are considered the most prestigious and exclusive type of landed housing in Singapore, representing the highest standard in Singapore properties.
Two main features differentiate GCBs from bungalows: their size and location. GCBs must have a minimum site area of 1,400 sqm and a maximum site coverage of 40%.
To maintain their exclusivity and preserve their character and reputation, GCBs can only be constructed in 39 designated areas in Singapore. These locations include prime and popular neighbourhoods such as Chatsworth, Cluny Road near the Orchard Road shopping district, Ridley Park off Tanglin Road, Leedon Park near Holland Road, and King Albert Park off Bukit Timah Road.
Recommended article: Good Class Bungalow (GCB) house-hunting: Confessions from agents and Not all GCBs are built alike, including this S$40m 11,047sqft Good Class Bungalow near Stevens MRT
Semi-detached vs detached house – What’s the difference?
Typically, the main factor distinguishing between the two property types is how they are planned and built.
For instance, a detached house is typically built as an independent structure within its land area, while a semi-detached house is commonly constructed next to a similar property and connected by a shared wall.
