Entryway: Purchasing our HDB corridor space to build an entryway

218

Free Style
HDB (Resale)
~1,000 sqft
3 br
Couple Living

Jennings
Avocat, PS106TH…
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IKEA
GREJIG Shoe rack, 58x27x17 cm…
S$5.50
Nippon Paint
Whispering White, NP OW 1001 P…
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When we first got our resale flat, there was no dedicated entryway - just an L-shaped corridor leading to our corner unit. But with a little research (which involved some friendly peeking into our neighbors’ layouts 👀), we were able to purchase the recess area which opened up possibilities for a functional and aesthetic entryway space. Here's how we did it!
Before photos of our L-shaped corridor, aka the space we transformed into our entryway! 🚪✨ If you're thinking of purchasing your HDB recess area, here’s a quick breakdown of the process:" 1️⃣ Check Eligibility - Only corner units or end corridor units typically qualify. - The space must not be a fire escape route or house essential utilities (e.g., risers, electrical boxes). - It helps to see if neighboring units were able to purchase the space. 2️⃣ Submit an Application to HDB - Apply via HDB’s Recess Area Sales Scheme. - Prepare necessary documents (e.g., floor plan, photos of the space). 3️⃣ Await Site Inspection - HDB will assess if the space is eligible for purchase. If approved, they’ll provide a quote for the purchase price. (Be proactive—this step may require some follow-ups!) 4️⃣ Make Payment & Legal Work Pay the purchase price and legal/admin fees. (Ours came up to about $20k in total.)Once completed, the area will be legally added to your flat’s ownership. 5️⃣ Plan Your Renovation Work with a contractor to integrate the new space into your home (e.g., hacking walls, designing the entryway). Ensure all renovations comply with HDB guidelines.
For us, we divided the L-shaped space into two: 1) a storeroom and 2) an entryway. The area directly in front of the main door was converted into a storeroom, with the main door being repurposed as its entrance. We also installed racks in this space for better organization.
On the other side of the L-shaped corridor, we hacked down the wall to create an open kitchen, making the space feel brighter and airier. To subtly segregate the entryway and the kitchen, we used different floor tiles for each space.
With the patterned tiles and pink shoe cabinet, the entryway is one of the most colorful spaces in our home. It continues to be a space that we enjoy furnishing and adding lots of colors/cute knick-knacks!
It's fun to switch up the display pieces on our shoe cabinet from time to time - such as decorating it to match festive seasons like CNY or Christmas. Now it has also become one of our resident cat’s favourite spots… she seems to think she’s part of the décor too! 😆