32 Gilstead Launch Review: Ultra-Luxury Freehold Condo in District 11, Singapore

Introduction

32 Gilstead is a new luxury boutique condo nestled at 32 Gilstead Road in Singapore’s prime District 11 (Newton/Novena). This freehold development is a 5-storey condominium comprising only 14 exclusive residences, making it one of the lowest-density condos in the coveted city-fringe locale[1][2]. Developed by Peak Vista (part of Kheng Leong Co.), the project brings together three internationally acclaimed design masters – architect Ernesto Bedmar (of Bedmar & Shi fame), interior designer Koichiro Ikebuchi, and landscape architect Shunmyo Masuno – to craft an ultra-high-end home of distinction[3][4]. Set on a generous land plot of ~43,458 sqft in a tranquil enclave off Newton Road, 32 Gilstead offers residents a serene sanctuary amidst lush greenery, yet is mere minutes from Orchard Road and the Novena medical/education hub[5][6]. Expected to achieve its Temporary Occupation Permit by Q2 2026[7][8], this exclusive District 11 freehold condo is poised to become a timeless haven for discerning homeowners.

• Tenure: Freehold (Estate in Fee Simple)[9]
• Developer: Peak Vista (Kheng Leong Co.)[10]
• of Storeys: 5 (single block) + Rooftop amenities[11]
• Land Area: ~4,037.3 sqm / 43,458 sqft[1][12]
• Designed By: Ernesto Bedmar (Architect), Koichiro Ikebuchi (Interiors), Shunmyo Masuno (Landscape)[4]
• Total Units: 14 spacious 4-bedroom residences (~3,821–4,219 sqft each)[13][14]
• Location: 32 & 34 Gilstead Road, Singapore 309075 (District 11, Newton/Novena)[15][16]
• Completion Date: Expected TOP by Q2 2026 (Vacant Possession by 2028)[17][8]
• Developer Intro: Kheng Leong Co. – renowned luxury developer behind projects like MeyerHouse, 15 Holland Hill, and Nassim Park Residences[18].

WHAT MAKES 32 GILSTEAD AN IDEAL HOME?

In a city filled with upscale residences, 32 Gilstead condo stands out as a Newton/Novena luxury condo that balances exclusivity, design excellence, and convenience. Here are key reasons why this development is an ideal home for discerning buyers:

• Ultra-Low Density Exclusivity: With only 14 units spread across five floors, residents enjoy unparalleled privacy and a peaceful, uncrowded living environment. Such low-density freehold condo living in the Core Central Region is exceedingly rare, akin to residing in a landed enclave[1][2]. This exclusivity fosters a tight-knit community of like-minded homeowners who value space and tranquility.
• Freehold Status in Prime District 11: Owning a freehold home in District 11 is a rarity and a prized asset. Freehold properties make up only ~20% of private homes in Singapore[19], and even fewer in prime locales – so 32 Gilstead’s freehold tenure ensures perpetual ownership in a prestigious neighborhood. This confers long-term peace of mind and legacy value, as the property can be held for generations without lease decay.
• Masterful Design Collaboration: 32 Gilstead was conceived by three masters of design. Concept architect Ernesto Bedmar has given the building a timeless modern silhouette, interior designer Koichiro Ikebuchi curated understatedly elegant living spaces, and landscape architect Shunmyo Masuno created the zen-inspired gardens[3][4]. This all-star team ensures a residence that is both an architectural statement and a nurturing home, showcasing the Bedmar & Shi condo design ethos of blending contemporary luxury with nature-inspired tranquility.
• Bespoke Layouts with Private Lifts: Each residence is a sprawling 4-bedroom apartment that opens directly from a private lift lobby, offering the exclusivity of a penthouse in every unit. The layouts are generous and well-planned – large living and dining areas, high ceilings, and expansive balconies that overlook green vistas[20]. Every detail, from high-end finishes to smart-home features, is designed to exude boutique luxury and provide utmost comfort for its inhabitants.
• Seamless Integration with Nature: A signature feature of 32 Gilstead is its harmonious blending with nature. The entire ground level is a lush Bamboo Garden courtyard with reflective ponds and manicured landscaping, providing a serene retreat at the doorstep of each home[21][22]. Verdant greenery surrounds the development, and common areas like the rooftop garden bring nature into residents’ daily experience. The result is a calm, garden sanctuary that rejuvenates the senses – a rarity in central Singapore.
• Serene Yet Well-Connected Locale: Residents of 32 Gilstead enjoy a serene city-fringe lifestyle – tucked in a quiet residential pocket – yet have unrivaled urban convenience. Orchard Road’s shopping belt and the Novena healthcare city are just a few minutes away by car or MRT[5]. Daily needs are easily met with nearby malls and eateries, so one can live in tranquil luxury without sacrificing access to the city’s amenities. It truly offers the “best of both worlds” – a private oasis that’s still at the heart of it all.
• Appeal to Discerning Investors: The unique qualities of 32 Gilstead make it especially attractive to a select clientele. Foreign buyers, family offices, and legacy-minded investors will appreciate the secure long-term value of a freehold asset in a prime area. Likewise, local high-net-worth families value the spacious layouts (ideal for multi-generational living) and proximity to top schools. In short, this luxury boutique condo Singapore presents a rare opportunity to own a trophy residence that embodies exclusivity, prestige, and enduring worth[23].

Connectivity

Despite its tranquil setting, 32 Gilstead is superbly accessible via both public transport and road networks. Newton MRT station (serving the North-South and Downtown Lines) is roughly a 6-minute walk away, offering direct trains to Orchard Road, the Central Business District and beyond[24]. Novena MRT (North-South Line) is also nearby, expanding transit options. For those who drive, Bukit Timah Road and Dunearn Road connect you to the Orchard area in under 10 minutes[5], while the nearby Central Expressway (CTE) enables quick routes to Marina Bay and other parts of the island. In short, whether by MRT or car, commuting from 32 Gilstead is quick and convenient – you can be in the heart of the city or back home in your haven in minutes.

Educational Institutions

For families, 32 Gilstead’s location offers easy access to several of Singapore’s most sought-after schools. Within a 1km radius are Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) at Barker Road, Anglo-Chinese School (Junior) at Winstedt Road, and St. Joseph’s Institution Junior – an enviable cluster of elite boys’ primary schools nearby[25]. Also in the vicinity is Singapore Chinese Girls’ School (SCGS) on Dunearn Road, a prestigious girls’ primary and secondary institution. Being so close to these top schools provides a significant advantage for residents with school-going children, and it adds to the neighborhood’s cachet. The Newton/Novena area is also dotted with childcare centers, preschools, and enrichment academies, making it a family-friendly locale for all ages.

Shopping Malls

Artist’s impression of 32 Gilstead’s facade, a five-storey freehold residence set amid lush greenery in Newton. Despite its secluded feel, numerous shopping and dining options lie just minutes away.

Although 32 Gilstead is tucked in a quiet enclave, retail and dining conveniences are close at hand. In the nearby Novena vicinity, residents can find malls such as United Square and Velocity @ Novena Square, which offer supermarkets, pharmacies, eateries, and a variety of shops for daily needs[5]. From gourmet grocers to child-centric stores, these malls serve the community’s essentials. For more extensive shopping and luxury brands, the famed Orchard Road shopping belt is only a short 5-minute drive or two MRT stops away. There, one can indulge in high-end retail therapy at malls like ION Orchard, Paragon, and Ngee Ann City, or enjoy entertainment and fine dining options at five-star hotels. In essence, everything – from basic necessities to designer boutiques – is within easy reach of 32 Gilstead, ensuring that residents enjoy the utmost convenience alongside their exclusive lifestyle.

Leisure Options

The ground-floor Bamboo Garden at 32 Gilstead, designed by landscape master Shunmyo Masuno, provides a zen-like oasis for residents amid the city. Living at 32 Gilstead means residents have abundant leisure and recreation choices, both on-site and around the neighborhood. Within the development, a rooftop sky deck features a stunning infinity lap pool, a BBQ dining pavilion, and a cozy function room, all set against panoramic city views[22]. It’s an ideal place to unwind or entertain guests in style, without ever leaving home. For green-space lovers, the sprawling Singapore Botanic Gardens is just a 10-minute drive away[5] – perfect for morning jogs or weekend picnics amidst tropical flora. Other parks like Fort Canning and MacRitchie Reservoir are also within short driving distance, offering hiking trails and nature escapes. Additionally, esteemed private clubs (e.g. The Tanglin Club, The American Club) are a brief drive from Newton, providing access to exclusive sports and social facilities for those who are members. Whether you prefer a relaxing swim at home, a walk in the park, or a game of tennis at the club, 32 Gilstead’s central location caters to a wide spectrum of leisure pursuits.

DINER’S DELIGHT

Food enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse dining options surrounding 32 Gilstead. One of Singapore’s most famous hawker centres – Newton Food Centre – is practically at your doorstep, offering a trove of local culinary delights till late night. From satay and barbecued seafood to piping hot bowls of laksa, this “food paradise” lets residents savor authentic Singaporean dishes anytime[5]. For everyday dining, the Novena area offers numerous cafes, casual restaurants and eateries within its malls and streets, covering everything from brunch spots to family-friendly dining. If one is in the mood for upscale cuisine, look no further than the array of fine dining establishments in the Orchard Road hotels or nearby Dempsey Hill – all reachable within a 5-10 minute drive. These include Michelin-starred restaurants, stylish bistros, and cocktail lounges perfect for business dinners or celebrations. In short, whether it’s enjoying local chili crab in a bustling hawker center or commemorating an occasion with gourmet international fare, 32 Gilstead’s locale spoils you with choices. (And if you prefer to entertain at home, each unit’s state-of-the-art kitchen and the rooftop dining pavilion make hosting a pleasure.)

TENURE

Why Freehold in District 11 Is a Rare Asset

Freehold condominiums in Singapore’s core central areas are increasingly uncommon, and that rarity is a major draw for 32 Gilstead. Most new condos in prime districts come with 99-year leases, making 32 Gilstead’s freehold status in District 11 truly exceptional. Freehold properties account for only about 20% of all private residences in Singapore[19], underlining their scarcity. In Newton/Novena specifically, land plots that are freehold and available for new development are few and far between. Therefore, owning a freehold home here is not only a mark of prestige but also a safeguard of enduring value – you have the peace of mind that this asset is yours indefinitely, an important consideration for long-term and intergenerational planning.

The District 11 address further amplifies its allure. Newton has long been an upscale residential enclave, and being freehold in this locale positions 32 Gilstead as a limited-edition property. Buyers understand that such assets, by virtue of their permanence and location, tend to be more resilient in value. They are less affected by lease depreciation and often see strong demand in resale due to their inherent appeal. Simply put, a freehold in District 11 is a trophy asset – a rare blend of prime land and perpetual ownership. As market observers note, the limited supply of freehold land (especially near MRT stations and city amenities) makes these properties highly sought-after and likely to appreciate over time[26][27].

Long-Term Value in Low-Density Luxury Homes

Another facet of 32 Gilstead’s appeal is its low-density, high-luxury profile, which is intrinsically linked to long-term value retention. With just 14 large units sharing a substantial land area, the land-to-unit ratio here is very generous – each homeowner effectively “owns” a larger slice of land compared to units in high-density developments. This exclusivity and spaciousness give the property a unique market positioning. Similar boutique luxury condos in Singapore have shown excellent track records in capital preservation and appreciation. For example, Kheng Leong’s own Nassim Park Residences and 15 Holland Hill (also freehold, low-density projects) command top-tier prices and see very limited units put on the market, as owners tend to hold these prized homes. The logic is simple: when something is scarce and of very high quality, it remains in demand.

Furthermore, 32 Gilstead’s combination of attributes – freehold, prime district, architectural pedigree, and ultra-low unit count – creates a perfect recipe for an heirloom property. Such homes attract a discerning demographic that values the intangible benefits of living in an uncrowded, well-designed environment. They are less likely to be bought for short-term speculation, and more likely to be held as long-term investments or family legacy assets. In terms of rental prospects, these unique large-format apartments may also appeal to a niche group of expatriate tenants willing to pay a premium for space and privacy, thus providing an optional income stream to owners. Overall, the long-term fundamentals of 32 Gilstead are strong – it’s a property built not just for today’s market, but with a timeless appeal that should endure for decades. In the landscape of Singapore real estate, it represents a low-density luxury home whose value proposition is rooted in quality and scarcity, offering a hedge against the ordinary.

Developer Background

32 Gilstead is developed by Kheng Leong Company, a name that carries significant weight in the luxury real estate scene. Kheng Leong is the private property arm of Singapore’s prominent Wee family (led by banker Wee Cho Yaw)[28], and over the years it has cultivated a niche in creating exclusive, high-quality residential projects. One hallmark of Kheng Leong’s developments is the emphasis on collaboration with top international designers to craft distinctive living spaces[29] – a philosophy clearly reflected in 32 Gilstead’s star-studded design team.

Kheng Leong’s track record features some of Singapore’s most prestigious condominiums. The company was behind MeyerHouse (an ultra-luxe low-rise condo in the East where every unit has a private lift lobby), 15 Holland Hill (a collection of spacious homes on a prime hilltop in District 10), and Nassim Park Residences (an exclusive development in the Tanglin embassies area), among others[18]. Each of these projects was lauded for its design, privacy and build quality, reinforcing the developer’s reputation for excellence.

By choosing 32 Gilstead, buyers are essentially placing their trust in a developer known for delivering on its promises. Kheng Leong’s involvement means that the same exacting standards and vision that defined its past projects have been applied here. From the selection of premium materials to the fine workmanship and thoughtful layouts, no expense has been spared to make 32 Gilstead a standout residence. The developer’s vision of a home “designed and built around you, cherished across generations”[30][31] comes to life in this project. For the homeowner, that translates into peace of mind – knowing that your investment is backed by a firm with deep experience, financial stability, and an unwavering commitment to quality. In sum, 32 Gilstead’s pedigree under Kheng Leong assures that this boutique development will join the ranks of Singapore’s most distinguished addresses, offering not just a luxurious abode but a lasting legacy.

[1] [7] [11] [12] [20] [23] 32 Gilstead | Freehold New Launch Condominium at Gilstead Road (Newton), District D11, Singapore

https://sunita-slh.pvyr.me/d/nHWLnb1H/32-gilstead-ebrochure

[2] [4] [5] [9] [14] [17] [18] [22] [24] [25] [30] [31] 32 Gilstead Factsheet (1 March 2024).pdf

[3] [6] [13] [21] 32 Gilstead in Singapore | SG Luxury Homes

https://sgluxuryhomes.com.sg/property/32-gilstead/

[8] [16] 32 Gilstead | D11 Freehold | Kheng Leong | Call 68643300!

https://propertyreviewsg.com/32-gilstead/

[10] [15] 32 Gilstead Project Details – 32 Gilstead

https://32gilstead.com/32-gilstead-homepage/32-gilstead-project-details/

[19] [26] [27] Freehold/999-Year Condos Near MRT Stations in Singapore: The Hidden Gems of Real Estate Investment

https://www.propertyexpress.sg/post/freehold-999-year-condos-near-mrt-stations-in-singapore-the-hidden-gems-of-real-estate-investment

[28] [29] MeyerHouse Developer and Its Property Portfolios

https://www.meyerhouses.com/developer/