Watten House Condo Launch Review – Freehold Luxury in District 11, Bukit Timah
Introduction
Watten House condo is a new freehold luxury condominium in District 11 (Bukit Timah), nestled in the exclusive Watten Estate enclave of Singapore[1]. As a Watten Estate new launch, it offers an unparalleled combination of prestige, spacious living, and prime location. Comprising eight low-rise blocks of 5 storeys each, with only 180 large-format units spread across a sprawling ~220,240 sq ft land parcel[2], Watten House promises low-density luxury living in one of the city’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Below is a quick overview of its key details:
- Tenure: Freehold (Estate in Fee Simple)[3]
- Developer: UOL Group Limited & Singapore Land Group Limited (joint venture)[4]
- No. of Storeys: 5 (across 8 residential blocks)[5]
- Land Area: ~20,461.1 sqm (~220,240 sq ft)[2]
- Designed by: SCDA Architects (design architect) – with Architects 61 as project architect[6]
- Total Units: 180 exclusive residences[2]
- Location: 36–50 Shelford Road, Watten Estate (Prime District 11, Bukit Timah)[7]
- Completion Date: Expected TOP by 30 June 2027[8]
Developer Introduction
The development of Watten House is helmed by two of Singapore’s most reputable real estate companies, UOL Group and Singapore Land Group (SingLand), under a joint venture (United Venture Development (Watten) Pte. Ltd.)[4]. Watten House represents the latest chapter in UOL’s prestigious freehold luxury “Masterpiece” series – an evolution from “Luxury Living by Botanic Gardens” at Nassim Park Residences to “Mansion in the Park” at MeyerHouse, and now “Tranquility on the Hill” at Watten House[9]. This thematic lineage underlines the developers’ focus on creating timeless, ultra-high-end homes in Singapore’s best locales.
Backed by a 60+ year track record and about S$22 billion in assets, UOL Group is one of Singapore’s leading public-listed property developers, renowned for its commitment to architectural excellence and quality[10]. Its past projects include iconic luxury residences (e.g. Nassim Park Residences, MeyerHouse)[11] and award-winning hotels under its Pan Pacific and PARKROYAL brands. Singapore Land Group (formerly UIC), listed since 1971, is a property pioneer with a diverse portfolio spanning commercial offices, hotels, retail and residential projects[12]. SingLand’s holdings include prominent landmarks like Singapore Land Tower, Marina Square, and well-regarded condominiums such as Mon Jervois and V on Shenton[13]. Together, UOL and SingLand bring formidable expertise and an uncompromising standard of quality to Watten House’s development, assuring buyers of a prestigious and well-built home.
What Makes Watten House an Ideal Home?
Watten House comprises eight elegant 5-storey blocks thoughtfully arranged amidst lush landscaped grounds, creating a tranquil, “resort-like” sanctuary that feels private and exclusive. Sprawled over ~220,000 sq ft of land with only 180 units, the development offers low-density living in a serene setting[14] – a rarity in land-scarce Singapore. The architecture, designed by the acclaimed SCDA Architects, features timeless elements like pitched roofs and classical proportions blended with contemporary design, evoking a palatial yet modern ambience[15]. Each apartment has been meticulously planned for efficiency and generous space; in fact, the layouts by SCDA ensure regular, spacious rooms that maximize functionality and comfort[6]. Most units even come with private lift access (especially the expansive 5-bedroom and penthouse units), adding an extra level of privacy and exclusivity for residents.
Inside each home, no expense is spared in delivering top-notch luxury. Interiors are furnished with premium European appliances and fittings – for example, gourmet kitchens are equipped with Swiss V-ZUG appliances, and bathrooms feature designer fixtures from Italy’s Gessi[16] (among other high-end brands like Antonio Lupi and Hansgrohe’s Axor line). Every detail, from imported fine materials to the branded fittings, is meticulously curated to exude sophistication and comfort[16]. The result is a level of finish that befits a true luxury residence, appealing to the discerning tastes of family offices and legacy buyers alike. Notably, Watten House clinched multiple accolades at the 2023 PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Singapore) – including Best Luxury Condo Development, Best Luxury Condo Architectural Design, and Best Luxury Condo Landscape Design[17] – affirming the project’s outstanding quality in design and concept. In short, this luxury Bukit Timah condo delivers an ideal home for those seeking spaciousness, privacy, and prestige, all packaged into one low-density, large-unit condo development in Singapore’s prime district[18].
Connectivity
Living in Watten House means enjoying a peaceful enclave without sacrificing connectivity. The condominium is well-served by public transport and major roads, ensuring easy access to the rest of Singapore. Tan Kah Kee MRT station (Downtown Line) is roughly an 8-minute walk from the estate[19], putting residents a few stops away from Downtown Core and the Marina Bay Financial Centre. Just one train stop down is the Botanic Gardens MRT interchange, which connects to the Circle Line and opens up even more commuting routes[19]. For instance, from Botanic Gardens station, it’s a quick ride to Orchard Road (Singapore’s premier shopping belt) or to educational hubs around Bukit Timah.
For drivers, Watten House’s central location in District 11 means that Orchard Road and the CBD are just a short drive away (approximately 10–15 minutes under normal traffic). The development is situated near Bukit Timah Road/Dunearn Road, a major arterial route that leads directly towards Newton and the city, as well as BKE/PIE expressways for island-wide connectivity. Whether commuting to work in Raffles Place or heading out for leisure, residents will find it convenient to get around. Moreover, by the time Watten House is completed in 2027, the first phase of the Bukit Timah-Rochor Green Corridor will also be ready[20] – this linear park connector will link the neighborhood to the city via cycling/jogging trails, offering a green alternative route for recreation or even commute. Overall, Watten House strikes an excellent balance by providing a serene residential haven that is still well-connected to transport nodes and key destinations island-wide[21].
Educational Institutions
One of the biggest attractions of Watten House for family buyers is its proximity to many top schools in Singapore – truly a dream for those prioritizing education. In fact, it would be hard to find a more large-size condo near top schools in Singapore than Watten House, given its spacious units and position in the heart of Bukit Timah’s “education belt.” Within a 1 km radius are two elite primary schools: Raffles Girls’ Primary School (RGPS) and Nanyang Primary School, both consistently ranked among the nation’s best[22]. Living within this coveted 1 km range gives residents priority admission eligibility, a significant advantage for parents aiming to enroll their children in these schools.
Beyond primary level, the vicinity is surrounded by renowned secondary schools and junior colleges. The storied Hwa Chong Institution (which includes both High School and College sections) is just around the corner on Bukit Timah Road, and National Junior College (NJC) is similarly close by – both are comfortably within 2 km of Watten House[23]. In the same cluster is Nanyang Girls’ High School, another top-tier secondary school located adjacent to Hwa Chong, as well as Singapore Chinese Girls’ School (SCGS) a short drive away near Dunearn Road[22]. This means a child can progress from primary through secondary and even pre-university education all in the same neighborhood, attending some of Singapore’s most prestigious institutions. Such convenience is priceless for families – the daily school run becomes shorter and stress-free, and older children can even commute on foot or via a brief bus/MRT ride. Given Bukit Timah’s reputation as an “education haven,” Watten House’s location squarely within this zone will preserve its appeal and value for generations of education-conscious homeowners.
Shopping Malls
Shopping and amenities abound near Watten House, ensuring that everyday conveniences and retail therapy are always within easy reach. For daily needs and groceries, residents can simply walk (~10 minutes) to Coronation Shopping Plaza, a neighborhood mall that houses a supermarket (NTUC FairPrice), pharmacies, banks, eateries and more. Right next door is King’s Arcade Shopping Centre, another cluster of shops and services catering to the community. These nearby malls provide all the essentials – from food and household supplies to clinics and salons – just around the corner from home[24].
For a broader shopping and lifestyle experience, the Holland Village precinct (including the new One Holland Village mall) is a short drive away. The recently developed One Holland Village brings modern retail, a gourmet supermarket, and chic dining options to the trendy Holland Village area, which is known for its mix of cafés, boutiques, and nightlife. Additionally, Singapore’s famed Orchard Road shopping belt is only about a 10-minute drive from Watten House, offering unparalleled access to luxury boutiques, department stores, and entertainment venues whenever you desire a day in the city.
Other notable retail and lifestyle destinations in the vicinity include Cluny Court and Serene Centre near Bukit Timah Road (for specialty stores, bakeries, and cafes by the Botanic Gardens), as well as Bukit Timah Plaza further up Bukit Timah Road for more extensive suburban shopping. With this range of malls – from quaint local centers to major shopping districts – Watten House residents will find no shortage of shopping options. Whether it’s picking up groceries, enjoying a coffee, or indulging in high-end retail, everything is conveniently accessible.
Leisure Options
Nature and recreation are part of the privileged lifestyle at Watten House. Situated near Singapore’s green core, the development is surrounded by numerous leisure options for outdoor enjoyment and relaxation. Most prominently, the Singapore Botanic Gardens (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) lies just down the road – essentially at your doorstep via one MRT stop or a 5-minute drive. Residents can easily make regular visits to this 82-hectare tropical garden, enjoying morning strolls, picnics by the lakes, or family outings amid lush greenery and fresh air. The Botanic Gardens also connects to the Eco-Link and Gallop extension, offering educational walks and heritage exhibits, making it a fantastic weekend destination for all ages.
Beyond the gardens, nature enthusiasts will appreciate proximity to the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve (Singapore’s oldest rainforest reserve) and the adjacent MacRitchie Reservoir Park. Both are within a short drive, offering extensive hiking trails, mountain biking paths, and opportunities to spot wildlife – perfect for those who enjoy more rugged outdoor activities like trekking or cross-country running. The famous TreeTop Walk at MacRitchie and the summit trail up Bukit Timah Hill are highlights for adventurers.
A unique upcoming amenity will be the Bukit Timah-Rochor Green Corridor, slated to open by 2027 alongside Watten House’s completion[20]. This linear park connector will run through Bukit Timah towards the city, providing a scenic route for cycling, jogging or leisurely walks amid greenery, all the way down to Rochor/Kallang. It will link up parks and communities, effectively extending one’s backyard for miles – a boon for residents who value an active lifestyle. For more structured recreation, there are also several private clubs in the vicinity (such as The British Club, Singapore Island Country Club, and Raffles Town Club) offering facilities from swimming pools and gyms to golf and tennis.
In short, Watten House’s enviable location means you can start your day with exercises in nature and end it with a relaxing stroll under the stars, all without straying far from home. The combination of nearby parks, nature reserves, and upcoming green connectors ensures a balanced lifestyle where urban conveniences meet the tranquility of nature – a key reason many affluent families favor the Bukit Timah area.
Diner’s Delight
Food lovers will find plenty to savor around Watten House, as the Bukit Timah enclave is richly endowed with dining options ranging from hawker fare to haute cuisine. Just around the corner is the Greenwood Avenue dining enclave – a charming stretch within the Watten Estate neighborhood famed for its restaurants, cafés and bistros. Here, one can enjoy weekend brunch at a cozy café, fresh seafood at the Greenwood Fish Market, or fine Italian dining, all in a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere mere minutes from home. Whether it’s a casual coffee or an elegant dinner, Greenwood Avenue has become a go-to spot for residents in the area.
For those who crave local flavors, the iconic Adam Road Food Centre is a short drive (or a quick bus ride) away. This popular hawker center is home to some of Singapore’s best local eats, including famous nasi lemak, prawn noodles, satay and other Malay and Indian-Muslim specialties. Late-night supper or a hearty breakfast at Adam Road Food Centre is almost a ritual for many Bukit Timah locals – and Watten House residents will have it conveniently close by[24].
If one is in the mood for a more upscale or cosmopolitan dining scene, Dempsey Hill is also within easy reach. Just a 10-minute drive from Watten Estate, Dempsey Hill offers a plethora of high-end restaurants, bars, and cafes set in a charming cluster of former colonial barracks. From gourmet farm-to-table concepts and international cuisines to artisanal ice cream and wine bars, Dempsey has it all amid lush greenery – perfect for a special night out or Sunday brunch. Additionally, the Holland Village area provides a mix of trendy eateries, craft beer pubs, and dessert spots catering to a younger crowd.
With such dining diversity – from the hawker stalls of Adam Road to the fine restaurants of Dempsey – residents of Watten House will never run out of choices to satisfy their palates. Whether it’s a simple family meal, a gathering with friends, or a romantic date night, there’s always a suitable venue nearby. This culinary richness adds to the appeal of Watten House’s location, truly making it a diner’s delight in the heart of Bukit Timah.
Tenure
One of the standout qualities of Watten House is its freehold tenure – a significant advantage in land-scarce Singapore, especially in a prime district. Here’s why the tenure of Watten House makes it particularly valuable:
Freehold Value in Prime Bukit Timah
In Singapore’s real estate market, freehold properties in core central locations are exceedingly rare and sought-after[25]. Being a freehold condo in prime District 11 Bukit Timah, Watten House offers homeowners the perpetual ownership of land in a prestigious area – an asset class that tends to command premium value. Unlike 99-year leasehold properties, a freehold home does not diminish in remaining lease over time, which means its value is better preserved as the years go by. Historically, freehold homes in coveted neighborhoods like Bukit Timah see resilient demand and stronger long-term appreciation, as buyers are willing to pay extra for the assurance that the property can be held indefinitely. Watten House’s freehold status thus provides peace of mind that your investment in this luxury Bukit Timah condo will remain robust over generations, making it an ideal choice for legacy-minded buyers.
Freehold in GCB Enclave – A Rare Asset
Watten House enjoys a prestigious address within the Watten Estate/Shelford Road enclave, which is largely surrounded by Good Class Bungalow (GCB) areas – Singapore’s most exclusive landed housing zones. In fact, 33 out of the 39 GCB Areas in Singapore lie within a 3 km radius of Watten House[26], underscoring how upscale and exclusive this neighborhood is. It is exceptionally rare to find a new condominium here, let alone a freehold one. Owning a freehold condo in the heart of a GCB enclave effectively gives one a foothold in an ultra-prime landed district, conferring the prestige of the address and the enjoyment of a serene, low-density environment dominated by luxury bungalows. Watten House is encircled by multi-million-dollar landed estates, which not only elevates its stature but also means the surrounding locale is unlikely to see high-density developments – preserving the tranquility and exclusivity for the long term. For buyers who appreciate the rarity, Watten House represents an opportunity to acquire a scarce asset: a condo that offers a GCB-area lifestyle (complete with privacy and greenery) without the upkeep and price tag of an actual bungalow. This uniqueness bodes well for both resale value and enduring appeal, as such properties seldom come to market.
Long-Term Legacy and Capital Preservation
With its freehold tenure, Watten House is designed to be more than just a home – it is positioned as a “legacy” property that can be passed down for generations[27]. Owning a freehold estate means your family can hold onto it indefinitely, creating long-term security and a heritage for future generations. This is especially meaningful for family offices and ultra-high-net-worth individuals who view real estate as a multi-generational wealth preservation tool. Watten House, dubbed “a legacy and a generational asset” by its developers[27], perfectly fits that profile. The combination of freehold land, prime District 11 location, and enduring design quality (by a renowned architect) ensures that the property stands the test of time both physically and in value.
Investing in a freehold luxury condo like Watten House can also be seen as a hedge against inflation and lease decay – where leasehold properties might start losing value as their tenure runs down, a freehold maintains intrinsic land value. Furthermore, Singapore’s supply of freehold land, especially in central areas, is only shrinking as most new Government land sales are leasehold. This scarcity factor means well-located freehold assets tend to hold their value even during market downcycles, and appreciate strongly when the market rises. Owners of Watten House can have confidence that capital preservation over the long term is supported by these fundamentals. In summary, the freehold tenure amplifies Watten House’s appeal as a long-term investment and legacy, aligning with buyers who seek not just a beautiful home, but a lasting asset to anchor their family’s future.
Developer Background
Watten House’s developers – UOL Group and Singapore Land Group (SingLand) – are venerable names in Singapore’s property scene, each with decades of experience and a string of high-profile developments. The project is a 50:50 joint venture, leveraging the strengths of both companies to deliver an exceptional product.
UOL Group Limited: UOL is one of Singapore’s leading public-listed property developers, with a diverse portfolio spanning residential projects, integrated developments, offices, shopping malls, hotels and serviced suites. With over 60 years of experience and approximately S$22 billion in assets under management[10], UOL has built a strong reputation for quality and innovation. The company is especially known for its luxury residences – prior freehold projects like Nassim Park Residences and MeyerHouse are part of its “Masterpiece” collection and have set benchmarks in exclusivity and design[11]. UOL has also been recognized with numerous awards (including FIABCI Prix d’Excellence and Asia Property Awards) for its developments, affirming its commitment to excellence. Beyond residential developments, UOL’s ownership of the Pan Pacific and PARKROYAL hotel brands further showcases its dedication to top-tier hospitality and design. Buyers of Watten House can take confidence in UOL’s track record of delivering not just homes, but lifestyle statements that withstand the test of time.
Singapore Land Group Limited (SingLand): Formerly known as UIC, SingLand is a prominent real estate company in Singapore, listed on the stock exchange since 1971[12]. It is actually a sister company to UOL (both are part of the UOB corporate family), and together they have co-developed various projects. SingLand’s portfolio is extensive – it includes landmark commercial buildings like the Singapore Land Tower, Marina Square mall, and Clifford Centre, which have been defining features of Singapore’s cityscape for decades[28]. On the residential front, SingLand has developed well-regarded projects such as The Tre Ver, Mon Jervois, V on Shenton, and others[29], often noted for their design and build quality. SingLand brings to Watten House its deep expertise in project management and a philosophy of holistic development (blending functionality with lifestyle). As a company that has weathered multiple property cycles over half a century, SingLand’s involvement adds an extra layer of assurance in terms of financial stability and project delivery.
Combined Strengths: The UOL–SingLand partnership in Watten House follows their successful collaborations on other luxury projects (e.g., Avenue South Residence, The Watergardens at Canberra, etc.), and reflects a synergy of vision. UOL’s eye for luxury detailing and design, together with SingLand’s operational experience and resource network, have produced a development that is exceptional on all fronts. It’s worth noting that Watten House’s early sales performance has been very strong – a testament to the market’s confidence in the developers. During its launch in March 2024, the project achieved 74% sales within just weeks (133 of 180 units sold)[30][31], even at benchmark prices, underscoring the credibility that UOL and SingLand command among buyers.
In summary, the developers’ backgrounds assure buyers that Watten House is in the hands of industry leaders. Both UOL and SingLand are known for uncompromising standards, and their involvement signals that Watten House is a no-expense-spared project intended to become a flagship residence in Bukit Timah. From conceptualization to construction and eventual completion, the combined expertise of these two heavyweights is shaping Watten House into an address of legacy – a home that will not only be magnificent upon delivery, but will also stand proud for generations to come[32][33].
[1] [2] [4] [17] [18] [19] [20] [22] [24] [26] [30] Project Spotlight | Asia Property Awards
https://www.asiapropertyawards.com/en/project-spotlight/watten-house/
[3] [8] [21] [27] [33] E-Brochure | Watten House 华登嘉苑 | Singapore
https://sunita-slh.pvyr.me/d/ZeR9qgMh/watten-house-ebrochure
[5] [7] [25] [32] Watten House Project Details – Luxury Condo
https://sunita-slh.pvyr.me/d/wTZ0X9cm/watten-house-factsheet
[6] Watten House Condo – Floor Plan – Singapore
https://sunita-slh.pvyr.me/d/TKfWv3qD/watten-house-floor-plans
[9] [10] [11] [12] [13] [14] [15] [16] [28] [29] WATTEN HOUSE_FULL E-BROCHURE (091123).pdf
file://file-8ZBaB65DHYVhMzPgAiBKDi
[23] Watten House Review: A Luxurious Condo With Only Large Units (3 Bedrooms And Up) & High Ceilings Of 3.2m
https://stackedhomes.com/watten-house-review/
[31] Watten House is 74% sold since its official launch on March 2
https://sg.finance.yahoo.com/news/watten-house-74-sold-since-083207803.html


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Sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Cras facilisis metus nulla, et mattis neque aliquam vel. Phasellus eros justo, convallis et turpis vel, ultricies euismod nunc. Nunc condimentum rhoncus diam eu finibus. Vestibulum at mi lorem. Integer fermentum metus a erat volutpat lobortis. Cras enim enim


Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet
Sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Cras facilisis metus nulla, et mattis neque aliquam vel. Phasellus eros justo, convallis et turpis vel, ultricies euismod nunc. Nunc condimentum rhoncus diam eu finibus. Vestibulum at mi lorem. Integer fermentum metus a erat volutpat lobortis. Cras enim enim


Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet
Sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Cras facilisis metus nulla, et mattis neque aliquam vel. Phasellus eros justo, convallis et turpis vel, ultricies euismod nunc. Nunc condimentum rhoncus diam eu finibus. Vestibulum at mi lorem. Integer fermentum metus a erat volutpat lobortis. Cras enim enim


Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet
Sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Cras facilisis metus nulla, et mattis neque aliquam vel. Phasellus eros justo, convallis et turpis vel, ultricies euismod nunc. Nunc condimentum rhoncus diam eu finibus. Vestibulum at mi lorem. Integer fermentum metus a erat volutpat lobortis. Cras enim enim