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Ridout Road is the street where some of the best houses in Singapore reside. An exclusive street steeped in historical grandeur and known for its sumptuous Good Class Bungalows (GCBs) and black-and-white colonial houses with a tree-lined street filled with gated gardens, these stately residences command attention.
The GCBs in this neighbourhood, with their expansive grounds and meticulously designed interiors, embody architectural luxury and sprawling grounds adorned with lush tropical gardens. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by soaring double-height vaulted ceilings and exquisite Statuario marble finishes.
Next door, a black-and-white bungalow’s charms time. Dark timber beams and white-washed walls tell stories of Singapore’s colonial past, blending British styles with local influences. Each room is craftsmanship of a bygone era, where the details are a story in and of themselves.
Home to tycoons and some of the most powerful, Ridout Road preserves conservation with stringent land size and building height guidelines, creating a serene, low-density neighbourhood that only a few can experience in a lifetime.
If you can afford one of these stately estates, the perfect balance of seclusion and accessibility is yours for the legacy. Residents enjoy the convenience of being close to the city centre and top-tier amenities while still relishing the peace of their private retreats. This strategic location makes Ridout Road an ideal choice for practicality and those seeking some of the best houses in Singapore.
Steeped in colonial history, hidden tropical modern estates
Named after Major-General Sir Dudley Howard Ridout, General Officer Commanding Troops of the Straits Settlements from 1915 to 1921, Ridout Road’s history stretches back to the early 20th century. The black-and-white colonial bungalows were originally built for high-ranking officials and wealthy individuals. These properties have been well-preserved and maintain their colonial charm, making them highly desirable for those who appreciate history, architecture and large tracts of land.
Ridout Road is part of the Holland Road/Ridout Park Conservation Area, designated as a Good Class Bungalow Area (GCBA) by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). GCBs are subject to strict guidelines, ensuring they maintain their stately grandeur. These properties must sit on at least 15,000 square metres of land, with only 40% of the land occupied by the house. The remaining land is reserved for greenery, facilities and other amenities.
Many of these bungalows and houses on Ridout Road sit on land sprawling beyond 130,000 square feet, with homes built to entertain more than 200 guests, which is rare in land-scarce Singapore. The scarcity of such large plots contributes to their high value. Many of the properties on Ridout Road come with extensive grounds, tennis courts, swimming pools and other features full of panache that cater to the every whim of its HNW residents. These amenities enhance the living experience and make these properties some of the best houses in Singapore.
Prime location makes Ridout Road home to the best houses
Ridout Road is in a prime location, close to the city centre and major transportation hubs. This makes it attractive for those who value convenience and accessibility while desiring a luxurious and peaceful living environment.
The properties on Ridout Road are known for their seclusion and privacy, which are highly valued by those seeking the highest-end of living experience. Ridout Road has seen record-breaking sales of GCBs, with some properties selling for tens of millions of dollars. This further solidifies the area’s reputation as a hub for luxury properties.
In 2015, the GCB at 35 Ridout Road, within the cul-de-sac of Ridout, made headlines. The 73,277 sq ft plot was sold for $1,251 psf, totalling nearly $91.69 million, to Soon Hock Property Development, owned by logistics and real estate magnate Tan Yeow Khoon.
Positioned off Holland Road and near the vibrant Dempsey Hill lifestyle and entertainment zone, Ridout Road bungalows are historical treasures.
Who lives on Ridout Road
Ridout Road has seen record-breaking Good-Class Bungalows (GCBs) sales, with some properties selling for tens of millions of dollars. This further solidifies the area’s reputation as a hub for luxury properties. Ridout Road is home to some of Singapore’s most exclusive residences, including the historic Istana Woodneuk, once the Sultan of Johor’s abode. The neighbourhood’s current residents enjoy lavish amenities and sprawling garden estates.
As you drive along the road, you’ll see security guard houses and gated high walls equipped to ensure privacy and safety for their residents. The serene environment, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil landscapes, offers a peaceful reprieve minutes from Orchard Road.
Ridout Road is home to some of the city’s most prominent figures, including high-ranking government ministers and affluent individuals. Notably:
- Logistics and real estate tycoon Tan Yeow Khoon bought 35 Ridout Road, a sprawling 73,277 sq ft plot, for nearly $91.69 million.
- Sheng Siong co-founder Lim Hock Leng purchased a 33,700 sqft multi-family ‘Hidden House’ for $50 million.
Guide to The Most Exclusive Streets in Singapore
Where to eat, drink and socialise
Just a short walk from the grandest houses on Ridout Road, you’ll find a culinary haven that will delight your senses in Dempsey Hill. Start your gastronomic journey at Burnt Ends, a Michelin-starred restaurant that elevates modern Australian barbecue to new heights.
Photos credit: @air_cccc on Instagram
Next, venture to Air CCCC, the avant-garde newcomer that offers a revolutionary farm-to-table experience. Imagine a sustainable market on the lawn where you can indulge in the freshest, locally sourced ingredients.
Head to Bollicine, the epicentre of Italian culinary excellence, for a taste of Italy. With an impressive wine list and an atmosphere that exudes la dolce vita, this charming eatery is a must-visit.
If you’re in the mood for lighter fare, Culina is a mainstay for daily consumption, offering a variety of dishes that cater to every palate. Alternatively, Chop Suey is a charming eatery that serves diverse dishes that could easily become your new favourite haunt. To taste the Mediterranean, visit Blu Kouzina, the gold standard of authentic Greek cuisine.
Photos credit: COMO Dempsey
What’s a neighbourhood without a regular drinking haunt? Room For More is the ultimate haven for fine whisky and cigars connoisseurs. With an extensive selection of premium spirits and expertly curated cigar pairings, this sophisticated lounge is the perfect retreat for those who appreciate the finer things in life. But that’s not all Dempsey Hill has to offer.
Finally, experience the pinnacle of farm-to-table weekend brunching at Open Farm Kitchen, where the freshest ingredients are harvested on-site and transformed into culinary masterpieces. This immersive dining experience will leave you enchanted and eager to return.
From margaritas to wine bars, and local staples like chili crab to international Peruvian affairs, this culinary area is directly accessible from Ridout Road.
Where to shop
COMO Dempsey Hill in Singapore is a shopper’s paradise, offering a range of high-end options. For luxury furniture, head to Timothy Oulton @ Curio, where opulent pieces evoke the glamour of the Roaring Twenties. Fashion enthusiasts will love Dover Street Market Singapore, featuring cult brands and limited edition exclusives. For luxury fashion for kids, visit Kids21, part of Christina Ong’s Club21 group.
Photos credit: COMO Dempsey
For gourmet groceries, SuperNature and Culina are must-visits.
SuperNature offers farm-fresh, organic produce, meats, dairy, and specialty items sourced from organic-certified farms. The store features speciality corners, an in-store butchery, and online shopping with free delivery. It also has a wellness-centric eatery, Glow, and offers nutrition consultations and workshops. Another high-end grocery store, Culina, offers gourmet and specialty foods, including artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and fine wines. Both stores cater to discerning customers seeking top-end foods and unique shopping experiences.
Ridout Road, District 10
Singapore Luxury Homes is renowned as the top 1% luxury real estate team and is acclaimed for a landmark property transaction of over $45 million for an Astrid Hill Good Class Bungalow. If you’re in the market to view some of the biggest luxury houses in Singapore, connect with our team.
