Rare Forest Edge Luxury Apartment Botanika Prime District 10 Market 8 Mil

Foreign buyers snap up SC Global’s freehold projectsEdgeProp-DSG partners with C&C search for freehold inter-terrace house at Tanah Merah************************************************************************************************************Botanika, a luxury condominium consisting of 34 exclusive units, is located along Holland Road in prime District 10. Boasting an enviable location next to the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Botanika is a rare gem that offers its residents a tranquil living space amidst lush greenery, with a stunning view of the surrounding forested area. Sueann Lye, senior associate vice president of List Sotheby’s International Realty, notes that Botanika is one of the few developments in Singapore that enjoy such a unique vantage point. A decade ago, Lye had assisted the current owners of a 2,196 sq ft two-bedroom duplex in procuring their home at Botanika, where they were attracted to the uninterrupted greenery views that it offered. According to Lye, they had been searching extensively for an apartment with such views before finally finding their dream home at Botanika. Botanika was launched in 2006 and completed two years later in 2008. Developed by Tuan Sing Holdings and designed by Chan Soo Khian of SCDA Architects, Botanika is a freehold condominium that boasts a prime location in District 10. In contrast to the bustling city skyline filled with high-rise towers, Botanika offers its residents a more serene living environment with its low-rise development. According to Eraso, founder of WeCraft, the multi-disciplinary design firm engaged by the owners to oversee the renovation of their apartment, some individuals prefer living in developments where they can have an unobstructed view of nature, and Botanika offers just that. To achieve this, Eraso completely overhauled the apartment, replacing the flooring with fine European oak, and upgrading the windows to allow for a better view of the lush greenery outside. To achieve the desired effect, the entire window system was replaced with custom timbre-framed windows that were brought in by a crane and made weatherproof to ensure its durability. To add to the open concept theme, the wall separating the kitchen and living room was demolished, and custom oak wood panelling and cabinetry, handcrafted in Italy, were installed. Italian carpenters were flown in to measure the space ensuring precision. The new kitchen now boasts a seamlessly integrated Gaggenau appliance set, inclusive of a fridge drawer and a luxury pantry area. The household shelter has been repurposed, and it now serves as an additional refrigerator and a storage area. The original marble countertop was replaced with Bianco Statuario Venato, a premium white marble from Italy, while the Barrisol ceiling lighting system was installed to allow for a beautiful skylight effect. Eraso brilliantly incorporated the lift door into the design of the apartment by cloaking it with wood panelling to ensure continuity. To enhance the functional aspect of the apartment, the space behind the kitchen was repurposed as a service area, and Eraso expertly incorporated a laundry room into this space. To allow for additional natural lighting, the entire apartment was fitted with a state-of-the-art Lutron lighting and home automation system. The first level of the apartment also boasts a guest bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, which can also double as a guest powder room during events. To ensure that the bedroom blends seamlessly into the overall design of the apartment, the room is separated by a wooden panelled door that can be concealed. Furthermore, the dining area of the apartment boasts a unique spiral staircase in its original form that was built in tandem with the development of the apartment. Eraso refurbished it, and it now boasts a lovely copper base fitted with oak steps and matching railings. The upper level of the apartment comprises a generously spaced master bedroom that features an expansive suite opening to a lovely terrace that offers unparalleled views of the surrounding greenery. The terrace is perfect, according to Lye, for early morning yoga sessions. The master suite also boasts premium his-and-her walk-in wardrobes. Custom-made in Italy, these wardrobes also feature dehumidifiers for convenience. The master suite opens to a master bathroom, which also boasts a private balcony that can be landscaped for added privacy. Adding to the luxurious theme of the apartment, the bathroom is fitted with premium Italian book-matched marble, a standalone Axor bathtub and ultra-modern fittings. According to Eraso, the apartment has been exquisitely renovated, and the owners spared no expense in creating their dream home. He estimates that approximately $1.5 million was spent on the renovation of the apartment alone. The use of high-quality premium materials ensures that the apartment remains in pristine condition even where time is concerned. Recent updates to the apartment include replacing the air-conditioning ducting and polishing the wooden floors. To enhance the charm of the apartment, the lounge areas are fitted with Boffi ceiling fans. The apartment is now officially put up for sale, and the owners have since moved out. As instructed by the owners, Eraso has staged the apartment with hand-picked furniture that boasts craftsmanship from artisans in Europe to add to the charm and aesthetic appeal of the apartment. The furniture and other interior pieces are valued at over $500,000. The apartment is now on sale at $8 million with its designer furnishings included in the bargain. Lye, the exclusive market agent for Sotheby’s, sees this apartment as an excellent investment opportunity. At $3,643 psf, she adds that the asking price aptly reflects Botanika’s rarity in the competitive District 10 market, especially given the unique layout of the apartment. Across the road is the recently completed One Holland Village Residences, a 296-unit 99-year leasehold project that saw a record price of $3,781 psf back in February when a 1,238 sq ft three-bedroom apartment was sold on a sub-sale basis for $4.68 million. In contrast, a 3,197 sq ft two-bedroom apartment at 21 Anderson was sold for $9.5 million ($2,972 psf) in May this year. Given this, Botanika presents a rare opportunity for someone looking to move in immediately without the need for any significant renovations. With its enviable location and prime positioning, Botanika appeals to the discerning buyer who values privacy, quality, greenery and the all-important uninterrupted views. Market research conducted by EdgeProp shows that approximately 40% of Botanika’s buyers are Singaporeans, with permanent residents accounting for 21.8% and foreigners 32.7%. Notably, 68% of the units at Botanika are owner-occupied, while 28% are tenanted. A unique characteristic of the development is that it was the first uncompleted luxury apartment project in Singapore, with units sold via an international auction some 18 years ago. The auction was held on March 31, 2007, and it saw the auctioning of some 12 units with prices ranging from $1,700 to $2,400 psf. In terms of returns, the latest transaction at Botanika was for a 1,098 sq ft two-bedroom unit that changed hands for $2.6 million ($2,368 psf) in February this year. Going by this transaction, it is safe to say that Botanika is profitable given the quality of buyers the development attracts. However, the district does boast a rich history that dates back centuries and is truly remarkable. With such strong evidence to support its status as a prime investment opportunity in an even more prime location, Botanika is a genuinely exclusive gem.

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There is an abundance of childcare centers and preschools conveniently situated along Sembawang Road, prioritizing early childhood development. These establishments are well-known names within the preschool industry, offering exceptional early childhood programs that focus on well-rounded growth. With an emphasis on socialization, physical activity, and fundamental literacy and numeracy, these schools are perfect for families with young children who are settling into the area. The convenience of being in close proximity to these facilities greatly reduces the daily stress of long commutes, providing ease for both parents and their young ones. In addition, the newly developed Sembawang EC is also a great option for families seeking quality early childhood education in the area.