HDB explains Tengah BTO kitchen layout after viral video
The topic is trending due to a Reno Scout video calling a Tengah 4-room flat kitchen 'pathetic' and 'tiny'. HDB clarified that the video only showed the compact wet kitchen, which is designed to work with an adjoining dry kitchen area.
What happened
- 8 Oct, 2026
Renovation specialist Rhys Ng posts a video criticizing the kitchen layout at Garden Waterfront I @ Tengah [2]
- 14 Oct, 2026
HDB posts a Facebook response explaining the open-concept design and its flexibility [1], [2]
What you need to know
The combined wet and dry kitchen areas are about 10 sqm, similar to standard kitchens in newer flats [1].
Open-concept kitchens have been the standard for BTO flats since 2018 when layouts allow [1], [2].
The design allows owners to decide if they want more space for cooking or for living and dining areas [2].
HDB provides floor plans with layout suggestions to help buyers choose [1].
It is not confirmed if three-room flats in the same area face the same layout issues, though a renovation specialist suggested they might [2].
Background
The controversy centers on a 4-room unit at Block 213B Tengah Garden Avenue. A renovation expert argued the kitchen is a 'one-person kitchen' and lacks a service yard [2].
The critic noted that while the 'beamless' design makes cabinetry installation easier, extending the kitchen would cost the resident and be difficult due to a lack of support beams for features like sliding doors [2].
HDB maintains that this layout provides flexibility, allowing homeowners to configure the space based on their specific needs [1].
Questions people ask
How big is the Tengah BTO kitchen?
The combined wet and dry kitchen areas are approximately 10 sqm, which HDB says is roughly the size of a common bedroom [1], [2].
Why did the video call the kitchen 'tiny'?
The video focused on the wet kitchen area, which is compact and lacks a service yard [1].
Where this came from
[1] asiaone.com
HDB sheds light on 'small' kitchen of Tengah BTO flat in viral video, Singapore News
Preview image from asiaone.com
[2] mothership.sg
HDB replies to YouTuber's complaints of 'tiny' Tengah BTO flat kitchen, says it's meant to be 'open-concept' & flexible
Preview image from mothership.sg
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