How a Local Developer Builds Homes That Help Residents Live Greener, Environment News & Top Stories

Local real estate developer Koh Brothers is a forerunner in bringing sustainability and green concepts to Singaporean homes.

Over 15 years ago, he incorporated a specially designed rainwater recycling system into the plan to build four luxury bungalows along Caldecott Hills, making him one of the first local developers to add such green characteristics to its developments.

Paired with an energy conservation system that includes solar heaters, the water conservation system helps homeowners save up to 25% on their total utility bills in the long run.

“We share the nation’s push towards a greener city-state,†said Mr. Francis Koh, managing director and CEO of the group, adding that the company is focused on keeping sustainability at the heart of its business. operations.

Koh Brothers was founded as a sole proprietorship by his father, Mr. Koh Tiat Meng, in 1966. Since then, it has grown into a Singapore listed company with over 40 subsidiaries, joint ventures and associated companies in Singapore, China, in Indonesia, Malaysia and South Korea.

Move at the pace of the nation

From the use of environmentally friendly materials to eco-friendly designs, Koh Brothers makes it a point to consider a building’s environmental impact from the start of any project. Efforts to reduce emissions and climate impact include using renewable energy and recycled materials wherever possible, and reducing the heat effects of city blocks by using low-emissivity glass and designing houses to optimize cross ventilation.

“We’re always looking to do better by being green, both for the environment and for homebuyers,†says Koh. The company is exploring the use of solar panels for common areas such as rooftop terraces, as well as the use of environmentally friendly materials such as recycled rubber in outdoor play and fitness areas, he adds.

One example is Koh Brothers latest freehold luxury residence project in Holland Village: Van Holland. The 69-unit development expected to be completed in 2023 will include energy-saving, motion-sensing LED lighting in all common areas, solar panels for rooftop installations, charging ports for cars electric and more.

But beyond simple ecological considerations for properties developed by the company, Mr Koh says his homes also aim to empower residents to make lifestyle changes to reduce their carbon footprint.

Van Holland, for example, is conveniently located within walking distance of Holland Village and the MRT station. Residents can easily access nearby amenities, including top schools, lifestyle and entertainment destinations, and public transportation via a specially constructed sheltered walkway.

The development is also equipped with a user-friendly and secure bicycle garage, and a washing and repair area for cyclists, in the hope of encouraging more buyers to take up cycling. “The bicycle is the only truly green form of transportation,” says Koh, who immersed himself in cycling for two years to better understand the needs of cyclists when the company first turned to creation. a dream home for this growing group of homeowners. .

Understanding the needs of a greener world

Launched in 2015, Koh Brothers’ first executive condominium – Westwood Residences – became Singapore’s first cycling-themed residence, with features such as a mini velodrome, as well as a secure covered bicycle garage and an of maintenance.

“This project was ahead of its time, promoting a cycling theme to encourage a healthy and active lifestyle,†Koh said. Westwood Residences was one of 10 real estate developments – eight in the US and one in London – featured in a 2016 Urban Land Institute (ULI) Active Transportation and Real Estate: The Next Frontier report, highlighting the best projects favorable to cycling. The concept has since won numerous accolades at Koh Brothers, including recognition for innovation excellence at the EdgeProp Singapore Excellence Awards 2018.

These unique cycling-related gear have also found their way to subsequent Koh Brothers properties such as Van Holland, as the developer continues to stay abreast of changing lifestyle trends and new aspirations.

Other Van Holland features include two infinity pools, a pavilion and sky lounges, a large waterfall, a tropical garden walk, a river garden walk, a sky terrace, as well as Italian curtain walls of 3. , 1 m high and generous balconies which are all designed to bring its inhabitants closer to nature. The upscale luxury condominium is not only a tranquil and lush escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, but also a property that encourages more sustainable living so Singaporeans can enjoy healthy, green spaces for families. years to come.

“Our motto is that we build a house, not just a house, and for us, the home user experience is an important part that we incorporate into our designs,†says Koh.