In recent years, Serviced Apartments (SA) have emerged as a popular accommodation choice for both short-term and long-term stays. Combining the comforts of a self-contained home with the services of a hotel, serviced apartments provide a blend of convenience, flexibility, and independence.
What are Serviced Apartments?
At their core, serviced apartments are self-contained living spaces that include kitchenettes or full kitchens, allowing residents to cook and live independently. Additionally, they typically offer support services such as housekeeping, concierge, common dining areas, and laundry services, much like those found in hotels. This hybrid living arrangement makes serviced apartments particularly appealing to corporate travelers, expatriates, and even tourists who prefer a home-like environment while enjoying hotel-like conveniences.
Key Features and Regulations
To ensure that serviced apartments offer a high standard of living, several regulations and guidelines shape their development and operation. Here’s a breakdown of some essential criteria:
- Minimum Unit Size: Every serviced apartment must meet a minimum size of 35 square meters (nett). This standard ensures that each apartment provides sufficient living space for residents to enjoy comfort and privacy. In some cases, proposals with unique designs or specific concepts may be considered under this minimum if they meet the standards for communal facilities provided exclusively for serviced apartment tenants.
- Exclusivity of Facilities: For a serviced apartment proposal to be considered, it’s important that any communal facilities—such as dining areas or lounges—are designed solely for the use of the apartment’s residents. Publicly accessible areas, like open cafes or shared co-working spaces, are excluded from this classification. Circulation and functional spaces like corridors or check-in areas are also not considered part of the exclusive facilities for tenants.
- Minimum Rental Period: Serviced apartments must be rented out for at least seven days. This regulation ensures that they are used for lodging purposes and helps differentiate them from hotels, which often cater to daily guests.
- Unified Ownership and Management: Serviced apartments must be developed and managed under one ownership, meaning that the strata subdivision (individual ownership of units within a larger development) of serviced apartments is strictly prohibited. This regulation maintains the integrity of the property and ensures that management standards remain consistent across the development.
- Optional Support Services: To enhance the living experience, many serviced apartments offer optional support services like housekeeping, laundry, and concierge services. Additionally, limited bar or lounge facilities may be allowed, provided they do not exceed 0.3% of the total residential Gross Floor Area (GFA).
Where are Serviced Apartments Allowed?
Serviced apartments are generally permitted within Residential zones but can also be developed in mixed-use sites where residential purposes are allowed. This flexibility opens up numerous possibilities for developers looking to meet the demand for such living spaces in bustling urban areas.
Why Consider Serviced Apartments?
For residents, serviced apartments offer the best of both worlds: a private, self-contained living space with access to a range of hotel-like services. For developers, they present a lucrative investment opportunity that caters to the growing demand for flexible, serviced living arrangements.
As urban living continues to evolve, serviced apartments are likely to remain a cornerstone of modern city life, providing a comfortable, adaptable, and convenient option for individuals looking to balance independence with service-based amenities. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, an expatriate, or simply someone who enjoys flexible living, serviced apartments offer a unique and attractive lifestyle option.
