The Essence

The Essence is a 99-year leasehold boutique condominium located at No. 1 Chong Kuo Road, Singapore 779830, within the tranquil landed enclave of District 26 (Upper Thomson/Springleaf). Completed in 2023 by Chong Kuo Development Pte Ltd, a joint venture between OKP Land Pte Ltd, Lian Soon Holdings Pte Ltd, and HSB Developments Pte Ltd, the project is designed for buyers seeking long-term ownership in a low-density residential setting. Comprising just 84 residential units, The Essence adopts an exclusive scale that contrasts sharply with the scale of larger mass-market developments. Architecturally, the development is characterised by a modern glass façade and two low-rise five-storey blocks, complemented by a basement car park that preserves the development's clean streetscape and quiet ambience. With only 84 units, residents benefit from a more private living environment, reduced crowding in common areas, and a stronger sense of exclusivity. Situated within District 26, the development enjoys proximity to Upper Thomson and Springleaf, areas known for greenery, landed housing, and lower-density planning. The Essence is a project designed to blend seamlessly with the existing community and thus attract owner-occupiers rather than short-term renters. Without relying on media headlines and design awards to define, showcase, or sell the design and architectural features of this project's unique, modern look, the design remains conservative and unobtrusive while still reflecting an abundance of potential. The Essence benefits from a balance of road connectivity and emerging public transport infrastructure, supporting both drivers and public transport users. The nearest MRT station is Springleaf MRT (TE4) on the Thomson-East Coast Line, located within a short driving distance and accessible via feeder transport. This MRT line provides direct connectivity to key areas, including Upper Thomson, Orchard, Marina Bay, and the Central Business District. As the Thomson-East Coast Line continues to mature, accessibility from District 26 is expected to improve further. For motorists, Chong Kuo Road connects efficiently to Sembawang Road, Upper Thomson Road, and major expressways, including the Seletar Expressway (SLE) and Central Expressway (CTE). The Essence has direct, easy access to downtown Singapore, northern industrial districts, and other areas throughout the island. In addition to its quiet suburban ambience, the project offers proximity to Singapore's urban core. The Essence is situated on a 46,101.14 sq ft, site at No. 1 Chong Kuo Road, District 26. The development comprises two five-storey residential blocks with a basement car park, preserving the low-rise character of the surrounding enclave. The Essence Condominium 99-year leasehold 26 84 Despite its boutique scale, The Essence is thoughtfully equipped with essential lifestyle facilities designed to meet residents' daily needs without excess. Facilities provided within the development include: BBQ Gym Lap Pool Pavilion Pool Deck These facilities are curated to support everyday wellness and leisure while maintaining low maintenance overheads, aligning with the development's boutique positioning. The Essence is located within a wider residential catchment that provides access to schools in the Upper Thomson and northern Singapore region: Peiying Primary School Naval Base Primary School CHIJ St. Nicholas Girls' School These options make The Essence a viable choice for families seeking a quieter home environment while remaining connected to reputable educational institutions. Dining options near The Essence are largely centred along Upper Thomson Road and Sembawang Road, areas known for neighbourhood eateries: Springleaf Prata Place - Springleaf Garden (Thongsoon) Sembawang Hills Food Centre BaliNice - Traditional Charcoal BBQ While the development is not located in a central dining hub, the surrounding areas offer sufficient everyday food options, with more extensive choices available within a short drive. Healthcare access for residents of The Essence is supported by clinics and medical services located across Upper Thomson, Yishun, and the northern residential belt: Yishun Community Hospital (YCH) Khoo Teck Puat Hospital For more comprehensive medical needs, residents can access larger hospitals and specialist centres located further south or within northern Singapore. Daily necessities can be purchased at supermarkets and retail outlets within a short drive of The Essence. Nearby options include: Giant Supermarket - Vista Point U Stars Supermarket FairPrice Woodlands Civic Centre These retail options ensure residents have convenient access to groceries and household essentials despite the development's low-density setting. The site layout prioritises privacy, efficient circulation, and integration with the surrounding greenery rather than high-density vertical living. One-Bedroom + Study: 538 to 689 sq ft (approx. 12 units)​ Two-Bedroom: 624 to 786 sq ft (approx. 12 units)​ Two-Bedroom Premium: 700 to 1,001 sq ft (approx. 40 units)​ Three-Bedroom: 1,044 to 1,389 sq ft (varies)​ Three-Bedroom Premium: 1,227 to 1,679 sq ft (varies) Chong Kuo Development Pte Ltd is a consortium of three companies composing a joint venture (OKP Land Pte Ltd, Lian Soon Holdings Pte Ltd and HSB Developments Pte Ltd). While less visible than bigger national developers, the participation in this venture shows that this consortium is currently pursuing a boutique-style low-density residential development strategy. The Essence's design emphasized elegant, yet adaptable forms combined with reasonable proportions and a reasonable use period as the motivating factors behind the design, rather than simply maximising development potential. The Essence is located within a predominantly landed and low-rise residential neighbourhood, with several private housing developments in the wider District 26 area: Lentor Hills Seasons Park Belgravia Villas This ensures the area's identity as a quiet residential enclave rather than a high-rise urban cluster. District 26 includes a lower density than other typical new launches throughout the area. Provides lifestyle conveniences nearby, as well as being better connected via the new Thomson-East Coastline. More importantly, it is positioned for high owner/occupier demand over short-term investment yields. The Essence is an appropriate, considered and lasting choice for those wanting a contemporary home that is not congested with city activity but will still allow them to remain connected to the city via the Thomson-East Coast Line Explore the latest sales and rental listings at The Essence to view available units, pricing trends, and current market opportunities.