Forett at Bukit Timah Review: A Freehold Condo Ready to Benefit From the Beauty World Transformation?



  • Eugenia
  • 23 September 2020

Project Name: Forett at Bukit Timah

Developer: Qingjian Realty and Perennial Pte Ltd

Project address: Toh Tuck Road

Type: Private condominium

No. of units: 633 residential units and two shop units

No. of storeys: Four, nine storey blocks and nine, five storey blocks

Tenure: Freehold

District: 21

Configuration:

Type

Area(Sqft/Sqm)

Number of Units 

1 Bedroom + Study

AS1a

474

34

AS1a(p)

474

3

AS1a(PH)

624

4

AS1b

495

2

AS2a

484

1

AS2b

506

1

2 Bedroom

B1(p)

549

1

B2a

570

11

B2a(p)

570

1

B2a(PH)

700

2

B2b

570

14

B2b(p)

570

1

B2c

603

8

B2c(p)

603

1

2 Bedroom + Study

BS4

689

18

BS5a

721

22

BS5a(p)

721

2

BS5b

721

7

BS5b(p)

721

1

BS6a

721

7

BS6a(p)

721

1

BS6a(PH)

861

2

BS6b(p)

753

1

BS6c

764

29

BS6c(p)

764

3

BS6c(PH)

915

2

2 Bedroom Deluxe

BHS1a

732

18

BHS1a(pd)

732

3

BHS1a(PH)

904

8

BHS1b

743

22

BHS1b(pd)

743

5

BHS1b(PH)

893

8

BHS1c

764

3

BHS1c(pd)

764

1

BHS1c(PH)

947

1

BHS2

764

3

BHS2(pd)

764

1

BHS2(PH)

926

1

3 Bedroom Deluxe

C1a1

947

18

C1a1(pd)

947

5

C1a1(PH)

1,119

7

C1a2(PH)

1,119

1

C1b

980

16

C1b(pd)

980

5

C1b(PH)

1,163

6

C1c

969

8

C1c(p)

969

2

C1c(PH)

1,141

2

C1d

980

7

C1d(p)

980

2

C1d(PH)

1,152

1

3 Bedroom Dual Key

C2(DK)

1,033

14

C2(DK)(pd)

1,033

3

C2(DK)(PH)

1,195

6

3 Bedroom Premium

C3a(PH)

1,302

1

C3b

1,076

3

C3b(pd)

1,076

1

C3b(PH)

1,324

2

C3c

1,087

2

C3c(p)

1,087

1

C3c(PH)

1,313

1

C4

1,109

3

C4(pd)

1,109

1

C4(PH)

1,356

1

4 Bedroom Premium

D1a(PH)

1,561

1

D1b

1,302

12

D1b(pd)

1,302

4

D1b(PH)

1,582

5

D1c(p)

1,356

1

D1c(PH)

1,615

1

D2

1,302

3

D2(pd)

1,302

1

D2(PH)

1,572

1

4 Bedroom Suite

D3

1,442

2

D3(p)

1,442

1

5 Bedroom Suite

E

1,884

5

 

Projected TOP: September 2027

Parking lots + handicap lots: 633 + 6

Nearest MRT: Beauty World MRT (Downtown Line)

Site Area: 33,457sqm

Plot Ratio: 1.8

Project Details

Situated in the heart of Upper Bukit Timah, Forett at Bukit Timah is an upcoming freehold development located in the Toh Tuck neighbourhood in District 21, close to the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and Bukit Batok Nature Park.

The massive 33,457 sqm development comprises 633 units spread across four blocks of nine storeys and nine blocks of five storeys, giving the development a good mix of high and low rise units. In addition to the residential units, there will also be two convenience shops.

Developed by Qingjian Realty and Perennial Real Estate, the project sits on the former site of Goodluck Garden, which was sold in a $610 million en bloc sale back 2018. 

What’s notable about this project is that it was the first large-scale project to launch after Phase 2 of the reopening of Singapore’s economy. Needless to say, there was a lot of spotlight on the project. 

However, despite the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy, and the Hungry Ghost month effect, the project saw a good take-up rate, selling 30% during its weekend preview (which was conducted in Singapore’s first virtual booking exercise), and one-third (212 units) in a month

But why was this project so well-received? Let’s take a look.

Forett at Bukit Timah developer

Multi-award-winning Qingjian Realty, established in 2008, is part of the world-renowned parent company, Qingjian Group Co. Ltd, has developed and designed residential and commercial projects in Singapore. Also known as CNQC (South Pacific) Holding Pte. Ltd, the group is wholly-owned by the Hong Kong-listed CNQC International Holdings Limited, the group has a diverse and dynamic portfolio in the region, including Singapore, Hong Kong and Macau. 

Among its most notable projects in Singapore are The Visionaire, smart condominium iNz Residence, smart mixed-use development Le Quest, and the multiple award-winning JadeScape, which is Singapore’s first fully-smart private condo development. 

The developer has also bagged a host of awards and accolades, including the Building and Construction Authority Green Mark Gold Plus for Le Quest in 2017, BCA Universal Design Mark Gold/GoldPlus Award for Le Quest and The Visionaire, and Best Smart Building Development Award for JadeScape at the 2018 PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Singapore), among others. 

Forett at Bukit Timah design

The unit designs, according to the showroom, is classy and modern with a hint of tradition. The sleek marble and wooden interiors align more with a modern minimalist palette, however elements of Chinoiserie peek through in the decor and communal layout of the apartment which keeps the units grounded in heritage. 

This reflects in the exterior of Forett at Bukit Timah as well, which seeks to bring a sense of new to Upper Bukit Timah whilst preserving elements of history. The new residence runs alongside the well-preserved Heritage Wall, a remaining ode to the previous property. 

Considering Forett at Bukit Timah is a freehold development, an emphasis is placed on the inter-generational aspect of property purchasing, reflected well in the design and exterior of the residence which carefully considers the bright future ahead, whilst acknowledging the precious past. 

Forett at Bukit Timah site plan

forett at bukit timah site plan

Forett at Bukit Timah sits atop a multi-levelled gradient of land. This is in the development’s advantage as it allows for little pockets of privacy that spill into communal and social spaces, interconnected by the condominium’s many top class facilities. 

Thoughtfully planned out, the gradient means that ‘high noise’ facilities such as the tennis court and social spaces are tucked away in sunken or raised spaces to limit overall noise pollution to the surrounding blocks. 

As such, those seeking more peace and quiet might prefer to look at units in blocks 32B, 32A and 34. On the other hand, those with younger kids or who prefer to be closer to the main social areas such as the chill out lounge and the swimming pool might look into blocks 40, 38B, and 38A. Lastly, buyers or investors wanting to face greenery can look no further than blocks 38B, 38, 36A, and 36.

Block 34 faces the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and hosts the sunset lounge, cabana, function room, and water deck on the top floor.

Type BHS1a – 2 Bedroom Suite

forett at bukit timah review 2 bedroom

This unit was decorated for a creative couple in mind, a fashion designer and photographer, which is evident in the demonstrated use of storage space. Space is of the essence in these smaller units, which are ‘corridor-less’ to maximise every inch of available space.

forett at bukit timah 2 bedroom suite review

The exceptionally high ceilings are most noticeable here, the living/dining room stretches up to 4m tall, which can accommodate a loft (every unit is allowed to build one loft) if desired. The loft in this unit sits in the 1st bedroom which has been utilised as the fashion designer’s atelier, with a daybed or reading nook in the loft.

forett at bukit timah 2 bedroom suite guest room review

The shared / guest bathroom arrives as shown, with built-in storage and LED lighting, alongside a spacious and luxurious shower.

forett at bukit timah 2 bedroom suite bathroom

Here, the built-in apartment shelter has been utilised as a decorative storage space for photography equipment, however it can also be utilised as an additional storage space or converted into a walk-in closet.

forett at bukit timah 2 bedroom suite review

The kitchen is functional and compact, with plenty of built-in storage space to ensure clean surfaces and plenty of counter space. These units have two gas stovetops, a built-in washer-dryer, an oven, and plenty of pantry drawers and a revolving storage rack for pots and pans.

Type C1B – 3 Bedroom Deluxe (91 sqm / 980 sq ft)

forett at bukit timah review 3-bedroom

forett at bukit timah 3 bedroom deluxe living room

These units are a comfortable size, designed with a close knit or younger family in mind, especially for those who enjoy a fine life of socialising and entertaining. The living and dining area is open and interconnected, with a unique part-sofa part-chair seating arrangement at the table which can fit additional guests comfortably without any hassle. 

 

forett at bukit timah review

Behind the dining table is the entrance to the kitchen, partially concealed by the glass panel which keeps both spaces feeling connected and open. The sleek kitchen is compact yet fully functional with three gas stove countertops and plenty of storage space to keep the surfaces de-cluttered. Its proximity to the kitchen makes it an ideal set-up for those who enjoy dining at home with the family. 

forett at bukit timah review forett at bukit timah 3 bedroom deluxe common bedroom

The two bedrooms run along the main corridor, which can accommodate a queen-sized bed comfortably with plenty of extra space to install additional shelving and decor. Their shared bathroom is a luxe and spacious one, with a grand glass standing shower.

forett at bukit timah review

Lastly, the master bedroom has been done up to include a dresser/desk and features plenty of cosy lighting. It boasts a large bathroom with plenty of shared counter space and storage space, but the star attraction here is the overhead rain shower with the handheld option.

 

forett at bukit timah review forett at bukit timah 3 bedroom deluxe master bedroom

Type D3 – 4 Bedroom (134sqm / 1442 sq ft)

forett at bukit timah review 4 bedroom

The 4 bedroom unit has a far more communal layout, clearly designed with a close-knit family or a multi-generational household in mind. With plenty of lounging and entertaining space, the living-dining area boats a comfortable sofa and chair seating arrangement.

Behind, you can see the built-in coffee machine, tea corner, fridge and oven, before turning into the unit’s kitchen where the shelter has been converted into an additional decorative storage space.

forett at bukit timah 4 bedroom living area

forett at bukit timah review

The unit’s first bedroom has been converted into a semi-private calligraphy studio, with the wall between the room and the living room turned into shelving. However, this is optional, and the room can be left as a bedroom, home office, or nursery if needed.

forett at bukit timah review

The next two bedrooms are large enough to fit a queen-sized bed and share a spacious bathroom with a bathtub and shower. 

forett at bukit timah review forett at bukit timah 4 bedroom common

forett at bukit timah review

Lastly, the glorious master bedroom which sits at the end of the unit in its own private corner maximises this location with plenty of windows which will ensure plenty of natural light during the day.

forett at bukit timah review

Forett at Bukit Timah facilities

Basement

  • Lifestyle Pavilion
  • Tea Pavilion
  • Social Lounge
  • Chill Out Lounge
  • BBQ Pavilion
  • Dining Pavilion
  • Water Wall Court
  • Reading Nook
  • Summer Lawn
  • Sunshine Lawn
  • Yoga Lawn
  • Reading Lawn
  • Picnic Lawn
  • 30m Lap Pool
  • Infinity Pool
  • Aqua Chill

Upper Basement

  • Karaoke room
  • Forett Deck
  • Forett Club 1 & 2
  • Theatrette
  • The Hideaway
  • Heritage Walk
  • Meditation Lawn
  • Blossom Garden
  • The Botanic
  • Gym
  • Sun Deck
  • 50m Lap Pool
  • Ladies’ Room with Steam Room
  • Gentlemens’ Room with Steam Room
  • Tennis Court
  • Fitness Corner
  • Kid’s Pool
  • Playground

Sky Terrace

  • Floating Deck
  • Teppanyaki Sky Lounge
  • Sky Pavilion
  • Sky Pod
  • Water Court

Looking to buy one of the hottest property in 2020? Find all units of Forett at Bukit Timah for sale on PropertyGuru now

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Location

Forett at Bukit Timah is located off the main road of Jalan Jurong Kechil, tucked away behind Toh Tuck Road which is still a comfortable walking distance away. This area is quite exclusive and private which is great to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and main road. There are several schools and malls (see list below) within reasonable distance. 

Forett at Bukit Timah accessibility

forett at bukit timah review

However, the walk to the nearest MRT station, Beauty World MRT Station on the DTL, will take you 11 minutes by foot. Fortunately, according to Movit, you can take bus 41, 77 or 143 which are all two stops away from Beauty World MRT. 

beauty world mrt to downtown mrt

To reach the Central Business District (CBD) from Beauty World MRT, you can either switch lanes at Newton MRT interchange on the North-South Line (NSL) which is six stations away to make your way to Orchard, or take a 40-mins train ride via the DTL directly to Downtown MRT (12 stations away).   

forett at bukit timah to cbd

For those who drive, you can reach the CBD via the Pan Island Expressway (PIE) or Ayer Rajah Expressway (AYE), the latter will take you about 20 mins.

Forett at Bukit Timah nearby shopping malls, supermarkets, hawker centres and more)

  • Beauty World Plaza
  • Beauty World Centre
  • Bukit Timah Shopping Centre
  • The Grandstand
  • The Rail Mall
  • Coronation Shopping Plaza
  • The Star Vista
  • The Clementi Mall
  • Westmall
  • IMM
  • JEM
  • Westgate
  • JCube
  • Bukit Timah Food Centre
  • Holland Village
  • Dempsey Hill

Forett at Bukit Timah nearby schools (within 2km radius)

  • Pei Hwa Presbytarian Primary School
  • Methodist Girls School
  • Keming Girls High School
  • Bukit View Primary School
  • Bukit Timah Primary School

Secondary / Tertiary and International Schools near Forett at Bukit Timah

  • Nanyang Girls School
  • NUS High School
  • Hwa Chong Institution & Junior College
  • National Junior College
  • Singapore Polytechnic
  • Ngee Ann Polytechnic
  • National University of Singapore
  • Singapore University of Social Sciences
  • Dimensions International College
  • German European School
  • Singapore Korean International School
  • Hollandse School 
  • Chatsworth International School
  • Swiss School in Singapore

Forett at Bukit Timah nearby amenities

  • Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
  • Bukit Batok Nature Park
  • Rifle Range Nature Park
  • Rail Corridor
  • Bukit Batok Town Park (Little Guilin)
  • MacRitchie Reservoir
  • Singapore Botanic Gardens
  • Bukit Timah Railway Station
  • Temasek Club
  • British Club
  • Swiss Club
  • Singapore Island Country Club
  • Raffles Town Club
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Analysis

Forett at Bukit Timah: URA Master Plan

forett at bukit timah ura master plan

Looking at the 2019 URA Master Plan map above, you’ll notice that there are two large Reserve Sites (yellow), of which the land use have not been determined yet. 

The upcoming Beauty World Integrated Transport Hub will improve the convenience and accessibility of residents in the area to other parts of Singapore. The fully air-conditioned bus interchange will provide residents with convenient interchanges to other bus and MRT networks, as well as malls.

Not only that, but it will also be a mixed-used development with 5,000 sqm of space, which has the potential to house over 800 condo units as well as other amenities including a community centre, indoor sports hall, library, market, and hawker centre.

For those who cherish greenery will also be glad to know that as part of the Beauty World transformation under the 2019 URA Master Plan, the upcoming 24 km Rail Corridor walking trail from Woodlands to Tanjong Pagar will be a landscaped gateway for joggers, cyclists and explorers. 

Read our take on the 2014 URA Master Plan and 2019 URA Master Plan for Beauty World here

Forett at Bukit Timah Price

According to squarefoot.com.sg, the average indicative price range is between $1,647 and $2,120 psf at the time of writing. 

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Summary

Overall, Forett at Bukit Timah is for those seeking a lifestyle of tranquillity and balance, one that is close to nature and distant from the stress and pace of the city centre. 

Though the project is quite some distance from the MRT, a valuable freehold development in a convenient residential district is hard to come by. What’s more, Forett at Bukit Timah benefits from the privacy of Upper Bukit Timah whilst remaining a mere 20-minute drive from the city centre. As such, those looking to invest in the future are guaranteed a good return, regardless if for themselves or the next generation(s). 

With plenty of up and coming developments in the area such as the Future Integrated Transport Hub and Future Community Building, both new and old residents of Upper Bukit Timah will benefit from the boost of vibrancy and convenience when the Forett at Bukit Timah reaches completion in 2027.

Looking to buy one of the hottest property in 2020? Find all units of Forett at Bukit Timah for sale on PropertyGuru now

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Eric Wong

Eugenia