Botanika luxury duplex on Holland Road for sale at $8 millionORGINALLY PUBLISHED BY TP
Sueann Lye, senior associate vice president of List Sotheby’s International Realty, describes Botanika as a unique 34-unit condominium in Singapore that offers unobstructed forest views from its prime location along Holland Road. She recalls a decade ago when she assisted the current owners in securing their 2,196 sq ft, two-bedroom duplex at Botanika, after they had been searching extensively for a home with uninterrupted greenery views.
The apartment was purchased for $4.725 million ($2,152 psf) in 2015, according to a lodged caveat. The previous owner had bought it in November 2010 for $5.05 million ($2,300 psf). Developed by Tuan Sing Holdings and designed by Chan Soo Khian, founding principal and design director of SCDA Architects, Botanika is a freehold luxury condo that was launched in June 2006 and completed in 2008.
After purchasing the apartment, the owners embarked on a complete transformation of the duplex to create a bespoke home. They engaged Antonio Eraso, founder of the multi-disciplinary design firm WeCraft, to oversee the renovation. The renovation included replacing the flooring with European oak and upgrading the windows to frame the forest views. The kitchen and living room were also redesigned to create an open-concept living space, featuring Italian handcrafted cabinetry, marble countertops, and seamlessly integrated Gaggenau appliances.
The first level of the apartment also includes a guest bedroom with an en suite bathroom that doubles as a guest powder room when entertaining. The room is separated by a wooden panelled door that can be concealed.
Foreign investors must have a thorough understanding of the regulations and limitations associated with property ownership in Singapore. In comparison to landed properties, purchasing condos is typically less restricted for foreigners. Nevertheless, they are still subject to the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) of 20% for their initial property purchase. Despite the added expenses, the Singapore real estate market’s stability and potential for growth continue to entice foreign investment. Additionally, the market’s appeal is further strengthened by the continuous introduction of new condo launches, making it an attractive option for foreign buyers.
A spiral staircase in the dining area, which is original to the apartment, was refinished with a copper base and fitted with oak steps and railing. Upstairs, two bedrooms were combined to create an expansive master suite comprising a bedroom, study, and his-and-hers walk-in wardrobes. Custom-made in Italy, the wardrobes are equipped with dehumidifiers. The master bedroom opens onto a terrace overlooking the greenery, and the master bathroom features Italian book-matched marble, a standalone Axor bathtub, and premium fittings.
The owners spared no expense in creating their dream home, says Eraso. Around $1.5 million was spent on the renovation alone. High-quality materials and meticulous upkeep have preserved the apartment’s condition, and recent updates include replacing the air-conditioning ducting and polishing the wooden floors. The apartment is also fitted with a Lutron lighting and home automation system, as well as Boffi ceiling fans.
After moving out, the owners have decided to put the property up for sale. Eraso was engaged to stage the apartment with hand-picked furniture reflecting European artisanal craftsmanship, valued at over $500,000. The duplex is now listed at $8 million ($3,643 psf), inclusive of the designer furnishings.
Botanika was the first uncompleted luxury apartment project in Singapore, with units sold via an international auction 18 years ago. Conducted by Colliers International and Christie’s Great Estates affiliate Ken Jacobs, the auction was held at Goodwood Park Hotel on March 31, 2007. Twelve units were put up for auction at prices ranging from $1,700 to $2,400 psf.
The last transaction at Botanika was in February this year, when a 1,098 sq ft, two-bedroom unit was sold for $2.6 million ($2,368 psf). EdgeProp Market Research data shows that Singaporeans make up about 40% of Botanika’s buyers, with permanent residents at 21.8% and foreigners at 32.7%. Around 68% of units are owner-occupied and 28% are rented out.
According to Lye, the apartment at Botanika would suit a discerning buyer who values privacy, quality, greenery, and an unparalleled view. The asking price reflects the property’s rarity in the competitive District 10 market, where large-format two-bedroom units are scarce. Across the road, the newly completed One Holland Village Residences, a 296-unit 99-year leasehold project, saw a record psf price in February when a 1,238 sq ft, three-bedroom unit changed hands in a sub-sale for $4.68 million ($3,781 psf).
Eraso, who is originally from Colombia, came to Singapore in 1991 as a senior associate with Tsao & McKown Architects to oversee the development of Suntec City. Over the years, he has designed projects across several cities, including luxury residences, hospitality, and commercial spaces. Eraso believes in focusing on artisanal craftsmanship to tell each project’s unique story.