Are Penthouses Worth It?

Penthouses are units that are located at the highest floor of a condominium or a mixed-use development. In general, a penthouse has better features compared to lower units such as a better view and higher ceiling. Although single floor penthouses do exist, these apartments typically consist of two or more levels. Let’s go through the different kinds of penthouses that exist and understand their pros and cons.

Single-loaded Penthouse

A single floor penthouse can be referred to as a single-loaded penthouse where the total space is spread across a single level. This can also mean that since they have to be larger in size than the average unit, they can take up more space by sitting atop two stacks combined. In layman terms, they are constructed in such a way that the top-level units in side-by-side blocks are joined together to create one massive space.

Duplex Penthouse

A duplex is a penthouse with two storeys. There are many variations of what is considered a duplex. A duplex can come with liveable space on both storeys with a balcony on the first floor. Usually, in this variation, the bedrooms will be found on the second floor as the first level will be utilised mostly for maximising internal space – hence, the living room and kitchen can be quite massive in size. The balcony on the first level will help to open up the space, creating the perception of a larger first level. 

Another variation of a duplex can see a decrease in the size of the second storey at the expense of a bedroom, in order to create a larger terrace on the first level. This variation can appeal to homeowners who are more likely to spend more time outdoors, such as alfresco dining. This type of duplex is great for smaller families and is less suitable for multi-generation families. 

The last type of duplex are penthouses with a full roof terrace as the second storey. This would mean that all liveable space will be contained on the first floor. The separation between personal and public space is also clearly demarcated between the two levels. The views from the terrace would also be great, given the larger angle of viewing.

Triplex Penthouse

A rare sight in Singapore, a triplex is a penthouse with three storeys. It could be a penthouse with two storeys of liveable space with a third as a roof terrace that can offer amenities such as a private pool and lift.

Are Penthouses worth it?

As land scarce Singapore decentralises the Central Business District with multiple city centres, so will the density of the population. This essentially means that penthouses will be well fed with demand with each penthouse offering a different angle of the skyline of Singapore. With new developments along the Greater Southern Waterfront, Jurong Lake District and Punggol Digital District, the penthouse can be a great status collection.

Disclaimer: This article was written as an opinion piece and does not constitute any financial advice. We recommend you consult a financial planner prior to any financial purchase. 

See also: What are Super Penthouses

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