My eyes literally can’t!!!
Some residents of Bukit Merah have raised concerns over the new bright red colour of their housing blocks. Though the town council repainted the blocks only a few months ago, the bold shades have already caused complaints.
One resident, 59-year-old photographer Mr Wen, who has lived in the estate for 20 years, described the colour scheme as “visually uncomfortable.” He said the glare from the walls gives his kitchen a “red glow” in the afternoon, adding, “To be frank, it looks like a red-light district!”
Residents Voted for Red, But Some Prefer Neutral Shades
Before the repainting, residents were asked to vote on the colour scheme. Mr Wen had chosen a neutral tone, but the majority opted for the bright red colours currently on the blocks. The shades range from dark maroon on the lower floors to light pink on the higher floors.
Town Council Repaints Affected Walls
After Mr Wen complained, the Town Council painted the wall to the right of his kitchen white. The glare remained on the left side, which was later repainted pink. Other residents who raised similar issues also had the walls outside their units repainted to lighter colours. The Town Council, however, did not repaint the entire blocks—only the units of residents who lodged complaints.
Some Residents Have No Issues with Red
Not all residents objected to the red colour. Madam Chen, 70, who has lived in Bukit Merah for 30 years, said she did not vote on the colour but had no problem with it. Many residents voted for red because it reflects the neighbourhood’s name, “Redhill,” and some hoped the colour would help boost property prices.
Blocks Reflect Historical Background
A Tanjong Pagar Town Council spokesperson explained that the blocks were traditionally painted red to reflect the area’s history of brick factories. The council received feedback that the red was too bright and reflected light into homes, so contractors incorporated more white surfaces into the scheme. Residents have reportedly “adapted well” to the changes.
Past Colour Complaints in Other Estates
This is not the first time residents have expressed strong opinions on block colours. Earlier this year, residents in Tiong Bahru were unhappy when their blocks were painted purple. After a poll by the Residents’ Committee, the majority chose “classic taupe” instead.
