A recent controversy has sparked debate among residents of Bukit Merah, Singapore, over the choice of a vibrant red paint for their HDB blocks. The new color scheme has been likened to a ‘red-light district’ and a ‘furnace’ by some residents, causing an uproar and prompting complaints to the town council.
One long-time resident, a 59-year-old photographer named Mr. Wen, shared his frustration with the bright red color of Blocks 12 to 14. He described the visual impact as ‘uncomfortable’ and explained how the reflected light from the exterior made his kitchen appear ‘awash in red’ during the afternoon. Mr. Wen even went as far as to say, ‘It looked like a red-light district!’
But here’s where it gets controversial… While some residents, like Mr. Wen, are unhappy with the color choice, others see it as a reflection of the area’s historical heritage. A 70-year-old resident explained that the red color is appropriate due to its historical connection to the brick factories that once dominated the area. Some even hope the ‘auspicious’ red will bring luck and higher housing prices to the estate.
And this is the part most people miss… The town council has a different perspective. They chose the red paint to honor the neighborhood’s historical origin, a decision supported by a majority of residents during the voting process for the Repairs & Redecoration (R&R) works. The council spokesperson stated, ‘Many long-time residents would remember that the residential blocks in this estate were traditionally painted in shades of red to reflect this heritage.’
However, the council has acknowledged the intensity of the red color and its impact on some units. In response, they worked with the R&R contractor to incorporate more white surfaces, aiming to tone down the overall redness. These adjustments seem to have satisfied most residents, with no further complaints received.
This isn’t the first time red paint has caused a stir in Singapore. Last year, residents near Tampines Street 44 complained about a red paint job that cast an eerie glow into their flats. Similarly, in 2023, crimson red tiles and paint for a new BTO block in Tampines North were criticized for looking ‘spooky’ and ‘like a horror movie’ by netizens.
So, what do you think? Is the red paint a respectful nod to history or an uncomfortable eyesore? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!