Habyt, a leading co-living operator, has recently launched a new accommodation space at 5 Kadayanallur Street in Tanjong Pagar. This 18-room space, known as Kada at Maxwell, is Habyt’s flagship location for their latest concept – Habyt Flex. This represents a strategic expansion of the company’s offerings, moving away from their traditional focus on long-term co-living arrangements.
In August, Habyt Asia Pacific’s CEO Jonathan Wong announced the company’s plans to add more short-term living options to their portfolio. The first properties to be launched under the Habyt Flex concept are Habyt Novena, with 39 rooms, and Habyt Kallang, with 27 rooms. Other properties under this concept include Habyt Cantonment and Owen House by Habyt.
Kada at Maxwell features a variety of rooms, including en suite studios and two- to three-bedroom units, each equipped with a kitchenette. Guests have the option to book rooms on a nightly or weekly basis, with a 12-month option also available.
The dining area of a Studio Deluxe at Habyt’s Kada at Maxwell.
According to Wong, Habyt Kada at Maxwell showcases the company’s dedication to redefining flexible living in Singapore and signals their shift towards the next phase of evolution for Habyt Asia Pacific. Room rates at Kada at Maxwell will start at $180 per night.
This flexible living space is housed within a well-preserved 1920s colonial building, designed by architectural firm Swan & Maclaren. It was one of the earliest modernist buildings in Singapore and was originally built to house the St Andrew’s Mission Hospital for Women and Children.
In September 2023, a public tender to lease the property, now managed by the Singapore Land Authority (SLA), was launched. Bidders were evaluated based on their proposed concept and the bid price, with SLA encouraging the consideration of creative lifestyle concepts. The site was eventually awarded to Bethesda Medical, with a monthly rental bid of $103,000. This was the third-highest bid price, following Wan Dormitory ($160,000) and The Working Capitol ($108,240).
SLA stated that Bethesda’s strong focus on community building and connecting people with businesses gave their concept the winning edge. The first floor of the building will feature 10 F&B offerings, while the second floor will house a gym by Limitless, a wellness centre in partnership with Shiruki Studio, and a co-working space. Habyt’s Kada at Maxwell occupies the third floor.
Residents of Kada at Maxwell will have unlimited and complimentary access to the property’s health and wellness amenities, including a performance gym, cold plunge, infrared saunas, hot tubs, and foot baths.
The Oasis Lounge at Kada.
Understanding the regulations and restrictions surrounding property ownership in Singapore is crucial for foreign investors. In comparison to landed properties, the ownership rules for purchasing condos are less stringent. This makes it easier for foreigners to invest in condos. However, it’s worth noting that foreign buyers are still subject to the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) of 20% for their initial property purchase. Despite this added cost, the Singapore real estate market remains a stable and lucrative option, making it a popular choice for foreign investment. In fact, many foreign investors are drawn to Singapore Projects due to its potential for growth and stability.
“By blending modern conveniences with the timeless charm of a heritage building, we are offering guests a unique lifestyle experience that goes beyond traditional accommodation,” adds Wong.