Emerald of Katong Review

I visited District 15 recently to explore Emerald of Katong. This condominium captured my attention due to its heritage-inspired design and modern features. I found its atmosphere inviting, thanks to thoughtful layouts, an appealing site plan, and a location packed with conveniences.

This post shares my observations on why Emerald of Katong has gained popularity, how it appeals to a wide range of buyers, and what you can expect if you choose to live or invest here.

The Buzz Around Emerald of Katong

Emerald of Katong attracted strong market attention by achieving a remarkable 99% sales rate during its launch weekend. Many visitors I spoke with cited the property’s proximity to an upcoming MRT station, its reasonable price range, and District 15’s established reputation. This condo aims to fuse traditional charm with modern comforts, which is evident in its architecture and communal spaces.

Key Launch Highlights:

• Launch Weekend Sales: 99% of units sold.
• Price Range: Launch prices ranged from $2,404 to $2,645 psf.
• Lease Tenure: 99 years, which aligns with many new launches in Singapore.

I noticed that residents and real estate agents discuss how District 15 developments often enjoy good demand due to a blend of heritage, eateries, and easy access to the city. The competitive pricing also plays a part, driving buyers who see value in a project that offers strong connectivity, unique design, and lifestyle perks.

Project Overview

Emerald of Katong is at 51–63 Jalan Tembusu. The developer, Sim Lian Group, gave careful thought to communal facilities, unit layouts, and landscaping. This attention seems to have helped the project stand out among other launches.

Buyers cite the fast take-up rate as a sign of the project’s potential. The site is near Tanjong Katong MRT (TEL), which will reduce travel times to central Singapore. District 15’s limited new condo supply also fueled the surge in interest.

Development Details & Fact Sheet

Key Features

1. Heritage-Inspired Design: Facades combine a subtle Peranakan flair with contemporary lines.
2. Comprehensive Amenities: Swimming pools, landscaped gardens, a clubhouse, and playground spaces for families.
3. Unit Mix: From 1-Bedroom + Study to 5-Bedroom Luxe configurations.

Residents have noted the efficiency of the floor plans, which often accommodate changing lifestyle needs, including work-from-home setups or family expansions. Block 59, for example, offers four units per floor with private lift access, creating a more exclusive setting for larger units.

Floor Plan Analysis

I find the layouts practical, with generous living areas. The developer placed emphasis on wide-span layouts to allow more natural light. Ceiling heights of 2.8–2.9m increase the sense of openness, which is crucial in modern condos.

Unit Distribution

Standout Design Notes:

• Private lift access for certain premium and 5-Bedroom units.
• Wide and continuous balconies that allow an easy indoor-outdoor flow.
• Dedicated study corners in smaller units for home-based professionals.

Pricing & Availability

Launch prices ranged from $2,404 to $2,645 psf. This pricing impressed many market watchers, given District 15’s established resale values. Only about eight units remained available after the first weekend, reflecting keen interest from both owner-occupiers and investors.

I know friends who found the price point acceptable, considering the project’s location near the city and East Coast lifestyle amenities. Rental yield projections hover around 3.5–4%. For investors, the combination of tenant demand and potential capital appreciation enhances the condo’s appeal.

Facilities & Site Plan

I walked around the site plan during a private tour. I noticed a spacious central landscape zone that houses various amenities and gardens. Blocks have a North-South orientation, which can reduce direct sun exposure and improve cross ventilation.

Green Space:

• There is a 0.9ha ethnobotanical park next to the condo, created by Sim Lian and maintained by NParks. It showcases tropical plants, and I saw families relaxing there during my visit.

Block Layout:

• Blocks are spaced about 41m apart, so there is a sense of privacy.
• Vehicular access runs via Jalan Tembusu, ensuring reduced congestion along Tanjong Katong Road.

These design choices appear to blend a serene environment with city-fringe convenience.

Location & Connectivity

Emerald of Katong sits in District 15, near Tanjong Katong Road. This location is known for its food enclaves, Katong’s heritage shophouses, and coastal recreation at East Coast Park. I drove around the area and found multiple access points to expressways and main roads. Public transport is also strong, thanks to the Thomson-East Coast Line.

Expressway Connectivity

*Estimated off-peak timings by car or taxi.

Road Networks

1. Tanjong Katong Road: Direct route to Marine Parade and East Coast Park.
2. Mountbatten Road: Connects to Kallang and the city center.
3. Nicoll Highway: Offers an alternate corridor to Marina Bay and downtown.

MRT Access

The Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) brings the nearest station within a short walk. Tanjong Katong (TE25) is around 400m away, which translates to about five minutes on foot. This line will connect to Orchard, Marina Bay, and other parts of Singapore more quickly than current bus routes.

Bus Connectivity

An extensive bus network covers Tanjong Katong Road, East Coast Road, and Marine Parade Road.

Night Rider services also pass through the area, helpful for late outings or shift work. Overall, daily commuting to the city or Changi Airport is smooth, thanks to robust road and rail links.

Schools & Education

Families often prioritize strong educational options. Emerald of Katong offers easy access to popular schools in District 15. This can raise long-term property demand and simplify daily routines.

Primary Schools

• Tanjong Katong Primary School (0.23km): Recognized for holistic education.
• Haig Girls’ School (0.96km): Emphasizes character building and innovative teaching.
• Kong Hwa School (1.29km): SAP school that focuses on bilingual education.
• CHIJ (Katong) Primary (1.46km): Known for academic standards and moral values.

Secondary Schools

• Tanjong Katong Secondary School (0.45km): Offers O-Level and Integrated Programme tracks.
• Chung Cheng High School (Main) (0.72km): Special Assistance Plan school with strong heritage values.
• Dunman High School (1.77km): Combined secondary and junior college education under the Integrated Programme.

Tertiary & International Options

• Temasek Polytechnic: Within a 15-minute drive, offers diplomas in various disciplines.
• Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD): Accessible via TEL, geared toward technology and design fields.
• Canadian International School (CIS): Only a two-minute walk away, with IB programmes for a global curriculum.

In my view, being close to reputable schools improves a property’s desirability. It also helps parents save daily travel time.

Amenities & Lifestyle

District 15 is lively. I tried a few Katong eateries, visited nearby malls, and enjoyed the coastal breeze at East Coast Park. Emerald of Katong fits into this lifestyle by placing residents close to many everyday conveniences.

Retail & Dining

• Katong Shopping Centre (0.36km): A go-to for small eateries, tuition centers, and niche shops.
• Parkway Parade (5-minute drive): Over 250 stores, including supermarkets, a cinema, and banks.
• I12 Katong (0.78km): Features popular fashion brands and casual dining.
• Katong Laksa Stalls: Known for local Peranakan tastes, with famous spots like 328 Katong Laksa.

Nature & Parks

• Ethnobotanical Park: Right next to the condo, offering a display of native plants.
• Katong Park (5-minute walk): Coastal greenery, jogging paths, and a relaxing environment.
• Telok Kurau Park (10-minute drive): Another green pocket for exercise or family outings.

Healthcare

• Parkway East Hospital (8-minute drive): Private hospital with emergency and specialist services.
• IMC Katong Medical Clinic (0.73km): General health check-ups, pediatric care, and vaccinations.
• Thye Hua Kwan Nursing Home: Operational since 2025, with 270 beds and rehabilitation programs.

For day-to-day errands, medical services are close by, reducing stress for families with young or elderly members.

Developer Background

Sim Lian Group has built a name in Singapore’s real estate scene since 1976. The company’s prior launches include:

• Treasure at Tampines: Noted for being Singapore’s largest condo (2,203 units).
• Hillion Residences: Integrated project with direct MRT and bus interchange access.
• The Botany at Dairy Farm: A 386-unit development featuring lush landscaping.

Sim Lian has earned accolades such as BCI Asia Top 10 Developer (2015–2016). The brand’s projects often highlight value-driven layouts, robust construction standards, and well-thought communal facilities.

Personal Impressions & Final Thoughts

As a new condo observer, I see Emerald of Katong balancing heritage influences and modern demands. The floor plans fit different household sizes, from singles working in the CBD to multi-generational families. I walked around the showflat and sensed a comfortable flow, thanks to well-planned living and dining areas.

The location offers immediate access to diverse amenities. Residents benefit from major highways, the Thomson-East Coast Line, and a food haven. Schools within a short distance add convenience for parents. These elements, combined with Sim Lian’s track record, likely explain the project’s swift sales.

Why Consider Emerald of Katong?

1. City-Fringe Location: Reduced commute times to business districts and airport.
2. Heritage & Modern Mix: Design touches that reflect the area’s culture, paired with up-to-date amenities.
3. Rental Yield Potential: Estimated 3.5–4%, helped by proximity to schools and MRT lines.
4. Developer Reliability: Sim Lian Group’s consistent delivery of quality housing.

I believe the project will continue to attract both owner-occupiers and investors. Future MRT expansions and ongoing enhancements in District 15 may further lift property values. If you seek a convenient, well-connected condo that blends Singapore’s cultural charm with everyday ease, Emerald of Katong is worth a closer look.