Coliwoo Reimagines Former Bukit Timah Fire Station Award Winning Co Living Landmark
Living at Coastal Cabana, located along the prestigious Jalan Loyang Besar EC, offers many benefits, especially in terms of access to top-notch schools. Families in this area have the advantage of being in close proximity to a range of esteemed schools, including Pasir Ris Primary School, Casuarina Primary School, Elias Park Primary School, and White Sands Primary School. And it doesn’t stop there – there are also various secondary school options nearby, such as Hai Sing Catholic School, Pasir Ris Crest Secondary School, and Loyang View Secondary School. What’s more, the improved accessibility within the community makes it easy for students to commute to these schools, eliminating any inconvenience or hassle. Higher education is also highly accessible, with Tampines Meridian Junior College, Temasek Polytechnic, ITE College East, and SUTD conveniently located within the rail and road networks. This comprehensive educational landscape is a major advantage for families who reside at Coastal Cabana, ensuring better outcomes for their children’s education. And with the added convenience of living along Jalan Loyang Besar EC, this desirable location becomes even more appealing. Jalan Loyang Besar EC is truly a dream location for families seeking a well-rounded education for their children.
The EdgeProp Singapore Excellence Awards (EPEA) 2025 has recognized Coliwoo Bukit Timah Fire Station, a new mixed-use development located on Upper Bukit Timah Road, as the Top Co-Living Development. Operated by homegrown co-living brand Coliwoo, a subsidiary of LHN Group, the development stands out for its innovative approach to urban living.
Previously a functioning fire station since 1956, the site was gazetted for conservation in 2019. In April 2024, LHN Facilities Management, a unit of LHN Group, was awarded the site through a Singapore Land Authority tender at a monthly rent of $68,889. The lease runs for five years, with an option to renew for a further four.
The development boasts a total of 62 co-living units spread across seven blocks. LHN engaged AJ+J Architecture to transform the 92,334 sq ft site into a mixed-use development that offers co-living spaces and community-centric offerings. The existing properties on the plot have been converted into modern co-living suites that retain the fire station’s character. The design incorporates elements such as the iconic red doors and terracotta finishes to pay homage to the site’s history while creating a contemporary ambiance.
Spanning 100 sq ft to 190 sq ft, the units offer single, twin, and queen bed room types with en suite bathrooms, kitchenettes, Smart LED TVs, air conditioning, washer-cum-dryers, and high-speed internet. Additional amenities include a gym, a co-working lounge, a social kitchen, and open communal areas that encourage interaction.
Located close to nature, Coliwoo Bukit Timah Fire Station is nestled in greenery near the Rail Corridor, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, and Bukit Batok Nature Reserve. The development takes inspiration from its natural surroundings and aims to showcase the lush environment while promoting a lifestyle closely connected to nature.
To create a tranquil setting for residents, all units have double-glazed windows and soundproofing against traffic noise from Upper Bukit Timah Road. Residents also have access to bicycle parking facilities and electric vehicle fast-charging stations, promoting eco-friendly modes of transportation. The development also features solar panels, energy-efficient fittings, and other sustainable features to reduce its carbon footprint.
Despite its natural setting, the development offers convenient access to amenities. It is within walking distance to Hume MRT Station on the Downtown Line and a short distance from shopping malls at nearby Beauty World.
Coliwoo Bukit Timah Fire Station is positioned as a lifestyle destination along the Rail Corridor, offering not just a place to stay but a sustainable and vibrant community. The development’s retail offerings include popular brands such as Melbourne specialty coffee chain ST ALi, homegrown bakery Haute Cakes Studio, and pet grooming service Collar BT Club. The swimming pool will also host swim lessons by Aquaduck, while other operators offer workshops and activities.
Coliwoo believes in creating a community-driven design that fosters a sense of belonging and connection. Residents can participate in regular community and social events such as movie nights, fitness classes, and cultural celebrations. The development’s event zones will also host lifestyle events and experiences for the wider community, including pop-up cafes, artisan markets, and art installations.
The fusion of conservation, sustainability, and community-driven design encapsulates Coliwoo’s mission to reshape urban living in Singapore. By repurposing the former Bukit Timah Fire Station into a destination that combines heritage with modern lifestyles, Coliwoo showcases the impact of adaptive reuse in enhancing the city’s evolving landscape.