The history of HDB void decks dates back to the early 1970s, where the government made it a common feature into public flats. Void decks offered shade and shelter, and were also the first go-to venue for community events and social interaction between the residents. HDB void decks can be said to have played an important role in paving the path for racial integration back in those days. Under the Housing Development Board's Ethnic Integration Policy (EIP), a balanced mix of different races is ensured so as to prevent the formation of racial enclaves.
As a young adult born in the 90s, I understand the value of void decks and how children of my time played hopscotch, catching, hide-and-seek, etc at the void decks. It was the place where new friendships were forged, where our parents conversed with one another to establish close rapport.
Change of an era
However in past years, void decks are vanishing from public flats. Newer housing projects in estates such as Punggol, Sengkang, Kallang, Buona Vista and Ang Mo Kio no longer have large, spacious void decks as a common space. The lift lobbies and area on the first floor of these newly built flats have become too small to hold any functions.
The modification of void decks in recent years have brought about much inconvenience and happiness to some residents (http://www.iproperty.com.sg/news/4891/Void-deck-blues). "The only constant is change.". Since the void decks have already been built, there is no point lamenting on what is lost.
Now let my group embark on ideas to enhance void deck's space utility!
