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The Architect Who Made Singapore’s Public Housing the Envy of the World

Summary

Liu Thai Ker, renowned as the architect of modern Singapore, transformed the city-state's public housing from squalid slums into spacious, affordable high-rises, creating a model envied worldwide. With a focus on affordability, community, and convenience, Liu's designs have housed millions of Singaporeans, achieving nearly universal homeownership. Despite his success, Liu expressed sadness over recent spikes in housing prices, with some units selling for over $1 million. His planning ensured public housing remained accessible, but rising secondary market prices pose challenges. Liu's vision and work, supported by government policies, have had a lasting impact, although he regrets not creating bicycle paths and preserving some historical slum areas for educational purposes.

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