Lavender, Kallang, Singapore
Lavender (Chinese: 熏衣草, pinyin: Xūn Yī Cǎo) is a subzone within the Kallang Planning Area in Singapore. Covering 0.7569 sq km, it had an estimated population of 10,190 in 2024, with a population density of 13,462 per sq km. Lavender is a vibrant subzone combining residential, commercial, and industrial elements, offering convenient access to both the city centre and surrounding areas.
Etymology
The name "Lavender" is believed to originate from the road Lavender Street, which was named in the early colonial period after the lavender plant, although the area itself was historically dominated by kampongs and industrial sites rather than flower cultivation. The Chinese name 熏衣草 literally translates to “lavender plant”.
History
Lavender developed from a colonial-era industrial and residential area. It was home to light industries, warehouses, and small-scale housing in the early 20th century. Post-independence redevelopment transformed parts of Lavender into residential and commercial zones while retaining some industrial estates. The area has gradually gentrified, attracting both local residents and young professionals.
Geography and Boundaries
Lavender is bounded by Bendemeer to the north, Geylang Bahru to the northeast, Boon Keng to the east, Kampong Bugis to the south, and itself to the southwest. Its location provides excellent connectivity to other central subzones and key roads, including Kallang Road and Lavender Street.
Population and Demographics
Lavender had a population of 10,190 in 2024, reflecting a 1.3% increase since 2020. The subzone is ethnically diverse, including Chinese, Malay, Indian, and expatriate residents. The area is moderately dense compared with other central subzones, balancing residential space with commercial and industrial uses.
Land Use and Character
The subzone features a mix of public and private housing, commercial complexes, light industrial estates, and heritage buildings. Lavender maintains a unique urban character where old shophouses and industrial warehouses coexist with new residential and office developments, giving it a dynamic city-centre vibe.
Transport and Connectivity
Lavender is served by Lavender MRT Station on the East-West Line. Major roads such as Kallang Road, Jalan Besar, and Lavender Street link the subzone to downtown Singapore, while the Kallang-Paya Lebar Expressway provides rapid vehicular access to other parts of Singapore.
Community and Amenities
Residents of Lavender enjoy access to community centres, shopping facilities, eateries, and educational institutions. Its proximity to the central city also provides convenient access to healthcare, cultural, and recreational amenities. The area has a blend of older community infrastructure and modern facilities.
Neighbourhood Identity
Lavender is known for its mix of heritage charm and contemporary urban development. It is recognised as a transitional area with industrial roots and emerging residential appeal. Its identity is reinforced by its central location, historical shophouses, and accessible amenities.
Interesting Sights
Lavender retains historical shophouses, temples, and industrial warehouses that have been repurposed into creative spaces. Its street-level character offers a glimpse of Singapore’s colonial and post-independence urban history, while nearby areas such as Little India and Jalan Besar add cultural vibrancy.
Real Estate (Sept 2025)
Housing in Lavender comprises HDB flats and private apartments. HDB flats are typically 80–110 sq m, with resale prices averaging SGD 650,000–900,000. Private apartments range from one- to three-bedroom units, priced between SGD 1.5–2.0 million, with monthly rentals averaging SGD 2,700–3,200. Recent redevelopment has introduced modern condominiums alongside existing heritage properties.
Fun Fact
Lavender is one of the few subzones in Singapore named after a plant, reflecting the colonial-era practice of giving streets and areas botanical names even when the plants were not locally grown.
Quick Facts
Planning Area: Kallang
Area: 0.7569 sq km
Population (2024): 10,190
Population Density: 13,462 per sq km
Population Change 2020–2024: 1.3%
Land Use: Residential, commercial, and light industrial
Key MRT Stations: Lavender MRT Station (East-West Line)
Neighbouring Subzones: Bendemeer, Geylang Bahru, Boon Keng, Kampong Bugis
Character: Heritage and urban mix with residential and commercial developments
Fun Fact: Named after the lavender plant during colonial times despite no local cultivation.
References
Page Details
This page was created on 15 September 2025. Hi, my name is Timothy and created it from my research, for my own entertainment, knowledge and to satisfy my curiosity. I am providing the information to you in good faith and hope it is useful. I try to get the details as accurate as possible. I also try to update the page whenever I stumble on new details. So this and all my other pages are perpetual work in progress. If you discover any error, please politely inform me, pointing out where the error lies, and I will correct it as soon as possible. Your helpfulness will keep this page accurate, relevant and helpful to those who need the information.Subzones of Singapore
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