Marina Gardens Residences Review: Is worth the investment ?

As someone who likes short travel times to key amenities, I was keen to see how this new development blends convenience, luxury, and a focus on eco-friendly features. In this post, I will explain the project’s main offerings, show its real-world benefits, and share personal impressions.

Marina Gardens Residences is in District 1, within the Marina South precinct. This area is famous for landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay. The residence has 790 units and a commercial zone on the first floor.

It adopts green architecture, including a 13-meter waterfall and over 386 plant species woven into landscaped spaces. The developer consortium is led by Kingsford Development, which has a track record of large-scale, sustainable builds.

Project Overview

This is a 99-year leasehold condo with two 34-storey towers. Designed by Christoph Ingenhoven, a leader in sustainable architecture, it uses a “Supergreen” design theme that puts nature at its core. Expect multi-level greenery, water features, and energy-smart solutions to create a relaxing place in the city.

Key Highlights

• Total Units: 790
• Towers: Each 34 storeys high
• Green Focus: 13-meter waterfall, 386 plant species
• MRT Access: Linked to Marina South MRT (Thomson-East Coast Line)
• Nearby Spots: Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, Marina Barrage

Fact Sheet

My experience with Kingsford’s past projects, such as Normanton Park and Hillview Peak, suggests they like to include extensive facilities and landscaped areas. The same mindset appears here, focusing on a blend of green elements, shopping, and wellness.

Floor Plan Analysis

Unit Distribution

Layouts cater to a range of needs. Singles, families, and those looking for upscale penthouses all have options.

Unit Pricing

• Starting Price: Around $2,312 psf for a 1-bedroom
• 4-Bedroom & Penthouses: Up to $2,719 psf
• Prices might shift based on final decisions and market factors

Site Plan & Facilities

The project includes a 140,000 sqft retail podium. This likely features dining, fitness studios, possibly a supermarket, and more.

• Landscaped Gardens: Tiered greenery, water elements
• Recreational Facilities: 50m lap pool, jacuzzi, tennis courts, sky lounge
• Connectivity: Direct link to Marina South MRT plus walkways to Gardens by the Bay

Personal Note: If, like me, you enjoy quick access to transport, you will appreciate the built-in MRT station and the short distance to major roads. It cuts down on travel time and makes everyday routines simpler.

Developer Background

Kingsford Development, tied to the China-based Kingsford Group, secured the site for $1.034 billion. They have built other notable condos in Singapore and highlight eco-friendly concepts in their work. Marina Gardens Residences is consistent with their identity of combining modern architecture with nature-focused themes.

Marina Gardens Residences

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Unique Selling Points

• Location: Views of the Central Business District (CBD) and Marina Bay Sands
• Eco-Friendly Concept: Recognized for energy-saving systems and green features
• Connectivity: Access to four MRT lines plus major expressways
• Lifestyle: Steps away from Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, and waterfront spots

Connectivity & Accessibility

Expressway & Road Networks

• Marina Coastal Expressway (MCE): Links to AYE, ECP, and CTE
• Marina Boulevard: Direct route to Marina Bay Sands, the CBD, and Orchard Road

MRT Networks

• Marina South MRT (Thomson-East Coast Line): Directly connected for easy travel to Orchard and Marina Bay
• Other Nearby Stations: Gardens by the Bay MRT (Downtown Line) and Marina Bay MRT (Circle Line)

Bus Routes

• Main Services: 106, 133, 400, 518
• Future Plans: URA Master Plan may add new bus lines to improve overall connectivity

Amenities & Lifestyle

Retail & Dining

• Shopping: The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, VivoCity, Millenia Walk
• Food Options: Upscale dining (Cherry Garden, Marguerite), local hawker delights (Satay by the Bay), and casual eateries at Gardens by the Bay

Recreational Facilities

• On-Site: 50m lap pool, gym, tennis courts, sky lounge, landscaped gardens
• Nearby: Supertree Grove, Cloud Forest, Marina Barrage for water sports, Marina Bay Sands SkyPark

Education Institutions

Though District 1 is a central location, there are still schools within reasonable reach.

• Primary Schools:
  • Cantonment Primary (~2.7 km)
  • Radin Mas Primary (~3.2 km)
• Secondary Schools:
  • Outram Secondary (~2.1 km)
  • Dunman High (~4.5 km)
• Tertiary & International:
  • Singapore Management University (SMU) (~2.3 km)
  • ISS International School (~3.8 km)

Nature & Parks

• Gardens by the Bay: About a 10-minute walk for scenic gardens and Supertree displays
• Marina Barrage: Ideal for kite-flying, kayaking, and great views of the city skyline

Healthcare

• Raffles Medical at Marina Bay Financial Centre: Offers general care and screenings
• Singapore General Hospital (SGH): About 3.7 km away
• Urgent Care: Clinics at Marina Bay Link Mall (~0.4 km away)

Market Analysis: MOAT Factors

Marina Gardens Residences (MGR) stands out for several reasons:

1. Location & Connectivity
   Positioned in District 1 with quick access to the CBD, Marina Bay Sands, and Gardens by the Bay. Multiple MRT lines reduce commuting times.
2. Sustainable Design
   Likely to earn Green Mark Platinum Certification. The design includes features like a 13-meter waterfall and multiple landscaped areas.
3. First-Mover Advantage
   This is the first residential project launched in Marina South, which may give it an edge over future entries.
4. Developer Reputation
   Led by Kingsford Development, part of the Kingsford Group, which made large-scale sites such as Normanton Park. They purchased the land for $1.034 billion and are known to focus on green and modern designs.

Growth Catalysts

URA Master Plan for Marina South

• Over 10,000 Homes: Aiming for a mixed-use space with car-lite streets and improved pedestrian and cycling paths
• Commercial Expansion: 140,000 sqft of retail in MGR, plus future commercial and hospitality projects
• Mandatory Green Standards: Buildings in Marina South need to meet top-tier energy-saving guidelines

Infrastructure Upgrades

• Thomson-East Coast Line: Direct travel to Orchard and Marina Bay
• Marina South Pier: Proposed waterfront promenades for leisure and dining

Proximity to Landmarks

• Gardens by the Bay: 10-minute walk to floral exhibits, Supertree Grove
• Marina Bay Sands: Luxury shopping and entertainment 1 km away

Recent Condo Sales & Pricing

Below is a comparison of average price (psf) and recent transactions:

(Chart: Comparing Estimated Price per Square Foot in Marina Bay)

• Marina Bay Residences averages about $2,245 psf.
• The Sail @ Marina Bay ranges from about $2,100–$2,600 psf and has shown a 34% rise since 2019.
• MGR might launch around $2,600–$3,200 psf.

Rental Market

• Marina Bay Residences: Rents average $7 psf/month, so a 1-bedroom can easily hit $5,000/month.
• MGR Outlook: Demand from professionals in the CBD and Marina Bay Financial Centre will be strong, but the future supply of new units in Marina South might influence yields.

URA Master Plan Impact

1. 10-Minute Neighborhood
   Emphasis on walkable access to retail, childcare, and green areas for daily needs.
2. Supply-Demand Factors
   Marina South is set for several new sites, with around 10,000 total homes. MGR’s position as a first-mover may help it stand out.
3. Long-Term Value
   The CBD expansion and Marina Bay attractions (museums, performances) can boost property values over time. Proximity to offices and top dining venues helps as well.

Investment Outlook

• Upside Potential: Limited land in the city center plus MGR’s green design could support prices around $2,800–$3,200 psf.
• Risks: High ABSD rates, broader economic issues, and upcoming residential supply in District 1.
• Conclusion: MGR might be a promising long-term investment. Short-term fluctuations could happen, but integrated projects in prime zones often remain appealing.

Final Thoughts

Marina Gardens Residences aims to bring together modern city living and eco-friendly ideas. Its advantage lies in top-tier infrastructure, a bustling retail podium, and closeness to popular sites in Singapore’s downtown area. If living near the city center with an emphasis on green design and convenience is your priority, you may want to explore this development. Always weigh your finances, future plans, and comfort with the investment horizon before making a final decision.