As larger HDB flat types grow in demand among families seeking spacious homes, two layouts often come up for comparison: the Executive Apartment (EA) and the Executive Maisonette (EM). While both offer generous living spaces that exceed the size of most modern flats, their layouts, availability, and lifestyle suitability can differ significantly. Here’s a detailed comparison to help buyers understand which option may be a better fit.

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1. Overview of Each Flat Type

Executive Apartment (EA)

Introduced in the 1980s and 1990s, Executive Apartments are large single-storey units designed to offer more living and entertainment space. Many come with a study area or an additional room that enhances flexibility.

Executive Maisonette (EM)

Executive Maisonettes are two-storey HDB units also built during the same era. With separate living and sleeping areas across two levels, they offer a landed-home feel while retaining the convenience of HDB living.

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2. Size and Layout

Executive Apartment

• Size: Typically 140–150 sqm, though some exceed this.

• Layout: Single level, making the space easier to navigate.

• Features:

  • Large living and dining area

  • Often includes a study or extra living space

  • Wide, open layout suitable for families that prefer everything on one floor

Executive Maisonette

• Size: Generally 140–160+ sqm, making it one of the largest HDB types.

• Layout: Two levels (living and kitchen on lower floor, bedrooms on upper floor).

• Features:

  • Staircase separating public and private spaces

  • Generous living area

  • Larger bedrooms compared to many modern flats

  • Gives the feeling of living in a landed property

Summary: EMs are usually slightly larger, while EAs offer spaciousness without stairs.

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3. Lifestyle Considerations

Executive Apartment

Best for:

• Families with young children or elderly members who prefer a stair-free home

• Owners who want a large, open living layout for hosting

• Those who prefer convenience and accessibility in a single-floor setup

Executive Maisonette

Best for:

• Bigger households that need clear separation between living and sleeping zones

• Families wanting more privacy across floors

• Homeowners who enjoy the landed-style experience with added vertical space

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4. Renovation and Customisation Potential

EA

• Renovations are generally more cost-efficient since everything is on one floor.

• Great potential for open-concept designs.

• Popular for modern minimalist or Scandinavian layouts due to large open spaces.

EM

• Renovations can cost more due to double-floor work and staircase upgrades.

• Offers unique renovation possibilities like loft-like features or open staircases.

• Ideal for families wanting a more distinctive home layout.

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5. Availability and Market Pricing

Both EA and EM units are no longer built, making them increasingly rare and sought after on the resale market.

EA

• More common than EMs but still not widely available

• Prices tend to range slightly lower than EMs in the same area

EM

• Produced in smaller numbers, making them significantly rarer

• Usually commands a premium due to size, scarcity, and unique layout

• High demand among buyers wanting two-storey living within HDB estates

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6. Who Should Choose What?

Choose an Executive Apartment if you want:

• A large layout without stairs
• Elder-friendly living
• A more cost-efficient renovation
• A spacious single-storey home

Choose an Executive Maisonette if you want:

• A landed-feel with two levels
• Clear separation of living and bedroom areas
• One of the biggest HDB flat types available
• A rare property with strong resale appeal

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Conclusion

Both Executive Apartments and Executive Maisonettes stand out for their generous size—something increasingly hard to find in today’s HDB offerings. Buyers who prefer accessibility and open layouts may gravitate toward EAs, while those craving vertical separation and landed-style living often see EMs as the ideal choice. Ultimately, the right fit depends on family needs, lifestyle preferences, and renovation plans.