Liu Thai Ker, the architect who designed Singapore’s public housing system, has died at the age of 87. His passing on Sunday, January 18, 2026, from complications following a fall, marks the loss of a visionary who transformed the city-state’s urban landscape and ensured home ownership for millions.
Liu Thai Ker played an integral role in shaping the landscape of modern Singapore, with its distinctive public housing blocks dominating the skyline. He was involved in the planning for 20 out of the 24 Housing and Development Board (HDB) towns during his tenure as chief architect and later chief executive officer from 1969 to 1989. Under his leadership, about half a million housing units were developed, transforming Singapore from a place with overcrowded slums to a nation where most of its 5.9 million residents live in subsidised, owner-occupied flats.
Born in Malaysia in 1938, Liu moved to Singapore at age six and pursued architecture studies in Australia before earning a master’s degree in city planning from Yale University. He worked in the New York office of renowned architect I.M. Pei before returning to Singapore in 1969 to join public service. His background in international urban design informed his approach to creating liveable spaces tailored to Singapore’s tropical climate and social needs.
After his time at HDB, Liu became the chief executive and planner of the Urban Redevelopment Authority from 1989 to 1992, where he contributed to long-term planning frameworks like the 1991 Concept Plan. This initiative aimed to bring jobs and amenities closer to homes, enhancing community cohesion and urban efficiency. Throughout his 24-year public service career, Liu emphasized that urban planning should focus on people’s fundamental needs and foster a sense of belonging.
Tributes have poured in from Singapore’s leaders and citizens. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong praised Liu’s dedication and vision, noting that the buildings and public spaces stand as a testament to his work. President Tharman Shanmugaratnam thanked him for helping make Singapore a liveable city in the tropics. Minister for National Development Chee Hong Tat described Liu as a pioneering figure who laid the foundation for home ownership and strong communities across the nation.
Liu’s legacy extends beyond physical structures; he is credited with building a nation by ensuring that every Singaporean could own a piece of their country. The HDB flats, purchased by citizens and held for 99 years, have become a key driver of savings and social stability in Singapore’s economy. Despite some criticism over market-driven aspects, the system remains a cornerstone of national policy, reflecting Liu’s belief in housing as social infrastructure.
In a 2024 interview, Liu expressed hopes for future urban planning to address new needs such as housing for the aged population and medical services. His death leaves a void in the field, but his contributions will continue to inspire generations of planners and shape Singapore’s development for years to come.
