The Housing Board (HDB) has launched a landscape guide to showcase current good designs and spur future ones.

"Good landscape design in the spaces is important, especially in a high density environment...open spaces and lush greenery offer residents respite from high-rise surroundings," said HDB chief executive Dr Cheong Koon Hean. Minister of State for National Development Mohamad Maliki Osman, who launched the 134-page guide, added that paying attention to such design from the start "will ensure that landscaped areas are easy to maintain and at minimal cost".

Both were speaking on Wednesday at the HDB Peak forum for building and construction industry professionals.The guide describes how HDB designs public housing estates, including the evolution from simple tree planting and small playgrounds during its early days to current extensive use of rooftop greenery and exercise facilities in newer precincts like the upcoming Bidadari estate. It includes reference standards for the industry such as structures and plant types that can be used. The guide may be viewed at www.hdb.gov.sg/landscapeguide