When planning a funeral wake in Singapore, one of the earliest and most meaningful decisions a family faces is choosing the venue. Two of the most common options are holding the wake at a funeral parlour or at an HDB void deck. Each has its own benefits and challenges, and the right choice often depends on your family’s needs, budget, and the kind of atmosphere you wish to create.
Understanding the Options
Funeral Parlour
A parlour is a dedicated indoor facility designed specifically for wakes and funeral services. It usually comes with built-in amenities such as air-conditioning, private family rooms, restrooms, and security.
HDB Void Deck
HDB void decks are open communal areas on the ground floor of public housing blocks. Families often set up tentage and facilities there for wakes, making it a more community-centric choice that is accessible to neighbours and relatives living nearby.
Key Considerations
Cost and Budget
HDB void decks are generally the more economical option, as many Town Councils charge only for utilities like electricity and water. A funeral parlour, on the other hand, requires daily rental fees, which can make it more expensive.
However, families should note that if a wake at an HDB void deck lasts fewer than three days, the overall cost can sometimes be higher than a small parlour, because the base tentage fee is typically fixed and charged as if the wake were three days, regardless of the actual duration.
If cost is a primary concern, it’s always best to compare both options carefully with your funeral director to ensure you’re making the most cost-effective choice.
Facilities and Comfort
Funeral parlours provide a more comfortable environment with air-conditioning, privacy, and ready access to amenities. They require less logistical setup and planning. In contrast, HDB void decks are open or semi-outdoor spaces, which means families (through their funeral director) must arrange for tentage, fans or air-coolers, seating, lighting, and sound systems. The comfort level will depend largely on how comprehensive the setup is.
Accessibility and Convenience
An HDB void deck wake is often very convenient if the deceased lived in the block or nearby, as it allows family members to be close to home. It also makes it easier for neighbours and community members to pay their respects.
However, it’s important to note that most Town Councils only allow HDB void deck wake bookings if the deceased or their immediate family members (spouse, children, parents, or siblings) are residents of that block or precinct. This policy ensures that void deck wakes are reserved for residents and their families.
Parlours, depending on their location, may require guests to travel farther, though they usually provide a more formal environment for the wake.
Atmosphere and Dignity
Parlours create a solemn and dignified atmosphere due to their controlled environment. The setting tends to feel more private and contained. An HDB void deck, while more public, offers a familiar and communal atmosphere that some families prefer, as it allows neighbours and friends to easily gather.
Permits and Logistics
Hosting a wake at an HDB void deck requires permits from the Town Council, and possibly from other authorities if public spaces, roads, or carparks are affected.
Families do not have to personally handle tentage, furniture, lighting, or utilities — these are all arranged by the funeral director as part of the service. However, the Town Council booking and charges are still made under the family’s name, with the funeral director providing full guidance throughout the process to ensure everything is in order.
At a funeral parlour, most of these concerns are already taken care of, which reduces administrative effort on the family’s side.
Duration and Security
For multi-day wakes, parlours provide greater convenience as they can be securely locked up at night. At an HDB void deck, families must ensure that equipment, valuables, and offerings are kept safe, often requiring additional security arrangements.
Which Venue Should You Choose?
If affordability and community accessibility are top priorities, an HDB void deck may be the ideal option. Families who want a familiar setting close to home, where neighbours can easily drop by, will find it more suitable.
However, if comfort, convenience, privacy, and reduced logistical stress are more important, then a funeral parlour is often the better choice.
Ultimately, the decision is a personal one that balances respect, dignity, cost, and convenience. Both venues can provide a meaningful setting for family and friends to gather, pay their respects, and honour the memory of a loved one.
Singapore Casket: Your One-Stop Solution for Funeral Services in Singapore
Our professional funeral directors have decades of experience and are committed to helping fulfil the last wishes of your loved one and delivering a funeral wake that is memorable, dignified, and heartfelt. We can handle every aspect of your loved one’s funeral arrangement — from embalming and makeup to memorial gemstone services, exhumation and remains relocation, and post-funeral services.
You can learn more about our full range of funeral services at Singapore Casket, or contact us at 6293 4388 — we’re open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide guidance whenever you need it.
