What is "void deck"

n. (context Singapore English) The ground floor of an apartment block, used for community mingle and social functions, and sometimes containing shops.

A void deck is an open space typically found on the ground floor of apartment blocks in Singapore. The void deck occupies the ground level, while apartments are usually on the second floor and above. Void decks are spaces for community mingling, where functions are often attended by neighbours across the ethnic spectrum. Sometimes, events like weddings or funeral wakes are held in such places.

Small grocers, medical and dental clinics, bakeries, and other shops are often located in void decks, especially in older apartment blocks. These amenities are often converted bomb shelters, with parts of the shelter still usable in case of an attack. Most void decks also have bicycle racks, benches, and recreational tables for residents' use. It is common for void deck tables to have either a xiangqi or checkers board carved on them.

Void decks also facilitate walking across blocks on the ground level, rather than circumnavigating them.