Living in an HDB flat in Woodlands has its perks, but it also comes with its share of challenges, particularly when it comes to noise disturbances. For some time now, I have been dealing with a recurring issue stemming from one of my neighbours, who appears to be a carpenter or someone engaged in woodwork at home. Most evenings, around 7pm, the unmistakable sound of hammering reverberates through the block, creating an unwelcome soundtrack to our family life.
As a parent of a young baby who goes to bed early, this situation has become increasingly stressful. Just as we are trying to settle our child down for the night, the sharp thuds of hammering begin, shattering the peace and making it difficult for our little one to drift off to sleep. The frustration of trying to maintain a calm environment while contending with this noise has been overwhelming.
I initially thought I was the only one affected by this disturbance—until today.
A Collective Outburst
At precisely 7pm, I heard a voice rise above the usual evening sounds, a man shouting from somewhere within the block: “IF you hammer one more time after 6pm, I will go up and hammer you.” The anger in his voice was palpable, and the message was clear. It was loud, it was forceful, and honestly, it resonated with the feelings of many residents who have been silently enduring the same frustration.
That outburst seemed to strike a chord with our hammering neighbour, as since that moment, the incessant noise has ceased in the evenings. Perhaps the message finally got through, and the neighbour has reconsidered the timing of his woodworking activities.
The Importance of Consideration in Shared Spaces
While I understand that everyone has their own work commitments and responsibilities, it is crucial for us to be more considerate of one another, especially in shared living environments like HDB blocks. The actions we take in our homes can significantly impact those around us, and a little thoughtfulness can go a long way in fostering a harmonious community.
As we navigate the challenges of living in close quarters, I hope that this incident serves as a reminder for all of us to be mindful of our neighbours. After all, we all share the same space, and a little respect for each other’s peace can make a world of difference.