Heritage Reboot

OLD HOMES, BUILDINGS AND SPACES UPGRADED FOR CONTEMPORARY TIMES

- Megan Cheah

Singapore may not have an as prolific history as countries aged a thousand years or more, but its past is a colorful one, and one that can be chronicled through the various buildings that have remained amidst the passage of time. While they may not be used for their original intentions any longer, these buildings – which have been gazetted conservation building status by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) to prevent their demolishment – have been given a new lease of life by new owners and projects. We shine the spotlight on five such establishments that have been recently updated with fresh purpose.

Green is the color: Temasek Shophouse

Orchard Road may be known for its shopping and touristy vibe, but you would be remiss to dismiss it as such – with roots dating back to 1830s in the days of gambier and pepper plantations, it’s no surprise that its rich heritage remains present in the conserved buildings and shophouses in the area. Now, one of its most well-known shophouses has been transformed into a “cradle for social impact”, where sustainability and business come together for initiatives spearheaded by Temasek Holdings.

The building housing the newly opened Temasek Shophouse was built just after the First World War and is one of the most iconic properties in the Orchard area. Situated down the road from Dhoby Ghaut MRT station, it shares its locale with the well-known McDonald House and The Cathay, both part of the Museum Planning Area in the heart of the Downtown Core.