Why Singapore’s Conservation Shophouses Are More Than Just Property- History
- Vincent Ow
- Jun 3
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 15
The history of Singapore’s shophouses is intertwined with the development of the country over the past two centuries. Singapore’s shophouses are a unique architectural marvel that blends historical elegance with modern living.
Colonial Era (1819–1965):
Singapore was established as a British trading post in 1819. During this period, shophouses became a popular architectural style. These shophouses were built to meet the residential and commercial needs of the growing city. The ground floor served as a shop or office, while the upper floors were used as living spaces.
Architectural Styles:
Singapore's shophouses reflect a blend of architectural styles influenced by various cultures. Early shophouses incorporated Chinese architectural elements, reflecting the large population of Chinese immigrants. Over time, the designs incorporated Malay, Indian, and European influences, forming a unique fusion of styles.
Urbanisation and Growth:
As Singapore grew and developed, shophouses played a critical role in accommodating the increasing population and supporting commercial activities. Clusters of shophouses formed in different neighborhoods, including Chinatown, Little India, Kampong Glam, and other areas with distinct cultural characteristics.
Modernisation and Decline:
In the 20th century, Singapore underwent rapid urbanization and modernization. As the city embraced taller buildings and more modern infrastructure, many shophouses were demolished to make way for redevelopment projects. This led to a decrease in the number of shophouses and raised concerns about preserving their heritage value.
Preservation Efforts:
In the 1980s, the Singapore government recognized the historical and architectural significance of shophouses and implemented conservation policies. These policies aimed to protect and restore the remaining shophouses, particularly in designated conservation areas. Strict guidelines were introduced to maintain the original facades and key architectural features.
Restoration and Reuse:
Many conserved shophouses have been restored and repurposed for various uses. Some have been converted into boutique hotels, trendy cafes, restaurants, art galleries, heritage centers, and shops, blending old-world charm with modern functions. The adaptive reuse of shophouses has contributed to the revitalization of communities and the preservation of Singapore’s cultural heritage.
Heritage Conservation:
Conserved shophouses are regarded as important cultural assets that contribute to Singapore’s identity as a multicultural city. Today, efforts to preserve shophouses continue, emphasising their historical, architectural, and social value.
The history of Singapore’s shophouses reflects the city’s transformation from a colonial trading post to a modern metropolis while retaining its rich cultural heritage. These iconic buildings serve as reminders of Singapore’s past and contribute to its vibrant urban landscape.
Early Architectural
This style of shophouse is low and two-story, with wooden-framed rectangular doors and windows featuring wooden shutters. Ventilation openings may appear above or between them, and minimal decoration reflects the ethnic heritage of the immigrant builders.
Mid Architectural
This style features simple, streamlined designs, likely as a reaction to the ornate late style or for economic reasons. The late style combined carved beams and colourful tiles with Art Deco elements like glass panels and geometric railings.
Late Architectural
This style is notable for its decorative use, with triple window arrangements minimising wall space for better ventilation. Later examples replaced walls with columns or pilasters, allowing for more intricate facades influenced by various cultural traditions.
Singapore Shophouses History
Early Stages History
The conserved shophouses along the Singapore River and Chinatown are favored by foreign buyers.
In the 18th century, Chinese immigrants settled in Chinatown and built the first shophouses blending Chinese and local culture. These areas are strictly protected and enhanced by unique architectural styles.
Government guidelines preserve the historic atmosphere, restoring building structures, including service areas and courtyards, while maintaining a mix of commercial, community, and residential spaces. This supports the continuation of unique trades and uses in each area.
Mid to Late History
After World War I, secondary settlements outside the city center developed unique features, reflecting Singapore's urban evolution from the 1910s to 1960s.
These areas blend late Art Deco and modern shophouse styles, connecting historic neighbourhoods with new towns. The construction style highlights streetscapes with higher buildings.
Owners can preserve the building or add rear extensions, following height restrictions. District 15, known for its food and decorative shophouses, offers a unique charm. Independent buildings like bungalows follow conservation principles, allowing owners to preserve the main structure or subdivide larger plots.
Singapore Shophouses Structure
Early shophouses were two-story, simple structures with modest facades. The ground floor was for trade, and the upper floor was for living. Built in rows of 10–50 units, each covered 800–1800 sq. ft., with total areas of 1600–3000 sq. ft.
Features:
Facade: Two wooden windows above the door, simple design.
Five-Foot Way: Covered walkway for pedestrians.
Wooden Staircase: Internal stairs, later replaced by external concrete ones.
Wooden Flooring: Cost-effective upper floors, later replaced by concrete.
Airwell: Provided light, rainwater collection, and utility space.
Wanted to Explore Conservation Shophouse Investment?
Unlike any other property investment, navigating the shophouse market takes expertise — from understanding zoning laws to how the performance of which district and selecting high-growth districts. Uncovered the secrets of conservation shophouse investment.
Subscribe To Our Newsletter - Gain valuable insights and data-backed analysis to deepen your understanding of shophouse investments. With over a decade of experience, I help owners market their shophouses and guide buyers and investors in securing the right property to meet their goals and budget. Feel free to reach out with any questions or enquiries.
