Journey through Singapore’s Peranakan Past
Most people think of Singapore as a modern, man-made metropolis and whilst some parts fit this description, there’s a whole other side of the city to be uncovered. Singapore is also home to perfectly-preserved Peranakan architecture. It’s this side of Singapore which often gets overlooked, but it’s where all of Singapore’s charm and character can be found.
Joo Chiat
If there's one Peranakan street you’ll have seen, it’s likely to be this one. Joo Chiat is starting to get a fair bit of attention on Instagram and it's not difficult to see why. It’s one of the most colourful streets in Singapore, lined with rainbow-coloured terrace houses and decorated with ornate facades.
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Blair Road
Blair Road is a perfectly preserved example of Peranakan architecture in Singapore. To stroll down this street is to journey down memory lane where newspapers are still delivered on windowsills and wooden shutters remain unchanged.
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Emerald Hill Road
Located in the heart of Singapore's shopping district, lies the colourful Emerald Hill Road. Massive mansions make this one of the most expensive areas to live, but it doesn't cost anything to admire the grand homes with their beautiful ceramic tiles and ornate details.
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China Town
There are some parts of China Town that boast beautiful and intricate Peranakan tiling. If you walk passed the main tourist spots to the more residential areas, you’ll find lots of colourful turquoise blue and bright pink tiles, like the ones pictured above.
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Baba House
For a glimpse into a traditional Peranakan home, head to the beautifully preserved Baba House. A visit to this heritage house offers an interesting insight into the early 20th century home of a prominent Straights Chinese family. Bursting with artefacts and architecture, you won't know which way to look. Note that entrance is by appointment only.
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Intercontinental
The InterContinental is located in former Peranakan shop houses and has retained as much of its original structure as possible. Keeping true to its past, you’ll find an interior inspired by Peranakan culture with traditional artefacts and heritage-inspired furnishings.
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Additional
If you're still interested in exploring more of Singapore's Peranakan heritage you can visit the Pernakan museum which has recently undergone renovations. Additionally there's the Intan which is a treasure trove of Peranakan artefacts and interior design. Please note that the Intan is by appointment only and provides a whole experience with a guided tour and afternoon tea.
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