1.Baba House
157 Neil Road, Tanjong Pagar
babahouse.nus.edu.sg
Built around 1895, Baba House was once the ancestral home of a Peranakan Chinese family, before the property was acquired by the National University of Singapore (NUS). The heritage house now invites the public to view the house and experience early 20th century Peranakan domestic life and culture. Tours and visits are offered five times a week. Book ahead!
2. One Kind House
136b Lorong J Telok Kurau Rd
facebook.com/onekindhouse
75 year old Mdm Ng was coaxed out of retirement by her grandson to breathe new life into her East Coast family home of almost 50 years and create a 21st century kampong. Apart from her popular local cooking classes for Airbnb Experiences ($99 a person), she hosts welcoming dinners at the house, where you can travel back in time to old school Singapore.
3. China Collection
20 Malcolm Road, 308259
*Open by appointment
chinacollection.com.sg
This family business is run by Anne Lockett and her son Doug, who curate a stunning collection of antique furniture, ranging in age anywhere from 80 to 200 years. Make an appointment and browse their latest collections – sourced from China six times a year and thoughtfully restored.
4. Danish Design Co
100E Pasir Panjang Rd
#06-03 Century Warehouse 118521
Representing more than twenty famous Danish and European brands, this is heaven for lovers of clean, functional Scandinavian design. Pick up furniture from iconic designers like Børge Mogensen, Hans Wegner and Finn Juhl. The company also has a policy of working with socially responsible suppliers.
5. Bed Bath and Table
Parkway Parade
80 Marine Parade, 449269
(Other stores in Suntec and Waterway Point)
bedbathntable.com.sg
BB&T have been a homewares staple in Australia since the 60s, and now they’re quietly setting up shop in Singapore, with three stores across the island. Specialists in designer bed linen and homewares – they sell everything from bright beach towels to seasonal items like Christmas baubles and table decorations.
6. Hock Siong
153 Kampong Ampat
#01-03, Junjie Industrial Building
368326
hocksiong.com.sg
This former family of Karung Guni (rag and bone) traders now on-sell second hand furniture, operating equipment and antiques from local hotels and residential households. Located in an old industrial building, the store is a jumble of tables, chairs, posters, lamps and more. An absolute treasure trove for bargain hunters and collectors.
7. Eastern Carpets
No.1, Syed Alwi Road, #03-02, Song Lin Building, 207628
*Temporary showroom, please check website for current location
easterncarpets.com.sg
Bare floors? Eastern Carpets sell unique, hand-woven rugs in a myriad of colours and designs, from all over the world including the major weaving centres of Central Asia, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran. Owners Shukor and Edmund have a vast knowledge of rugs and can advise on their care and maintenance.
8. Windows to the Past
3 Kung Chong Road, 159141
wtpstyle.com
Need a home overhaul but afraid of commitment? WTP offers flexible furniture rental packages, from one month (perfect if you’re waiting for your container to arrive) up to 36 months. You can also choose to rent just one item (like a bedroom set for short term guests) or enough furniture to deck out your entire home. They also offer custom-made furniture and interior design advice.
9. Originals
896 Dunearn Road, Sime Darby Centre #02-03, 589472
originals.com.sg
Originals sources their highly regarded line of furniture throughout Asia, bringing together a collection of modern teak wood furniture with clean lines and neutral colours. Think cream linens, soft greys and light, natural grain woods, mixed with striking tribal designs.
10. Hip Van
#02-06/07/08, The Cathay
2 Handy Road 229233
hipvan.com
On a tight budget but love indulging in the latest hip homewares styles? Hip Van has you covered. This online local store has a constantly refreshed range of fun furniture, lighting, décor and kitchenware. Measure up and eyeball their range at their experience store.