Although Tiong Bahru is well-known as one of Singapore’s most historic neighbourhoods, the term that comes to mind most often is the less favourable one: old. However, there is plenty to be written about its breath-taking natural and man-made physical splendour. Tiong Bahru is a one-of-a-kind estate with a mix of historic structures and high-rise condominiums. Tiong Bahru is a contemporary, stylish, and trendy residential area with a slew of cool cafés, trendy eateries, and high-end retailers. Artistic vibes linger in the air while one sips wonderful coffee, listens to hipster music, and people-watches.

Tiong Bahru is a unique Singapore neighbourhood that encapsulates the country’s everchanging economic cycle. Tiong Bahru was built in the 1930s by the Singapore Improvement Trust (SIT), which was the forerunner of the Housing Development Board. It is one of Singapore’s oldest public estates (HDB). The SIT apartments, located on the estate’s Tiong Bahru and Seng Poh Roads, are a beautiful example of the Art Deco style, which was popular at the time.

The rich history that drives the city’s distinctive architecture is perhaps more intriguing than the city’s typical low-rise residences and soaring skyscrapers. Tiong Bahru’s constructions were designed to resemble ships, aeroplanes, trucks, and trains. Residents affectionately refer to Blocks 81 and 82 on Tiong Poh Road as the “aircraft blocks” because of their extended horizontal configuration, which resembles aeroplane wings. The architecture of the Bahru is uniquely identifiable in Singapore it has its unique style of buildings.

Pay special attention to details
Long horizontal lines, beautifully curved corners, outdoor spiral staircases, flat roofs, and round porthole windows in stairwells are just a few of the architectural features of these flats.

charming nooks
The pendulum swung back in 2003, when the estate’s 20 blocks of flats were given conservation status by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). The area’s attractiveness is currently exemplified by the steady stream of sophisticated cafés, boutiques, and restaurants springing up in the area’s preserved zones. Because of its rich history as well as tempting lifestyle and hospitality options, this neighbourhood is a must-see for visitors to Singapore.