Emerald Hill Conservation Shophouse

emerald hill is a historic and picturesque district of singapore, known for its vibrant peranakan and chinese baroque-style houses. originally a nutmeg plantation, the area only became residential in the 19th century. renowned for its shophouses, the area was designated an urban conservation area in the 1980s. it was thus decided that the historic architecture there should be preserved.

Studio Terre, a singapore-based architecture and design firm, was responsible for the restoration of one of the district’s historic shophouses.

the project preserved the building’s structure and historic architectural features, while respecting its historic surroundings. while the interiors were renovated using contemporary materials, finishes and designs, elements recalling the original aesthetics were preserved in some areas.

the entrance hall offers a preview of the design concept as a whole, combining historical heritage with modernity. royal incasso creates a welcoming atmosphere here with its diffused light and exquisite finishes – a feature also found in the living room. the most distinctive feature of this home is perhaps the bar, above which hangs a long coppibartali: a three-dimensional light sculpture that crosses the space and energises it. bulletta’s colourful domes on the wall contribute to creating an informal space designed for conviviality.