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Loren Ng Designs: My company’s contribution in the Preservation of Singapore’s Shophouses

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In 2023 I had the honour of working on a Keong Saik Rd shophouse. My intention for the building was not limited to the technical aspect of construction - which is crucial for me and my company; but included a sincere sentiment of honouring the tradition and cultural impact of these buildings. My company, Loren Ng Designs, has played a significant role in the effort of preserving the history of Shophouses through other projects as well. By the time this article is published I have worked on restoring and / or preserving ( here we add the number) Shophouses.

My activities on construction of contemporary projects has equipped me with the toolkit to be able to bring these artefacts of the past into the present and future, honouring the past while merging it with contemporary functionality. My company can provide solutions for all the challenges a preservation project entails, providing unique custom options while being compliant with all regulations and guidelines. 

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Keong Saik Shophouse: Aesthetic Choices

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While working on Keong Saik Rd. Shophouse I had the opportunity to explore the artistic possibilities an gem-like building could project as well as come up with the most interesting innovative solutions for the technical issues of this project. On the creative aspect of things. what is evident in my portfolio is that I love working with colours, texture, shapes and lights. In this spirit of embracing bold artistic choices, I was very intentional in the colour palettes I used for all parts of the design.

For the facade I chose vivid hues of blue and white, embracing the traditional beauty of Singapore’s shophouses, with a vibrant twist that brings fresh energy for commercial space. Traditionally the exterior part of the Singaporean shophouses had very bright, vivid colours such as red, blue, green, yellow; these choices were reflecting on the perception of colourful ornamentation being a symbol of abundance and prosperity. This style is uniquely Singaporean in nature and creates a beautiful juxtaposition between contemporary skyscrapers and heritage buildings that belonged to past generations. 

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On the exterior of the space I also used Ornate Peranakan tiles, infusing a rich cultural essence, a culture woven into the fabric of our city’s identity. These Peranakan tiles showcase intricate blue and red floral motifs. The complexity and colourfulness of traditional Peranakan tiles is a reflection on the artistic choice of Peranakan households decorating their homes as well as their furniture with these intricate and kaleidoscopic designs having faith that they would bring longevity and wealth to the family.

On the first floor facade I added custom-carved wooden windows, bringing depth and craft to every frame. These custom-carved wooden windows, produced by my company - Loren Ng Designs, shine a light on the later expansion of my activities: buying my own factory space in which I can determine the quality as well as the design of the carpentry fabrication for all my construction projects.

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Elevating the Interior Spaces

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Restoring the exteriors of the shophouse was only one part of the project. Another just as important aspect was all the technical changes that elevated the interior space, breathing in new life into this heritage building. We worked very conscientiously while working all the areas that needed to be replaced. This undertaking included patching up the flooring in level 1, replacing damaged ceiling panels in level 2, and reinstatement of dilapidated windows; as well as installation of new doors, water pipes, as well as painting work. On the inside of the building, removing the internal walls led to a visually bigger space, and the renovation of the bathroom areas gave the space a more delightful vibe.

Keeping the Legacy Alive

Shophouses, dating all the way back to the 19th century, are a beautiful reminder of Singapore’s past but don’t have to stay there. 

It is possible to pay respect to the old while simultaneously bringing in the new, and that’s what we did for Keong Saik Rd Shophouse. Taking on a project like that, I felt part of the ongoing history of this city. A city I love for its unique energy, it’s passion for innovation and development as well as it’s beautiful architectural design. A building is a space in which life happens, and what we wish for Keong Saik Rd Shophouse is to bring joy, comfort and growth to the people living there.

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