A passion for Singapore’s forgotten architecture has evolved from a personal interest into a viable full-time business for the founders of Hidden Heritage. Three years after taking a significant professional risk, the venture now operates 20 tours every month.
Expanding a Niche Market
The business has grown its reach beyond individual enthusiasts to include schools and various organizations. Hidden Heritage now provides consultancy, corporate retreats, and structured learning journeys.
Tour participants visit a diverse array of sites, ranging from the one-room rental estates of Lavender to the former Shell Lubricant Blending Plant. Stanley Cheah, the 27-year-old co-founder, described the growth as definitely been crazy
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Cheah noted that he never previously believed it would be possible to generate a full-time income from the act of exploring abandoned places.
From Social Media to Partnership
The business is rooted in the shared interests of Cheah and his partner, Cheong. In 2020, Cheong discovered Cheah’s Instagram account, which was dedicated to documenting abandoned locations throughout Singapore.
Despite an 11-year age gap, the couple bonded over their mutual attraction to the roads less travelled. They began dating and married three years after their initial connection.
Future Outlook
Given the current expansion into organizational consultancy, Hidden Heritage may seek to further formalize its educational partnerships. The company could potentially increase its monthly tour volume or identify latest abandoned sites to maintain its growth trajectory.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tours does Hidden Heritage conduct monthly?
Hidden Heritage currently runs 20 tours a month.
What types of locations are included in the tours?
Tours include visits to sites such as the one-room rental estates of Lavender and the former Shell Lubricant Blending Plant.
How did the founders of Hidden Heritage meet?
Cheong found Stanley Cheah’s Instagram account in 2020, which featured photos of abandoned places across Singapore.
Would you be interested in visiting an abandoned site as part of a corporate retreat or learning journey?
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