Singapore is witnessing a surge in the “second act” of its storied buildings. Through sensitive restoration, historical structures are being transformed into contemporary heritage hubs, blending the city-state’s architectural past with its urban future.
The Rebirth of Bukit Timah Fire Station
A primary example of this trend is the former Bukit Timah Fire Station. Completed in 1956, the civic landmark served the community for decades before ceasing operations in 2005.
After being gazetted for conservation in 2019, the site was awarded to home-grown co-living brand Coliwoo in April 2024. A $7.5 million redevelopment over 15 months has reimagined the structure as a co-living and lifestyle destination.
Launched in September 2025, the project quickly reached approximately 95 per cent occupancy within three months. The revamp converted 45 original rooms into 62 serviced apartments, with rooms starting at about $3,000 per month for 100 square feet.
The site also features 32 ground-floor commercial units, 28 of which were leased as of April. These include a swim school, a bakery, a pet boutique, and The Sundowner, a nature-based experience centre founded by Clarence Chua.
Balancing Conservation and Commerce
Coliwoo’s executive chairman and CEO, Kelvin Lim, noted that conservation rules heavily shaped the design. Key features such as the facade, engine bays, and the hose-drying tower had to be retained.
Lead designer Lorenzo Mariani of LHN Group explained that the architecture respects the original “functional logic” of firefighting. This includes retaining exposed concrete and using terracotta tones to nod to the original civic red of the station.
The hose-drying tower has been restored and enhanced with an art mural. At night, it serves as a luminous landmark, with light filtering through ventilation blocks to create a beacon effect.
Colonial Legacies and Aviation Landmarks
Beyond civic buildings, colonial-era “black-and-white” bungalows are seeing renewed interest. These structures, such as 15 Malcolm Road, were influenced by the Tudor revival style popular in England.
Built around 1925 by the British Public Works Department and designed by architect H.A. Stallwood, these homes were originally for government officials. 15 Malcolm Road is currently available for a two-year residential lease.
In the north, 179 Piccadilly—a former Royal Air Force (RAF) headquarters—is being transformed into a multi-sports destination. The project, awarded to Arina International Holding in collaboration with Sport Singapore, will utilize the 243,659 square foot site.
The new hub is expected to feature facilities for padel, pickleball, tennis, badminton, and futsal, along with a playground and running track. This site previously served as the first RAF base built on the island.
The Oval at Seletar Aerospace Park
The Oval is an 11.5-hectare site featuring 32 colonial-era bungalows from the 1930s. Now part of the Seletar Aerospace Park (SAP), it serves as an amenity node for global companies like Airbus and Rolls-Royce.
The area already hosts established F&B tenants such as Summerhouse and Wheeler’s Estate. Currently, JTC Corporation is offering three double-storey bungalows—14, 15, and 16 The Oval—for three-year leases.
Significance and Future Outlook
Carrie Wong, SLA’s director of business planning and development, states that adaptive reuse provides a sustainable alternative to building anew, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint.
As more tenants seek unique environments, the demand for conserved state properties is likely to remain strong. This trend could lead to more diverse tenders for historical assets across the island.
Future projects may continue to mirror the “hub” model, where a single heritage site integrates residential, commercial, and community recreation spaces to ensure long-term longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a heritage bungalow and a Good Class Bungalow (GCB)?
GCBs are a luxury landed-housing category defined by size, height, and location in designated areas like Cluny Road. Heritage bungalows are state-owned buildings protected for their social, historical, and architectural value and are generally not for sale.
What facilities will be available at the reimagined 179 Piccadilly?
The site is expected to become a weather-protected sports and lifestyle space featuring facilities for futsal, badminton, tennis, padel, and pickleball, as well as a playground and running track.
How much do the co-living rooms at the former Bukit Timah Fire Station cost?
The co-living rooms start at approximately $3,000 per month for 100 square feet.
Do you believe the preservation of historical architecture adds significant value to a modern city’s identity?
