WHAT IS A SHOPHOUSE?
A shophouse is a structure with some specific architectural
traits characteristic of Southeast Asia during the colonial era. Shophouses
were built in large numbers from the 19th century through the early 20th
century and although many were demolished during 20th century rebuilds, some
have persisted. Today, they are considered an iconic example of Southeastern
Asian architecture from this period. Similar structures can be seen in other regions
of the world, including parts of Latin America and the Caribbean islands.
The shophouse has a number of features which make it
distinctive. The structure is two to three or more stories in height, with a
narrow face and a long length. The bottom floor has been designed to
accommodate a commercial enterprise such as a shop, a restaurant, or a light
manufacturing facility, while the upper floor or floors are intended for
residential use and also some areas are fully commercial.
There about Est 8700 such buildings in Singapore conserve by the
Urban Redevelopment Authority ( URA ) gazetted as Conservation Properties
The are all built in different period. Each period has distinct
decorative façade style. The main characteristics are :
1.
Low Rise . In Singapore they are usually 2 to 3 Stories in
height.
2.
Multi-Functional in its usage – Retail, Restaurant & Cafes,
Spas & Residential etc
3.
Terraced Buildings usually.
4.
Narrow fronts , Deep rears .
5.
The Roof are usually laid with clay tiles.
6.
Five-footways started by Raffles in his town planning when he
founded Singapore.
7.
Internal Courtyards- This is beautiful architectural gems in a
shophouse
8. The floor are usually timber but later dated shophouses style in
the art deco fashion are concrete .
Source : URA Singapore
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