Breathing New Life into Pre-War Shophouses: The Art of Structural Restoration
Singapore’s pre-war shophouses are more than just buildings—they are living pieces of history. Restoring these heritage gems requires a delicate balance of structural integrity and historical preservation. Our recent project on Sam Leong Road is a testament to this fine art, blending meticulous craftsmanship with a deep respect for the past.
Assessing and Stabilizing the Structure
Every restoration journey begins with understanding the building’s unique challenges. For the shophouses on Sam Leong Road, structural assessments revealed critical instabilities, some of which were linked to nearby MRT tunneling. Cracks in party walls, some as wide as 10-20mm, called for immediate intervention. Our team worked closely with engineers and Resident Technical Officers (RTO) to install robust structural strutting from the first-storey level, ensuring the safety and stability of the entire structure.
Reviving Flooring with Heritage in Mind
Termite infestation had taken a toll on the original timber floorboards. Rather than opting for modern substitutes, we chose high-quality teak to replace the damaged flooring. This decision not only reinforced structural durability but also honored the authentic charm of the shophouses. The new teak flooring seamlessly blended with the historical aesthetics, offering both strength and style.
Facade and Window Restoration: A Return to Elegance
The shophouses’ facade, featuring traditional Chengai windows, had suffered from years of exposure. We replaced these with French-style Chengai windows, incorporating stained glass panels to recreate the original look. The exterior plaster cornices, columns, and moldings were carefully restored, each detail a nod to the building’s architectural heritage.
Heritage Conservation: Respecting the Past
Our approach to restoration goes beyond aesthetics. We are deeply committed to heritage conservation, using traditional materials and techniques wherever possible. From the choice of Chengai wood to the intricate stained glass work, every element was selected to maintain historical authenticity.
Ready to Restore Your Heritage Property?
Since 1981, Tan Poh Eng Renovation & Construction has built a reputation for excellence in heritage restoration and construction. If you’re considering a restoration project, take a look at our contact page or WhatsApp us directly. We’d love to discuss how we can bring your vision to life while preserving Singapore’s architectural heritage.