Even if this name sounds unfamiliar, you’ve definitely passed by the House of Tan Yeok Nee before. This low-rise and distinctly Chinese-style building certainly stands out against the taller grey commercial buildings surrounding it, piquing the curiosity of onlookers. What lies within? For the longest time, no one has really known – but here's your chance to finally get a peek inside this gazetted national monument.
Photograph: Darren Soh for House of Tan Yeok Nee
For the first time ever, the 140-year-old Teochew mansion – Singapore’s last-surviving – is open to the public after a three-year restoration. Most of the house’s original architectural details, from its exquisite gilding to its roof sculptures and carved doors, have been retained. Get a closer look as you walk through the in-house heritage gallery, which also features multimedia displays, along with photography-based artwork by Tan Ngiap Heng, the great-great-grandson of the merchant Tan Yeok Nee himself.
Photograph: Darren Soh for House of Tan Yeok Nee
Parts of the mansion will serve as event venues, which could range from corporate gatherings to recitals and even weddings. Other areas are set aside for office rental – so lucky you if your company ends up moving to this gorgeous, heritage-steeped compound.
Photograph: Darren Soh for House of Tan Yeok Nee
Also opening on-site is Loca Niru, a Japanese-French fine-dining restaurant helmed by Japanese chef Shusuke Kubota, who was previously the executive chef at Omakase @ Stevens.
The House of Tan Yeok Nee is located at 101 Penang Road, near Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Find out more here and stay tuned for updates via @houseoftyn on Instagram.