1. What are some of the most notable landmarks in Tiong Bahru Plaza?
Some notable landmarks in Tiong Bahru Plaza include the Sculpture Park, Tiong Bahru Market and Food Centre, and Tiong Bahru Heritage Trail. Other landmarks include the Art Deco-style architecture of the Housing Development Board (HDB) blocks in the area, Rainbow Playground, and the adjacent Tiong Bahru Park.
2. How has Tiong Bahru Plaza evolved over the years?
Tiong Bahru Plaza has evolved significantly since its opening in 1993. It started out as a simple neighborhood mall serving mainly residents living in nearby HDB estates, but it has since been transformed into a modern shopping destination with a diverse range of retail and dining options. The mall has undergone several renovations and expansions to cater to changing consumer needs, such as adding a new wing with more retail space and an expanded food court. It has also incorporated technology-driven features like self-checkout stations and mobile ordering services for F&B outlets.
3. What types of stores can be found at Tiong Bahru Plaza?
Tiong Bahru Plaza houses various retail stores offering fashion, accessories, home goods, electronics, beauty products, and more. Some notable anchor tenants include popular department store BHG Singapore and leading bookstore chain Popular Bookstore. The mall also has a wide range of dining options from casual eateries to international chains like Starbucks and KFC.
4. Is there parking available at Tiong Bahru Plaza?
Yes, there is ample parking available at Tiong Bahru Plaza with two car park entrances located at Seng Poh Road and Kim Tian Road. The mall offers discounted rates for shoppers who spend a certain amount within the mall.
5. How can I get to Tiong Bahru Plaza via public transport?
Tiong Bahru Plaza is easily accessible by public transport through multiple bus stops along Tiong Bahru Road and Lower Delta Road. The nearest MRT station is Tiong Bahru, which is a 10-minute walk from the mall. Additionally, there are also several bus stops and bicycle parking spaces located within the mall premises.
2. How did Tiong Bahru Plaza get its name?
Tiong Bahru Plaza is named after the Tiong Bahru housing estate, one of Singapore’s earliest and largest public housing areas. The area was developed in the 1920s by a wealthy local businessman, Tan Lark Sye, to provide affordable housing for the working class. “Tiong” means central or middle in Hokkien dialect, while “Bahru” means new in Malay. The name represents the location of the housing estate, which was centrally located and considered a new development at the time. The plaza was built in the 1970s as part of an urban renewal project to modernize and revitalize the Tiong Bahru neighborhood.
3. Can you recommend any must-try restaurants or cafes near Tiong Bahru Plaza?
Some must-try restaurants and cafes near Tiong Bahru Plaza include:1. Tiong Bahru Bakery – known for their freshly baked croissants and artisanal breads
2. PS.Cafe Petit at Tiong Bahru – a cozy cafe serving all-day breakfast and hearty mains
3. The Butcher’s Wife – a popular spot for modern European dishes using sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients
4. Creamier Handcrafted Ice Cream & Coffee – famous for their delicious ice cream flavors and freshly brewed coffee
5. Ah Bong’s Italian – a hidden gem serving affordable yet tasty Italian fare
6. Merci Marcel – a charming French cafe with an extensive selection of wines and classic dishes
7. Flock Cafe – a rustic-chic cafe offering comfort food with a twist.
4. Are there any historical sites or monuments around Tiong Bahru Plaza?
Yes, there are a few historical sites and monuments around Tiong Bahru Plaza. Here are some examples:– The Tiong Bahru Air Raid Shelter, located behind Block 78 Moh Guan Terrace, is a monument that commemorates the civilians who sought refuge there during World War II.
– The Qi Tian Gong Temple, situated at the junction of Tiong Poh Road and Seng Poh Road, is a Chinese temple built in 1926 and dedicated to the Monkey God from Chinese mythology.
– The Tan Tock Seng Hospital Heritage Museum, located within walking distance from the mall at Jalan Tan Tock Seng, showcases the history of Singapore’s first general hospital founded in 1844.
– The Wessex Estate, located near Tiong Bahru Road and Lower Delta Road, is a former British military estate that has been converted into residential buildings with colonial-style architecture. It offers a glimpse into Singapore’s colonial past.
– The Bukit Ho Swee Fire Memorial, situated along Kim Cheng Street in Bukit Merah district, marks the site where a fire destroyed an entire kampong in 1961 and killed four people. The incident led to significant improvements in public housing policies.
5. Which is the oldest building or structure in Tiong Bahru Plaza?
The oldest building or structure in Tiong Bahru Plaza is the Tiong Bahru SIT Estate, which was built in 1926.
6. Are there any unique architectural features found in buildings around Tiong Bahru Plaza?
Yes, there are several unique architectural features found in buildings around Tiong Bahru Plaza, such as:
1. Art Deco Style: Many of the buildings in Tiong Bahru feature the iconic Art Deco style, which was popular in the 1920s and 1930s. This style is characterized by its geometric shapes, clean lines, and bold colors.
2. Spiral Staircases: Some buildings in Tiong Bahru feature spiral staircases, which add a unique touch to the architecture and also serve as functional spaces for residents.
3. Roof Gardens: The high-rise apartments in Tiong Bahru often have rooftop gardens or communal areas where residents can relax and enjoy the view of the surrounding area.
4. Peranakan Influence: Peranakan influence can be seen in some of the shophouses in Tiong Bahru with their intricate ceramic tiles, colorful facades, and traditional wooden shutters.
5. Open-Air Corridors: Many of the older apartment blocks in Tiong Bahru have open-air corridors that connect different parts of the building. This design element helps to promote natural ventilation and adds a sense of community among residents.
6. Hawker Centers: The hawker centers around Tiong Bahru Plaza are not just places for buying food but also serve as communal gathering spaces for locals and tourists alike. These open-air food courts often feature colorful murals or artwork on their walls, adding to the overall charm of the area.
7. What are some popular activities to do in and around Tiong Bahru Plaza?
Some popular activities to do in and around Tiong Bahru Plaza include:
1. Shopping: Tiong Bahru Plaza is a popular shopping destination with a variety of stores, from fashion and accessories to electronics and groceries.
2. Dining: There are many restaurants, cafes, and food stalls in and around Tiong Bahru Plaza offering a diverse range of cuisines to satisfy any craving.
3. Catch a movie: The mall has a cinema complex with multiple screens showing the latest releases.
4. Relax at the park: Just next to Tiong Bahru Plaza is Tiong Bahru Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll or have a picnic with family and friends.
5. Visit the Tiong Bahru Market: This famous hawker centre is just a short walk away from the mall and offers some of the best local food in Singapore.
6. Explore the neighborhood: Tiong Bahru is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Singapore, known for its unique architecture and hipster cafes. Take a walk around the area to soak up its charm.
7. Participate in events and promotions: The mall often hosts events, promotions, and sales that attract shoppers from all over Singapore. Keep an eye out for these activities while visiting Tiong Bahru Plaza.
8. Is there a specific time period that is represented by the architecture and design of Tiong Bahru Plaza?
Tiong Bahru Plaza was built in the late 1980s and opened in 1994, making it a modern shopping mall with a mix of functional and utilitarian design. The architecture and design of Tiong Bahru Plaza reflects the contemporary style of that time period, with clean lines and minimal ornamentation. Its overall design aesthetic can be considered as postmodernist, which was a prevalent architectural trend during the late 1980s to early 1990s.
9. Are there any guided tours available for exploring the history of Tiong Bahru Plaza?
Yes, there are guided tours available for exploring the history of Tiong Bahru Plaza. The tours are organized by the National Heritage Board and the Tiong Bahru Heritage Trail Committee. They usually take place on selected weekends and include visits to historical landmarks, cultural institutions, and local businesses in Tiong Bahru. Interested individuals can check the official websites of these organizations for more information and registration details.
10. Are there any famous landmarks that have been demolished or removed in the area?
Yes, there have been several famous landmarks that have been demolished or removed in the area. Some examples include:
– The original Pennsylvania Station (1910-1963) in New York City, considered a masterpiece of Beaux-Arts architecture, was demolished to make way for a new office building and the current Penn Station.
– The original 1963 version of the Six Flags Astroworld theme park in Houston was demolished in 2005.
– The Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City were destroyed in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
– Ebbets Field, former home of the Brooklyn Dodgers baseball team, was demolished in 1960 and replaced by apartment buildings.
– The Pavilion at Montage Mountain (formerly known as Montage Mountain Ski Area), an iconic entertainment venue in Scranton, Pennsylvania, was demolished in 2020.
11. Have there been any significant events or historical moments associated with Tiong Bahru Plaza?
Yes, there have been several significant events and historical moments associated with Tiong Bahru Plaza:
1. Official Opening: Tiong Bahru Plaza was officially opened on 31 March 1994 by then Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong.
2. First Air-Conditioned Wet Market: As part of the plaza’s development, a hawker centre and wet market were built, becoming the first air-conditioned wet market in Singapore.
3. Early Bird Parking Scheme: In December 2000, Tiong Bahru Plaza introduced the “Early Bird Parking Scheme” where shoppers could enjoy discounted parking rates if they entered before 9am during weekdays.
4. Temporary Shelter for Evacuees during SARS Outbreak: During the SARS outbreak in Singapore in 2003, Tiong Bahru Plaza was used as a temporary shelter for residents of an affected housing block while it underwent disinfection.
5. Upgrading to Become Green Mark Platinum Building: In 2008, Tiong Bahru Plaza underwent major renovations to become a green and environmentally sustainable building. It was awarded the Green Mark Platinum Award by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) in 2011.
6. Historical Film Screening by National Archives of Singapore: As part of the Singapore Heritage Festival in April 2018, Tiong Bahru Plaza was used as a screening venue for historical films such as “Tanjong Rhu” and “The Road to Paradise”.
7. Hosted Largest Farmer’s Market@TBP Event: In August 2018, Tiong Bahru Plaza hosted the largest installment of its monthly Farmer’s Market@TBP event with over 100 stalls selling locally-produced food and goods.
8. Addition of Public Library Branch: In November 2019, T PBnghis new branch at Tiong Bahru Plaza became the first public library in the area, providing residents with a new community space and access to books and resources.
9. Response Center during COVID-19 Pandemic: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Tiong Bahru Plaza served as a designated response center for the surrounding residential areas, providing assistance and support to residents affected by the virus.
10. Celebrating 25 Years: In 2019, Tiong Bahru Plaza celebrated its 25th anniversary with a variety of events and promotions, including the “Heritage at Heart” exhibition showcasing the architectural history of Tiong Bahru.
11. Ongoing Improvements: Over the years, Tiong Bahru Plaza has undergone several renovations and improvements to keep up with changing trends and needs of the community it serves. This includes the addition of new shops, restaurants, and facilities like childcare centers and fitness studios.
12. Is it possible to visit any historic buildings within Tiong Bahru area on foot?
Yes, there are several historic buildings within walking distance in Tiong Bahru area. These include the Alkaff Mansion, The Substation, and 1933 Old National Library Building (now converted to a boutique hotel). You can also take a short walk to nearby heritage sites such as Tanjong Pagar Railway Station and Chinatown.
13. What role does art play in enhancing the overall experience at Tiong Bahru Plaza?
Art plays a significant role in enhancing the overall experience at Tiong Bahru Plaza in several ways.
1. Aesthetics: The presence of art in and around the mall adds to its visual appeal, making it more attractive and inviting for visitors. Art installations, sculptures, murals, and other forms of artwork elevate the overall ambiance and create a positive first impression on visitors.
2. Cultural Representation: Many artworks at Tiong Bahru Plaza showcase the local heritage and culture of Singapore. This provides a sense of identity and pride for the local community as well as educates visitors about the history and traditions of the area.
3. Entertainment: Art also adds an element of entertainment to the shopping experience at Tiong Bahru Plaza. Street performances, live music, and other forms of performing arts are often featured in or around the mall, providing visitors with additional sources of fun and relaxation.
4. Wayfinding: Art can serve as wayfinding elements within the mall, helping visitors navigate their way through different spaces and levels easily. For example, sculptures or murals at specific locations can act as landmarks for people to identify their position within the mall.
5. Social Media Attraction: With increasing social media usage, art has become a popular subject for photos and posts on various platforms. Unique and visually appealing art pieces at Tiong Bahru Plaza can attract visitors to take pictures and share them on social media, indirectly promoting the mall to a wider audience.
6. Retail Sales: Art installations strategically placed near retail stores can draw attention to them and potentially increase sales by enticing shoppers to enter these stores.
In summary, art plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience at Tiong Bahru Plaza by adding aesthetic appeal, cultural representation, entertainment value, ease of navigation, social media attraction, and even supporting retail sales.
14. Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known points of interest near Tiong Bahru Plaza?
There are a few hidden gems and lesser-known points of interest near Tiong Bahru Plaza, including:
1. Duxton Plain Park – a quiet and serene park with greenery and a playground, just a 5-minute walk from Tiong Bahru Plaza.
2. Yong Siak Street – a charming street filled with indie cafes, bakeries, bookstores, and unique shops.
3. Block 55 Tiong Bahru Road – also known as the “Cheng Yan Court,” this colorful apartment block is the last remaining example of pre-war housing in Singapore’s oldest public housing estate.
4. The Tiong Bahru Market & Food Centre – located just across the road from Tiong Bahru Plaza, this hawker center offers delicious local food at affordable prices.
5. Singapore City Gallery – located about 15 minutes away on foot, this gallery showcases Singapore’s urban planning journey and development through various interactive exhibits.
6. State Courts Garden – situated between Kim Tian Road and Cantonment Road, this hidden garden offers a tranquil escape in the midst of the city.
7. The Apex @ Henderson – an iconic residential building with unique curved balconies that offer stunning views of the city skyline.
8. Bukit Merah View Market & Food Centre – another nearby hawker center known for its diverse range of local food options.
9. Orchard Treehouse – tucked away in the quiet residential area of Orchard Spring Lane, this whimsical treehouse built by artist Peter Draw is worth checking out for Instagram-worthy photos.
10. Tan Hock Seng Hostel – declared as a national monument in 2010, this heritage building along Neil Road is one of Singapore’s finest examples of architecture from the early 20th century.
15. How has Tiong Bahru’s history contributed to its present-day development as a commercial hub?
Tiong Bahru’s history has played a significant role in shaping its present-day development as a commercial hub in several ways:
1. Strategic Location: Tiong Bahru is located near the city center and is easily accessible via major roads and public transportation. This makes it an ideal location for businesses to set up shop and attract customers.
2. Early Development: Tiong Bahru was one of the earliest housing estates to be built by the Singapore Improvement Trust (SIT) in the 1920s. The SIT created a well-planned and organized township, which laid the foundation for future developments in the area.
3. Unique Architecture: The estate features distinctive art-deco style architecture, which sets it apart from other commercial areas in Singapore. This unique aesthetic appeal has made it a popular spot for tourists, thereby attracting more businesses to cater to their needs.
4. Cultural Heritage: Tiong Bahru is home to many cultural landmarks such as temples, churches, and markets that have been around since its early days. These establishments have contributed to creating a vibrant local community and added character to the area, making it an attractive place for businesses.
5. Revitalization Efforts: Over the years, there have been efforts made by both public and private entities to revitalize Tiong Bahru’s landscape and preserve its historical charm. This has led to the rejuvenation of old buildings into trendy cafes, boutiques, and offices, attracting a new generation of entrepreneurs and investors.
6. Strong Community Spirit: Tiong Bahru has a close-knit community with strong ties among its residents. This sense of community has helped foster an environment that supports small businesses and encourages entrepreneurship.
Overall, Tiong Bahru’s rich history has given it a unique identity that sets it apart from other commercial areas in Singapore. Its development as a hub for retail, dining, and entertainment is a testament to its cultural heritage and strategic location, making it an ideal place for businesses to thrive.
16. Can you recommend any scenic spots with picturesque views around Tiong Bahru Plaza?
1. Tiong Bahru Park: located right beside Tiong Bahru Plaza, this park offers beautiful views of lush greenery and a peaceful atmosphere.
2. Henderson Waves Bridge: just a short walk from the Plaza, this iconic pedestrian bridge is a popular spot for photos and offers stunning views of the city skyline.
3. Mount Faber Park: located on a hilltop near the Plaza, Mount Faber Park offers panoramic views of Singapore’s skyline and nearby islands.
4. Marina Barrage: situated along the Singapore River, Marina Barrage offers picturesque views of the city’s skyline and an opportunity to fly kites.
5. Labrador Nature Reserve: just a short drive from Tiong Bahru, this nature reserve offers scenic coastal views and well-maintained hiking trails.
6. The Southern Ridges: a series of interconnected parks and green spaces, the Southern Ridges offer scenic viewpoints of the city and lush greenery.
7. Telok Blangah Hill Park: another park located within the Southern Ridges, Telok Blangah Hill Park features elevated footpaths that offer stunning views of the city skyline.
8. Fort Canning Park: situated in between Orchard Road and Tiong Bahru, Fort Canning Park offers historical sites, lush greenery, and panoramic views of the city.
9. HortPark: known as Singapore’s “Gardening Hub”, HortPark features beautifully landscaped gardens and stunning views of Mount Faber in the distance.
10. Keppel Bay Waterfront Promenade: located just 10 minutes from Tiong Bahru by car, Keppel Bay Promenade offers scenic waterfront views with luxury yachts and high-end residences in the background.
17. What cultural influences can be seen in the various landmarks and attractions around Tiong Bahru Plaza?
Some possible cultural influences that can be seen in the various landmarks and attractions around Tiong Bahru Plaza include:
– Peranakan culture: The area of Tiong Bahru was historically a Peranakan neighborhood, and this influence can still be seen in the shophouses, architecture, and food options in the area.
– Chinese culture: Singapore has a large Chinese population, and this can be seen in the presence of Chinese temples, traditional medicine shops, and other cultural elements around Tiong Bahru Plaza.
– Colonial heritage: The area was developed during British colonial rule, which is reflected in some of the buildings and structures such as Tiong Bahru Market.
– Community spirit: Tiong Bahru has a strong sense of community, with various community spaces and events that showcase local culture and traditions. This can be seen in places like the Henderson Community Club and activities organized by local residents’ groups.
– Modern cityscape: As one of Singapore’s oldest housing estates, Tiong Bahru combines old-world charm with modern conveniences. This juxtaposition is evident in landmarks like the Art Deco-style apartments alongside modern shopping centers like Tiong Bahru Plaza.
18.Have any famous people or celebrities visited or frequented Tiong Bahru Plaza in the past?
It is not publicly known if any famous people or celebrities have visited or frequented Tiong Bahru Plaza in the past. The mall caters mostly to the surrounding residential neighborhood and does not typically attract high-profile individuals.
19.How has technology affected sightseeing experiences at and aroundTtionghaboruPlaza over the years?
The technology has had a significant impact on sightseeing experiences at and around Tiong Bahru Plaza over the years. Some of the main ways in which technology has affected these experiences are:
1. Virtual Tours: With the advent of virtual reality and 360-degree videos, visitors can now take virtual tours of Tiong Bahru Plaza and its surrounding areas from the comfort of their homes. This allows potential visitors to get a glimpse of what they can expect at the plaza, thus making it easier for them to plan their trip.
2. Online Reviews and Ratings: Technology has made it easier for visitors to share their experiences at Tiong Bahru Plaza through online reviews and ratings on various platforms such as TripAdvisor and Google Maps. This helps other travelers to make informed decisions about visiting the plaza.
3. Mobile Apps: Many mobile apps provide information about Tiong Bahru Plaza, its history, and nearby attractions. These apps provide real-time updates on events, promotions, and offers at the plaza, making it easier for visitors to plan their visit.
4. Improved Navigation: With the help of GPS technology, navigating around Tiong Bahru Plaza has become easy for tourists. They can use navigation apps to find their way around the area, making their sightseeing experience more convenient.
5. Social Media: Social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube have become popular platforms for sharing pictures and videos from Tiong Bahru Plaza. These platforms offer a glimpse into the place’s culture, activities, events, and food options.
6. Augmented Reality (AR): Some museums and historical sites around Tiong Bahru Plaza have incorporated AR technology into their exhibits to enhance visitor experience. AR adds an interactive element to traditional sightseeing by bringing objects to life through digital overlays.
Overall, technology has made sightseeing at Tiong Bahru Plaza more convenient, interactive, and informative over the years, making it an enticing destination for tourists.
20.What steps have been taken to preserve the historical significance of Tiong Bahru Plaza while also modernizing the area?
1. Conducting an architectural and historical assessment: A detailed study of the Tiong Bahru Plaza’s architecture and history was undertaken to identify its key features that should be preserved.
2. Collaboration with heritage experts: The development team worked closely with heritage experts to ensure that the modernization plans were aligned with preserving the building’s historical significance.
3. Retaining key architectural features: The original facade, roof structures, and other distinctive design elements of Tiong Bahru Plaza were preserved to maintain its unique identity.
4. Reusing materials: During the renovation process, efforts were made to reuse original materials wherever possible, such as bricks or tiles, in order to preserve the building’s historical fabric.
5. Displaying historical photos: In strategic areas of the mall, old photographs were displayed showcasing the history of Tiong Bahru Plaza and its surrounding neighborhood.
6. Incorporating elements of nostalgia: To evoke a sense of nostalgia among visitors, certain details like the iconic clock tower and color scheme were retained from the original design.
7. Including a Heritage Gallery: A dedicated space within the mall was allocated for a Heritage Gallery showcasing artifacts and stories related to Tiong Bahru Plaza’s history and development over time.
8. Offering heritage tours: Guided tours are organized for visitors who wish to learn more about Tiong Bahru Plaza’s history, architecture, and cultural significance.
9. Preserving green spaces: The landscaping around Tiong Bahru Plaza has been maintained to preserve its lush greenery, which is an important part of its historical significance.
10. Collaborating with local businesses: Traditional local shops situated within the mall have been given assistance through facade improvements and marketing support in order to preserve their presence in the area.
11. Hosting community events: Regular community events are organized at Tiong Bahru Plaza to engage residents and promote a sense of community among them. These events also highlight the area’s cultural and historical significance.
12. Providing better accessibility: While modernizing the mall, efforts were made to improve accessibility for people with disabilities by installing ramps and other facilities.
13. Upgrading facilities: Existing facilities such as restrooms, escalators, and elevators were upgraded to ensure they are in line with modern standards while still retaining their original design elements.
14. Adhering to heritage guidelines: The development team followed strict heritage guidelines set by the government and heritage experts during the renovation process to ensure that the building’s historical significance was not compromised.
15. Conducting public consultations: Feedback from residents and visitors were taken into consideration during the planning stage to understand their sentiments towards preserving Tiong Bahru Plaza’s historical significance.
16. Incorporating modern design elements: While preserving its historical features, Tiong Bahru Plaza also incorporated modern design elements such as a new atrium and green spaces in order to enhance the overall shopping experience.
17. Implementing sustainable practices: Environmentally-friendly features such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems were installed during the renovation process to reduce energy consumption and preserve natural resources.
18. Promoting heritage education: Efforts have been made to educate tenants and visitors about Tiong Bahru Plaza’s history through interactive displays and information boards.
19. Maintaining transparency: The development team regularly communicates with stakeholders, including residents and business owners, about any changes or updates regarding Tiong Bahru Plaza’s preservation efforts.
20. Continual monitoring of preservation efforts: Regular checks and assessments are conducted to ensure that all preservation measures are being implemented effectively, and any necessary adjustments can be made if required.