Ever since Singapore gained her independence in the late sixties, westernization has crept into this city state’s architecture. Eastern influences in private residences were for a long time deemed out of touch with the changing times. Developers forsake the local flavors for modern designs imported from Europe. However, lately property buyers are gaining a new interest in the unique local cultural roots, especially Peranakan and Chinese buildings from our parents’ era. As such, Emerald Hill Conservation Area is once again in the spotlight of downtown property market.
Peranakan Heritage
Nestled between Orchard and Somerset, Emerald Hill was originally the high-end residential area for wealthy Peranakan families in the early 19th Century. Today, the Singapore government, in a bid to preserve the terrace houses and shops rich in local tradition has listed Emerald Hill as a conservation area.
These buildings feature the special Chinese baroque architectural styles only available in very few places of the world, such as Malacca and here in Singapore. They usually spot white-washed walls with wooden windows and a black slanted roof. The design is reminiscent of the colonial era.
Buzzing Night Life
The beauty of Emerald Hill does not stop at mere tradition. Life in the area is a fascinating mix of both Peranakan culture and modern night entertainment. Well known for its exotic bars and eclectic late night establishments, Emerald Hill is a glazing spot for drinks and music.
For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Que Pasa an exquisite wine bar offers one of the best wine-and-dine experiences in this part of town. After a hard day’s work, unwind and rejoice at the Acid Bar with a good drink and some live band performances.
All the exciting night life happens in renovated Peranakan shop houses with wooden furniture and dim yellow lights. Such contrasts between the new and the traditional make Emerald Hill as attractive as an oriental jewel.
Convenient Location
Emerald Hill does not stand alone. Due to its proximate location to Orchard Road and Somerset, you can easily access the shopping belt of Singapore. Retail moguls such as Heeren and Centrepoint are within walking distance. The nearby Cuppage Centre, house to at least 30 different dining establishments would also please every difficult taste bud.
Education for your little ones can be taken care of at the prestigious Chatsworth International School at Emerald Hill Link. This renowned international school is a very popular choice among the expatriate community in Singapore. Save your children the hassle of bus and car rides by staying at the Emerald Hill area as they can stroll to school every morning.
Affordable Prices
Don’t let exorbitant property prices in Orchard scare you off. The apartments and condominiums in Emerald Hill are still relatively affordable because most people are not familiar with the area as a residential site yet. Currently, the average floor rate ranges from S$1000 to S$2000 which is very rare in downtown Singapore.
With property prices rising madly in Orchard, buyers are likely to shift their attention beyond Orchard Road itself and notice areas on its peripheral such as Emerald Hill. As such, our guess is property at this area would increase in value in the foreseeable future. It is perhaps better to buy now than later.
Not many people know much about Draycott. Some may have never heard of this place. Even when the downtown property market is in full bloom, most investors are too focused on the heart of Orchard Road to notice this petite stretch right next to the buzz. However, there are very good reasons to start looking in this direction.
Convenience of Orchard
Draycott is located on the outskirts of town. Tugged away at Tanglin and Scotts Road, you could enjoy the convenience of living less than 5 minute drive away from Orchard Road. Yet, still remain spared from the hustle and bustle.
Shopping
If you fancy retail therapy, trendy malls such as Palais Renaissance and Forum shopping centres are just a throw away. When these places fail to deliver, you could always drop by Orchard Road.
Education
In a competitive island state that worships premium education, sending your children to branded schools is often of top priority. Draycott Drive provides an extra edge in that respect because some of the best schools, such as Raffles Girls’ Secondary School, are located within the vicinity.
Lifestyle
For those who indulge in the finer things in life – a scrumptious dinner with friends or a game of golf to rewind from the week; the American Club is the place to be. The neighborhood is also surrounded in luscious greenery. In fact, families are often spotted taking a long weekend stroll in the relaxing environment.
Prices
All these come at an affordable price. With property prices in the downtown region shooting through the roof, most areas in Orchard Road or those close enough to be in District 10 are expensive. That makes Draycott exceptional. No other neighborhood in town can offer a floor rate as low as $1000.
8 @ Mount Sophia sits snugly beside the Istana and Plaza Singapura. For the uninitiated, the Istana is the Malay or Indonesian word for "palace". In Singapore, it is a ground for the most important ceremonial occasions and state functions.
Prime usage of land surrounds the stately presence along Orchard Road, with the Dhoby Ghaut MRT Interchange leading to Plaza Singapura, a nine-floor urban retail mall and The Cathay Picturehouse, for those passionate about cutting-edge film and international features. The well-reputed Singapore Management University adds dollops of youthful vibrance to a district well-heeled in historical events.
Fort Canning sits just across to the modish malls, unwavering in its historic importance as it still gives a bird's eye view of Orchard Road. Besides, with regular open-air events such as Ballet Under the Stars and World of Music and Dance (WOMAD), Fort Canning Hill complements the cultural interaction of people and venues such as the Singapore History Museum and Singapore Art Museum.
8 @ Mount Sophia offers a tranquil sanctuary with an address so auspicious it only bodes well. Amidst the unwavering buzz of arts and cultural activity, nearby Prinsep Street has cafes and pubs decked in old shophouses of past. Another incentive for those with a sweet tooth has to be the modest yet mouthwatering Rochor Original Beancurd dessert. The coveted 8 @ Mount Sophia is another sell-out project by Frasers Centrepoint Homes.
The "Estilo" refers to the Spanish word for "style". Enjoying similar conveniences and comforts as 8 @ Mount Sophia, the Estilo also complements the thrilling hustle and bustle of city life with a tranquil sanctuary-like residence within its compounds.
The Estilo is on Wilkie Road, and less than 0.1km away, Mount Emily Park is a serene and cosy open space at the peak of Mount Emily.
The Dhoby Ghaut MRT Interchange connects to Plaza Singapura, a nine-floor urban retail mall. Nearby, the Cathay Picturehouse is frequented by those passionate about cutting-edge film and international features. The well-reputed Singapore Management University adds dollops of youthful vibrance to a district well-heeled in historical events. Fort Canning sits just across Orchard Road, hosting popular open-air events such as starlight cinema, Ballet Under the Stars performances and Singapore's largest music festival, World of Music and Dance (WOMAD). Fort Canning Hill complements the rich presence of the Singapore History Museum, Asian Civilisation Museum and Singapore Art Museum. Amidst the unwavering buzz of arts and cultural activity, nearby Prinsep Street has cafes and pubs decked in old shophouses of past. Another incentive for those with a sweet tooth has to be the modest yet mouthwatering Rochor Original Beancurd dessert.
Cairnhill Residences at Cairnhill Circle enjoys superior landscaping, sitting on elevated land overlooking Singapore's prime shopping belt, Orchard Road. It is but a short walk from Paragon and Ngee Ann City, both major retail malls for the designer-elegant, fashionable and quality-conscious.
Many parents are eager to send their sons to the nearby Anglo Chinese Junior School. It is part of the family of Anglo Chinese schools in Singapore, considered to be prestigious owing to both an illustrious history and an equally prominent alumni. Only a few turns after the Cairnhill Circle exit from the Central Expressway, Cairnhill Residences is considerably accessible.
Singapore's famous Newton Circus Food Centre is just around the corner. Indulge in a delicious spread of local delights which will leave you hungry for more. Not to worry though, since the favourite among both tourists and locals is but a mere 0.6km away. Set among a list of other condominiums, Cairnhill Residences will soon be the new kid on the block to join a neighbourhood, just where the heady thrills of Scotts Road and Orchard Road start.
The art of modern living epitomises in a designer condominium aptly named the Icon.
Characterised by simplicity, clean lines and brightness, the Icon is a dream home for those who have a deep appreciation for sleek modernity. Full-length windows are constructed to take in the wide expanse of the city skyline and the South China Sea. Stretch out in the morning sun since the apartments are designed to face only North and South such that an insulating afternoon sun does not linger. It is equatorial Singapore, after all. The most characteristic of The Icon has to be the private resort on the 7th floor, and a sanctuary on the 31st. Landscaped islands, a sun deck, jacuzzis, aroma areas… Truly a dependable retreat in tropical Singapore.
The Icon's location is tops as it is in the Marina Bay financial centre, a most attractive part of town with all amenities. Transport is a breeze with the Tanjong Pagar MRT Station, or the Ayer Rajah Expressway or East Coast Parkway. The Integrated Resort is virtually at doorstep, among the pubs, cafes and restaurants at Duxton and Clarke Quay, all on standby for painting the town red. If not, strolling down the sidewalks while taking in the sights along the Esplanade and One Fullerton can always make for a pensive night out.
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