Author: Verine Ling

These Homes In Singapore Are Indisputably The Gems Of Singapore Property

There is a saying that home is the person or place you want to return to over and over again.

In a land-scarce city like Singapore, home comes in a the form of a HDB flat, condominium or for some, landed property or perhaps even a bungalow.

However, did you know that Singapore is also home to some of the most breathtakingly-huge and rare houses?

Here are three of these stately residences that are indisputably the gems of Singapore property.

1. The Screen House – K2LD Architects

Situated just beside the zigzag house in Singapore is this unique contemporary residence, also known as The Screen House.

The striking features of the house are the use of various geometrical elements: a linear block and a curvilinear pavilion that is elevated above the prevailing shared gardens.

The use of parallel lines and smooth textures around the house creates the illusion of wide and comfortable spaces.

Additionally, the use of timber screens along the linear block allows the rooms to breathe while providing the necessary privacy for the homeowners.

The architectural element that clearly stands out is the curved pavilion located midway between the house.

Likewise, the use of wooden panels reflects the strategy of blending in with nature as it overlooks that trees and garden in the property.

Given the structure and location of the curved pavilion, the swimming pool takes a unique shape, maximising the available space.

Given that most of the living quarters and swimming pool are somewhat reclined deep within the landscape of the house, it has been dubbed as achieving the act of “disappearance”, by providing privacy to both the homeowners and their neighbours.

2. JKC2 House – ONG&ONG Pte Ltd

Luxury is clearly evident in every part of this house, which also known as JKC2 House by ONG&ONG Pte Ltd. Despite its rather lacklustre name, the luxurious residence in Bukit Timah comprises of three structures that border a spacious courtyard.

Given the humid weather of Singapore’s climate, the upper pods open up to the pools below to create a feeling of vastness. Furthermore, the house’s unique structure demanded painstaking attention to every detail.

Every single piece of tile, glass and aluminium padding has to follow a certain template and was all custom-made. Additionally, the curvilinear staircase was laser-cut from thick pieces of steel, welded together and hand-polished.

This unique house clearly reflects the seamless integration of defined geometries and fluid lines and curves.

Final thoughts

These houses are undeniably the gems of Singapore property. Each of these stately residences is clearly the pinnacle of living. Imagine extravagant living spaces coupled with expansive open spaces and natural surrounding greenery.

(Header image credit: 9 Legit & Totally Gorgeous Airbnb Places In Singapore That Are Worth Every Cent

Best Brunch Spots In Singapore For The Non-Early Risers

In recent years, brunch has become serious business in Singapore. Catered to the non-early risers, we have seen a proliferation of dining establishments around our little red dot that serves up tantalising mid-breakfast meals.

From fluffy-stacked pancakes to sandwiches and poached eggs, here are some of the best mid-morning dining spots to add to your brunch repertoire!

1. Pacamara Boutique Coffee Roasters

Nestled at a corner along Thomson road, Pacamara Boutique Coffee Roasters is likely to draw you in with their all-white minimalist interior.

This highly raved about cafe serves delectable and instagrammable all-day brunch as well as premium coffee for that perfect coffee kick in the late morning.

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Open Door Policy
Address: 19 Yong Siak St, Singapore 168650
Opening hours: Mon to Fri 12nn – 11pm; Sat & Sun 11am – 4pm & 6pm – 11pm
Credit:

To start your day on a light note without potentially getting food coma thereafter, go for their Faina and fried eggs! It is paired with crushed avocado, coriander, and “aji molido” crème fraiche which lends a unique flavour to the dish.

Likewise, for a meaty option, you will not be disappointed with their classic Beef and Bone Marrow Burger. Featuring their signature premium beef, this burger is stacked with grilled tomatoes, onions, pickles, chimichurri (a type of sauce for grilled meat) and a sunny-side up.

boCHINche
Address: 115 Amoy Street, #01-02, Singapore 069935
Opening hours: Mon to Thu 12 – 2.30pm & 6 – 10.30pm; Fri 12 – 2.30pm & 6 – 11pm; Sat 11am – 3pm & 6 – 11pm; Sun 11am – 3pm
Credit: Credit: https://angieisagirl.wordpress.com[/caption]

Their Berry Ricotta Hotcake is an absolute showstopper.

Relish in this fluffy hotcake that is topped with strawberries, blueberries, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.

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One distinctive feature about The LoKal is that they make all their dishes in-house from scratch.

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Their attention to detail makes it one of the best places to indulge in wholesome and generously portioned brunch.

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Furthermore, for a nourishing mid-morning meal, go for their Smashed Avocado with Ricotta. It is made up of smashed avocado, homemade ricotta cheese paired with pomelo and toasted almonds on a sourdough bread.

The Local
Address: 136 Neil Rd, Singapore 088865
Opening hours: Mon 8am – 5pm; Tue to Fri 8am – 10pm; Sat 9am – 10pm; Sun 9am – 4pm
Credit: Credit: https://therantingpanda.com[/caption]

Kinki’s Bottomless Buffet (S$52++) comes in an a la carte buffet style. The buffet offers three kinds of fresh and perfectly-cut sashimi: Salmon (Sake), Yellow Tail (Hamachi) and Bluefin Tuna (Maguro).

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Regardless of the time, it is always brunch time here at Penny University.

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Located right in the heart of Singapore’s CBD, you might easily pass Free The Robot if you are still reeling from morning drowsiness after a good slumber.

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The only indication of the place’s entrance is a single wall of robot-theme scribbles.

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9. Sarnies

Started a few years back by Australian Ben Lee, Sarnies has now transformed into a popular favourite within the bustling CBD district.

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Seletar Aerospace Is Where The Hipsters Are Now Hanging Out At

North-east residents rejoice! The new kid on the block – Seletar Aerospace – is currently where all the hipsters are now hanging out at!

The recently redeveloped area at Seletar Aerospace Park is also known as The Oval. This sprawling plot of land boasts a cluster of 32 black and white colonial bungalows. Gazetted for conservation, these stunning bungalows now house various restaurants for that ultimate dining experience.

We’d say, forget Tiong Bahru and Holland Village. Seletar Aerospace is the next foodie enclave that you should be heading to!

1. Youngs Bar & Restaurant

Housed in one of the numerous colonial bungalows at Seletar Aerospace Park is Youngs Bar & Restaurant.

If you happen to be here at night, you will certainly be spoilt for choice with their extensive selection of drinks. Choose from draft and bottled beers, single malt whiskies, cocktails to red and white wine!

Youngs Bar & Restaurant
Address: 3 Hyde Park Gate, The Oval @ SAP, Singapore 799531
Opening hours: Mon to Thu 11am – 1am, Fri & Eve of PH 11am – 2am, Sat 8am – 2am, Sun and PH 8am – 1am
Credit: Credit: Credit: Website

3. Wildseed

Similar to most of the restaurants here at Seletar Aerospace Park, Wildseed is a cafe by day and transforms into a bar at night.

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Sharing the same bungalow space as Wildseed, The Summerhouse Dining Room is located at the upper floor of the colonial bungalow.

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The restaurant overlooks its in-house garden and farming collective. Expect a plethora of nature-inspired cuisines using their very own fresh seasonal produce!

Here at The Summerhouse Dining Room, you can expect nothing short of inventive flavours. They have a unique collective farming set menu as well as a la carte dishes available. Some of their highlights include Iberico Pork, Beetroot as well as Uni Pasta.

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If modern Western cuisines do not suit your palate for the day, fret not! There is still the reliable Chinese restaurant to fall back on at Di Wei Teo Chew Restaurant.

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The once-secluded area of Seletar just got more hip. All because of the onslaught of chichi restaurants and cafes that serve up fancy food, fancy cocktails and fancy coffee. Away from the bustling city roads, this place provides a serene and almost country-like atmosphere rarely found in our cosmopolitan Singapore.

While Seletar Aerospace might be slightly inaccessible (though Punggol and Yishun residents might beg to differ), it is no doubt a trip worth making. So head down to this new foodie enclave and savour some delectable food fare while enjoying the quiet setting. At the rate of its increasing popularity, this place might start getting more crowded in time to come!

(Header image credit: www.silverkris.com)

Also, read 6 Best Places For A Customised Burger So You Can Really Have It Your Way

6 Cafes So Fancy Even Your Atas Friend Will Approve

Cafes in Singapore are a dime a dozen. Be it in the hipster neighbourhoods or heartland estates, cafes are almost ubiquitously found in every part of Singapore. However, it seems that the ambience and interior design of a cafe play an important role in drawing the crowds while the food menu is put on the back-burner. These days, fancy cafes seemingly have an unspoken smart-casual dress code with their elaborate interior and atmosphere.

If you are on the prowl for places to finally wear that perfect #ootd-worthy outfit, here are 6 cafes so fancy even your atas friend will approve!

1. The Coffee Academics

Highly rated coffee specialty store from Hong Kong, The Coffee Academics finally opened its first outlet in Singapore in 2015. Interestingly, their impressive interior goes beyond mere spacious and splendid.

The interior of The Coffee Academics looks like a mash-up of a fancy cafe and science laboratory, yet the different design themes within the cafe complement each other in perfect harmony.

At one end, there is a Japanese-style table with tatami-like seats, perhaps catering to the affluent Japanese tai-tais. The other corner is filled with bar-like tables while the rest of the dining tables are spread out across its spacious interior.

Naturally, coffee would be their signature here, with seven coffee-making stations located around the cafe. Complement your coffee with their extensive selection of food, ranging from all-day breakfasts, pizzas and delectable desserts. Its swanky interior will no doubt make you want to put on your sassiest outfit!

The Coffee Academics
Address: 6 Scotts Road, Scotts Square, #02-01/02, Singapore 228209
Opening hours: Daily, 9am – 9pm
Credit: Credit: Website

3. Boufe Boutique Cafe

Boufe Boutique Cafe is located deep within Phoenix Park. While getting here is going to prove quite a walk, the effort will certainly be worth it.

This boutique cafe will certainly blow you away with their sleek white-black minimalist interior and furniture. Naturally, its hipster feel will make you want to whip out your best weekend brunch outfit for that #ootd shot with Boufe’s gorgeous interior.

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Joining the slew of hipster cafes along Neil Road is Populus Coffee & Food Co. Despite being around for less than two years, this brainchild of the folks behind the Department of Caffeine has been garnering a lot of attention on social media and amongst cafe-hoppers.

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Together with their industrial-chic lamps and geometric-tiled walls, the sheer size of its interior is enough to amaze you. Furthermore, their appealing decor adorned with plants and enhanced with natural light makes it an ideal place for you to take those instagram-worthy shots.

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Wild Honey is certainly no stranger to cafe-hoppers, boasting two outlets – one at Mandarin Gallery and another at Scotts Square. Their clientale comprises mainly of well-dressed girlfriends having brunch, glamorous-looking couples on dates or rich tai-tais with their expensive-looking handbags.

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On top of the beautiful decor, Wild honey is also all about beautiful breakfasts. Their hearty all-day breakfasts, albeit on the slightly pricier end, will surely not disappoint!

Wild Honey
Address: #03-01/02 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Rd, Singapore 238897
Opening hours: Sun – Thu 9am – 9pm, Fri & Sat 9am – 10pm
Serious Foodies Only: Here Are The Best Restaurants In Singapore For 2016

10 Activities To Do During Chinese New Year That Doesn’t Involve Empty Malls

Chinese New Year is no doubt a joyous occasion that most look forward to every year. This festive period usually encompasses several days of collecting red packets, munching on delectable new year goodies, buying new clothes and visiting friends’ and relatives’ homes for even more red packets!

However, we all know that there are only that many red packets to be collected and that many homes to visit. Additionally, most shopping malls are typically closed during Chinese New Year. This usually means watching endless re-runs of hilarious Stephen Chow’s comedies while snacking away on those love letters and pineapple tarts.

We are all too familiar with this rather “mundane” way of spending the Lunar New Year. Besides all the non-stop eating and talking, here are 10 activities to do during Chinese New Year that doesn’t involve empty malls!

1. Rooster In The New Year At Jurong Bird Park!

No better way to usher in the Year of the Rooster than at the bird paradise itself – Jurong Bird Park!

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All the munching of delicious Chinese New Year goodies and stomach-filling steamboats are bound to leave you feeling bloated and chubby. Take this chance to burn off some of those unwanted calories by hitting the gym!

[caption id="attachment_21453" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Credit: , Evolve MMA, local parks and reservoirs

4. Visit The Green Lawns Of The Istana

Ever wondered what goes on behind those massive iron gates of our President’s official residence, the Istana?

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Look forward to this year’s 31st edition of the River Hongbao Festival, which will feature an elaborately-decorated heart-shaped design entrance walkaway to usher in the Year of the Rooster!

[caption id="attachment_21457" align="aligncenter" width="4256"] Credit: 6. Gong SEA Fa Cai At S.E.A Aquarium

We cannot guarantee that the S.E.A Aquarium will be less crowded than usual given that it will be a long weekend holiday. However, we are pretty sure that the numerous species of marine animals here as well as the massive viewing panel will certainly provide an amazing and fascinating time as opposed to simply staying at home!

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Soak in the spring beauty of floral displays while enjoying the Chinese New Year festivities at Gardens By The Bay!

Credit: 8. Plan A Mahjong or Blackjack Night

If you absolutely have to stay indoors this Chinese New Year and those Stephen Chow comedies are starting to get less comical, there are still other ways to maximise this festive holidays – such as hosting a game night!

[caption id="attachment_21462" align="aligncenter" width="1027"] Credit: Credit: Credit: 9 Incredible Yu Sheng To Toss So You Get Good Luck In The Year Of The Rooster

5 Underrated Local Fashion Boutiques To Buy Your CNY Clothes From

With Chinese New Year (CNY) just round the corner, there is absolutely no time to lose when it comes to shopping for new clothes! Where should you shop at then?

We’d say, forget international brand names. With the onslaught of H&M, Forever 21 and Topshop stores island-wide, you might be faced with the embarrassing situation of “I know where you got your outfit from!” during the numerous home visits.

Instead, why not go for a piece from a local fashion boutique this CNY? We bring you 5 underrated (yet extremely established) local fashion boutiques with gorgeous apparels that are suitable for both the festive season and all-year round!

1. MATTER

Despite being in infancy stages compared to the giant fashion industry, MATTER is already making waves in the local fashion community with its noble cause and unique designs!

The brainchild of world traveller and adventure seeker Renyung Ho, you will be able to find a plethora of traditional-inspired prints and designs to inject some wanderlust into your outfits for CNY!

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Featuring the traditional high mandarin collar as well as the thigh-high side slit, there is certainly no outfit more apt than this to usher in the Lunar New Year!

Besides apparel, Tong Tong also offers delightful clutches and pins that are in line with the festivities as well! Pair your cheongsam or CNY outfit with this adorable dumpling pouch. With its spacious interior and top zip, it is ideal for keeping those angpaos safe from falling out!

With so many Chinese New Year themed apparels and accessories here at Tong Tong, you will certainly be spoiled for choice.

Tong Tong
Address: 100 Beach Road, #01-04/05 Shaw Towers, Singapore 189702
Opening hours: Mon – Sat 12pm – 8pm
Credit: Credit: Credit:

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(Header image credit: 10 Labels You Need To Know From Singapore Fashion Week 2016

7 Quiet Countries That Are Quickly Stealing The Hearts Of True Adventurers

Where should you head to this 2017? Keen to catch the ruggedness of a rugby match? Or simply looking to immerse yourself in a new cultural experience and enjoy a superb digital detox? Perhaps the usual travel destinations like Thailand, Japan, and Korea are a little too ordinary for you? Here, we bring you a list of 7 quiet and unexpected countries that are quickly stealing the hearts of true adventurers – these places will definitely have to be in your 2017 travel bucket list!

1. Travel to Bermuda

This British island territory of Bermuda is known for its pink-sand beaches and breezy island life.

However, Mongolia still retains its ruggedness and an immersion in its nomadic culture is an absolute must. You can sleep in a herder’s ger or even help round up the sheep. Additionally, the locals are known to be extremely hospitable – where else do you find people opening up their “doors” to strangers?

4. Russia

As Russia gears up to host the much-anticipated FIFA World Cup in 2018, it is set to show the world what it can offer as the world’s largest nation.

Of course, the best of Russia can be seen from the window of the legendary Trans-Siberian train. Additionally, a trip to Russia will not be complete without catching one of its world-class ballet performances. Russia certainly offers some magnificent sights if you give it a chance!

5. Vietnam

Vietnam has seen a rapidly-growing tourism industry in recent years.

Naturally, the Fins will want to celebrate their centenary with gusto in every region.

With al fresco concerts to dining festivals and numerous exhibitions, expect a celebratory atmosphere all year round!

Furthermore, this Nordic country will also be playing host to the World Figure Skating Championships as well as the Nordic World Ski Championships this year. There is certainly no better time to explore Finland’s unique culture and beautiful landscapes!

7. Myanmar

Formerly known as Burma, the lifting of British influence on Myanmar has made this country a magnet for tourists.

Also, read 7 Nearby Travel Destinations To Consider For Your 2017 Long Weekends