From something old to something made new, we find out from these readers where to buy antiques in Singapore and how it fits with their home décor style. Whether it’s vintage or reproduction furniture, they are great keepsakes. Sometimes expats wait until it’s time to leave Singapore before they buy Asian antique furniture and accessories, but why not enjoy it now?
China Collection – Chinese antiques beautifully restored
Emma Marburg, Australian
“Having lived in Singapore for almost 20 years, I’m always on the lookout for beautiful and unique pieces that we will treasure both now and once we move from Asia.
A friend introduced me to China Collection years ago. I love the fantastic customer service that you receive from them. They are always accommodating, and they source unique and original pieces. Their passion for sharing knowledge and assisting customers always comes through, too.
I recently purchased an up-cycled early 20th-century sideboard from Gansu Province, China (circa 1920-1940), which would have been used to store grain. Although it’s an old piece, the restoration by China Collection gave it a fresh, modern feel that blends with the rest of our furniture. I adore the colour; this piece was perfect for our living area, which needed something that was both decorative and had plenty of functional storage space.
Doug and his team always have wonderful suggestions and unique pieces. I’ve purchased many sensational furniture pieces and decorative items from China Collection over the years and will definitely continue to add to our collection!”
China Collection
252 Joo Chiat Road
9858 6889 | chinacollection.com.sg
Just Anthony – great value vintage furniture
Madeleen von Wielligh, Namibian
“I’ve lived in Singapore for the last eight years, and I’ve always loved older pieces of furniture. I’ve been wanting to create a home that feels cosy and inviting after a long day behind my desk. I travelled extensively pre-COVID, hence it’s now even more important to feel like I’m at home.
I discovered Just Anthony online and quickly realised it’s conveniently located near to where I live. The store has a very large selection of beautiful pieces and the added friendliness and willingness to assist from staff members made it a really enjoyable shopping experience.
I now often hop over there for a browse – there’s always something that catches my eye.
I’ve purchased several pieces, including side tables, a cabinet and a coffee table. The quality is good and exactly what I was looking for. I’m extremely satisfied with what I’ve bought. Not only are the staff very helpful, they offer value-for-money pieces, plus free delivery.
It’s a unique experience once you enter the store and, given the size, it feels like stepping into another world. I will most definitely buy from them again; I’m sure I can find a little bit more space for something new!”
Just Anthony
379 Upper Paya Lebar Road
6283 4782 | justanthony.com
Woody Antique – repurposed antiques at Dempsey
Paula Arbulu, American-Romanian
“I was looking for the rustic and elegant touch that antique furniture provides to a home. I always like how a piece that’s been around for a long time can be repurposed and keep its timeless beauty.
We found out about Woody Antique House through a magazine advert and decided to give it a try. Once we’d seen the quality of the furniture we were sold. We bought a range of furniture, including an old Indian door sideboard closet, a four-door carved dresser and a carved old door console. The three pieces are white and bring a sense of space, along with their rustic features.
We really do love our antique pieces from Woody Antique House. In fact, we’re so happy that we’ve already been back and purchased patio furniture along with some other items.”
Woody Antique House
Block 13 Dempsey Road, #01-05
6471 1770 | woodyantique.com
Emperor’s Attic – vintage cabinets and more
Deborah McKellar – South African
I’ve lived in Singapore for many years and have always loved the furniture at Emperor’s Attic. The first large piece that I purchased was about three years ago. At the time, I would have liked more but I didn’t have the space.
Last year, I moved into a new home and was really excited by the idea of visiting the store again. I saw something I really liked, but was very disappointed to see that it had already been sold. Chantal, the owner, quickly reassured me that she had a new shipment in the warehouse and she’d look to see what else was available. The piece she found for me was even more beautiful than what I’d seen in her shop!
This piece was originally designed as a kitchen cabinet. It has these sliding shutters with a grille that you can peep through. I love the distressed wood and the different shades of green.
I’ve always been drawn to older homes with charm and character. My previous place was a 1920s home; this new place was built probably in the 50s or 60s. The furniture from Emperor’s Attic fits in perfectly. It completes the look of the home and brings unique stories of its own.
Emperor’s Attic
#01-10 Tan Boon Liat Building, 315 Outram Road
9011 0380 |emperorsattic.com
Want more home inspiration? See our home décor section!
This article first appeared in the September 2021 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!
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