The Grand Dame of Tiong Bahru

90 years old. Still turning heads.

Most people think this block has only about 10 years of lease left.

It doesn’t.

The remaining lease is approximately 39.5 years, because although Block 55 was completed in December 1936 (official records note 1937), the current 99 year lease commenced on 1 January 1967. Long story.

If you’re curious why, let’s grab a coffee at one of the nearby cafés. I’ll happily share the fascinating history behind Tiong Bahru and why this unique arrangement exists.

This isn’t just another apartment.

This is Block 55 Tiong Bahru Road, the very first pre war public housing block built by the Singapore Improvement Trust. Completed in 1936, it marked the birth of modern public housing in Singapore. Nearly nine decades later, it remains one of the most recognisable buildings in the Tiong Bahru landscape.

Opportunities to own one of these homes rarely come along.

What’s more, finding a genuine 1,238 sqft apartment today is already uncommon.

Finding one in Singapore’s most iconic conservation estate is even rarer.

About the Home

✔ Approximately 1,238 sqft

✔ 3 spacious bedrooms

✔ 2 bathrooms

✔ Generous living and dining areas

✔ High ceilings with excellent cross ventilation

✔ A practical layout from an era when homes were designed for living, not simply maximising unit count

Whether you’re restoring it sympathetically or creating a contemporary home, this apartment is your blank canvas.

The rear entrance even opens to a little “exclusive” space that has… let’s just say… been creatively colonised over the years by residents. One of those charming quirks that long time Tiong Bahru owners will immediately understand.

Every room feels purposeful. Every space feels generous. It’s a reminder of how homes used to be built.

A Location That Keeps Getting Better

The apartment sits right along Tiong Bahru Road, the road that gave the estate its name, and is conveniently located between Tiong Bahru MRT, Havelock MRT and Outram Park MRT.

The heritage may be 90 years old, but the neighbourhood isn’t standing still. Between the rejuvenation of Tan Boon Liat and the transformation of Pearl’s Hill and Outram, this corner of Tiong Bahru is quietly entering its next chapter.

Step outside and enjoy everything that makes Tiong Bahru one of Singapore’s most desirable neighbourhoods. Walk to Tiong Bahru Market, the cafés and boutiques along Yong Siak Street, or simply wander through the leafy heritage streets that have made this estate famous.

Great World, Orchard Road, the CBD and Singapore General Hospital are all just minutes away.

Surrounded by Tiong Bahru Road, Seng Poh Road, Tiong Poh Road, Eng Hoon Street, Eng Watt Street, Guan Chuan Street, Yong Siak Street, Chay Yan Street, Moh Guan Terrace, Lim Liak Street, Kim Pong Road and Kim Cheng Street.

More Than Just an Apartment

Some homes are bought because they’re convenient.

Others because they’re beautiful.

Very few become part of Singapore’s architectural story.

This is one of them.

Contact Alvin today for a private viewing.