Singapore Shophouse - Hardcover

The Singapore shophouse is an architectural gem - a particular building form that is unique to the island. This book traces its development from rudimentary shophouse through various incarnations of decorative style - Neoclassical, Chinese Baroque,Jubilee-style, Edwardian, Rococo, Tropical Modern - all the while commenting on the various influences that fuelled its evolution. Each individual feature of the shophouse is examined, as is its change from rudimentary out-of-China structure to sophisticated dwelling house. Numerous examples of shophouse interiors today complete the odyssey - showcasing Shophouse as Temple, Clan House, Home, Boutique Hotel, Shop, Restaurant Coffeeshop and more, we see how these heritage buildings continue to be relevant in the era of the skyscraper and shopping mall. This is the first qualitative study of neo Chinese architecture and how it was effectively adapted by successive colonial authorities throughout the 19th and 20th centuries so much so that its enduring qualities of form and function continues to resonate.

Julian Davison is the son of an architect and grew up in Singapore and Malaysia. He was educated in England and has a doctorate in social anthropology from the School of Oriental and African Studies, London. He has edited several reference books and scholarly works relating to the region, including books on Balinese and Indonesian architecture. Luca Invernizzi Tettoni, a professional archeologist and photographer has over 50 books to his credit, including the International bestsellers Thai Style, The Tropical Garden, Arts and Crafts of Thailand (published with Thames & Hudson, London) and all the leading books on Tropical Spas and Wellness. A trained archeologist, Dr Tettoni is an award winning photographer and a keen advocate of conservation. He lives in Singapore.