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A New Way to Enjoy Singapore: Explore New Bahru, an Old School Turned Creative Paradise

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A New Way to Enjoy Singapore: Explore New Bahru, an Old School Turned Creative Paradise Nan Chiau High School building transformed into a creative hub, New Bahru. (c) New Bahru.

Kapanlagi.com - If vacations in Singapore are usually associated with shopping at Orchard Road, cool photos at Marina Bay Sands, or leisurely walks at Clarke Quay, now there’s a new destination that’s super trendy among young people and lifestyle enthusiasts: New Bahru!

This place has an unusual story. Just imagine, an old school in the River Valley area, which used to be Nan Chiau High School, has now been transformed into a contemporary creative hub that is fully equipped. From the outside, it may still look heritage, but once you step inside, you'll be greeted by a row of local fashion boutiques, creative studios, artsy workshops, and trendy cafes and restaurants.

So instead of encountering a chalkboard or school desks, you can actually shop for stylish outfits, make handmade leather goods, or just hang out beautifully while sipping coffee. It's no wonder that New Bahru has quickly become a favorite spot for locals and tourists wanting to experience a different side of Singapore. Not just grand malls, but there's an artsy, nostalgic, yet modern touch all in one place.

What makes it even more unique is that the name New Bahru isn’t just randomly chosen. In Malay, bahru means 'new.' But at the same time, this name also plays on the Singaporean habit of repeating words to make them sound more fun, like jalan-jalan or play-play.

This clever concept is developed by The Lo & Behold Group, the creative team behind many Instagramable hangouts in Singapore. The result? A destination that is not just a shopping spot, but also a symbol of a new lifestyle, creative, playful, and soulful.

1. Discover & Own Your Favorite Style

Not just an incredibly Instagrammable spot, New Bahru is also the perfect destination for you who love hunting for fashion, accessories, and unique lifestyle items. There are more than 40 local Singapore brands ready to make you fall in love with their creativity.

Each brand has its own characteristics, ranging from minimalist, bold, to those that promote eco-friendly concepts. So, whatever your style, there’s always the right choice to take home from here.

- Beyond The Vines

Colorful bag collection from Beyond The Vines in New Bahru, Singapore. (c) New Bahru.

Beyond The Vines, a local fashion brand with a bold yet simple style, has just inaugurated its largest store in New Bahru, Singapore. Named Beyond The Vines Design House, this 3,800 square foot store features a colorful visual playground concept, geometric shapes, and unique materials that make every corner super Instagrammable!

Not only can you shop for ready-to-wear collections, but here you can also customize and get exclusive special product lines, including adding a personal touch to your favorite bag. Iconic products like the Dumpling Bag stand out even more with the bold yet simple identity of Beyond The Vines. With a concept like this, Beyond The Vines successfully proves that local fashion can go global without losing its identity.

- Curious Creatures

Elegant and eco-friendly jewelry collection from Curious Creatures. (c) Curious Creatures.

Curious Creatures presents a collection of modern fine and demi-fine jewelry that remains timeless. From rings, necklaces, to bracelets, all are designed with the philosophy 'Inspired by You', not just accessories, but a medium for self-expression. Their permanent jewellery collection even went viral as a unique symbol that can be worn for a lifetime.

In addition to elegant designs, Curious Creatures is also consistent with sustainability values. They use eco-friendly materials, support small artisans, and have a Silver Recycling program for recycling old jewellery. Stylish, personal, and conscious, everything is available at Curious Creatures.

Sojao Home Good Store

Collection of eco-friendly organic bed sheets and loungewear from Sojao Home. (c) Sajao Home Good Store.

Sojao Home offers a collection of bed sheets, blankets, and loungewear made from super soft and high-quality organic cotton. The name itself is derived from Hindi, 'Sojao' which means 'go to sleep', in line with the brand's vision to provide comfortable and eco-friendly sleep. All of their products are GOTS certified organic, free from harmful chemicals, hypoallergenic, and get softer with each wash.

Since its establishment in 2018, this brand has consistently promoted an eco-friendly lifestyle through the seed to sheets concept, supporting Indian cotton farmers, and collaborating with communities on sustainability. Sojao Home is the perfect choice for those who want a comfortable and eco-friendly home.

- Sea Apple Create Store

Collection of eco-friendly children's clothing at Sea Apple. (c) Sea Apple Shop.

Sea Apple is a children's brand from Singapore that embraces a creative and sustainable concept. At Sea Apple Create Store, families can directly customize clothing designs, merchandise, and personal gifts, making each product one-of-a-kind in the world.

Not only about fun appearances, all Sea Apple collections are made from GOTS organic cotton and recycled fibers, safe for children and eco-friendly. The name 'Sea Apple' itself is inspired by the Sea Apple tree that grows along the Southeast Asian coastline, simple yet strong, in line with their vision to nurture creative and caring children.

2. Hands-On Experience at New Bahru

If you're the type who loves to get hands-on, New Bahru not only has beautiful boutiques and accessories, but also interactive workshops that will make your experience even more memorable. Here, you can learn directly from the experts, take home your own creations, and of course, gain new skills.

- Crafune

Handmade leather craft workshop at Crafune, New Bahru. (c) Crafune.

If you're a fan of handicrafts, Crafune is a must-visit when in New Bahru. This local brand is known for its aesthetic yet sustainable handmade leather goods. Even more exciting, you can join workshops directly from the experts, making wallets, mini bags, and keychains, complete with custom hot stamping options.

Each workshop is friendly for all ages and beginners, plus you can take your creations home right away. Interestingly, Crafune also emphasizes sustainability by using leather from by-products of the food industry, making it durable and environmentally friendly. So, enjoy crafting while helping to protect the earth!

- Make by Ginlee

The excitement of creative workshops at MAKE by GINLEE, New Bahru. (c) Make Studio.

If you're a fan of creative fashion, MAKE by GINLEE in New Bahru is a must-visit. This local brand presents an environmentally friendly on-demand fashion concept because all products are made to order, minimizing waste.

Besides shopping, you can also join fun workshops, from making pleated bags, upcycling t-shirts into tote bags, to experimenting with 3D printing with options for color and shape customization. Every workshop is easy to follow for all ages, even for beginners. Plus, the creations can be taken home immediately, making it a unique and personal creative experience.

With an on-demand production system and upcycling, MAKE by GINLEE successfully proves that creating can be stylish while also caring for the planet.

- Soilboy

Aesthetic curated plants in Soilboy's signature ceramic pots in New Bahru. (c) Make Studio.

If you love plants and aesthetic crafts, you must visit Soilboy in New Bahru! This plant studio from Singapore is famous for its curated plant collection and beautiful handmade ceramics. Here, you can join hands-on workshops to arrange plants or create your own ceramics, fun for all ages and perfect for beginners!

Each workshop is designed to inspire curiosity about the green world while providing tips on how to care for plants to keep them lasting and healthy at home. So besides a fun experience, you also take home a unique creation that can beautify your space. Soilboy emphasizes a connection with nature and sustainability, so while being creative, you also learn to care for the environment.

3. Culinary & Trendy Photo Spots

After enjoying a creative workshop and exciting experiences in New Bahru, it's time to switch to another equally interesting side, which is culinary and trendy photo spots. Here, it’s not just about enjoying delicious food, but also about finding fun moments to capture. From authentic local dishes to cafes with an aesthetic atmosphere, every corner can be an inspiration for your stomach and your Instagram feed.

- The Coconut Club

The Coconut Club outlet in New Bahru. (c) The Coconut Club.

If you're a fan of savory and authentic local dishes, The Coconut Club is a must-visit on your list in New Bahru! This restaurant is famous for its creamy Singaporean nasi lemak that doesn’t feel greasy, thanks to their unique touch of 'White Sutera' coconut milk.

In addition to nasi lemak, the menu here also features various other local favorites that highlight the deliciousness of coconut, while still maintaining quality and traditional recipes. The cozy atmosphere in New Bahru makes dining here feel warm and comfortable, perfect for relaxing while enjoying flavorful dishes.

- Dearborn

Dearborn outlet in New Bahru. (c) Dearborn.

For those who love healthy brunches and aesthetic photo spots, Dearborn in New Bahru could be your next destination. This café features a microbakery concept, breakfast provision shop, and all-day breakfast that delights both the eyes and the palate.

Led by Chef Christopher Kong, Dearborn serves creative and flavorful modern breakfast dishes, from signature granola to Instagram-worthy all-day breakfast menus. The place is cozy and stylish, making each visit not just about eating, but also about a memorable culinary experience.

Must Include in Your Itinerary to Singapore!

Its location is very easy to reach, just a 10-minute walk from Fort Canning MRT or take a free shuttle bus from Somerset. Its opening hours are from 10 AM to 10 PM, so it can also be an all-day destination.

So, for those of you looking for a new experience in Singapore, don’t forget to include New Bahru in your holiday itinerary. Because here you can shop for the trendiest local brands, join exciting workshops, enjoy delicious food, and take cool photos for your social media content. For complete information, you can check out New Bahru.

Just imagine, an old school in the River Valley area, which used to be Nan Chiau High School, has now been transformed into a contemporary creative hub that is fully equipped.

Author: Umi Zakiyatun

(kpl/wri)

Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.
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