Kongsi House was named after the clan organisations and social clubs for Chinese immigrants originating from the same province.
In the past, they helped the newly-arrived overcome economic difficulty and social ostracism. Today, kongsi continue to symbolise a deep spirit of cooperation and the consideration of mutual welfare.
This house pays homage to the entrepreneurial spirit of Ong Sam Leong, its address’s namesake and a prominent member of several kongsi. Imagining a home fit for the industrious businessman who lived in the late 19th century, a brooding, serious-minded space ripe for both living and working provided the vision for the house.
The high-ceilinged communal lounge on the first floor is airy and functional, featuring a sitting area and long dining table perfect for both formal meetings and casual gatherings, and a cosy corner banquette for more private affairs. The lattice panels along the upper walls are a decorative take on Chinese folding screens, a subtle nod to Ong’s orient roots.
Fully furnished and self-sufficient, the rooms in the home are true studios. Besides an ensuite bathroom and kitchenette, washer-dryers are also found within each private living space for members’ personal use.
As with the communal space downstairs, each studio features dark wood furniture in vintage silhouettes. Special thought was put into selecting the study desks and chairs – not only are they handsome and eminently usable, they are also unique so no two rooms share the same furniture piece.
Sam Leong Road is located at the cusp of Little India and Jalan Besar. Home to people of diverse ages, ethnicities, abilities, and nationalities, it’s a colourful district during the day and the night.
Bountiful amenities are within walking distance of the home, many of which are either open till late or 24/7, appealing the area to night owls. We recommend checking out Mustafa Centre for their affordable prices of daily necessities, Swee Choon Tim Sum to satiate your late-night cravings and Murugan Idli Shop for authentic South Indian fare.
