Living in Balestier: Heritage Homes for Modern Coliving
Balestier moves at its own pace. While the city accelerates around it, this historic neighbourhood holds steady. As one of Singapore’s oldest arterial roads, Balestier has long connected everyday life, trade, and domestic living. Today, that continuity defines its character.
Because of this layered history, Balestier offers a rare setting for boutique coliving in Singapore – one where heritage and modern life coexist naturally rather than by design.
At Figment, this balance shapes every decision. Instead of imposing a new identity, Figment works within Balestier’s existing rhythm to create homes that feel grounded, thoughtful, and quietly distinctive.
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A Neighbourhood Rooted in Daily Life
Balestier has always served residents first. Historically, it supported family homes, small businesses, and local industries. As a result, the area developed a strong residential backbone that still defines it today.
Moreover, Balestier remains deeply practical. Local eateries, neighbourhood shops, and long-standing services anchor daily routines. At the same time, the district offers strong connectivity via nearby MRT lines, making access to the city simple and direct.
Therefore, living in Balestier feels intentional. It suits residents who prefer continuity over novelty and substance over spectacle.
Shang House: A Figment Home in Balestier
In Balestier, Figment’s presence takes shape through Shang House, a carefully restored heritage shophouse that reflects the neighbourhood’s understated character.
Figment preserves the home’s original architectural structure while adapting it for contemporary living. Timber details, spatial proportions, and ventilation logic guide the layout. Meanwhile, modern amenities support daily comfort. Fast Wi-Fi enables remote work. Communal kitchens encourage shared routines. Integrated laundry spaces reduce friction in everyday life.
As a result, Shang House functions as both a private retreat and a shared living environment—an essential balance in Singapore coliving.
Design as a Total Work of Art
Figment curates Shang House as a total work of art. Design decisions move beyond aesthetics and extend into how residents live, gather, and rest.
Furniture prioritises longevity rather than trend. Everyday objects – ceramic mugs, wooden fixtures, and soft furnishings, often draw from local materials and makers. Consequently, the home reflects Singapore’s craft traditions as much as its architectural past.
In contrast to mass-produced interiors, Shang House feels authored. Each element contributes to a cohesive narrative shaped by place, material, and collaboration.
Living Between Heritage and Modern Comfort
Balestier supports both extended stays and short-term rentals because it balances familiarity with flexibility. On one hand, the neighbourhood offers stability and routine. On the other hand, it allows residents to settle quickly without feeling anonymous.
Figment designs rooms for comfort and clarity. Shared spaces invite interaction without obligation. Light changes throughout the day, and interiors respond with warmth rather than rigidity. Therefore, the home adapts to residents instead of asking residents to adapt to it.
This approach defines heritage stays that feel lived-in rather than preserved behind glass.
Balestier as a Way of Living
Choosing to live in Balestier reflects clarity. It suggests an appreciation for neighbourhood life, historical continuity, and design that serves daily needs.
Through boutique coliving, Figment offers homes that sit comfortably within this context. Shang House does not attempt to redefine Balestier. Instead, it listens to it and responds with care.
Ultimately, Balestier offers a form of living that feels increasingly rare in the city—rooted, practical, and quietly enduring. Figment’s role lies in preserving that spirit while shaping spaces for modern life.
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