Emerald Hill

Overview

Emerald Hill is a quiet residential street just off the commercial bustle of Orchard Road, lined with over 100 beautifully preserved Peranakan terrace houses from the early 1900s. Their ornate facades — colourful ceramic tiles, carved timber doors, louvered shutters, and wrought-iron balconies — form one of Singapore's finest concentrations of Straits-Chinese architecture.

Highlights

• Peranakan Facades: Pastel-coloured houses with intricate plasterwork, Majolica tiles imported from Europe, and traditional pintu pagar (swinging timber doors).
• No. 77: One of the street's most photographed houses, with its deep blue tiles and carved pediment.
• Bar Scene: The lower end of the street hosts a cluster of low-key bars with outdoor seating under heritage shophouses.

History

Developed in the early 20th century by wealthy Peranakan families, the street was gazetted as a conservation area in 1981 — one of the first in Singapore. Many houses have since been meticulously restored, and the street was awarded the Urban Redevelopment Authority's Architectural Heritage Award.

Visitor Tips

• Walk up from Orchard Road: The street entrance is directly opposite ION Orchard.
• Evening drinks: The wine bars at the lower end are a local favourite after work.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.