Furnishing your home is an intimate journey, a labor of love and investment of time that transforms a space into a personal sanctuary. Most homeowners start with an aesthetic that sets the mood they desire. Whether it’s minimalist, coastal, or mid-century modern, it usually begins with selecting a color palette, materials, and elements that create a cohesive theme throughout the space. But what truly makes a house a home? It’s the trinkets that hold sentimental value—cherished items that evoke fond memories. Picture a childhood toy that now sits decoratively on a shelf, or a wonky piece of handmade pottery repurposed as a desk catchall. Or perhaps second-hand furniture turning into a family heirloom inherited from your grandparents’ home. These treasured artifacts do more than embellish your space; they imbue it with the essence of personal heritage, creating an atmosphere that makes the space feel like it’s yours.
Embracing locally designed furniture adds another layer of storytelling to your home. By selecting Singapore-inspired items, you’re not just enhancing your dwellings with culturally rich designs but also supporting the artisans who weave their heritage into every creation. Whether it’s a cup that resembles the familiar one from a Kopitiam or contemporary furniture inspired by a local dessert, these items are meaningful additions to any room. They remind us of home and of childhood. More than mere decorations—they are artifacts of a shared cultural narrative, weaving Singapore’s motif into the very fabric of your space. Below, discover Vogue Singapore’s picks of Singapore-inspired homeware to welcome a local edge into your humble abode.
1.
Mazha stool:
This chic, versatile piece transcends mere practicality. Perfect as extra seating, a footrest, or a stylish portable side table, it’s a modern reinterpretation of an enduring Chinese social tradition. Designed to embody the communal spirit of afternoon tea in the city, its compact and portable design makes it effortlessly adaptable to any home. ($195, available at Tanchen Studio)2.
Chrysanthemum plates:
Symbolising longevity and vitality, a chrysanthemum-inspired porcelain plate seamlessly blends tradition with elegance. Perfect for elevating everyday meals or special gatherings, this stylish piece adds a touch of cultural sophistication to your kitchenware collection. ($65, available at Sojao)3.
Kopibag mug:
For those familiar, it’s no surprise that a ‘da bao’ order at the hawker centre will likely come in a plastic bag, as opposed to a cup. Bring back Kopitiam style with a mug designed to hold your coffee bag for when you can’t hang your daily brew, a modern-day solution to an old-fashioned coffee tradition. ($30, available at Spectrumstore)4.
Peranakan tile wallpaper:
Inspired by the intricate patterns of Joo Chiat’s preserved Peranakan shophouses, this wallpaper offers a sophisticated nod to the legacy of Singapore’s most iconic interiors without the expense of traditional tiles. (from $130, available at Onlewo)5.
Chinese ceramic drums:
Let these Chinese ceramic drum stools transport you back to the charm of your childhood home. Adorned with floral motifs and coin-shaped cut-outs, they offer both versatility and style, serving as stools or elegant side tables. These antique pieces add a personal touch, echoing the charm of a classic Singaporean abode. ($350, available at Just Anthony)6.
Ketupat Candle:
Inspired by the beloved Malay delicacy savoured during Hari Raya, this candle captures the fragrant essence of rice, pandan, and coconut milk. With each flicker, let the irresistible scent of ‘Ketupat’ transport you to joyful gatherings and cherished moments with loved ones. Perfect for your kitchen, office, or living room, this candle envelops your space in a familiar warmth. ($44, available at Hyang)7.
