When you think of Singapore, the things that come to mind immediately are its multi-cultural cuisine, swanky malls and high-rise residences. Amidst these, and in complete contrast, are its bold, bright and ornate shophouses. As the name suggests, these often two- to three-level buildings, have shops on the lower levels and residences above—they used to house the merchants and owners of these shops in the 19th century. They are an integral part of Singapore’s heritage, and for years now locals and foreign investors have been vying for a piece of that pie. The facade of the Shang House, a rental property marketed by Figment. Image: Ivan Tan, courtesy of Figment