Buildings in these historic areas were first developed as residences for the well-to-do. They have traditionally been in continuous use as residences for individual families. One example is Blair Plain, which lies at the South-Western edge of Chinatown.
Blair Plain
Its two to three-storey shophouses and residential homes of various architectural styles are representative of the various designs used in Singapore, ranging from the Early and up to the Modern shophouse style.
They are a reminder of the prestige of the area in the 1930s, when Peranakan families and wealthy merchants built houses in a mix of Chinese, Malay and European styles. To accomodate modern day needs as a family home, an extension at the rear of the house is allowed in this area.
Emerald Hill and Cairnhill
Emerald Hill and Cairnhill are historic areas that are located near the crowded Downtown Core offering an attractive and quiet residential presence. The predominately two-storey terrace houses built over 90 years ago showcase a variety of architectural styles ranging from Transitional to Art Deco. Units in Emerald Hill are allowed to add an extension at their rear to accommodate the modern day needs of a family home. However, the rear extension must be lower than the eaves of the main roof.