Memories of Old Singapore

Uncover nuggets of history at Katong Square Antique Centre, where visitors can find unique vintage and thrifted items

- Yamini Chinnuswamy

In the heart of Joo Chiat, there are historical treasures to be discovered. Not just the colourful shophouses in Koon Seng Road or The Intan museum, although these are important cultural landmarks.

The atrium of Katong Square in East Coast Road is also a place of heritage, housing a cosy daily bazaar with an array of vintage and thrifted items.

The mall hosts a flea market every first and third weekend of the month, and has done so since 2016. Called Katong Square Antique Centre (KSAC), the atrium bazaar was opened in December 2023 and is a fixed installation that the public can visit any day from noon till 8pm.

"We were inspired by the antique centre concept overseas, such as in Europe, where a group of collectors come together to front a single space divided into smaller stalls and sections," says Mr Gary Tan, a 55-year-old bank officer who founded the antique centre and collects everything from gramophones to airline trolleys.