The Chinatown Business Association (CBA) has announced plans to revitalize Smith Street, blending tradition with modernity to celebrate Singapore’s rich heritage. Following its successful tender to transform shophouses from 11 to 37 Smith Street, CBA aims to create a dynamic cultural hub that attracts both locals and visitors.
The revitalization will introduce an experiential studio, a co-living space, and five new food and beverage (F&B) tenants, reinforcing Smith Street’s role as the “Cultural Heart” of Chinatown. Guided by the theme of “Xi” (happiness), the project seeks to bring joy through culinary, artistic, and immersive experiences. Among the highlights is a studio Elegance of Nanyang (衣韵南洋) where visitors can rent a kebaya for photo-taking, adding a unique cultural touch to the area.
Smith Street has long been known for its culinary heritage and traditional trades, including the now-defunct Chinatown Food Street, which closed in 2021. This rejuvenation project is set to restore its former vibrancy, driving greater footfall and ensuring Chinatown remains a must-visit destination for years to come.