NUS Baba House

NUS Baba House is one of the most popular cultural icons in Singapore, and is one of the best-preserved heritage homes of the Peranakan culture. The house, which was built in the 1890s, gives visitors a glimpse into the life and times of an affluent family during that time.

This townhouse was once the ancestral home of a Peranakan Chinese family, before it was acquired by the National University of Singapore (NUS), hence the name given to the home. The house was then refurbished and extensive restoration done to ensure that it remains as close as possible to the original home, including all its fittings.

After this restoration, the house was officially opened to the public in 2008, and continues to attract visitors from all over the island. For anyone who would like to walk back in time and find out what life was like in the early 20th century for members of this family, then a walk through NUS Baba House is the perfect way to do it.

This is not only an eye-opening cultural tour, it also makes one appreciate the rich heritage of this Chinese group. Look out for the intricate designs inside the house, ranging from the carved motifs to the door screens and elaborate ornamentation that adorns the house.

These rich glimpses also feature an array of artefacts that are among the 2000 items collected and showcased on the house’s first and second floors. If you love art and culture, you will be excited to enjoy the temporary exhibitions that are held on the third floor. This gallery is an amazing public space that displays antique and decorative items from the Peranakan culture.

Planning a visit to NUS Baba House? It is important to note that visits are strictly by appointment only and advance bookings must be made. Free heritage tours are offered five times each week, and the house remains closed on all public holidays. Appointments can be made online. NUS Baba House is located on 157 Neil Road, and is easily accessible from the Outram Park MRT Station.