Peranakan Tile Gallery Katong Singapore
A hidden gem celebrating Peranakan heritage with a unique collection of vibrant, retro tiles and knowledgeable staff.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more staff attention
Peranakan Tile Gallery Katong Singapore
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more staff attention
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden gem celebrating Peranakan heritage with a unique collection of vibrant, retro tiles and knowledgeable staff.
"A must-visit to connect with a unique part of Singapore's cultural identity. "
Ask About Tile Origins
Engage staff to learn the stories behind the tiles; their passion is infectious!
Manage Price Expectations
Tiles are priced as antiques; consider if the value aligns with your budget.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.3 · 96 reviews
Type
Store
Website
asterbykyra.sgHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Peranakan Tile Collection
Discover hundreds of vibrant, retro-style tiles, claimed to be salvaged antiques. A visual feast of unique patterns and cultural heritage.
Cultural Heritage Insights
Learn about the history and significance of Peranakan tile designs from enthusiastic and informed staff.
Unique Home Decor
Find one-of-a-kind tiles and collectibles that blend traditional patterns with modern aesthetics for your home.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Authenticity & Pricing
Engage with Staff
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ask About Tile Origins
Engage staff to learn the stories behind the tiles; their passion is infectious!
Manage Price Expectations
Tiles are priced as antiques; consider if the value aligns with your budget.
Explore Chinatown
The gallery is a hidden gem within the vibrant Chinatown district.
Unique Souvenirs
Look for distinctive tiles and homeware as memorable gifts.
Tips
from all over the internet
Ask About Tile Origins
Engage staff to learn the stories behind the tiles; their passion is infectious!
Manage Price Expectations
Tiles are priced as antiques; consider if the value aligns with your budget.
Explore Chinatown
The gallery is a hidden gem within the vibrant Chinatown district.
Unique Souvenirs
Look for distinctive tiles and homeware as memorable gifts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Peranakan Tile Gallery for its unique collection of vibrant, retro tiles and the passionate, knowledgeable staff who share fascinating stories. It's considered a hidden gem celebrating Singapore's cultural heritage. However, some guests question the authenticity and high prices of the 'salvaged antique' tiles, with one reviewer noting evasive responses when inquiring further. +1
"This company hails from Indonesia—a tile manufacturer. The catty and flamboyant seller there will put on his simpering smile and approach you to make small talk, introduce their tiles, etc. But once he detects you have some knowledge and interest in tiles origin and history or you demonstrate an active and inquisitive mind about some of their tiles' origin, he will suddenly turn defensive and evasive—immediately cut the conversation short with some random offhand curt remark and then scuttle away—even though you were polite, humble with your own partial knowledge of tiles and did not assume to know better or more than him. Trying to learn more about their tiles, you only asked one or two questions—and he became immediately on edge because you demonstrated genuine curiosity and perhaps, a little more insight to some of their tiles than what he was prepared or willing to acknowledge.
Tiles displayed on their browsing panels appeared to be in pristine condition, and there were hundreds of them—all squeaky clean, undamaged and almost spanking new—in numerous designs of uniform size with identical pieces all channeling the same retro style and vibe. He claimed all of them were at least 100 years old salvaged antiques pried from walls of demolished old houses. Their high prices were supposed or implied to reflect that.
Whatever you say, babe!
I have seen such tiles on old gravestones in the local Bukit Brown Cemetery, large parts of which—more than 4000 graves—have been exhumated and demolished a decade ago to give way to construction of the eight-lane Lornie Highway south of MacRitchie Reservoir."
Aeranthos
"Peranakan Tiles Gallery (娘惹砖家) is a hidden gem in Chinatown that celebrates the rich heritage of Peranakan design through beautifully crafted tiles, homeware, and collectibles. The shop is small but full of character, offering a curated selection that blends traditional patterns with modern sensibilities.
What really stood out for me was the friendly, passionate staff who were more than happy to share the stories behind the tiles and the cultural significance of the designs. Their warmth and knowledge added so much to the experience. A definite 5 out of 5 — a must-visit not just in Chinatown, but for anyone looking to connect with a unique part of Singapore’s cultural identity."
C
"I came to this shop to just browse but I was very enthusiastically welcomed by the friendly staff who explained the history and manufacturing behind the Peranakan tiles. I love that this business started out of passion for the tiles from a collector. Aside from a shop it’s also a mini museum. Well worth a visit!"
T N
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Peranakan Tile Gallery is located in the vibrant Katong district. You can reach it via public transport, with several bus services stopping nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from the nearest MRT station, though it might take around 15-20 minutes. Consider using ride-sharing services for direct access.
Parking in the Katong area can be challenging. While some street parking might be available, it's often limited. It's advisable to check for nearby public parking lots or consider using public transport to avoid parking hassles.
Information on accessibility for wheelchairs is not widely available. Given it's a smaller gallery, it's best to contact them directly to inquire about ramp access or any potential limitations.
Opening hours can vary, and it's recommended to check their official social media or website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Generally, they are open during business hours on weekdays and weekends.
Absolutely! The gallery is situated in Katong, known for its rich Peranakan heritage, delicious food, and charming shophouses. You can easily combine your visit with exploring the Katong neighborhood, trying local food, or visiting nearby heritage sites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Peranakan Tile Gallery is typically free. It operates more like a boutique showroom and a mini-museum where you can browse and learn about the tiles.
No, there is no admission fee to enter the Peranakan Tile Gallery. Visitors are welcome to explore the collection and learn about the heritage without any charge.
Yes, the gallery offers a curated selection of Peranakan tiles and related homeware for sale. These are often unique pieces, making them ideal for collectors or those looking for distinctive decor.
While not always advertised widely, it's worth checking their social media or contacting them directly for any upcoming events or special displays that might be happening during your visit.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but it's always a good idea to be respectful of other visitors and the displayed items. If you plan to take professional photos, it's best to inquire with the staff beforehand.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire gallery is a visual delight! Focus on the intricate patterns of the tiles displayed on the walls and browsing panels. The vibrant colors and retro designs make for stunning close-ups and wider shots showcasing the collection.
Yes, personal photography is usually allowed. The unique Peranakan tile designs are very Instagrammable! Tagging the gallery in your posts is a great way to share your experience and support their work.
While personal photography is generally fine, avoid using flash if it might disturb other visitors or damage delicate items. For commercial photography, always seek permission from the gallery management.
Natural light is often best. If the gallery is well-lit, try to capture the texture and detail of the tiles. Experiment with different angles to highlight the patterns and colors. A good smartphone camera can capture excellent shots.
Look at other visitors' photos on social media platforms like Instagram by searching for relevant hashtags. This can give you ideas for compositions and highlight specific tiles that are particularly photogenic.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Katong area is a food paradise! You'll find numerous eateries offering delicious local Singaporean cuisine, especially Peranakan dishes. From hawker centers to charming cafes, there's something for every palate.
Katong is famous for its authentic Peranakan cuisine, including dishes like Laksa, Nasi Lemak, and Kueh (traditional cakes). You'll also find a variety of Chinese, Malay, and Indian food options.
It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the gallery to keep the tiles and the space clean. There are usually designated areas or plenty of cafes nearby where you can enjoy your meal.
Many visitors rave about the Katong Laksa. Explore the local shophouses and ask locals for their favorite spots. The area is known for its authentic and flavorful food experiences.
It's an ideal stop before or after a meal. You can immerse yourself in the cultural experience of the tiles, then reward yourself with the diverse culinary offerings Katong is famous for.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit