Shophouse Renovation Singapore
Restore and renovate Singapore's heritage shophouses with care and expertise. Navigate URA conservation guidelines while creating functional modern spaces that honor architectural heritage.
Get Shophouse Renovation QuotesS$150-400
Per sqft range
12-24 weeks
Typical Timeline
URA
Compliance
Heritage
Expertise
Types of Shophouse Renovation
Conservation Shophouses
URA-gazetted conservation properties requiring strict guideline adherence.
- • Facade retention
- • Interior restoration
- • Heritage features
- • URA submissions
S$200-400 per sqft
Commercial Shophouses
Ground floor commercial use - retail, F&B, or office.
- • Retail conversion
- • F&B fit-out
- • Office space
- • Mixed-use design
S$150-350 per sqft
Rear Extension
Adding space at the rear while preserving front facade.
- • New construction
- • Structural work
- • Modern additions
- • Planning approval
S$250-450 per sqft
Full Restoration
Complete heritage restoration bringing shophouse to original glory.
- • Facade restoration
- • Original features
- • Period details
- • Conservation grade
S$300-500 per sqft
Adaptive Reuse
Converting shophouses for modern commercial use while preserving character.
- • Change of use
- • Modern amenities
- • Heritage integration
- • M&E upgrades
S$180-380 per sqft
Interior Only
Interior renovation without facade or structural changes.
- • Interior fit-out
- • No facade work
- • Simpler approvals
- • Faster timeline
S$120-280 per sqft
URA Conservation Guidelines
What Must Be Preserved
- ● Main Roof: Original roof form and material to be retained
- ● Front Facade: External appearance including windows, doors, ornaments
- ● Five-Foot Way: Covered walkway at ground level must remain
- ● Rear Elevation: Original rear facade where visible
What Can Be Modified
- ✓ Interior Layout: Internal partitions can be reconfigured
- ✓ M&E Systems: Modern electrical, plumbing, HVAC can be added
- ✓ Rear Addition: Extensions possible with approval
- ✓ Rooftop: Some additions possible within guidelines
Important: URA Written Permission Required
All renovation works on conservation shophouses require URA Written Permission before commencement. Allow 4-8 weeks for approval process. Work with contractors experienced in conservation projects.
Shophouse Renovation Cost Guide
| Project Type | Cost Per Sqft | Timeline | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Only | S$120-280 | 8-12 weeks | No facade work, simpler URA process |
| Commercial Conversion | S$150-350 | 12-16 weeks | Change of use, F&B/retail fit-out |
| Conservation Restoration | S$200-400 | 16-24 weeks | Heritage features, skilled craftsmen |
| Full Restoration + Extension | S$300-500 | 20-30 weeks | Structural work, new construction |
*Shophouse renovation costs are typically higher than standard commercial due to heritage requirements, specialized materials, and skilled labor.
Ready to Renovate Your Shophouse?
Get free quotes from shophouse renovation specialists with conservation expertise.
Get Free QuotesShophouse Renovation FAQs
How do I know if my shophouse is conservation-gazetted?
Check the URA Space website or contact URA directly. Conservation areas include Chinatown, Kampong Glam, Little India, Boat Quay, and many other historic districts. The conservation status affects what renovation is permitted.
Can I install air-conditioning in a conservation shophouse?
Yes, but outdoor units must be positioned to be not visible from the street. This usually means placing them at the rear or on the roof with proper screening. The design must be approved by URA.
Why is shophouse renovation more expensive?
Higher costs come from: specialized heritage materials, skilled craftsmen for restoration work, longer approval timelines, structural complexities of old buildings, and the need to preserve original features while adding modern amenities.
How long does URA approval take?
URA Written Permission typically takes 4-8 weeks for straightforward projects. Complex restoration or change of use applications may take longer. Allow additional time for any revisions required by URA.