House of Tan Yeok Nee Presents ‘Homecoming' - A Teochew Celebration

This October, Karim Family Foundation unveils a new chapter for the House of Tan Yeok Nee, Singapore’s last-surviving traditional Teochew mansion. Once the private residence of Teochew merchant Tan Yeok Nee, the National Monument has been carefully restored, and for the first time in more than 140 years, will reopen in its renewed form as a cultural and heritage destination, welcoming the public to experience its architecture, heritage, and reimagined role in contemporary Singapore.

As part of its grand opening, the public is invited to explore the House during its opening weekend on 1–2 November 2025 10am to 7pm, through a line-up of curated activities over the two days, including:

Both Days, 10am to 7pm

• Mini Teochew Food Festival: A food showcase featuring both traditional delicacies and contemporary interpretations of Teochew fare, celebrating a cuisine deeply intertwined with the House’s heritage. Highlights include Chef Ivan Yeo’s braised specialties, Ah Ma’s Legacy’s twist on traditional desserts, Yoon’s Traditional Kuehs, artisanal teas from LimCha’s Teahouse Cafe and Teochew sauces by SGCulturedBoi.

• Immersive Heritage Gallery: The new gallery offers a closer look at the House showcasing its architecture, craftsmanship, and conservation journey - revealing how over 140 years of history have shaped the House into the cultural treasure it is today. Within the gallery, the Artist-in-Residence programme debuts with Singaporean artist Tan Ngiap Heng (陈业兴)—great-great-grandson of Tan Yeok Nee—presenting two series that explore ancestry and identity.

• Photography Exhibition: Presented by the Teochew Sim Clan, this exhibition captures Huamei ancestral village and San Guo Wang temple, documenting the decline of ancestral homes and providing current-generation Teochews insight into their forefathers’ journeys south.

Both Days, Select Timings

• Guided Tours: Led by docents from the Society of Tourist Guides (Singapore), these tours will provide visitors with an introduction to the history, heritage, and architectural features of the House. [Tours run both days at 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 6pm. 30 mins per session. Additional sign-up required]

• Orchestra of the Music Makers will present a five-piece brass ensemble that will fill the House with its vibrant soundscape. [410-430pm]

• Artist-in-Residence Tan Ngiap Heng Led Tour: Artist-in Residence will host an intimate guided tour of the gallery. [430-5pm. Additional sign-up required]

• Dance Ensemble Singapore: One of Singapore's most active Chinese cultural dance groups and one of the Foundation’s beneficiaries, will present a themed dance performance that spans the property’s courtyards. [5-540pm]

Saturday 1 Nov Only Programmes

• Urban Sketchers Sketchwalk: A local community of artists will be capturing the architectural details of the House through live sketching. All are welcome to bring their own sketching materials and participate. [10am-1pm. Additional sign-up required]

• Artist-in-Residence Tan Ngiap Heng's Chlorophyll Printing Lecture Demonstration: Artist-in Residence will host a chlorophyll printing lecture demonstration on using the sun to make print on live leaves. [3-4pm. Additional sign-up required]

Sunday 2 Nov Only Programmes

• Urban Sketchers Kids Workshop: Urban Sketchers will also host a small group workshop for kids aged `10 and above, which will be a mix of theory followed by outdoor sketching. [10am-1pm. Additional sign-up required]

• Architecture Panel: House of Tan Yeok Nee: A deep dive into the architectural heritage of the House, exploring the restoration journey and the meticulous craftsmanship behind its conservation. Featuring panellists Ian Choo, Project Manager at Invictus Developments and Ar. Ziggy Chua, Director at DP Architects. [3-4pm]

Programmes that indicate 'additional sign-up required' will need an add-on ticket after the General Admission Ticket. Please select the add-ons that fall within your selected timeslot.

Programme timings are subject to change and will be updated on the Eventbrite page. Follow our social media channels (IG: @houseoftyn; FB: House of Tan Yeok Nee) for the latest event updates.

About House of Tan Yeok Nee

Dating back to the late 19th century, the House of Tan Yeok Nee was built by Teochew towkay (businessman) Tan Yeok Nee and stands today as Singapore’s last traditional Chinese courtyard mansion. Gazetted as a National Monument in 1974 and awarded the URA Architectural Heritage Award in 2001, it began a new chapter in 2022 under the stewardship of the Karim Family Foundation. Today, it is being restored and reimagined as a living heritage destination for arts & culture, architecture, and community.

Welcome Guidelines for Visitors:

1. Respect designated areas: Always stay within marked pathways and approved visitor areas.

2. Maintain a respectful atmosphere: Keep noise to a minimum level, especially in quieter zones. Speak courteously to others and enjoy the space peacefully.

3. Be considerate to others: Share the space thoughtfully. Allow fellow visitors to enjoy the exhibits and surroundings without obstruction.

4. Respect our staff: Please treat them with kindness and respect.

5. Enjoy with care: Help us preserve our heritage by refraining from touching any exhibits, artifacts, or displays unless clearly permitted. Avoid leaning on walls, pillars, railings, or any part of the building’s historic structure to prevent damage.

6.Smoking and vaping: Strictly prohibited within all indoor and outdoor areas of the venue.

7. Trolleys & motorised vehicles: Due to the heritage flooring and limited accessibility, trolleys, buggies, and personal motorised mobility devices are not allowed.

8. Capture the moment: No flash photography is allowed in the Heritage Gallery.

9. Keep it clean: Please use the designated bins to dispose of any waste. Let’s keep this space beautiful for everyone.

10. Pets & service animals: While we love animals, unfortunately, they are not permitted on the premises.

Your cooperation helps protect the House of Tan Yeok Nee and ensures that this cultural gem can continue to inspire future generations. We hope you enjoy your visit to the Teochew Heritage Showcase.

Disclaimer and Safety

1. Participants acknowledge responsibility for their own safety and belongings, as well as for any children under their care during the tour.

2. Organizers take all reasonable precautions but shall not be held liable for injuries, losses, or damages resulting from personal actions or negligence.

Privacy Consent

By submitting your personal details for this event, you consent to the collection and use of your information in accordance with our Privacy Policy - Karim Group.

Photo credits to Darren Soh