25/06/2026
Can you guess what this is?
It may look like part of a tree, but it is actually a rainwater downpipe, partly hidden in the wall.
Made with traditional Teochew plaster of oyster shells, rice, fibres, and other natural ingredients, this small detail turns function into craft.
20/06/2026
At the entrance, it stands like a quiet guardian.
Believed to protect the home, ward off negative energy, and invite good fortune, its bold features carry more than ornament. In its prominent forehead and expressive form are wishes deeply rooted in Teochew culture — protection, prosperity, and family watched over across generations.
18/06/2026
Take a moment to look at the columns.
The T-Shaped Column, or 屐首 (jī shǒu), is a subtle signature of Teochew architecture. With two beams resting above the column, its bold “T” shape turns structure into something graceful — a small mark of craft holding the house together.
13/06/2026
Even the roof has its little moments of beauty.
The gold-gilded fascia boards sit just beneath the roof, carved into timber that protects the rafters underneath. What could have been purely utilitarian becomes part of the house’s beauty.
10/06/2026
You’ll spot this phoenix in more than one corner of the house.
In Teochew culture, the phoenix carries wishes of grace, harmony, and good fortune. Placed among floral motifs and bright roof details, it becomes more than decoration. A small symbol of blessing, woven into the architecture.
08/06/2026
Stories are felt differently when you walk through them. From 12 June 2026, House of Tan Yeok Nee begins its Guided Tours, inviting visitors to step inside and experience the House up close.
Held monthly in English and Mandarin, each tour offers a closer look at the stories, details, and craft held within its walls.
Admission is free, with advance booking required. Bookings open on 8 June, with more slots to be released as the year unfolds.
English Tour: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Mandarin Tour: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Book through the link in bio.
27/05/2026
At the entrance of the House of Tan Yeok Nee, dragonfish corbels (鳌鱼, áo yú) mark the corners of the structure. These hybrid creatures symbolise strength, transformation, and the ability to overcome obstacles. Traditionally, they were believed to protect the home, while also showcasing the artistry and meaning woven into Teochew architectural design.