“Breathtaking,” you might say, describing Beulah House’s unique architecture. This isn’t just any building. It’s a testament to Singapore’s architectural heritage. Beulah House stands as a conserved bungalow on Gilstead Road.
Let’s delve into the story of Beulah House. The authorities initially approved plans for a single-storey bungalow here on October 14, 1919. A revised plan came on November 24. It included two two-storey bungalows and workers’ quarters. Beulah House was likely built between 1919 and 1920. Florence Boudewyn was the developer. One bungalow was demolished later. It made way for high-rise apartments. The other became an eye clinic for decades. The remaining bungalow had many unauthorized extensions over the years.
Notice the Edwardian Baroque style. It was common in Singapore before Art Deco became popular. The asymmetrical building features a turret. It has a conical roof with fish-scale clay tiles. The turret also showcases ornate dentils and relief mouldings. The ground floor has semi-circular arches. These arches feature keystones. Plaster panels add to the charm with mouldings and cornices.
Now, imagine the year 1990. The Life Bible-Presbyterian Church bought Beulah House. The church sought this property for decades. They envisioned it as an expansion of church activities. In 1992, the church got approval to use Beulah House as a hostel.
Beulah House was gazetted for conservation on May 19, 2003. The church restored the building later. They removed the alterations and reinstated original features. These features included terrazzo flooring. They replaced broken tiles with identical ones from Vietnam. The church renamed it Beulah House. Today, it serves as a venue for the church’s supplementary activities.
Consider the recognition it received. The Urban Redevelopment Authority awarded the restoration project with the Architectural Heritage Award in 2009.
Take a moment to appreciate its earthy color tone. Beulah House and the church across the road stand out. They contrast against the high-rise glass buildings. They continue to mark the entrance of Gilstead Road. Beulah House, once an eye clinic, now stands as a testament to faith. It is also a beautiful piece of Singapore’s architectural history for everyone.