What secrets does a mansion hold when it stands abandoned amidst the bustling energy of Orchard Road? This is the Former Chee Guan Chiang / Wellington House. It whispers tales of a bygone era, a stark contrast to the modern cityscape. The Former Chee Guan Chiang / Wellington House, also known as Wellington House, stands as a testament to a time when Art Deco architecture reigned supreme. Built in 1938, this mansion was commissioned by Chee Guan Chiang, son of the OCBC Group’s first chairman, Chee Swee Cheng. Its architect, Ho Kwong Yew, also the mastermind behind Haw Par Villa, infused the house with the stylish flourishes of the era.
The name “Wellington” wasn’t chosen for any connection to the famous Duke. Instead, it was inspired by the auspicious sound of “well,” resonating with the idea of wealth and good fortune. Look closely, and you can still see the initials “WH” etched into the iron balustrades that adorn the verandas and the grand staircase within. The house was designed for lavish parties, boasting a grand staircase, spacious halls, and once-manicured lawns. Imagine the clinking of champagne glasses and the rustle of silk gowns during those glamorous gatherings. Large, green-tinted windows curve along the building’s facade, offering a glimpse into the now-overgrown interior.
However, the Chee family’s time at Wellington House was short-lived. The outbreak of World War II forced them to flee Singapore in 1941, leaving the mansion empty. After the war, it was reborn as Leonie House, a guest house for travelers. Later, under new management in 1964, it became the New Leonie Guest House. But its glory days were numbered.
A legal battle over the land began in 1973, further complicating the Former Chee Guan Chiang / Wellington House’s fate. Lee Tat Development acquired three of the four houses on the property. Grange Heights condominium purchased the fourth, sparking a decades-long dispute over access rights to the road passing through the property. Though Lee Tat eventually won the case in 2008, the house remained abandoned, falling into disrepair. Despite its prime location and a reported value of $425 million in 2007, the Former Chee Guan Chiang / Wellington House stands silent, a forgotten treasure. The iron gates and warning signs now surrounding the property add to its air of mystery. The Former Chee Guan Chiang / Wellington House serves as a poignant reminder of time’s relentless march and the ephemeral nature of even the grandest dreams. It is a place where history and urban legend intertwine, a hidden gem in the heart of Singapore.