“Atbara” is what they called it back then. House No. 5, now known as the Forest Discovery Centre, stands before us. It whispers tales of colonial Singapore. Are you ready to step back in time?
House 5 is not just any building. It is Singapore’s oldest surviving colonial-era bungalow. It is a black-and-white beauty built in 1898. Imagine life here over a century ago.
This house is located within the Gallop Extension of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. The Gallop Extension expands the gardens to 82 hectares. This extension includes the Botanical Art Gallery, COMO Adventure Grove, and Mingxin Rambler’s Ridge.
Originally named Atbara, House 5 has transformed into the Forest Discovery Centre. It showcases Singapore’s diverse forest ecosystems. It highlights the importance of conservation. Through interactive displays, you can explore Singapore’s forests.
Note the Moorish cinquefoil arches supporting the elevated floor. There are also 30 round arches. These features have been carefully restored. They are integrated into the first storey.
Walk upstairs via the new ramp. It snakes through the back garden. Admire the century-old rooms. The rooms offer expansive views of the forests.
The Forest Discovery Centre @ OCBC Arboretum offers family-friendly displays. You can also watch videos about Singapore’s forest habitats. Learn about their unique flora and fauna. See a photographic installation of forest trees.
House 5 is more than just a building. It’s a journey through time. It’s a reminder of Singapore’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage. The National Parks Board has done a great job of conserving it.
Kay Ngee Tan Architects oversaw the conservation. They have won awards for their work. These awards include the URA Architectural Heritage Awards 2022 and the SIA Architectural Design Awards 2023.
The Gallop Extension is accessible via the Gallop Gate. You can reach it by taxi or MRT. The nearest MRT station is Botanic Gardens. From there, it is a 25-minute walk.
The Botanical Art Gallery is located in Gallop House No. 7. The gallery showcases the role of art in documenting plants.
COMO Adventure Grove offers children a place to play. They can swing, slide, and climb on structures inspired by trees.
Mingxin Foundation Rambler’s Ridge has a barrier-free path lined with trees. It may be a little tricky to get here.
So, as we stand here, let’s appreciate House 5. It is a testament to Singapore’s past and a beacon for its future. A future where nature and history intertwine. A future where conservation is key.