Kapo Factory Building in Tai Seng
To most, Tai Seng is that slightly awkward MRT cousin slotted between bustling Serangoon station and blue-line gateway Macpherson. It’s also not the first neighbourhood that comes to mind for a weekend out.
But don’t count it out just yet – there’s a hidden industrial spot, Kapo Factory Building, that’s just a short distance away from Tai Seng MRT. It’s a creative hub brimming with stores where you can shop for unique gifts – definitely worth a visit.
What is Kapo Factory Building?
Built in the 1970s, Kapo Factory Building is nestled among other industrial buildings in the vicinity, so it’s easy to miss. Don’t let its ageing facade fool you – step inside and you’ll find a variety of businesses and trade, like an antique store and a mahjong tile business. Think quiet older brother of New Bahru.
How to get to Kapo Factory Building?
Hop on the train to Tai Seng MRT station, then take a quick 4-minute walk.
What to do at Kapo Factory
1. Open Door Store
Image credit: @open.door.store via Instagram
Founded by the visionaries behind Konstrukt Labs, Open Door Store is a 2-storey open concept space that is a safe haven for local artists to set up their businesses. If you missed out on Public Garden, head down for a mini creator market experience.
Image credit: @open.door.store via Instagram
The shop’s decor is a feast for the eyes, reminiscent of an old-school mama shop. Products range from affordable trinket pieces (from $12) to pricier apparel (from $40) to suit varying budgets.
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2. Treasure at Home
Image credit: @treasure_at_home via Instagram
Treasure at Home is a family-run vintage store that sells a collection of regional antiques – perfect for your next living room statement piece.
Fun fact: the shop is closed from Monday to Wednesday as the team jets off overseas to source unique finds, bringing in a carefully curated international collection.
Image credit: @treasure_at_home via Instagram
Antique shopping doesn’t have to be expensive – for the budget spenders, there are affordable pieces like matchstick boxes ($2). Or, if you’re up for a big-money purchase, there are Peranakan-style cabinets going for over $13,000.
3. Red Point Record Warehouse
Image credit: @badbadjeremy via Instagram
Even if you don’t own one of those swanky record players, Red Point Record Warehouse should still be on your Kapo Factory Building checklist. It houses one of the largest vinyl collections in Singapore, and sells cassette tapes and CDs.
Image credit: @doanddonot via Instagram
The store has amassed an impressive collection that includes modern movie soundtracks like Superman and 50s Rock ‘n’ Roll classics. So whether you’re a Gen Alpha or Gen Z, its doors are open to you.
If you need to listen to make a decision, try out their free-to-use vinyl players set up in-store for you to sample music.
4. Tatt by Lyds
Tatt by Lyds offers whimsical tattoo designs for those of you who are looking for something a little more playful. Check out tattooist Lydia’s flash designs on her Instagram if you’re short on customised ideas.
Image credit: @tattbylyds via Instagram
Her creations range from Studio Ghibli characters to even Squid Game references. Make sure you make a booking via Instagram before heading down.
Image credit: @tattbylyds via Instagram
If you’re not rushing to get some ink on your skin, don’t worry. There’s a sticker shop in Lydia’s studio featuring her flash designs, ranging from $2-$4.
Address: 80 Playfair Road, Block A, #04-01, Singapore 367998
5. Local Loco
Local Loco is an eclectic plant atelier selling exotic flora and rare plants to those dreaming of building their own Cloud Forest at home. Even if you have no idea what an Anthurium is, Local Loco welcomes you to have a look at their extensive curation of plants.
Image credit: @localoco via Instagram
The business also provides services like on-site plant consultation and rehabilitation if you suspect your plant won’t make it to next week.
Check out their online store for other products like fertilisers and mounting fibre boards.
6. Swee Huat Plastic Co.
Established in 1975, Sweet Huat Plastic Co. is a business packed with a rich history. The shop is mostly known for its specialisation in mahjong tiles but also sells Bicycle Playing cards, poker chips, and even mahjong tables.
Image credit: @stevenlah9988 via Instagram
Choose from a variety of mahjong tiles, including marble, sandwich, and full colour, or check out Swee Huat’s online catalogue for more information about their products. Chinese New Year may be over, but it’s never too late to start preparing for next year.
7. G Cycle
Image credit: @gcycle.sg via Instagram
G Cycle offers an extensive array of bicycles for anyone in the market for a fresh pair of wheels. There are plenty of options to choose from, including mountain bikes, road bikes, and foldable bikes. So whether you’re a casual or hardcore biker, there’s definitely something for you here. Hop onto G Cycle’s online store for a better idea of their offerings.
Visit Kapo Factory Building on your next gift hunt
This industrial building is surely a one-stop destination for novel gift shopping, thanks to its diverse range of local businesses. Its short distance from Tai Seng MRT makes it more than an ideal location, and if you’re hungry after gift hunting, it’s an easy 10-minute walk to 18 Taiseng or Breadtalk IHQ.
Other places to visit in Singapore:
Cover image adapted from: @treasure_at_home, @ryoami0131 & @open.door.store via Instagram