Shopping malls in Singapore offer convenience if you just want to pick up a t-shirt or a pair of shoes, but its offerings are getting too predictable. Then there’s Open Door Store, which isn’t a mall, but a collective of shops selling clothing and lifestyle goods. Here’s what to expect:
Don’t be mistaken. As much as we love pop-up flea markets, this ain’t just another event with rotating vendors. Both its warehouse space and stall owners are here to stay, which also means you don’t have to rush down as you can visit anytime within its opening hours. As the brainchild of Konstrukt Laboratories, Open Door provides a safe and dynamic space for local creators. Think gallery with local art you can take home with you.
This 2-storey factory building in Tai Seng has been neatly divided into 2 sections: the 1st floor houses most of the food stalls while the 2nd floor is where all the art goodies are.
Image credit: @open.door.store via Instagram
Upon entering the building, head up the stairs and you’ll be greeted by stores selling clothing and home decor. You’ll find an interesting use of familiar brands that have been repurposed into kitschy accessories like a Super Ring fanny pack and tees emblazoned with the green logo of Yaohan, the Don Don Donki of Singapore in the 1970s.
Image credit: @mocopops via Instagram
If you’re looking for trinkets and funky accessories to cop, we suggest thisisjz. Get yourself a Po Chai necklace ($25) to popcorn pins ($15) and you’ll walk out like a true blue Singaporean.
As for art prints and posters you can decorate your room with, check out Shrub and Van Han. Shrub has an array of art prints by local artists, including those from the popular meme page Highnunchicken. On the other hand, Van Han sells hand-drawn cartoons – some as fun-sized as Post-Its, so you can carry them wherever.
Rifling through racks burns up calories, but there’ll be no rumbling tummies while you’re here, when there’s a rotation of cafes that set up shop to sell their food and coffee.
For Open Door Store’s 1st Anniversary on 13th-14th July 2024, expect to get sushi trays from Uyami, Thai street food by Thai Kanok, and pastries and scones from 222 Bakehouse and The Scone Club. Join in the celebration over the weekend and you’ll also be treated to beers and exclusive gifts for the occasion.
Alight at Tai Seng MRT and leave through Exit A. Then, walk 6 minutes to Kapo Factory Building. Parking lots are available but limited, if you’re planning on driving. Rates are $0.70 for the first 30 minutes, and $1.10/hour thereafter from Monday to Saturday. However, if you come on Sunday, parking is set at $2 for the whole day and ends at 7am on Monday.
Whether you’re scouring for unique art prints for your home, gift shopping for friends, or simply looking for something fun this June, Open Door Store awaits you. Whenever you feel like it, head down to this new concept store just a 6-minute walk from Tai Seng. Follow their Instagram page as well for updates on when pop ups are happening.
Getting here: Alight at Tai Seng MRT and leave through Exit A. Then, walk 6 minutes to Kapo Factory Building.
Cover image adapted from: @open.door.store, @shrub.0128, @aqilahreads via Instagram
Originally published on 21st June 2023. Last updated by Raewyn Koh on 9th July 2024.
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