Best second-hand furniture stores in Singapore
Save dollars and the planet by shopping sustainably at these second-hand home décor hotspots
Text: Akhila N
As we’ve all been spending more time at home, some of us are itching to create fresh interest by revamping our living space with charming second-hand furniture to help beat the cabin fever. There’s a multitude of unique furniture pieces out there and by buying second-hand it’s so much more ethical and sustainable for the planet. From the sleekness of the art deco era to quaint, bright Chinese dressers, these pre-loved furniture stores in Singapore are gold mines that are waiting to be explored.
Credit: China Collection
At the heart of Joo Chiat lies China Collection, a quaint little shop that seeks to restore traditional and heritage Chinese design. Pieces from the shop are both authentic and classical, yet remain practical and affordable for all. Here you will find a curated collection of antique and vintage furniture, decorative porcelain, stoneware, bronze-ware, table lamps, and a wide assortment of decorative accessories that will leave you feeling like you’ve collected a little bit of history. Do remember to ask the owners for the story behind each piece as they love to share more about the history of Chinese porcelain to interested parties.
China Collection, 252 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427506
Credit: Noden
Are you an ardent lover of Scandinavian furniture and want something beyond Ikea?
Then you’ll adore Noden, a treasure trove of authentic Scandi classics from the 1940s to the 1970s, carefully sourced by the owners on their Eastern European holidays. The range includes unique designer offerings and handpicked rare items to add a bit of minimalism to your bedroom or living room, so don’t be surprised to purchase items on a whim as they are known to sell out quickly.
Noden, #02-02, 211 Henderson Road, Singapore 159552
Credit: Lorgan’s the Retro Store
Stacked up to the rooftop with home decor and knick-knacks from yesteryear, you will find yourself maneuvering your way around a maze filled with ashtrays from the ‘40s, cantilever dining chairs from the '70s, tin toy cars from the ‘80s, an Eames-era iconic chair and an over-the-top chaise longue – all the while trying not to knock over prodding cylindrical lamps. There's something for everyone: the old folks will be reminiscing about the good ol' days and the young ones, well they'll marvel at the sustainable second-hand décor on offer.
Lorgan’s The Retro Store, #02-07, Orion@Paya Lebar, 160 Paya Lebar Road, Singapore 409022
Credit: Hock Siong & Co.
Given its beginning as a Karang Guni (rag and bones) business, Hock Siong & Co.'s owners are well-versed in the art of selecting and reselling eye-catching products of high quality. A trip to this charmingly disorganised space is an adventure in itself as you will be treated to an expansive range of pieces. It doesn’t matter whether you’re looking for quirky decoratives, an elegant set of French-styled drawers or even a simple dining table, Hock Siong & Co. has a piece of the past for everyone.
Hock Siong & Co., 153 Kampong Ampat, #01-03 Junjie Industrial Building, Singapore 368326
Credit: Just Anthony
Another necessary spot to visit if you’re hoping to add a piece of Chinese history to your home. Just Anthony offers a gorgeous collection of intrinsically carved cabinets and tables as well as exquisite hand-painted sideboards, among other antique furniture from different parts of China. Each piece is brought back from regular trips to China, holding their own unique design which makes them perfect for adding a little character to your living space. Apart from these, they also offer accessories, such as garden stools or vases, that hold true to traditional Chinese concepts but have a modern twist added to them for those who would like a more contemporary design.
Just Anthony, 379 Upper Paya Lebar Road, Singapore 534972
