Singapore’s robust creative community is increasingly finding homes in unconventional, intimate retail spaces, demonstrating that passion thrives outside of glossy storefronts. This burgeoning movement, characterized by highly curated “select shops” and micro-boutiques, aims to sustain local artistry, cultivate meaningful community interactions, and nudge the city’s cultural landscape forward. Among these unique ventures is Sideway, a recently opened craft and collectible shop tucked beside the bustling Tiong Bahru Market, offering a rotating collection of handcrafted goods, vintage finds, and literary zines.
The Rise of Singapore’s Intimate Boutiques
While known for its enormous malls and flagship stores, Singapore’s soul is increasingly visible in its smaller, quieter spaces. These micro-retail concepts forego large-scale commercial viability for intense personalization and authenticity.
This trend is not isolated. It follows in the footsteps of niche establishments like the 65-square-foot Eliko Picture Books & Collectibles in Chinatown Complex, which specializes in vintage picture books, or the beloved vintage clothing haven, Loop Garms. What unites these spaces is a commitment to fostering a local scene and building trust with patrons.
Sideway, located inside Tiong Bahru Market (#01-85), exemplifies this intimate approach. Described by founder Keneth Tan as a “select shop,” it features an ever-shifting assortment of functional pottery, artisanal accessories, and small printed media.
Sideway: A Rest Stop for Craft and Story
Sideway is the brainchild of Keneth Tan, a local photographer who transitioned into pottery. The shop’s name reflects its ethos: “a stall at the side of the walkway, one that you pass by in your everyday life, one that allows for interaction and space for rest,” Tan shared.
This philosophy translates into a deliberately informal setting designed to allow both established and emerging artists to co-exist. Tan sees Sideway not merely as a point of transaction, but as “a space where we share the love of craft, stories and objects.”
The inventory at Sideway offers a glimpse into a well-traveled, thoughtful life, often sourced from international explorations. Shoppers might discover small, everyday treasures like vintage fish dishes snagged from an Osaka flea market or paper-light hidasuki (a firing technique) dishes collected at Japan’s Bizenyaki Matsuri. Items range from bamboo coasters reminiscent of old Beppu arcades to specialized architecture zines.
Championing Local Artisans
Crucially, Sideway provides a dedicated platform to showcase and celebrate homegrown talent. The shop regularly features works from local ceramicists, including Hans Chew and xian things, alongside Tan’s own creations. By integrating these local pieces with carefully curated international finds, Sideway positions Singapore’s craft scene within a broader, global context of artisanal production.
Key Takeaways for Visitors:
- Focus on Ceramics and Literary Goods: Expect functional pottery (mugs, bowls, scent dishes) and small-run periodicals (zines).
- Highly Curated Selection: The stock constantly changes, offering a fresh experience with each visit.
- Support Local: The shop is a hub for emerging and established Singaporean ceramicists.
Sideway typically operates on most weekends from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. However, due to the flexible schedule inherent to micro-retail businesses, patrons should verify opening hours on the shop’s social media channels (@atthesideway on Instagram) before making the trip.
This quiet, yet impactful, rise of specialty shops underscores a deeper shift in Singaporean consumer desire, valuing quality, story, and community over sheer volume. These small spaces serve as crucial cultural anchors, securing territory for creativity in a rapidly evolving urban landscape.