Singapore’s iconic Bugis Street shopping strip has unveiled a fully reimagined Level 2, transforming rows of conventional retail stalls into a lifestyle hub anchored by local brands, hands-on workshops, and creative studios. The overhaul, which opened in late July, rebrands the aging shopping hotspot as a destination for thrift hunters, craft enthusiasts, and digital creators. The new space operates daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., with some anchor venues opening later in the afternoon.
Curated thrift meets creator studios
At the heart of the refresh is Somewhere @ Bugis Street, a new concept from Invade—the team behind Artbox and Fleawhere. This 10,000-square-foot zone combines curated thrift shopping, independent labels, and interactive installations. Visitors will find podcast recording rooms, creator studios, turntable stations, and a lounge area designed for spontaneous hangouts. The space opens daily at 1 p.m., catering to the late-afternoon and evening crowd.
Homegrown brands debut physical outposts
Beyond the anchor space, Level 2 has welcomed a wave of Singaporean firsts. Stationery and lifestyle brand Ruby Merlot opens its debut brick-and-mortar store, offering signature journals and bags alongside junk journaling workshops and community crafting sessions. Creamie Sippies, known as Singapore’s first matcha mill café, introduces a customisable banana pudding bar where customers can layer toppings, sauces, and mini drinks.
For those seeking hands-on retail therapy, White Pixies claims the city’s first dedicated “Candle Bar,” hosting workshops to pour custom candles, craft perfume balm charms, and experiment with fragrances. Meanwhile, Standard Photo Studio reimagines the photo booth with four themed self-shoot rooms—including one modeled after a local hawker centre—and a station that transforms snapshots into beaded photo keychains.
Escape rooms and weekend markets on the horizon
Bugis Street has confirmed two upcoming attractions: Myth Jinn Escape Room will open its first Singapore outpost, and Xcape Singapore is expanding with new escape room experiences. Weekends see Level 2 expand into a bustling creators’ market, featuring about 40 vendors selling pre-loved fashion, handcrafted accessories, collectibles, and other unique finds.
Broader implications for Singapore’s retail landscape
The revamp signals a shift in how traditional shopping districts compete with online retail and newer malls. By focusing on experiential, creator-led spaces, Bugis Street aims to draw a younger, experience-driven audience—particularly Gen Z and millennial consumers who prioritise engagement over passive browsing. Industry observers note that such hybrid retail models—combining shopping, workshops, and content creation—are gaining traction globally as landlords seek to repurpose underutilised floor space.
For visitors, the new Level 2 offers a low-cost, high-engagement alternative to typical mall outings. Most stores operate daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., with Somewhere @ Bugis Street opening at 1 p.m. The weekend market adds a rotating element, encouraging repeat visits.