Old world charm
Pointing to an old photograph inside a vintage-looking silver frame hanging on the wall, Teoh tells me that it’s a photo of Pertap and his team of tailors looking resplendent in their turbans and smart suits. I squint for a better look as Teoh adds, pride lacing her voice: “We still have the original shop signage too, which you can see if you look up when you enter the cafe.”
When Pertap and team vacated the premises, they also left behind two mannequins. “Not those modern plastic ones you get today ya. These are made from wood and are over 70-years-old,” shares Teoh, her eyes sparkling under her glasses. One mannequin stands inside the cafe, the sun’s rays filtering in through the window bathing it in a nostalgic glow. The other one is just by the entrance, a sign for ice-cream hanging where the head of the mannequin would have been. the natural features of this building, like the walls and general structure, as much as possible,” recalls Teoh, before adding that they did try to save the level above but couldn’t because it had rotted so much and became too dangerous. So they just tore it down and subsequently proceeded with an extensive refurbishment exercise.
Because the building is considered a heritage building, the outer facade couldn’t be touched. So the family focused on creating a cosy sanctuary inside, a nice contrast against the lively bustle outside.
Elaborates Teoh: “When we started, there wasn’t much decor elements. We just had these rugged walls that provided the points of interest. But as time went by, we started putting in collectibles and knick knacks that our various family members picked up on their travels.”
The space is every IG lover’s dream. Every nook and cranny is a veritable photo op and talking point. Look around and you’d be charmed by the old world furnishings like vintage biscuit tins, yellowing posters, an old typewriter that probably occupied pride of place in your grandfather’s house, old gramophone, an old leather suitcase belonging to Teoh’s great grandmother, rusty Coca Cola tins, swaying dreamcatchers and more.
A striking mural of a woman deep in thought is hard to miss, splashed in all its glory on a feature wall. The do-it-yourself