Irish-born Mary Bernadette Philomena Lee, aka Mrs Lee, remembers when she first came to Singapore: April 1, 1965. “I came from London with my husband and one-year-old daughter,” she says.
For 59 years, her home has been a conserved bungalow on a 32,052 sq ft freehold site on the corner of Mountbatten Road and Crescent Road in prime District 15. The property dates back to 1851. It was built by the family of Thomas Dunman, the first commissioner of police in Singapore, Straits Settlements (which included Penang and Malacca). The area was formerly Grove Estate, a coconut plantation owned by Dunman, who spent a few years there following his retirement in 1871 before he returned to England in 1875. Dunman Road and Dunman Lane in the Katong area were named after him. The coconut plantation of Grove Estate stretched from the original shoreline towards the former Grove Road. It has since been renamed Mountbatten Road, after Lord Louis Mountbatten, who later became Earl Mountbatten of Burma. The house was one of the bungalows built on the estate in the late 19th century and early 20th century for wealthy families who wanted a beachfront home. The entire row became known as “Millionaires’ Bungalows”. According to URA, most of these houses were built in the Victorian and Art Deco styles. Today, only 15 such houses remain along Mountbatten Road, and they were gazetted for conservation in July 1993. One of 15 conserved bungalows along Mountbatten Road Mrs Lee’s home is one of the 15 bungalows within the conservation area. She still has the original title deed for the property, which dates back to 1926, signed between Robert Dunman and Lee Pang Chuan, son of Straits Chinese businessman Lee Choon Guan, co-founder of the Chinese Commercial Bank, one of the three banks that merged into OCBC Bank during the Great Depression of the 1930s. The purchase price for the property on Mountbatten Road was $11,120.76 in 1926. Lee Pang Chuan was Mrs Lee’s father-in-law. When he passed away, the property was passed to his son, Dr Alfred Lee, who was Mrs Lee’s late husband. When he passed away, the property went to Mrs Lee. She still remembers her first impression of the house. “It was quite different in those days,” she says. “The exterior walls were pink and yellow. There was a tennis court, but it had been neglected over the years. And there was no fence around the house.” As her husband’s family was very traditional, Mrs Lee was not allowed to work. She decided to work on the garden by growing fruit trees in the back garden. She began replacing the dirt patch with grass in the front garden and visited nurseries to purchase potted plants. “I began to understand how they grow,” says Mrs Lee. “That’s how I started — bit by bit.” Over time, she added a pond for goldfish in the garden, which became an even more ambitious project when her husband became interested in koi fish. Then, a treehouse was added about 20 years ago. Even though she has gardeners to help her, Mrs Lee still tends to the garden personally. Many of the furniture and antique pieces were already present when Mrs Lee moved in. “They were all over the house,” she recalls. “I rescued them and organised everything — all the furniture and antique pieces.” An example is an antique console table in the front hall against the ancestor gallery wall. Mrs Lee had found it in the staff quarters. It had a nail sticking out of its side and was used to hang plastic bags and personal items. After it was restored and polished, it now occupies a prominent place in the front hall. “My mother-in-law said it’s actually for laying out dead bodies,” says Mrs Lee. “But I’m quite proud of myself for rescuing it.” Several tables and chairs in the sitting room have “candlestick legs”. Mrs Lee says these furniture pieces were designed specifically for the house by Robinsons, the former department store founded in 1858. She also purchased the sofas and armchairs in the living hall. Historic home The house is very much in its original condition. Even the timber flooring on the second floor and the tiles on the first level are original. Only minor renovations were made to the house sometime between the 1960s and 1970s. For instance, the kitchen was outfitted with new appliances, cabinetry and flooring. The staircase was extended to the wall, and new stained-glass windows were installed to bring more light into the house. Mrs Lee says her favourite memories of the house were the parties and gatherings they used to hold there. Today, after nearly 60 years, she has decided to put the property up for sale. “I’m sad about selling the house and that the property will leave the family,” says Mrs Lee. “It has been my home, and the garden has been my hobby for 60 years.” Mrs Lee has appointed Knight Frank as the exclusive marketing agent for the property. It is up for sale at $54.5 million or $1,700 psf based on the land area. The bungalow has retained its original Victorian and Art Deco architectural styles, with a grand hall and European-style courtyard. The arched beams, stained-glass windows, ornamental fittings and fixtures have also been well-maintained. The two-storey house, including the outhouse, has a built-up area of about 4,500 to 5,000 sq ft. It has seven bedrooms — two on the first level and five on the second floor. All the bedrooms except two on the second level are en suite. On the first level is the grand hall, a living hall and formal dining space, with the kitchen in an outhouse connected to staff quarters and a garage. The family room is on the second level. Legacy property The property sits on a corner plot with double frontage along Mountbatten Road and Crescent Road. It has three main entrance gates: two from Mountbatten Road and one from Crescent Road. “In the old days, the family used to host dignitaries,” says Nicholas Keong, head of residential and private office, Knight Frank Singapore. “There were tea parties, dances and many gatherings.” The driveway is extensive enough for about 20 cars, he adds. The last conservation bungalow transacted in the area was 759 Mountbatten Road, which changed hands for $29 million ($1,391 psf) in April 2022. The property was purchased by Lawrence Leow, chairman and CEO of Crescendas Group. It sits on a smaller plot of 20,847.54 sq ft. URA’s latest transaction data shows that the median psf price for freehold landed property in District 15 has increased 18.7%, from $1,764 psf in 1Q2022 to $2,094 psf in 4Q2023. “The Mountbatten area in District 15 is considered ‘the Nassim of the East’,” says Mary Sai, executive director of capital markets at Knight Frank Singapore. “It’s a conserved bungalow and will appeal to sophisticated buyers who appreciate its history. It has been in the Lee family for close to three generations.” Keong adds: “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to purchase a legacy property.” The tender for the property closes on April 2.
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Economies with the highest GOI scores were all high-income advanced economies.
Singapore fares well in the Global Opportunity Index (GOI) 2024, being one of the 20 economies deemed attractive in foreign investments. The nation placed 14th in the overall analysis. Denmark led this year’s rankings, followed by Sweden, Finland, US, and UK, the report by Milken Institute showed. Economies with the highest GOI scores were all high-income advanced economies (AE), which is composed of the EU, five G7 economies, and Singapore. Those in this range are major economic contributors in terms of gross domestic product, accounting for 64.5% of the world’s foreign capital inflows. The GOI rankings considered five aspects in which the country garnered varied scores: business perception (6), economic fundamentals (29), financial services (18), institutional framework (3), and international standards and policy (18). The report said the overall top-ranked economies performed well in all categories. Despite differences in scores, it emphasised the importance of establishing and keeping solid national institutions as a pillar for business success to attract foreign capital. Radon inspections are essential when evaluating the safety and longevity of your home environment. As an odorless, colorless, and radioactive gas, radon poses significant health risks, primarily as a leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Originating from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water, radon can infiltrate homes through cracks in floors, walls, and foundations, accumulating to dangerous levels without your knowledge.
Conducting a radon inspection is the definitive way to determine whether your home is at risk. With the right insights into the property’s levels of radon, you gain the power to make informed decisions about possible mitigation actions. Effective radon testing can vary in duration – from a few days to extended periods – depending on the method used, such as continuous Radon monitors, charcoal canisters, or alpha track detectors. Understanding the significance of radon inspections can safeguard the health of you and your loved ones. Whether you’re a current homeowner or a prospective buyer, acknowledging the need for regular radon assessment helps in managing your home’s safety. By staying informed and proactive with radon inspections, you take crucial steps toward ensuring your living space remains a healthy sanctuary. Understanding Radon Radon is a significant health risk that remains undetected without proper testing. It’s essential to understand its characteristics and origins. Characteristics of Radon Radon is an invisible, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas, making it impossible for you to detect without the aid of a professional radon detector. It’s a byproduct of uranium decay and, being a heavy gas, it tends to accumulate in low-lying areas such as basements or ground floors. Exposure to radon, especially at elevated levels, presents a long-term health risk as it’s the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. Sources And Causes Of Radon Contamination Radon gas originates from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water, and subsequently, it migrates into the air you breathe. Your home can trap radon inside, where it builds up and becomes a health hazard. The age of your home does not exempt you from risk; both new and old homes can have radon issues. Radon levels can vary significantly from one house to another, so testing with reliable devices like a continuous radon monitor is crucial for accurate assessment. Regular testing helps maintain safe indoor air quality and safeguards your health. Importance Of Radon Inspection Radon inspections are a crucial step in ensuring your home is safe from the harmful effects of radon gas. They play a significant role in protecting your health, complying with legal standards, and safeguarding your home’s value. Health Risks Associated With Radon Radon gas is a silent health risk. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. Your exposure to radon can lead to significant health issues over time because it’s a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that can accumulate to dangerous levels inside homes. Proactive radon testing and inspection can provide the necessary information to reduce your risk and implement mitigation methods if required. Legal And Safety Regulations Your local and state regulations may require radon inspections, especially when buying or selling a property. These regulations are designed to protect public health. Adhering to them not only ensures legal compliance but also demonstrates your commitment to safety. Familiarizing yourself with these requirements is critical, as they can vary widely by location. Long-Term Safety And Property Value Regular radon inspections contribute to the long-term safety of your home environment. Moreover, they can bolster your property’s value. A home with documented radon mitigation can be more attractive to buyers, as it ensures them that the home is safe from radon-related risks. Maintaining a record of radon levels can also be beneficial if you plan to sell your property in the future. Conclusion Radon inspections are a critical step in ensuring your home’s safety. Exposure to high levels of radon gas can lead to health issues, including lung cancer. By conducting a radon inspection, you not only gain peace of mind but also safeguard your family’s well-being. Should you detect radon, mitigation measures can effectively reduce radon levels and protect your home. Determining whether your hair loss is temporary or permanent requires an understanding of the underlying causes and a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. While some forms of hair loss may be temporary and reversible, others may be permanent and require ongoing management. Here are some common causes of temporary and permanent hair loss:
Temporary Hair Loss Telogen Effluvium This condition occurs when there is a significant shock to the system, such as surgery, childbirth, severe illness, or extreme stress. Hair follicles enter the telogen (resting) phase prematurely, leading to increased shedding. Once the underlying cause is addressed, hair growth typically resumes within a few months. Medication Side Effects Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, antidepressants, and blood thinners, can cause temporary hair loss as a side effect. Hair usually grows back once the medication is discontinued or the dosage is adjusted. Hormonal Changes Hormonal fluctuations, such as those experienced during pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid disorders, can lead to temporary hair loss. Once hormone levels stabilize, hair growth typically returns to normal. Nutritional Deficiencies Inadequate intake of essential nutrients like iron, protein, and vitamins can contribute to temporary hair loss. Addressing nutritional deficiencies through dietary changes or supplementation can help restore hair growth. Permanent Hair Loss Androgenetic Alopecia Also known as male or female pattern baldness, androgenetic alopecia is the most common cause of permanent hair loss. It is hereditary and characterized by progressive thinning of hair in a predictable pattern. While treatment can slow down the progression of androgenetic alopecia, it is not usually reversible. Scarring Alopecia This type of hair loss occurs when hair follicles are permanently destroyed and replaced by scar tissue. Scarring alopecia can result from conditions such as lupus, lichen planus, or traumatic injuries to the scalp. Once scarring occurs, hair cannot regrow in the affected areas. Alopecia Areata Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes patchy hair loss on the scalp and other areas of the body. While hair loss may be temporary in some cases, it can become permanent if the immune system continues to attack the hair follicles. Traumatic Hair Loss Severe trauma to the scalp, such as burns, accidents, or surgical procedures, can result in permanent hair loss if the hair follicles are damaged beyond repair. If you are experiencing hair loss, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options. A thorough evaluation, including medical history, physical examination, and possibly additional tests, can help determine whether your hair loss is temporary or permanent and guide the development of an effective management plan. We’ve been on the hunt for restaurants and cafes with nett prices ever since the 9% GST hit. This search has led us to Croissand Cafe, a new industrial cafe along Beach Road run by an ex-Hilton Hotel chef. Not only are prices here nett, most of the menu is under $10 as well—a huge steal given how pricey dining at cafes can be these days. Step into Croissand Cafe’s and you’ll find cool, greyscale interiors and furnishings that are right on trend. The cafe isn’t the biggest, but it can comfortably accommodate small groups. The menu has garnered a fair bit of buzz on social media for its prices, but also for the unique offerings available. The All-Day Croissants are a house signature. Choose from five different flavours, all priced under $9. Each flavour gets you a buttery, flaky croissant packed with ingredients—TBH, it’s so filling that you can enjoy this as a meal on its own. The Seafood Otah Mayo ($8) is one of the chef’s recommendations. Here, you get a riff on an egg mayo sandwich, with chunky bits of otah dressed with mayo, then topped with ikura pearls and sakura ebi for added texture and umami. Another bang-for-your-buck loaded croissant is their Truffle Caviar Wagyu Mince ($9). Feel bougie without breaking the bank as you tuck into juicy Wagyu minced perfumed with truffle. Gooey emmental and mozzarella cheese complete the dish. If potatoes are your carb of choice, you can get the same mince and cheese combo with their Wagyu Mince Loaded Tater Tots, for $9 as well. While there, you have to order their Fluffy Castella Pancake with Maple Syrup & Butter ($7). There’s a 25-minute waiting time because you get a made-to-order fluffy souffle pancake that’s served in a skillet—it’s in-between a skillet pancake and a castella cake, if you will. Do also note that this pancake is only available from 3:30pm to 5:30pm!
Croissand Cafe also has a breakfast and lunch menu. The former has just two items: the Jill’s Breakfast Platter ($12) and Jill’s Savoury Waffle ($8). Both are your customary big breakfast options, available at a much more wallet-friendly price! For lunch, the cafe offers a line-up of fusion pasta dishes, all priced at $16. Flavours include familiar Creamy Dry Laksa Linguine and Japanese Inspired Carbonara, but they also have a pasta riff on bak chor mee in the form of their Local Inspired XO Sauce Pork Capellini. This comes topped with Japanese cha shu, minced pork, pork balls, and minced portobello mushrooms. Pasta dishes are not served after 5pm. Address: 371 Beach Road, #01-14, City Gate, Singapore 199597 Opening hours: Tue-Sun 8am to 7pm Website Croissand Cafe is not a halal-certified eatery. Sentiment in Singapore’s property market picked up in 4Q2023 as markets anticipate the US Federal Reserve will cut interest rates later this year. The latest Real Estate Sentiment Index (RESI) released by the National University of Singapore (NUS) shows that the current sentiment index rose from 4.2 in 3Q2023 to 4.4 in 4Q2023, while the future sentiment index increased from 4.5 in 3Q2023 to 4.9.
The composite sentiment index, which amalgamates the current and future indices, came in at 4.7 in 4Q2023, up from 4.3 the previous quarter. This marks the first increase after six consecutive quarters of decline. The RESI measures the general prevailing sentiment of the private real estate market performance by surveying senior executives of real estate firms. It is measured quarterly by NUS’ Department of Real Estate and the Institute of Real Estate and Urban Studies (IREUS). IREUS director Professor Qian Wenlan attributes the boost in sentiment to expectations of easing interest rates, which would point to lower inflation levels and business and financing costs. The hotel and service apartment sector saw the biggest improvement in sentiment, rising 16 percentage points in 4Q2023 to hit a current net balance of 61%. This was followed by the industrial and logistics sector, which also rose 16 percentage points to hit a current net balance of 11%. HSBC Institutional Trust Services (Singapore), in its capacity as a trustee of Frasers Centrepoint Trust (FCT), signed a $155m revolving credit facility agreement with lender Oversea-China Banking Corporation.
In a disclosure, FCT said the facility agreement has specified conditions which stated that mandatory prepayment will occur without the consent of the bank if FCT or any other person approved by OCBC is no longer the manager of FCT and is not replaced by a substitute manager approved by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Mandatory prepayment will also take place if Frasers Property Limited does not own at least 51% of the shares of the manager. “None of the events described under the Specified Conditions in the Facility Agreement has occurred,” it said. If the specified conditions occur and a failure to prepay leads to a cross-default, the total facilities that may be affected are estimated at $1,708.5m, excluding interest and exclusive of the facility. Are you having trouble moving air through your nasal passages? In other words, are you a mouth breather? Is your snoring becoming a bad joke that includes your partner threatening to move you to the couch? Whether you’re dealing with breathing issues or looking for some relief from almost constant sinus infections, your physician may recommend nasal septoplasty.
However, what exactly is nasal septoplasty, and how do you know if you’re a good candidate for the procedure? We’ll cover what you should know about the relatively simple outpatient surgery in this brief yet comprehensive article. What Is Nasal Septoplasty? Nasal septoplasty is a relatively simple medical procedure. Yes, it involves surgery but don’t start panicking. Most patients only spend a few hours in the hospital or doctor’s office. Septoplasty is typically an outpatient procedure which means you don’t need to pack an overnight bag. The procedure addresses a deviated septum, meaning that your septum is crooked instead of straight. What is your septum? Your septum is what divides your nose into two chambers. For example, take a look at your nose in the mirror. Notice how you have two nostrils? Your septum is made of bone and cartilage and runs down the center of your nose. When your septum is crooked or bent, it can affect airflow through one or both of your nasal cavities. Sometimes, a bent septum is caused by an injury. If you hit your nose hard enough, it can cause your septum to bend or even break. You can also be born with a deviated septum, and this is actually more common than you may think. But, a deviated septum isn’t typically considered a birth injury nor does it automatically require immediate surgery. Some people go through life without any problems even though they have a deviated septum. Since nasal septoplasty is usually an outpatient procedure risks associated with the surgery are minimal. You typically only need a few days of downtime, which is usually enough time for the swelling to start going down. However, it can take a few months to make a full recovery. You should expect your nose to be a little sore during your recovery. Is Septoplasty Surgery Right For You Only you and your physician can answer this question. In other words, don’t start trying to schedule the procedure simply because you’re snoring at night. However, if you have a nasal obstruction like a deviated septum, the procedure can be a viable option. Some other reasons to consider having the procedure performed can include:
While frequent nosebleeds are a less common symptom associated with nasal blockages. They can be embarrassing, life-disrupting, and lead to other nasal issues. Septoplasty is a procedure that’s typically performed on adults and teens. Since children’s noses are still developing, most pediatricians recommend holding off on the surgery until the child reaches adolescence. If you’re wondering how common the nasal procedure is, it’s estimated that around 260,000 septoplasties are performed annually. Sometimes, it helps to know you’re not the only one dealing with a deviated septum. What To Expect During Septoplasty Even though most septoplasties are done as an outpatient procedure, it’s still nice to know what to expect. This can help lessen your anxiety, especially if the thought of any type of surgery sends you into a panic. Chances are, your healthcare provider will administer general anesthesia. Yes, you get to sleep through the surgery. This way, you don’t need to worry about seeing what the surgeon is doing or the implements they may be using. After all, no one wants to see a scalpel heading towards their face. Another option is using local anesthesia. You’re still awake during the procedure but the area around your septum is numb. You can discuss your options with your physician before starting the procedure. During the procedure, your physician will make a small cut on the side of your nose. This allows them to lift the thin layer of mucosa covering the septum. Once this membrane is moved out of the way, the surgeon can start reshaping your septum. Occasionally, the surgeon may need to remove a bit of the bone and cartilage, but don’t worry; the anesthesia will keep you from feeling any discomfort. Once your septum is reshaped, the thin membrane is repositioned over the septum. You should expect the surgery to last anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour. How long the surgery takes generally depends on the severity of the bend. Some soft packing material is often placed around your septum. Yes, this means you have cotton shoved up your nose. Don’t worry, it’s only temporary. The material will help reduce your risk of nose bleeds and minimize any scarring. If you’re wondering if nasal septoplasty is painful, the answer is yes and no. You aren’t going to feel anything during surgery but should expect to experience some discomfort afterward. Most people compare the feeling of discomfort to what they experience during a sinus infection. After a few days, most people report feeling little to no discomfort. Are There Risks Associated With Nasal Septoplasty Surgery As with any type of surgery, there are a few risks. Even though complications during the procedure are rare, they can occur. Some of the potential risks you should be aware of can include:
In extremely rare cases, toxic shock syndrome can occur. If you believe you are experiencing any issues after your septoplasty surgery, contact your healthcare provider immediately. A Septoplasty Can Help Improve Your Breathing Surgery is rarely at the top of anyone’s list of enjoyable activities, but sometimes it’s necessary. If you’re having problems breathing through your nasal cavities or your snoring is out of control, you may be dealing with a deviated septum. You can probably continue through life breathing through your mouth and snoring loudly through the night, but there can be a solution that can help you live a better life. If you’re dealing with a deviated septum, talk to your physician about the benefits and risks of nasal septoplasty. Revel in Your Ideal Body with LuminaShape’s Transformation Journey For Lasting Weight Loss Promo3/21/2024 Step into the path of your ideal body with the exclusive Transformation Journey For Lasting Weight Loss promotion at LuminaShape. With a jaw-dropping price $68 nett treatment trial offer, this exclusive promo empowers you to select two of the three available treatments, including a free consultation and body assessment. This ensures a personalised approach tailored to your specific needs and preferences. The meticulously curated intense slimming treatments include Capacitive Electrode Transfer (CET), designed for reshaping and skin tightening; Resistive Electrical Transfer (RET), a primary treatment for visceral fat burning; and Muscle Sculpt Pro, to contour and tone the body. Moreover, this limited-time package can target six different body areas, effectively addressing a wide area of concerns, ranging from arms and thighs to buttocks. Touted as a renowned personalised slimming treatment technology, LuminaShape utilises innovative procedures for both men and women. Through fusing cutting-edge technology and individualised consultation, it guarantees preferred results that align precisely with clients’ goals. Whether it’s the bulging love handles, double chin, or reshaping the body, you can confidently embark on a journey to your dreams without breaking the bank with the Transformation Journey For Lasting Weight Loss Promo by LuminaShape. Aside from the steadfast assistance from their dedicated team, the ultimate slimming solution also ensures a safe and effective environment to reach your body goals.
Achieve the body of your dreams today — contact them now for more information and details. You can also find them on their official website, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for additional updates and inspiration. If you’re big on matcha desserts, you might have come across Cafe Usagi Tokyo. The homegrown brand, which has outlets in Suntec City and 111 Somerset, specialises in Japanese desserts such as daifuku and tea-flavoured mochi ice cream. They’ve just launched new rabbit-themed desserts and daifuku flavours to try the next time you’re there! An exciting addition to the menu is the Mochi Waffle Series ($9.90), available in four flavours: Coffee, Matcha, Coconut and Chocolate. Each set comprises a mochi waffle square that’s crispy on the outside, with a chewy mochi middle, paired with cute rabbit-shaped madeleine. Go all out by adding a scoop of Cafe Usagi Tokyo’s signature ice cream (+$6) for the ultimate treat! There’s also the new Yuzu Rabbit Cake ($9.80) that stars a light yuzu-scented cheesecake shaped to look like a bunny, atop a crunchy biscuit base. Those who love the cafe’s Strawberry Mochi ($6.90) will be happy to know that there’s a whole new lineup of flavours! These Handmade Daifuku Fruit Mochi, priced from $5.50 to $8.80, come in fruits such as shine muscat, orange, and kiwi. Each fruit is wrapped in azuki red bean and a thin layer of stretchy mochi. There’ll also be new Ice Cream Parfaits (from $13.50) in three flavours: Strawberry, Matcha, and Hojicha.
That’s not all: from 23 to 31 March 2024, enjoy a free scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream (U.P. $6) when you order a Mochi Waffle! This promotion is available across both outlets. Website | Full list of outlets Cafe Usagi Tokyo is not a halal-certified eatery but uses no pork or lard. |