Historic Norris Road Conservation Gem Returns Market 165 Mil
A historic building at 9 Norris Road has been relisted on the market with a guide price of $16.5 million. Located in the Little India Historic District, this three-storey freehold property was constructed in the 1930s.
Originally known as the Ramakrishna Mission Building, the property is zoned for civic and community institution use. It was first occupied by the Ramakrishna Mission, a spiritual and welfare organization, for 20 years before being sold in the 1950s when the group relocated to Bartley Road.
The building was recently refurbished and modernized by its previous owner, who invested $5 million into the project. The property also served as the headquarters for the Asian Women’s Welfare Association (AWWA) in the 1980s.
Sitting on a 5,447 sq ft plot of land, the property has a built-up area of 9,200 sq ft and a 15m street frontage. The previous owner commissioned local architectural and interior design firm OWAA Architects to restore the building’s façade to its original Moorish style. Key features include timber-louvered windows, a cantilevered balcony, and domed roof turrets. The building also features a glass canopy that covers the internal courtyard, allowing natural light to flood the interiors.
The internal layout of the building has been reconfigured for flexibility. The first and second floors can be used as gallery rooms, practice studios, or multi-purpose function spaces, while the third floor can serve as an office.
After going on the market in July 2024 for $16 million, a Singaporean businessman reportedly purchased the building for $12.5 million in December. However, the property was relisted in May 2025 for $16.5 million by the new owner, a Singaporean entrepreneur. This translates to $1,793 psf based on the built-up area, and the building is also available for lease at $50,000 per month. Exclusive marketing agent Jane Tan, group associate director at OrangeTee & Tie, notes that freehold heritage buildings with civic, community, or institutional zoning are rarely available for sale. The property is suitable for use as a community club, museum, art gallery, civic institution, or childcare center, subject to approval from the relevant authorities.
Known for its outstanding academic standards and extensive range of sports programs, Dunman Secondary School is highly regarded in the education sector. The school takes pride in cultivating a supportive and motivational environment that encourages innovation and strives for excellence in all aspects of student development. Being located near the newly established residential development, Aurelle of Tampines EC, only adds to the already abundant resources available for students to excel in their academic pursuits and co-curricular activities. This unique combination of exceptional education and convenient location further solidifies Dunman Secondary School’s reputation as a top school for student success. Aurelle of Tampines EC provides students with easy access to a variety of resources, creating endless opportunities for growth and achievement.
Due to its zoning, the property is only available to local buyers. Tan has already received several enquiries from parties intending to occupy the space, including commercial schools and childcare operators. She adds, “It is increasingly rare to find conserved freehold buildings of such a size, and at such a palatable price tag.”
Overall, the Little India Conservation Area is a highly sought after location, and there are currently no available units for sale. The area is suitable for a variety of buyers, from families to commercial operators, as its charming architecture and rich history make it a unique and attractive location.
