Nestled amidst the industrial buildings in Commonwealth Drive lies a haven for nostalgia seekers and vintage collectors—By My Old School. Founded in 2011 by Rebecca and her father, By My Old School is a family passion project fueled by a lifelong love for bygone eras.
By My Old School is housed within Singapore’s very first flatted factory, built in 1965—a fitting historic setting that perfectly complements the vintage treasures within. What you’ll find beyond the store’s bright orange doors is a cornucopia of all sorts of trinkets, decorative pieces and even daily items that were heavily used back in the day.
@uchify.sg From porcelain tableware from the ‘80s and old magazines, to retro telephones and traditional Chinese scrolls. By My Old School sells hard-to-find vintage pieces where you can give your home a glow-up—because your space deserves more character than just ‘new and shiny!’✨ 📍 By My Old School 115A Commonwealth Dr, 03-24, Singapore 149596 By appointment only Follow us on Telegram via the link in bio for more content like this! #sghomes #vintagestore #vintageshop #vintage #antiquestore #singaporeshopping #vintageshopsg #vintagesingapore
Running a vintage store that began as a family passion
Rebecca shares that By My Old School was the culmination of a shared family passion for vintage treasures, passed down from father to daughter. Her father has long been captivated by vintage items across the years. He specifically had a knack for collecting old tools that represented historical craftsmanship.
Unlike other thrift stores in Singapore where the focus is mainly on large furniture items, walking into By My Old School will make you feel like a kid wandering into a time capsule of all things dated. Expect everything from porcelain tableware from the 80s, vintage biscuit tins, and even street signs.
A treasure trove for all
The store boasts a diverse selection of vintage finds from the 40s’ onwards, ranging from everyday household items like board games and books to traditional Chinese scrolls and artefacts.
Some of the other gems you’ll find are old magazines, record players, vintage toys and even old Singapore road signs.
The Realities of Running By My Old School
When asked about the challenges of running a vintage shop in this day and age, Rebecca mused that the biggest challenge By My Old School confronts is the high rental costs in Singapore. With the sheer amount of old-school collectibles they’ve amassed, they require ample storage to display everything as you never know what might tickle someone’s fancy.
Just like the resourceful “Karang Guni“, Rebecca and her father meticulously source their collection, curating pre-loved items from old homes and organising them for display. It’s a labour-intensive process that goes beyond simply running a store.
Rebecca shared that keeping up with the ever-evolving trends in vintage collecting can be tricky. National events like SG50 might spark a temporary surge in interest for specific eras, but maintaining a steady stream of customers requires constant adaptation.
More than just stuff: the value of vintage
Rebecca and her father have woven their passion for vintage treasures into a unique haven for collectors, prop masters, and anyone seeking to add a touch of character to their home. From meticulously sourced Singaporean memorabilia to everyday objects, By My Old School offers a chance to connect with history and own a piece of the past.
By My Old School goes beyond simply selling vintage items; it brings a meaningful connection to the past. Rebecca highlights the growing importance of vintage in reminiscence therapy, which helps spark memories for seniors while fostering curiosity in younger generations. Owning a piece of the past lets us appreciate the craftsmanship of bygone eras and gain insight into the lifestyles of our predecessors.
By My Old School operates by appointment only, ensuring a personalised experience and allowing careful management of their extensive collection. The store’s vast array of items can be overwhelming, but Rebecca is always eager to help customers find exactly what they’re looking for. While currently operating by appointment only, their dedication to vintage treasures shines through.
Not only are vintage finds often sturdily built, lasting a lifetime unlike today’s fast-furniture, but opting for pre-loved treasures also reduces your environmental impact and promotes sustainable living. Plus, every vintage piece carries a unique story, transforming your home decor into a conversation starter.
So, pay vintage Singapore memorabilia shop By My Old School a visit—reconnect with the past, and add a touch of timeless charm to your space.
Address: 115A Commonwealth Dr, #03-24, Singapore 149596
Contact: +659879 2088
Photography by Maisy Phua.
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