Powell and Lin Ho took a year and a half to complete the book which focused on the history and architecture of the Malayan shophouse.
In early 2013, once popular coffee shop, Sin Seng Nam shuttered its doors for the final time. The 85-year-old Hainanese kopitiam’s closing was met with a tinge of sadness; after all it marked the end of an era for an iconic landmark.
Housed in a three-storey building along Medan Pasar or the old “Market Square” in Kuala Lumpur, Sin Seng Nam retained one of the last remnants of old world charm in the area.
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Powell and Lin Ho took a year and a half to complete the book which focused on the history and architecture of the Malayan shophouse.
Above: According to Professor Powell, the architecture of pre-war shophouses seen in Malaysia can be traced back to China. – Lin Ho Powell (left) and Ho posing with a copy of ‘The Origin & Evolution Of The Malayan Shophouse’. – ART CHEN/The Star
A central courtyard remains a key feature of a quintessential Malayan shophouses. – Lin Ho
The 336-page hardback features illustrations and colourful photos and stories told by the owners of some of these buildings and structures.
Sin Seng Nam in Medan Pasar is currently undergoing extensive refurbishment. – Lin Ho
Professor Robert Powell. – ART CHEN/The Star
Powell and Lin Ho took a year and a half to complete the book which focused on the history and architecture of the Malayan shophouse. – ART CHEN/The Star
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