If you stroll down Jalan Sultan, your eyes are inevitably drawn to the towering, somewhat weathered facade of Textile Centre. Completed in 1970, this brutalist icon was once the beating heart of Singapore’s garment and fabric trade. Today, however, the name is something of a misnomer. While a few legacy drapers and button shops still cling to the ground floor, the vast majority of the textile trade has moved on, leaving behind a fascinating, labyrinthine time capsule.
To the uninitiated, the building might look like a relic of a bygone era. But for those who love a bit of urban exploration, Textile Centre is a goldmine of affordable entertainment, quirky aesthetics, and genuine local character. So, if you are looking for a day out that avoids the sterile, air-conditioned perfection of modern malls, here are six hidden spots within Textile Centre that prove this old dame still has plenty of life left in her.
1. Artify Studio: Unleash Your Inner Artist
Located away from the bustling main corridors, Artify Studio offers a sanctuary for those looking to swap screen time for some tactile creativity. Whether you are a seasoned painter or someone who hasn’t touched a brush since secondary school, the vibe here is intentionally low-pressure and welcoming.
They specialise in workshops that cover a surprisingly wide range of mediums, including palette knife painting, oil, acrylic, gouache, and watercolour. If you prefer a bit of structure, their signature Guided Art Jamming sessions are a godsend; experienced instructors walk you through the process of creating a canvas masterpiece from scratch. For the “free spirits” who want to do their own thing, the Unguided Art Jamming sessions provide the space and materials to let your imagination run wild.
The best part? It’s entirely beginner-friendly. All materials, from aprons to drawing tools, are provided, making it an incredibly affordable way to spend a few hours immersed in colour and creativity. It’s a wonderful first stop for a day out, setting a meditative and productive tone for the rest of your adventure.
Artify Studio
Location: 200 Jln Sultan, #12-07 Textile Centre, Singapore 199018
Opening Hours: Wednesday: 10 AM – 5:30 PM | Thursday-Friday: 10 AM – 5:30 PM, 7 PM – 9:30 PM | Saturday: 10 AM – 7 PM | Sunday: 10 AM – 6 PM | Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays
2. EFive Dance Pilates Yoga Studio: Movement for Every Body
Once you’ve flexed your creative muscles, it might be time to move your actual ones. EFive Dance Pilates Yoga Studio, established in 2016, is a hidden gem for fitness enthusiasts who find mainstream gyms a bit too “corporate.” This studio takes a multi-disciplinary approach to wellness, offering everything from Hatha and Aerial Yoga to Pilates Reformer sessions.
Pedigree is one of the key aspects that sets EFive apart. They co-founded the S International Training Academy (SITA), meaning the instructors here teach and, more importantly, train the next generation of professionals. Despite this high level of expertise, the atmosphere remains compassionate and inclusive. Whether you are looking for posture correction, prenatal care, or just a high-energy dance class to burn some calories, the trainers provide tailored support. It’s a sophisticated wellness space tucked inside a building that most people only associate with dusty fabric rolls.
EFive Dance Pilates Yoga Studio
Location: 200 Jln Sultan, #01-30 Textile Centre, Singapore 199018
Opening Hours: Open Daily 9 AM – 9 PM
3. YaQi Beauty and Massage: The Ultimate Mid-Day Refresh
After a yoga session or a few hours of painting, your body will likely crave some TLC. YaQi Beauty and Massage is exactly what the doctor ordered. This isn’t one of those overpriced luxury spas you find in elsewhere; instead, it is a lovely, professional salon that delivers high-quality work at a fraction of the price.
The nail technicians here are known for their meticulous manicures and pedicures, often finishing off their handiwork with cute stickers that add a bit of personality to your look. But the real highlight is the massage service. Regulars rave about the superb and effective techniques of the masseuses. The environment is calm, comfortable, and remarkably quiet considering the building’s external bustle. It is the perfect spot to reset before your afternoon activities.
YaQi Beauty and Massage
Location: 200 Jln Sultan, #01-03 Textile Centre, Singapore 199018
Opening Hours: Open Daily 9 AM – 4 PM
4. Klassic Club Pool Hall: Old-School Cool
If you head to the second floor on the south side of the building (take the elevator if you’re feeling lazy), you’ll find Klassic Club. This is the only billiards hall in the Kampong Glam and Kallang vicinity, and it feels like a glorious throwback to a simpler time.
This isn’t a flashy, neon-lit entertainment centre. It is a hall for real players as well as casual groups looking for a cheap way to pass the time. With eight or nine pocket billiard tables and about a dozen snooker tables, there is plenty of room to practice your bank shots.
The cues are straight, the tips are well-maintained, and the balls are in excellent condition. It is a cash-only establishment, and they serve basic bottled and canned refreshments, keeping the focus entirely on the game. It’s open until 4:00 AM, making it a fantastic late-night refuge for those who aren’t quite ready to call it a night.
Klassic Club Pool Hall
Location: 200 Jln Sultan, #08-11 Textile Centre, Singapore 199018
Opening Hours: Open Daily 10 AM – 4 AM
5. Afterjourney: A Craft Beer Sanctuary
As the sun begins to set, make your way to the second floor, tucked behind the escalators, to find Afterjourney. This is perhaps the most surprising find in the entire building. The exterior is unassuming, but stepping inside feels like being transported into a man-cave designed in a 70s Taiwanese-Japanese fusion aesthetic.
The vibe is minimalist yet undeniably classy, complete with vintage vinyl music spinning in the background. With 16 craft beers on tap, the selection is impressive, ranging from local Singaporean brews to unique imports from China and New Zealand. Whether you fancy a fruity IPA or a smooth, easy-drinking lager, the passionate staff can walk you through the flavour profiles. It is a sanctuary in the truest sense—a quiet, sophisticated place to enjoy a solo pint or a deep conversation with a friend.
Afterjourney
Location: 200 Jln Sultan, #02-19 Textile Centre, Singapore 199018
Opening Hours: Wednesday-Monday: 4 PM – 11 PM | Closed on Tuesdays
6. Rosegold KTV Nightclub: The Unfiltered Singapore Experience
To cap off your day with a bit of high-energy fun, head to Rosegold KTV Nightclub. Let’s be honest: the interiors are ageing, but that is entirely part of the charm. The regulars don’t come here for marble floors, though. They come for the vibe, the service, and the happy hour.
It is a solid choice for a relaxed evening of singing your heart out with friends. The staff are known for their warm service, and the food and drinks are consistently on point. It represents the unfiltered side of Singapore’s nightlife: unpretentious, lively, and incredibly welcoming. It’s the perfect place to let loose after a day of exploring the quieter corners of the building.
Rosegold KTV Nightclub
Location: 200 Jalan Sultan Textile Centre Level 7 (use Lift 7 or 8, Singapore 199018
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday: 4 PM – 3 AM | Saturday: 4 PM – 4 AM | Sunday: 7 PM – 3 PM
Why Textile Centre is the Ultimate Urban Labyrinth
You might wonder why anyone would choose an old industrial building over a shiny new shopping mall. The answer lies in the authenticity of the experience. Textile Centre offers a mini adventure because it isn’t curated by a corporate marketing team. It has grown organically, with businesses filling the gaps left behind by the departing textile merchants.
The juxtaposition of the old and the new tenants creates a sense of discovery that you just can’t find in modern retail spaces. Furthermore, because the rents in these older buildings are often more manageable, the businesses can afford to be more niche and community-focused. You aren’t just a customer here; you are often interacting directly with the owners who are passionate about their craft.
For those seeking a day out that is easy on the wallet but rich in character, the Textile Centre is a reminder that Singapore’s history isn’t just in its museums but also in the concrete corridors of its 70s-era landmarks.
Final Thoughts
Textile Centre may have lost its title as the fabric capital of the city, but it has gained something far more interesting: a soul. As such, the next time you find yourself near Kampong Glam, don’t just walk past the grey, blocky building on Jalan Sultan. Step inside, navigate the escalators, and get lost for a while.
You might just find your new favourite craft beer taproom or a massage spot that actually gets the knots out of your shoulders all without breaking the bank. In a city that is constantly changing, there is something deeply satisfying about finding a hidden gem in a place everyone else has overlooked.