BUILT in the early 1900s, black-and-white bungalows were designed for residential use. Because of their age, however, most lack modern amenities and may not be a first choice of home for many.

The Singapore Land Authority (SLA) has tried to strike a balance between redeveloping the properties and conserving them. That means covering the cost of upgrading the units.

SLA spent S$515,400 and S$570,500 respectively, to restore 26 Ridout Road and 31 Ridout Road. The money went towards general building repairs, electrical rewiring, horticulture works, road and fencing repairs, and termite treatment.