Singapore Olden Day Atap House

By Christina Lau Lay Lian, Mouth and Foot Painting Artists

The traditional Atap House, named after the Malay word for palm thatch, once defined the rural landscape of Singapore and its neighbouring regions. These iconic structures were easily distinguished by their roofs woven from dried atap leaves, which offered a cool, breathable shelter grounded in simplicity. Common across Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, atap houses served as homes to communities of all races. These "Atap Houses" were part of the rhythm of the land. In their quiet form endures the memory of a time when life was shaped by nature, and shelter was drawn from the land itself.

About

After a life-changing car accident in 2005 that left her with C6 spinal cord injury, Christina Lau discovered new ways to express herself through art. Despite being paralysed from her chest down and the loss of finger movements, she transformed her journey from Prison Officer to artist, demonstrating remarkable resilience. Through her artwork, she continues to share her unique perspective, proving that creativity knows no physical bounds.

SKU: MFPA-058

Medium: Watercolour Painting

Dimensions (WxH): 43cm x 33cm