Today, we can’t talk about creative clusters without mentioning New Bahru. Set in the former Nan Chiau High School, this vibrant lifestyle hub is proof that Singapore is getting better at gathering and keeping its like-minded folks jolly in their cosy corners — by redefining what it means to have spent a good weekend outside.
While culture and commerce are traditionally two forces at odds with each other in such establishments, New Bahru’s eco-system seems to have found a delicate balance of virtues that cradles and empowers both at the same time. Leaning into the compound’s school roots, the design-first project has so far solidified a brand that’s playful, innovative, and eager to celebrate heritage — a combination that seems to sit right with the youth not just locally but also overseas. That’s why the second edition of its now hallmark community market event Extra Curious Activities (ECA) — happening from 6 to 8 June — includes the debut of six regional cult brands in its line-up of over 30 pop-ups and programmes — blending movement, taste and exploration for three, fun-filled days.
With the complete title of this joyous get-together actually being ECA: Field Trip, this thematic addition broadens the scope and collaborative possibilities of future ECA projects. We get our first dip this time with brands that offer everything from activewear and streetwear adventure gear and yummy fuel to more interactive, movement-driven activities.
The six regional cult brands making their first appearance on our little red dot are BIGWAVE COLLECTIVE, HIBROW and Verish from Korea; GOOD TIMES and HdPc from Malaysia; and TRUFFLEBKK from Thailand. Local brands with special launches include familiar names such as cheak, Sigi Skin, Snuggly Studio and Singapore’s first functional nutrition matcha brand, Matcha Masta. New Bahru’s resident tenants also get their share of the limelight, with Odem opening a weekend-exclusive ice booth pouring up craft Makkoli and beers alongside field trip snacks and One Prawn & Co concocting a special menu of on-the-go cocktails and mocktails to sip on.
For activities that go beyond shopping, ECA: Field Trip has the support from the likes of BMW, LOJEL, and FUJIFILM to introduce their worlds and products alongside thoughtful, community-first, interactive experiences. From sound baths and Kokedama terrarium workshops, to guided photo walks, there is something engaging for every curious explorer. Movement enthusiasts can go one step further to join a guided Reformer Pilates session with Off Duty Pilates on 7 June, Saturday or Fast and Free Running Club’s signature 5km Kaya Run on 8 June, Sunday — which ends with kaya toast and morning cuppa. Those who rather flex their minds than muscles can opt for Aliwal Chess Club’s chess-with-a-stranger Chess Meet Pop-up or Part Time Book Club’s first art-book Reading Room in Alma House. All in all, with the sophomore year of New Bahru’s ECA presenting a serious buffet of things-to-see and things-to-do — it’s no wonder its maiden run in December 2024 was just the first of many immersive, tailored editions.
Apart from these novel updates, the modular Slot Slot system used to house the first ECA returns as versatile, low-impact furniture for vendors. Created by Open Studio and Superstructure, the system will now be refined for a more flexible range of usage that extends beyond events and into more permanent, everyday spaces, such as eateries and homes. ECA-themed merchandise also now includes “Jalan Jalan” socks alongside its colourful totes. All that’s left to do is to mark our calendars and wait for New Bahru’s latest community event to showcase just how well creativity and commerce can collide with the right kind of design.
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New Bahru ECA: Field Trip edition is open from 12pm to 8pm on 6 June, Friday, and from 10am to 7pm on 7 June, Saturday, and 8 June, Sunday. More information can be found here. Once you are done with this story, click here to catch up with our May 2025 issue.