Transforming the skyline

/ EdgeProp |

August 11, 2017 3:00 PM SGT

Singapore’s skyline has transformed dramatically over the past decade. While the most significant change has been at Marina Bay, other parts of the city state have also undergone a renewal. Many of these projects are the result of developers and architects pushing the envelope to create something new in the respective neighbourhoods.

Singapore’s Marina Bay (background) has the most transformed skyline

In the sought-after residential area of Bishan, CapitaLand and Mitsubishi Estate Asia’s Sky Habitat stands out like a beacon. The 509-unit condominium with its cascading terraces is designed by world-renowned architect Moshe Safdie, who is also responsible for two other landmarks in Singapore — Marina Bay Sands and the upcoming Jewel at Changi Airport.

Sky Habitat at Bishan, featuring its signature cascading terraces

For those who drive along Alexandra Road or the Ayer Rajah Expressway, The Interlace, with its hexagonally stacked blocks, has become a landmark. Developed by a CapitaLand-led consortium, the project on Depot Road is set amid greenery. The 1,040-unit The Interlace, designed by celebrated architect Ole Scheeren/ OMA, won the World Building of the Year award in 2015.

The Interlace, which is recognised by its hexagonally-stacked blocks

In the popular East Coast area, Frasers Centrepoint and its joint venture partners demonstrate how a once-overlooked land parcel can be turned into a coveted, high-rise condo boasting uninterrupted sea views. And that is what it has achieved with the 841-unit Seaside Residences, designed by acclaimed Singapore-based ADDP Architects.

Source: Frasers Centrepoint

Seaside Residences at East Coast, where units have unblocked sea views

GuocoLand built the tallest tower in the country with Tanjong Pagar Centre, which soars 290m in height. The integrated development has the 38-storey Guoco Tower and Wallich Residence, on the 39th to 64th floors. At the apex of the tower is a super penthouse of more than 21,000 sq ft, with a price tag of $108 million. The project is designed by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, the architectural firm behind other skyscrapers in the world, from Burj Khalifa in Dubai to Trump International Hotel & Tower in Chicago, the US.

Tanjong Pagar Centre, Singapore’s tallest skyscraper

Australia’s Lendlease has made a name for itself in urban regeneration schemes from London to Sydney. In Singapore, its Paya Lebar Quarter integrated development forms the foundation blocks of the upcoming Paya Lebar Central, designated by URA as a commercial hub. PLQ is expected to spark a renewal in a neighbourhood dotted by ageing industrial estates.

Source: Lendlease

The retail mall of the Paya Lebar Quarter integrated development

In Bukit Panjang, Sim Lian Group has successfully launched and completed Hillion, its integrated development containing a retail mall, and the 546-unit Hillion Residences above it. The entire development is linked to the Bukit Panjang MRT and LRT stations as well as an air-conditioned bus interchange station. It is the first such development for the Singapore property developer and construction group.

Hillion, an integrated development with residential and retail components, is linked to the Bukit Panjang MRT and LRT stations as well as the bus interchange

In the neighbourhood of Alexandra View, Singapore Land is undaunted by the competition around it. Its 40-storey Alex Residences commands panoramic city views from its rooftop sky terrace, which features a 50m swimming pool, a party lounge and other amenities. This allows residents in all its 429 units to enjoy 360-degree views.

The 40-storey Alex Residences at Alexandra View offers panoramic city views

In prime District 9, TG Development’s Lloyd Sixtyfive shows that even low-rise boutique developments can become head-turners. The 76-unit project designed by award-winning Mok Wei Wei of W Architects features a deliberately understated facade that belies the lush greenery and swimming pools within.