Singapore is renowned for its stunning architectural feats, ranging from historical heritage sites to modern marvels.
This vibrant city-state is home to a diverse array of buildings that showcase its unique blend of culture, innovation, and sustainability.
What makes these buildings stand out is their ability to merge aesthetic appeal with functional design.
From sleek skyscrapers to lush gardens integrated into urban structures, these architectural wonders are a testament to Singapore’s dynamic urban landscape.
1. Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands is an iconic landmark in Singapore.
Designed by architect Moshe Safdie, it features three hotel towers connected by a massive SkyPark.
The SkyPark spans 1.2 hectares and is longer than the Eiffel Tower is tall.
The hotel has 2,560 luxury rooms within its three towers. These towers reach a height of 194 meters.
One impressive feature is its infinity pool with breathtaking city views.
Marina Bay Sands also includes a casino, a shopping mall, theaters, and exhibition spaces.
This diversity makes it a hub for both tourists and locals.
It stands proudly on Singapore’s waterfront, providing a dynamic environment.
For more details, explore the information available at ArchDaily and Marina Bay Sands architecture guide.
This architectural marvel is a must-see when visiting Singapore.
2. Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is a futuristic park located in Marina Bay. It’s known for its innovative blend of nature and technology.
Spanning 101 hectares, it features various themed gardens and attractions.
One of the park’s highlights is the Cloud Forest, a mist-filled conservatory.
It houses a 35-meter-tall Cloud Mountain and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.
The 18 Supertrees are another major attraction.
These vertical gardens, standing 25 to 50 meters tall, light up beautifully at night.
Visitors can also explore the Cooled Conservatories designed by Wilkinson Eyre Architects.
One of them houses Mediterranean plants, while the other is home to tropical species.
3. ArtScience Museum
The ArtScience Museum in Singapore is an iconic part of the Marina Bay Sands resort.
Designed by Moshe Safdie, it features a unique lotus-shaped structure. This distinctive form makes it stand out among other buildings in the city.
Inside, the museum bridges the gap between art and science.
It houses two major exhibition spaces organized around a central open-space atrium.
Exhibits often cover a mix of art, science, culture, and technology, providing a rich experience for visitors.
The museum opened in 2011 and quickly became a must-see destination.
Its design balances natural elements with modern architecture, which appeals to both travelers and locals.
Seen from a distance, the building resembles a lotus flower floating above the water, adding to Singapore’s vibrant skyline.
For more details, visit the official Marina Bay Sands – ArtScience Museum page.
4. The Esplanade
The Esplanade, also known as Theatres on the Bay, is a performing arts center in Singapore.
Its design features two rounded glass domes covered with over 7,000 triangular aluminum sunshades, giving it a unique appearance that locals liken to a durian fruit.
The Esplanade was designed by the renowned firm DP Architects and completed in 2002.
It plays a crucial role in Singapore’s arts scene and is often compared to the Sydney Opera House.
Inside, the Esplanade hosts a 2,000-seat theatre, concert hall, outdoor theatre, shopping center, and various performance spaces.
The complex’s architecture blends functionality with a commitment to artistic expression, making it a significant cultural landmark in Singapore’s waterfront area.
Learn more about The Esplanade here and here.
5. Changi Airport Jewel
Changi Airport Jewel in Singapore opened to the public in 2019.
Designed by Moshe Safdie, it is a stunning glass toroidal building. The structure covers 1.7 million square feet and includes over 235,000 square feet of landscaping.
The centerpiece of the Jewel is the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. It cascades down seven stories.
Jewel acts as a connector between the airport’s terminals.
It blends nature with a marketplace, featuring shops, dining options, and gardens.
Visitors and residents flock to the Jewel, making it a lively urban center.
Singapore’s reputation as “The City in the Garden” is well-represented.
For more detailed architecture and design information, visit Safdie Architects’ Jewel Changi Airport.
6. Raffles Hotel
Raffles Hotel, established in 1887, is one of Singapore’s most iconic landmarks.
Known for its neo-renaissance architecture, this hotel stands out amid the city’s modern skyscrapers.
Built by the Sarkies brothers, it quickly became a symbol of luxury and sophistication.
The hotel’s colonial architecture and well-preserved interiors transport visitors back to the Golden Age of Travel.
Authors like Joseph Conrad were among its early guests.
Today, the hotel continues to attract many visitors who come to experience its rich history and elegance firsthand.
For more on Raffles Hotel’s storied past, check out this guide on its history.
7. The Fullerton Hotel
The Fullerton Hotel, located at 1 Fullerton Square, is a five-star luxury hotel near the mouth of the Singapore River.
Originally known as the Fullerton Building, it was named after Robert Fullerton, the first Governor of the Straits Settlements.
This historic building was completed in 1928 and is a masterpiece of Neoclassical architecture.
Over the years, it housed the General Post Office, the Chamber of Commerce, and the prestigious Singapore Club.
In its current form, The Fullerton Hotel offers luxurious interiors and world-class service.
Guests are treated to an elegant blend of historic charm and modern comforts.
Some standout features include a Heritage Gallery, which details the building’s rich history, and a generous outdoor pool that provides relief from the tropical heat.
For more on The Fullerton Hotel, visit Wikipedia’s page.
8. Parkview Square
Parkview Square stands out in Singapore’s skyline with its glamorous Art Deco design.
Located in the Downtown Core, it is near Bugis MRT station, Bugis Junction, and The Gateway.
This office building features intricate architectural details inspired by European and New York skyscrapers.
The grand lobby and bar, ATLAS, grace the ground floor and offer a luxurious ambiance.
ATLAS houses a three-story gin tower and serves a variety of dishes like Steak Frites and oysters throughout the day.
The building is also referred to as the Gotham Building due to its imposing and classic appearance.
Designed to impress, Parkview Square continues to be a significant attraction in the Bugis neighborhood.
The building’s unique character has earned it recognition and accolades in the world of architecture.
9. Nanyang Technological University Learning Hub
Nanyang Technological University’s Learning Hub, also known as “The Hive,” stands out with its unique design.
Designed by Heatherwick Studio, the building features a series of stacked, rounded towers.
The distinctive shape has earned it the nickname “dim sum basket building” due to its resemblance to traditional Chinese steamer baskets.
It was completed in 2015 and designed to foster collaborative learning.
The Learning Hub offers a variety of spaces for students to interact and share ideas.
The interior includes open areas, terraces, and classrooms that encourage group discussions and teamwork.
For more information, check out Dezeen’s article on the NTU Learning Hub.
The building is part of NTU’s wider campus redevelopment, aiming to modernize its facilities and improve the student experience.
10. Reflections at Keppel Bay
Reflections at Keppel Bay is a marvel of modern architecture in Singapore.
Designed by renowned architect Daniel Libeskind, it consists of six undulating towers and 11 low-rise villa apartments.
Completed in 2011, the development stands at the entrance to historic Keppel Harbor.
The towers are known for their sleek curving forms, providing unique and dynamic views.
This residential complex occupies approximately 84,000 square meters of land. It offers 1,129 units, each with a 99-year leasehold.
The architecture is noted for its mesmerizing forms and sustainable living features.
Residents enjoy privacy and expansive ocean views.
The alternating heights and luminous surfaces of the towers create a distinctive visual appeal.
It’s truly unlike most high-rise buildings in Singapore.
Learn more about this iconic structure on the Keppel Real Estate website.
Architectural Significance in Singapore
Singapore’s architecture is rich with a blend of historical and modern influences, reflecting its cultural diversity and innovative spirit.
Historical Context
Singapore’s architectural history is deeply rooted in its colonial past.
The Old Hill Street Police Station, known for its vibrant, rainbow-colored windows, is a notable example.
This building, located at 140 Hill Street, showcases the blend of aesthetic and functionality in colonial architecture.
One important historical building is the Former Cathay Building. Designed by Frank W. Brewer, it was the first high-rise and air-conditioned cinema in the city.
Its Art Deco style set a standard for future architectural designs.
Another historical highlight is the Thian Hock Keng Temple, the oldest temple of the Hokkien community.
Built in 1839, parts of the temple were recycled from Chinese ships, adding unique maritime significance.
This temple is dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea, reflecting the city’s seafaring heritage.
Influence of Modern Design
Modern architecture in Singapore is marked by innovative designs that integrate nature and sustainability.
A prime example is the Marina Bay Sands, designed by Moshe Safdie.
It incorporates biophilic design principles by integrating sky gardens and green spaces within its structure. This approach brings nature into urban living spaces.
The Parkview Square, often called the “Gotham Building,” features modern Art Deco styles that stand out in the city’s skyline.
Its design captures the elegance and grandeur of early 20th-century architectural themes while providing modern amenities.
Atbara House in the Singapore Botanic Gardens is another notable mention.
Designed by R. A. J. Bidwell, it blends colonial and modern elements, offering a historical contrast with contemporary design principles.
Architects in Singapore continue to push boundaries, combining aesthetics with environmental consciousness, ensuring that buildings serve both functional and ecological purposes.
Cultural Impact of Architecture
Singapore’s architecture reflects its rich heritage and seamless integration with modern urban development. This duality plays a crucial role in shaping the city’s cultural identity.
Representation of Local Heritage
Architecture in Singapore often pays homage to its colonial past and multicultural roots.
Many historical buildings such as the Raffles Hotel and Chinatown shophouses showcase British colonial influence and traditional Chinese architecture.
Historic Sites:
- Raffles Hotel: An iconic colonial building known for its classic design and historical significance.
- Chinatown Shophouses: Feature intricate designs and serve as reminders of Chinese immigrants’ contributions.
Temples and Mosques: The architecture also represents religious diversity.
Noteworthy structures include the Sultan Mosque and the Buddhist Tooth Relic Temple.
These sites highlight the coexistence of different cultures and faiths.
Cultural Festivals: Buildings often serve as focal points for local festivals and events.
For example, Chinatown transforms during Chinese New Year, showcasing its architectural grandeur.
Integration with Urban Development
Modern architecture in Singapore is characterized by its blend with natural elements and innovative urban planning.
The city is renowned for its biophilic designs, which integrate nature into urban spaces.
Marina Bay Sands: This iconic structure is a prime example. The hotel seamlessly combines luxury with eco-friendly elements such as rooftop gardens.
Public Spaces: Projects like Gardens by the Bay incorporate greenery into the urban environment. These spaces provide residents with accessible natural areas within the city.
Sustainable Design: Many newer buildings emphasize sustainability.
The Oasia Hotel Downtown, for example, features a lush green exterior that reduces carbon footprints and enhances urban biodiversity.
Both historical and modern architectural practices contribute significantly to Singapore’s cultural and urban landscape, making it a unique and vibrant city.