Its colonial past, diverse mix of Chinese and Malaysian heritage, and booming economy have all played a part in Singapore becoming a global city with iconic landmarks to match.
From traditional Malay houses and temples, to neoclassical and Palladian styles favoured by British architects, and now more modern, sleek designs for offices, apartments and shopping centres, the city has gained an impressive reputation for embracing sleek ‘look-at-me’ designs that are begging for the attentions of a wide-angle lens.
The most iconic building dates back to the Colonial era. Raffles Hotel was designed by British architect Alfred John Bidwell, built by the Sarkies brothers, and completed in 1899. It was named after Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of modern Singapore. It survived the bombings of World War II, and was declared a national monument in 1987.
Is it a fish? Is it a honeycomb? The Esplanade’s spiky aluminium-clad dome is a Marmite building among locals, but it’s certainly unique. It was designed by DP Architects of Singapore and the London-based Michael Wilford & Partners.
The stunning triple-T shaped Marina Bay Sands has completely changed the city’s skyline. It was designed by an Israeli-Canadian architect Moshe Saftdie and is home to a casino, shopping mall, hotel and restaurants.
The best places to snap these stunning designs are from some touristy viewing points or a trendy rooftop bar or restaurant.
Probably the cheapest spot for a city-scape fix. For just $5SD, head to the 50th floor where a ‘skybridge’ connects the seven building complex, offering 360-degree views of the city, port and sea.
Located on Sentosa Island, this is Asia’s tallest observatory tower at 131 meters. It offers panoramic views across Singapore, Sentosa and the Southern islands. Adult admission is $18SD.
A Ferris wheel larger than the London Eye, you’ll get both a 360-degree and moving views of the marina, Raffles Place and the F1 circuit. Adult tickets are from $33SD (get 10% off online).
The SkyPark:
The public observation deck at Marina Bay Sands hotel puts you in the centre of the skyscraper action. Adult tickets are $23S.
Bars and Restaurants:
1-Altitude, said to be the highest al-fresco bar in the world, is on the 63rd floor – the rooftop of Raffles – and offers great views of the major downtown landmarks. Level33, on the 33rd floor of the Marina Bay Financial Centre, offers views of the CBD, while the Esplanade itself has a garden-themed rooftop area offering romantic views of Marina Bay.
