Building Singapore - A Tour of Architecture and History｜Singapore

This three-hour, downtown walking exploration covers the history and evolution of Singapore’s architectural history. These range from the earliest architectural typologies, such as 'shophouses' and their various types, to the profusion of star-chitects and their spectacular creations. The tour will cover Singapore's evolution as a city, its growth and urban story, the role of Singapore as a 'laboratory' of urban planning, and the spectacular success of its public housing program. There will be a special emphasis on “Skyrise Greenery” and the pioneering Landscaping for Urban Spaces and High-Rises (LUSH) program. A real treat for architecture lovers, this tour is led by a trained urban planning professional. We will start at the Historic Civic District where Singapore was born, and move through Chinatown and the shophouse culture. We will visit the Urban Redevelopment Authority Gallery and attempt to understand Singapore's planning processes and zoning over the years. The tour is primarily a walking tour, with the possible inclusion of some public transportation elements. The tour will end at a charming historic precinct with distinct and delightful architectural elements. We also provide a list of other notable areas and buildings, not covered on the tour, that are well worth a visit.