Join a local architect for a day exploring Singapore through its architecture, from the civic buildings of its colonial past to the ambitious developments shaping its contemporary skyline. With an architect accompanying us throughout, the city becomes a study in how buildings, neighbourhoods and public spaces have evolved in response to Singapore’s climate, culture, population and rapid transformation. Rather than simply visiting individual landmarks, the day considers how they connect to the wider story of the city. 

We begin in the Civic District, where Singapore’s colonial and civic history comes to life through its architecture. Admire the neo-Gothic beauty of St Andrew’s Cathedral and explore landmarks including the National Museum of Singapore and the former City Hall and Supreme Court buildings, now home to the National Gallery Singapore. Walk along the Singapore River, taking in its historic buildings and bridges, while our architect host considers how this part of the city has evolved.

Our journey continues at the Singapore City Gallery, where detailed models and interactive exhibits reveal the long-term planning behind Singapore’s transformation. Our architect host offers insight into the decisions around transport, green spaces, land use and the skyline that have shaped the city over successive generations.

We then stroll through Emerald Hill or Bukit Pasoh, where restored shophouses reveal layers of Peranakan, Chinese and European influence. Look closely at decorative façades, internal courtyards and climate-responsive features, with our architect host drawing attention to the relationship between architecture and tropical living.

At CapitaSpring, the story moves to contemporary Singapore. Rising 280 metres above Raffles Place, the development combines offices, retail and a hotel around its striking Green Oasis, vertical gardens, rooftop sky garden and urban farm.

We continue to Tiong Bahru, where art deco buildings and early modernist architecture reflect one of Singapore’s first public housing experiments, with curved balconies, natural ventilation and human-scale planning. The day culminates on the water. As the sun begins to set, board a **private bumboat towards Marina Bay**, with snacks and refreshments served on board. From the river, watch historic bridges and waterfront buildings give way to Singapore’s illuminated contemporary skyline.

PROGRAM CONCLUDES