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Magazine
Singapore shows the way
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One can learn a few things about the restoration of heritage architecture and the preservation of monuments from Singapore, says SHARAN APPARAO.
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The swimming pool of the Fullerton.
THE success of Singapore lies in the fact that it is run like a multinational company and not a country.
The voice of Singapore seems to have a "sharp focus". As a vision, the sight is set and the action plan is followed.
As part of Singapore's promotion of its history and heritage, a series of architectural rejuvenation nation projects were planned.
The first of these projects were the Quays, both Clark and Boat. This was followed by the old run down shop houses being converted into trendy restaurants, shops and galleries.
The people of Singapore began to value their heritage. In addition to their pride, Singapore as a city was also strong in its infrastructure. The growth in the economy and convergence of many economic activities in the city brought in a lot of cosmopolitan and interesting people. The heritage idea became important to the locals as well as expatriates. One of the first major architectural restoration government projects was that of the Singapore art museum, originally a Catholic boy school built in the 1920's. This building was assigned to the museum in the mid-1990's. In a few years time, Singapore had one of the most beautiful museums in South East Asia. While maintaining the character of the structure and being faithful to the architectural style, the architect firm, restored, renovated and redesigned the interior spaces.
The museum building has a colonial character, yet when you walk in, you have the most contemporary interior housing glass sculpture from Dale Chuily to living artists in Singapore. It is the perfect blend of the historic and the contemporary.
Another such building that has been converted and beautifully restored is the Fullerton Hotel, originally used as a post office, the Singapore Club and the Chamber of Commence.
The jade entrance of the Fullerton.
"In 1919 Singapore passed its first centenary. The mood was jubilant and celebrations reflected the riches and optimism of the community. The year passed with a rush of public festivities and projects. The biggest and most ambitious was the Fullerton building, the largest structure built in Singapore. It was on the entire peninsula of Fort Fullerton with a commanding view of one the Singapore river and harbour. The Fullerton was audacious and ambitious, symbolising the new wealth and power of Singapore and the enterprise and industry of its people. It was to be, in the words of the Governor. "A Monument Worthy of the City."
After 70 years the building was converted into a luxury hotel while keeping in mind every aspect of its architectural integrity. The exterior was kept in the original fashion while the interior was innovated to house 400 rooms and several restaurants.
Set on the banks of the river the majestic structure with its art deco flavour has been combined very innovatively with all the contemporary touches — with clean lines.
The newly inaugurated museum of Asian civilisations is now housed in what was the immigration office building (the Empress Place) on the banks of the river.
The technology and design in this project is commendable.
This is certainly a feather in the cultural cap as Singapore strives forward with these projects.
The Singapore Tyler Print Institute is also housed in one of the rejuvenated harbour warehouses, while the annexe of the Asian Civilisation Museum was once a primary school.
Singapore as a city has set a fine example as to how one can use and restore architectural gems and heritage buildings that have done their time.
It has taught us how to appreciate the ageless beauties of these architectural gems..
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