Olson Building

Amidst the modern cityscape of Singapore, the Olson Building stands as a testament to a bygone era. This two-story structure, also known as Block 11A or 29 Mount Sophia, whispers tales of its time as part of the Methodist Girls’ School. Originally designed by the renowned architect Frank Wilmin Brewer, the Olson Building completed construction in 1928. Its high-pitched roof and orderly window openings echo the design of another Brewer creation, the former ACS Building. The Olson Building’s charm, however, lies in its unique details. Clay-tiled canopies, supported by geometrically carved masonry corbels, shade the first story. These canopies, along with the building’s concrete lattices and louvered vents, facilitated cross-ventilation, a crucial element in Singapore’s tropical climate. The building was named in honor of Mary E. Olson, a two-time principal of the Methodist Girls’ School. Within its walls, young girls from Primary 4 and 5 attended classes. A laboratory and an office also found space within the building. Outside, a concrete slope provided hours of fun for students who slid down its smooth surface. The Methodist Girls’ School relocated in 1992. The Olson Building, along with the other campus structures, became vacant.  In 2007, a $2.5 million renovation transformed the campus into an arts enclave. This new life was short-lived. By 2011, the tenants were asked to leave, as the campus was slated for redevelopment. The Olson Building, however, was spared. Recognizing its architectural significance, the Urban Redevelopment Authority gazetted it for conservation in 2012. The Olson Building’s unique features, especially its cross-ventilation system, saved it from demolition. While other buildings on the campus were not as fortunate, the Olson Building stands as a reminder of the school’s history. It has been beautifully restored, with later additions like paintwork removed to reveal its original facade. This restoration work, alongside the restoration of Trinity Theological College Chapel and the Former Nan Hwa Girls’ School Building, even earned a special mention at the 2018 Urban Redevelopment Authority Architectural Heritage Awards. Today, the Olson Building has been integrated into the Sophia Hills condominium complex and serves as its clubhouse. It continues to grace Mount Sophia, a tangible link to Singapore’s educational and architectural heritage.