Once upon a time, the UIC Building stood tall. This is the story of a skyscraper that once dominated Singapore’s skyline. The UIC Building, or United Industrial Corporation Limited Building, was a 40-storey skyscraper. It measured 152 meters high.
Completed in 1973, the UIC Building briefly held the title of Singapore’s tallest structure. It was also among Southeast Asia’s tallest buildings. However, in 1974, the United Overseas Bank Plaza Two surpassed it.
The UIC Building underwent renovations in 1986. It received a new concrete facade in the Brutalist architectural style. This gave it a distinctive and modern look.
In 2007, United Industrial Corporation bought the remaining shares of the UIC Building. This was done to pave the way for redevelopment. The company sought to modernize the site.
Demolition work began in 2012. During this process, part of the building collapsed. Sadly, a worker sustained injuries. This incident highlighted the risks involved in such large-scale projects. By 2013, demolition was complete. The UIC Building was gone.
In its place, a new development arose. United Industrial Corporation started construction on V on Shenton. This mixed-use project included residential and commercial units. V on Shenton was completed in 2017.
Shenton Way, where the UIC Building once stood, has a rich history. It’s part of the “Golden Shoe”. This area is the heart of Singapore’s city center. It was designated as the financial and banking hub.
Shenton Way got its name from Shenton Whitelegge Thomas. He was the governor of the Straits Settlements. The road was built on reclaimed land. It officially opened in 1951.
The “three sisters” of Shenton Way included the UIC Building. Robina House and Shenton House were also part of this group. Completed around the same time, they shared a similar design. These buildings contributed to Shenton Way’s distinctive character.
The UIC Building played a significant role in Singapore’s urban development. Its story reflects the city-state’s constant evolution. From its brief reign as the tallest building to its eventual demolition and replacement, the UIC Building’s legacy lives on. It reminds us of Singapore’s dynamic spirit. The UIC building has been an integral part of the Singapore skyline since 1973.