Shenton Way

Gazing up at these towering structures, it’s hard to believe Shenton Way was once a humble coastal road. Shenton Way, named after Governor Sir Shenton Thomas in 1951, has undergone a dramatic transformation. Initially, the most prominent structure was the Telok Ayer Market, now Lau Pa Sat. In the 1970s, Shenton Way blossomed into Singapore’s bustling commercial center. A construction boom saw the rise of impressive skyscrapers. These included the 50-storey Development Bank of Singapore building, the 36-storey United Industrial Corporation building, the 26-storey Robina House, the 24-storey Shenton House, and the 18-storey Shing Kwan House. By the mid-1970s, Shenton Way boasted a skyline punctuated by six prominent high-rises. Fast forward to the 21st century, and Shenton Way continues to evolve. Many of the original structures have been replaced. One Shenton Way now graces the site of the former Robina House. V on Shenton stands where the UIC Building once soared. The SGX Centre replaced both Shing Kwan House and the ICB Building. Amidst this modern landscape, the 1970s Brutalist architecture of Shenton House stands as a striking reminder of the past. One wonders how long it will remain before it too makes way for the new. The constant cycle of renewal is a testament to Shenton Way’s vibrant spirit and its enduring importance in Singapore’s financial landscape.