“Tallest skyscraper in the country and one of the most sustainable buildings in Asia.” That’s the promise of 8 Shenton Way. This mixed-use tower is currently under development. It is expected to redefine Singapore’s skyline upon its completion in 2028.
8 Shenton Way stands on Shenton Road. This is a strategic location between the Central Business District and Marina Bay. It rises from the site of the former AXA Tower built in 1986. This new tower is not just a building. It is a statement of intent. It is the first project under Singapore’s CBD Incentive Scheme. This scheme encourages the development of vibrant, mixed-use spaces.
Imagine a tower that blends work, life, and play. 8 Shenton Way aims to do just that. It will offer offices, retail spaces, a hotel, and luxury residences. There will also be public spaces. The luxury residences called SkyWaters Residences will crown the uppermost levels of the tower.
The design of 8 Shenton Way draws inspiration from bamboo forests. Its stepped structure mimics the verticality of nature. Garden terraces will punctuate the building every five to six floors. This brings greenery into the urban landscape. The facade will incorporate natural materials. Champagne-colored terracotta and bamboo will adorn the exterior walls. The lobbies will feature wood, stone, and terracotta alongside artwork.
But the beauty of 8 Shenton Way isn’t just skin deep. The tower’s second floor will host an open-air green space. It will provide dining options designed to attract birds and butterflies. A multi-floor atrium and a reflecting pool will offer tranquil spaces within the bustling city. Post-pandemic design concepts are integrated throughout the building. These include contactless technology and advanced filtration systems. Anti-microbial coatings and improved natural airflow will enhance well-being. Large outdoor spaces offer a respite from the indoors. A public performance and events space will connect the building to the street. Retail, seating, and bicycle racks will encourage public engagement.
Sustainability is at the heart of 8 Shenton Way. The project aims for the Building and Construction Authority Singapore Green Mark Platinum certification. The existing foundation and infrastructure of the AXA Tower are being repurposed. This reduces material use and embodied carbon. Recyclable aggregates produced through a low-carbon process will be used for the concrete structure. The tower will use Singapore Green Building Council-certified materials during construction. Sun-shading fins will be installed on the facade. These will prevent excessive solar heat. The skyscraper will be oriented to ensure sufficient ventilation and natural light. Vast outdoor green spaces and landscaped gardens will cover over 10,000 square meters. Rainwater harvesting for irrigation and water-efficient fittings will conserve water.
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, a US-based architecture firm, serves as the architectural design consultant. DCA Architects, based in Singapore, is the main architect.
Financing for the project comes from a S$3 billion loan. A group of eight financial institutions provided the loan. OCBC Bank is the facility agent and security agent. This loan is considered one of the largest real estate green loans in Asia.
8 Shenton Way is more than just a building. It’s a symbol of Singapore’s ambition. It is an ambition to create a sustainable, vibrant, and livable city. It represents the future of urban development.