Here stands the Istana. It is more than just a building. It is a symbol of Singapore’s history and progress. The Istana is the official residence of the President of Singapore. It sits on over 40 hectares in Orchard Road. This is prime land in the heart of the city.
The Istana was built by the British Colonial government. It was intended as the home for its governors. Completed in 1869 the Istana was designed by Major John Frederick Adolphus McNair. He was a Colonial Engineer. Back then, it was known as Government House.
Did you know that the initial budget was only $100000? This was for a smaller Government House. A larger plan was approved later. But funds were short. Major McNair used the Duke of Edinburgh’s visit to increase his budget. The Istana was eventually completed for $185000.
When Singapore achieved self-government in 1959, the Istana was handed over. It was given to the Singapore Government. It was renamed Istana. That means Palace in Malay.
Imagine the Istana in the 1990s. It underwent extensive renovations. More space and modern conveniences were added. Today, the building has six function rooms. These rooms are used for ceremonies. They also serve to receive foreign dignitaries.
The Istana is similar to 18th-century neo-Palladian buildings. British military engineers designed these in India. It has a tropical layout like a Malay house. There are columns, verandahs, and louvred windows for ventilation. The central tower is 28-metre-high. It dominates the building.
Within the Istana’s grounds, you’ll find Sri Temasek. It was also built in 1869. It has been the official residence of the Prime Minister since independence. But none of the prime ministers have ever lived there.
There is also a Japanese field-artillery gun. It was presented to Lord Louis Mountbatten. This was after the Japanese surrender in 1945. A nine-hole golf course adds to the Istana’s unique features.
Inside the Istana, the Reception Hall is where the President receives dignitaries. The Banquet Hall hosts state dinners. Look for the trompe-l’oeil. It is painted with a backdrop of orchids. The State Room is the President’s office.
On the second floor, the East Sitting Room displays state gifts. The West Sitting Room has original timber flooring from the 1930s. The Sheares Room is a private dining hall. It is named after President Benjamin Sheares.
The Yusof Room is named for Singapore’s first president. His bust sits in this parlour. The room features a Chinese-style panel. It is painted with phoenixes and peonies.
The Grand Staircase leads to the upper floors. On the first landing stands the Guardian of the House. This statue was made by Indian labourers. They presented it to Sir Shenton Thomas.
The President’s Lounge overlooks the ceremonial square. It is styled like the White House’s Blue Room. The Office of the President is nearby. It has a maroon sofa and a wooden desk.
A rectangular cupola tops the Istana. The Presidential Standard flies when the President is present.
The Istana is more than just a building. It is a living monument. It reflects Singapore’s journey from colonial days to a modern nation. It is a place where history and heritage meet. It is where the future of Singapore is shaped. Take a moment to appreciate this grand palace. It is a symbol of Singapore’s enduring spirit.