Located within Singapore’s Central Business District, Hong Leong Building undergoes a comprehensive renewal that repositions the 50-year-old commercial tower for the next generation of users. Rather than pursuing demolition and redevelopment, the project embraces adaptive reuse as a sustainable strategy to extend the building’s lifespan while preserving its architectural identity.

The design focuses on retaining and enhancing existing assets. The original granite façade is carefully preserved, reducing material waste and embodied carbon while maintaining the building’s distinctive character. At the podium, a refreshed façade and reconfigured two-volume covered walkway strengthen the building’s presence at street level and improve the pedestrian experience. A new decorative metal screen is introduced in front of the naturally ventilated car park façade, creating a contemporary architectural expression while retaining passive ventilation and operational efficiency.

Internally, the renewal elevates the everyday experience of tenants and visitors through the transformation of key common spaces. The ground-floor office lobby is reimagined as a welcoming arrival space, while a new vehicular drop-off at Level 5 improves accessibility and circulation. Upgraded lift lobbies and common amenities further enhance comfort, functionality, and spatial quality throughout the building.

By retaining approximately 95% of the existing structure, the project demonstrates how thoughtful architectural intervention can unlock new value from existing buildings. The renewal not only reduces environmental impact but also preserves the collective memory embedded within the urban fabric, offering a model for sustainable transformation in Singapore’s evolving cityscape.

Status:
Completed 2025