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An inspiring environment with a colourful, dynamic and multi-dimensional experience at ION Orchard stands for Benoy’s design ethos and commitment of creating a sensible design response that is not only architecturally memorable, but socially conscious and commercially viable.

The design of ION Orchard intended to go beyond the commercial value by creating a space that extends beyond the traditional model of a retail centre by creating a new civic heart on Orchard Road, A vibrant, dynamic and innovative design, delivering an urban contribution as the destination at the heart of Singapore.

The project consists of two primary elements: a vibrant retail podium and an iconic tower that taken together create a holistic expression that draws on uniquely Singaporean themes public spaces – both external and internal – including a new events’ square serves as a community focal point, an art gallery and a striking observation deck, 218 metres above ground level, that will offer 360° panoramic views of the surrounding area. Thus the civic hub carries a potential of being a focal point for both large and small events – from festivals and shows to meetings and exhibitions.

Benoy derived inspiration from the site’s historical function as an orchard, specifically, focused on the idea of growth with Intrinsic idea of peeling, that suggests the emergence of something new; the removal of an external skin to reveal growth that has taken place within.

The plan of this mixed-use scheme makes direct reference to the contours and lines of fruit and nuts. Meanwhile, the retail canopy draws on the metaphors of ‘skin’, ‘canopies of trees’, ‘foliage’ and ‘fruit and peels’, and the iconic tower design is based on the concept of ‘roots and shoots’ – to celebrate the site, its history and its future.

Fronting onto Orchard Road, the retail podium provides vivid interfaces with a large media wall and dramatic double-height shop fronts that helps to significantly raise Orchard Road’s global retail profile. Integrating the latest LED display technology, the façade transforms into a communicative face, injecting energy and activity into the public realm. This new media ‘skin’ allows the architectural façade to become a showcase of digital artwork, a stage for contemporary artists and shared international events such as New Year countdowns. Meanwhile, retailers are able to project a whole new breed of animated advertisements.

Retail frontages are fluid and organic in form, dining and open spaces merge together to showcase a contemporary urban quality lifestyle that reflects and responds to this green and central site with the creation of a unique form and architectural response.

The retail interior becomes memorable and reflective of the building’s core spirit, with strong connections to the natural environment. Finishes and surface treatments reflect the structures and patterns found in the surrounding natural environment. Furnishings and interior treatment have been designed in such a way to convey the sense of a contemporary park that is inviting and warm.

By linking all visual elements to the site – drawing on the imagery of the natural environment and of Singapore itself, Benoy has tied the development to the place. By including in the scheme grand civic gestures and new, flexible public spaces, it has been brought closer to the people.

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