Conception and architecture

Benoy’s design for this mixed-use scheme makes direct reference to the contours and lines of fruit and nuts; the retail canopy draws on the metaphors of ‘skin’ and ‘foliage’ while the iconic tower design is based on the concept of ‘roots and shoots’ growing up out of the canopy below.

Central to Benoy’s intention for the project was to create an iconic landmark, a magnetic retail, leisure and residential destination. ION Orchard offers grand civic gestures and new, flexible public spaces – including a 3,000 m² of events space, a 500 m² art gallery and observation deck that encourages interaction between the building and people. “By combining a keen commercial sensibility with vibrant and innovative architecture, our design ensures that ION Orchard - as the destination at the heart of Singapore, makes both a meaningful urban contribution and a significant national statement” comments David Buffonge, Director of Benoy.

ION Orchard introduces a large new civic space, deliberately carved back from the street; that delivers a central urban meeting space, capable of staging public events of varying sizes beneath Singapore’s first pure monocoque façade and canopy structure. “Media expression is an important component of the project’s design; we have integrated the latest LED display technology to transform the façade into a communicative face, injecting energy and activity into the public realm” explains Buffonge. This new media ‘skin’ will allow 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 will be able to project a whole new breed of animated advertisements, showcasing their latest collections in ways never before seen. Double-height shop fronts with active frontage along the new public square and the street will complete Orchard Road and deliver the retail infrastructure it needs to become one of the world’s great shopping streets.

Benoy has kept a focus on a design that delivers an inspiring environment in and around ION Orchard, ensuring a colourful, dynamic and multi-dimensional pedestrian experience. Benoy is proud to celebrate the launch of ION Orchard, which introduces a space that extends beyond commercial value and the traditional model of a retail centre - as well as delivering Benoy’s design ethos and commitment to creating successful destination places worldwide.