A journey through time on the banks of the Singapore River, where history, culture, and imagination converge.

Amidst the tall glass buildings and busy streets of Singapore’s Civic District, a quieter story begins to unfold by the banks of the historic Singapore River. This is a place shaped by trade, memory, and movement, now brought back to life through architecture. Merchant’s Square is more than just a building. It is a space for making, learning, and connecting.

Inspired by the traditional shophouses once found along the river, the project brings new purpose to a forgotten urban corner. It becomes a lively craft hub where makers, designers, and visitors can meet and share. Small workshops sit alongside public walkways, allowing people to see, hear, and even join in the process of creation. The building encourages people not just to look, but to be part of the experience.

The design takes cues from Tropical Modernism, a style that suits the climate by using natural airflow, shade, and simple materials. Wooden screens soften the sunlight and reduce heat, while large openings let wind pass through. The building also reflects the rhythm and scale of old merchant houses, connecting the past with the present.

The project is built with sustainability in mind. It uses simple, honest materials and smart design choices to reduce energy use. Reclaimed bricks are used in low-traffic areas and thresholds, while terrazzo flooring made from recycled stone adds texture and durability. Rooms can be adjusted over time, and the whole space supports different ways of working and gathering. It is both practical and thoughtful, made to last and adapt.

At its core, Merchant’s Square asks a simple question. In a fast-moving city, can we still make time for craft, care, and community? Can buildings help us slow down, take notice, and reconnect with where we are and who we’re with?

This is a place that brings together history, creativity, and people by the river, for the future.