Revitalising spaces, reconnecting communities

The Singapore Land Authority's efforts to tap into the nation's pulse have transformed our classic buildings into vibrant community spaces that are must-visit destinations and online viral sensations

- 

F rom a former school compound to a thriving lifestyle hub, the old Nan Chiau High School in River Valley has been reimagined as New Bahru, now home to over 40 businesses and a magnet for Singapore's trendsetters.

The project's impact extends beyond Singapore and has also attracted global attention. When Mr Colin Low, chief executive of the Singapore Land Authority (SLA), visited Hong Kong and Japan in late 2024, he was surprised by the international recognition the project had already garnered.

"The Hong Kong and Japanese real estate executives said they had heard about New Bahru online," Mr Low says. "That was surprising because it was only three months after New Bahru's soft launch. We also saw it featured in international magazines and drawing tourists, all thanks to the power of social media." New Bahru is just one of many state properties under SLA's stewardship undergoing a transformation. Several others under SLA's care are being reimagined as vibrant new spaces. The former St Andrew's Mission Hospital at Kadayanallur Street has been reborn as Kada, a thriving lifestyle hub offering co-working and wellness spaces and unique dining experiences.

Over at Evans Road, the former University Hall is set to become a co-living space, catering to Singapore's evolving and diverse accommodation needs. And later this year, a new intergenerational co-living space will emerge at a former primary school site at 98 Henderson Road, a first of its kind intergenerational co-living space for both the young and active seniors. It will offer community programming to appeal to seniors who lead active lifestyles and desire easy access to organised activities, all within one location.

Feeling the nation's pulse At the heart of SLA's approach is a commitment to listening to communities and stakeholders.