a new landmark rises

Singapore's skyline is set for another transformation. Moshe Safdie discusses the challenges, inspirations and breakthroughs shaping Marina Bay Sands' long-awaited expansion.

- Text by Amy Van, Portrait photo by Marcus Lim

Las Vegas Sands has broken ground on an US$8 billion ultra-luxury resort and entertainment destination, designed by Safdie Architects, the visionary team behind Marina Bay Sands. Slated to be completed in 2029, the yet-to-named 55-storey, 570-suite hotel tower will feature luxury dining, retail, gaming, spa and wellness offerings, and will be capped by the 76,000-square-foot Skyloop — an architectural centrepiece of overlapping elliptical volumes spiralling in opposing directions. The hotel tower will stand rotated at a 45-degree angle with twin wings curving outward to capture sweeping views of Marina Bay and the Singapore Strait. The development also houses a three-level podium with a 15,000-seat arena, set to elevate Singapore's position as a hub for global business and entertainment.

In line with in Sands ECO360, Marina Bay Sands’ sustainability strategy, the project integrates biophilic design and green features inspired by Singapore's garden city identity. With construction underway, the development is expected to push the boundaries of luxury tourism, hospitality and entertainment. We find out more from founding partner of Safdie Architects, Moshe Safdie, about this mega project.

Could you share the design vision behind this upcoming ultra-luxury resort? What were the earliest ideas that shaped the concept?