Forum: Let Orchard Road create memories that move hearts and lift spirits
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox
Redesigning Orchard Road is about far more than upgrading buildings, streetscapes and greenery (Orchard Road is changing, but does it offer enough reasons for people to return?, July 18).
It is about reinventing the entire experience so that the district can once again attract the right crowds, energise commerce and host vibrant activities.
The goal should be to transform Orchard Road into a destination that celebrates joy, excitement, fun, wonder and other positive emotions.
It should appeal to a wide spectrum of tastes and senses through captivating sights, sounds, aromas, textures and experiences.
Above all, Orchard Road should create beautiful memories that move hearts and lift spirits.
This can be achieved through innovative shows, lively parties, meaningful gatherings and signature events that make the area feel dynamic and unforgettable.
For example, busking and street entertainment should be expanded and upgraded to inject greater vibrancy, fun and excitement into the district.
This will enhance the kerb appeal, attract crowds and encourage them to revisit the area.
At the same time, Orchard Road can embrace technology-driven attractions that not only thrill visitors but also showcase Singapore’s strength as a high-tech global city.
These attractions could include AI-powered interactive installations, robotic toys and performances, augmented and virtual reality experiences, digital animation, internet of things-enabled services, drone-powered aerial displays and videography, and other immersive forms of entertainment.
As a global city, Singapore should use Orchard Road not only to display the beauty and creativity of our nation, but also to bring some of the wonders of the world to both residents and visitors.
In doing so, Orchard Road can become more than a shopping belt; it can become a world-class urban experience.
If Orchard Road and, by extension, Singapore lose their appeal to locals and foreigners as a place to live, work, study, shop and play, then our bright light on the global stage may gradually begin to fade.
Redesigning Orchard Road is not merely an urban design project. It is also an investment in Singapore’s future relevance, attractiveness and vitality.
Patrick Liew Siow Gian
