SINGAPORE: From pop-up spaces to building facade enhancements and night markets, more initiatives will be rolled out in Orchard Road this year and in 2027 to revitalise the shopping street.

These plans demonstrate a “sustained commitment” to refresh Orchard Road, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) said on Friday (May 8).

Speaking at the Tourism Industry Conference at the Resorts World Convention Centre, STB chief executive Melissa Ow said that in Tanglin, four heritage bungalows have been rezoned for hotel use. The bungalows are set within 1.9 hectares of land in Seton Close.

“The site presents an opportunity to develop a unique, low-density hospitality concept,” she said.

At the same conference, Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations Grace Fu said the Orchard Road Rejuvenation Plan, which first began in 2019, is "well underway".

"We envision Orchard Road to be an iconic lifestyle destination for all – enlivened by vibrant activations, concepts and experiences set within a city garden," said Ms Fu, who is also Minister for Sustainability and the Environment. 

To this end, a new Orchard Road Rejuvenation Initiative will be launched in the middle of 2026, she said.

Stakeholders will be invited to develop pilot events or experiences in three areas: building facade enhancements such as digital display boards and interactive building surfaces, experiential concepts and artwork installations in common gathering spaces, and night-time initiatives like illumination projections and night markets.

Mall operators, hotel operators, event organisers and associations may participate, and the programme will last for two years. Shortlisted proposals may receive funding support.

Ms Fu gave the example of Ion Orchard's three-dimensional facade screen display, which she said "offers a taste of what is possible".

"I encourage Orchard Road stakeholders to come forward with bold and innovative proposals," she added.

POP-UP SPACES

Earlier this year, STB also said it would launch a tender for 37 Emerald Hill, the former site for Singapore Chinese Girls' School, for a mixed-use development comprising hotel and lifestyle concepts.

STB will launch another tender this...