UOB Plaza: A Landmark of Singapore's Financial District
Standing as a testament to architectural ambition and financial strength, UOB Plaza is a premier commercial complex in the heart of Singapore's Downtown Core. Comprising two late-modernist skyscrapers, the complex serves as the headquarters for the United Overseas Bank (UOB) and remains one of the most recognizable silhouettes in the city's skyline.
Located at Raffles Place within the Central Business District (CBD) along the Singapore River, the complex is a blend of historical evolution and cutting-edge design. While it once shared the title of the tallest building in the country, it currently stands as the second tallest since the completion of the Tanjong Pagar Centre in 2016.
ไม่มีภาพประกอบ
Key Facts
- Location: Downtown Core, Raffles Place, Singapore.
- Architect: Designed by the renowned Japanese architect Kenzo Tange.
- Structure: Consists of two towers, Plaza One and Plaza Two, connected by a 45-meter podium.
- Height: Plaza One reaches 280 meters (920 ft), while Plaza Two stands at 162 meters (531 ft).
- Opening: Officially opened on August 6, 1995, by Senior Minister Lee Kuan Yew.
The Architecture of UOB Plaza
The complex is divided into two distinct structures: the high-rise UOB Plaza One and the lower-rise UOB Plaza Two. Both are linked by a six-story podium supported by four massive columns, which houses the main banking hall of UOB.
UOB Plaza One
Completed in 1992, UOB Plaza One is a 62-story, box-shaped post-modernist building. Its design is credited to Kenzo Tange, whose influence is evident in the building's resemblance to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku. The tower was constructed by a joint venture between Nishimatsu Construction and Lum Chang.
UOB Plaza Two
UOB Plaza Two is a 38-story building with a history dating back to 1973. Originally known as the UOB Building and situated on the site of the former Bonham Building, it underwent a significant renovation in 1995. This remodel added eight new floors and updated the facade to harmonize with the aesthetic of Plaza One.
Historical Development and Construction
The journey to the current complex began in the late 1960s. UOB first developed its headquarters in 1973 as a 25-story tower with an octagonal cross-section, designed by Architects Team 3 to have a "monolithic look" using bare concrete and reflective glass.
By 1981, plans for a more ambitious headquarters—UOB Plaza—were announced. However, the project was temporarily halted in 1983 due to a downturn in the property market and high development charges. The project was revived in 1988, benefiting from a reduction in government levies and the increased accessibility provided by the new Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system.
Construction of the superstructure began in July 1990, with the steel frame completed by September 1991. The entire project was funded through the bank's own revenue and reserves, viewed as a long-term investment rather than a space for sale.
| Feature | UOB Plaza One | UOB Plaza Two |
|---|---|---|
| Height (Roof) | 280 m (920 ft) | 162 m (531 ft) |
| Floor Count | 62 | 38 |
| Completion Year | 1992 | 1973 (Renovated 1995) |
| Architect | Kenzo Tange Associates | Architects Team 3 (Original) |
| Primary Use | Commercial Offices | Commercial Offices |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who designed UOB Plaza One?
UOB Plaza One was designed by the famous Japanese architect Kenzo Tange, who also designed the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.
How are the two towers connected?
The two towers are connected by a 45-meter (148 ft) podium supported by four columns, which houses the bank's main branch banking hall.
Is UOB Plaza the tallest building in Singapore?
It was once one of the three tallest buildings in Singapore. Currently, it is the second tallest, having been surpassed by the Tanjong Pagar Centre (Guoco Tower) in 2016.
When was the complex officially opened?
The complex was officially opened on August 6, 1995, by then-Senior Minister Lee Kuan Yew, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the founding of UOB.
What is the significance of UOB Plaza Two's renovation?
The 1995 renovation of UOB Plaza Two added eight new floors and updated its exterior to match the late-modernist style of UOB Plaza One, creating a cohesive visual identity for the complex.