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About Far East Square and AMOY
Location: Singapore
Developer: China Classic Pte Ltd
Designer: DP Architects Pte Ltd
Size: 1.4 hectares
Far East Square (FESq) is a conservation project, on the site where Chinese immigrants first landed in Singapore, involving a site area of 151,000 square feet which includes 61 old shophouses and two heritage sites, Fuk Tak Chi temple and Chui Eng Free School. With the site’s historic significance, the developer seeks not only to restore, but also to adapt the development for new market uses. The “3R” conservation principles of maximum retention, sensitive restoration and careful repair were employed. Adopting an exoskeleton approach, new structures and amenities were introduced to integrate “Old” and “New”. Efforts were also invested to engage the local community to bring vibrancy to the precinct.
Since 1999, FESq has been a successful development that celebrates Singapore’s heritage and modernity. It continues to refresh itself to maintain relevance in today’s context. In 2012, the developer and two adjacent building owners initiated the China Square Precinct Master Plan to integrate the quaint charm of FESq and the bustling hive of retail and entertainment outlets next door. Launched in December 2013, AMOY, a 37-room designer boutique hotel, was converted from offices within the conservation shophouses to inject new vitality with the creation of a live-in population.