Zaha Hadid Architects Embarks on a Futuristic Journey as Singapore's New Science Centre Breaks Ground

Singapore’s new Science Centre Breaks Ground

Singapore’s New Science Centre will provide unique facilities and programmes as a destination for all Singaporeans to access science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and experiences. The Science Centre Board in Singapore recently marked a significant milestone by conducting a groundbreaking ceremony for the Singapore’s New Science Centre, situated adjacent to the Chinese Garden MRT station. This innovative facility is poised to deliver a host of distinctive amenities and a diverse array of educational programs aimed at advancing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education across the nation.

The Singapore’s New Science Centre, spanning 55,000 square meters, designed in collaboration with Zaha Hadid Architects and Architects 61 Pie Ltd, is poised to become an iconic attraction in the Jurong Lake District. It’s expected to be about 25% larger than the current Science Centre, offering an immersive learning environment. The grand opening is slated for the end of 2027, aligning with its 50th anniversary and promising an exciting future for scientific exploration in Singapore.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the Singapore’s New Science Centre was graced by the presence of distinguished individuals, including Mr. To Chee Hean, Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security, who also serves as the Patron of the Science Centre Board. Joining him were Mr. Chan Chun Sing, Minister for Education, Ms. Tan Yen Yen, Chairman of the Science Centre Board, and Associate Professor Lim Tit Meng, Chief Executive of the Science Centre Board, all of whom played a pivotal role in officiating the event.

Associate Professor Lim Tit Meng, Chief Executive of the Science Centre Board, reflecting on this significant milestone, expressed, “With 46 years of rich history, the Singapore’s New Science Centre has been a landmark, inspiring generations and nurturing Singapore’s finest STEM talents. Through strategic partnerships and innovative programs, we aim to make the new Science Centre a destination where visitors from all backgrounds not only want to visit but also leave with a deeper curiosity about the world of science and technology.

The upcoming Science Centre is set to deliver an advanced learning experience, incorporating cutting-edge technology to engage visitors of all ages. The expanded KidsSTOP, more than double its current size, will offer a vibrant space for young children, featuring interactive exhibits promoting exploration. Moreover, the Science Centre is dedicated to collaborating with partners to prototype exhibitions and programs encouraging parents’ active involvement in their children’s learning journeys. For the older audience, the Science Centre aims to foster meaningful discussions on critical real-world issues like sustainability and climate change. It also explores emerging technologies like generative Artificial Intelligence through various workshops and exhibitions, catering to both youths and adults.

The Science Centre, dedicated to innovation, is always evolving, aiming to provide fresh and exciting experiences. It ventures beyond science, as seen with events like the Comic Art and Sci-Fi Expo in September. Visitors can anticipate a range of unique scientific experiences, including the spectacular fire tornado show at the Outdoor Amphitheatre, which will be open to the public.

In 2024, visitors will immerse themselves in an interactive VR experience of the Singapore’s New Science Centre and explore a physical 3D model at the current Science Centre. Moreover, exhibitions showcasing the Singapore’s New Science Centre’s potential offerings have been displayed in schools and will soon be available in select public libraries during school holidays. The new Science Centre seeks to be the community’s heart, seamlessly integrated into the landscape, offering various gardens and spaces for everyone to enjoy.

The public will explore science exhibits on well-planned nature trails and venture into the secondary forest through a scientific lens. Exciting collaborations with the National Parks Board (NParks), the national water agency PUB, and nature groups are in the works to develop learning trails and programs. Visitors will relish breathtaking views of Jurong Lake and lush gardens through the building’s expansive windows, from rooftop gardens, and while strolling on the wide 30-meter outdoor plaza linking Chinese Garden MRT station to the Jurong Lake promenade. Additionally, the rooftop garden will serve as a versatile event space, open for public booking, and at night, visitors can enjoy stargazing at the Observatory.

Project Info:
Architect: Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA), Architects 61
Area: 52,460 m2
Design: Patrik Schumacher
Structural Engineering: WEB Structures
Lighting Design: Nipek Pte Ltd
Façade Engineering: Koltay Facades
City: Jurong Lake District
Country: Singapore