Orchard Towers, Singapore undergoing 2 years makeover as a family-friendly destination

Friday, December 8, 2023

Orchard Towers, a landmark in Singapore that was once infamous for its sleazy reputation, is undergoing a comprehensive two-year makeover to shed its shady past and rebrand as a family-friendly destination.

The rejuvenation project includes a new external facade and cladding, as well as a shift in tenant mix to attract more wholesome businesses.

Previously marred by dubious activities and a seedy image, Orchard Towers is striving to reinvent itself, with the hope of transforming into a more respectable and welcoming space. The management is actively seeking family-friendly tenants to replace the nightlife outlets that ceased operations earlier this year due to licensing issues.

While the makeover is underway, Orchard Towers continues to face challenges in distancing itself from its past. Complaints about questionable activities persist in and around the vicinity, indicating that the building’s transformation may encounter skepticism and resistance.

Currently, the retail occupancy of the 53-year-old building stands at around 70%, which is notably quieter compared to its more modern neighbors along Singapore’s bustling Orchard Road. The effort to attract family-oriented businesses, such as furnishing stores, pharmacies, eateries, tuition centers, and dance studios, is seen as a strategic move to reshape the building’s image and appeal to a different demographic.

Nightlife outlets that once dominated Orchard Towers have been replaced by businesses that align with the new vision. The management’s decision to welcome startups and young entrepreneurs is aimed at injecting fresh energy and attracting a diverse crowd to the vicinity. The hope is that the revitalization efforts will contribute to the overall transformation of Orchard Towers into a more vibrant and community-oriented space.

New tenants are reportedly enticed by the building’s revitalization initiatives and upgrading plans, as well as the allure of affordable rents. The rental rates, approximately 15% lower than competitors along Orchard Road, make Orchard Towers an attractive option for businesses looking to establish a presence in a well-known location with a renewed focus on positive community engagement. The success of this ambitious transformation will likely depend on the effectiveness of the management’s efforts and the community’s willingness to embrace the new direction of Orchard Towers.

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