The Skywaters Residences project, located in Singapore’s bustling Tanjong Pagar district, is set to make history as the tallest building in the country, reaching a height of 305 meters. Scheduled for completion in 2028, this mixed-use skyscraper will mark a new chapter in the city-state’s urban development and represent a milestone in sustainable vertical living.
A Landmark in the Heart of the City
Skywaters is rising on the site of the former AXA Tower, just steps from Singapore’s Central Business District. Following the tower’s demolition in 2023, developers began constructing a 63-storey complex that will include:
- Premium residential apartments
- Grade-A office spaces
- Co-working hubs
- Retail zones
- Green terraces and sky gardens
- A panoramic observation deck
Once completed, Skywaters will be the tallest building in Southeast Asia (by structural height), tying with Kuala Lumpur’s Merdeka 118 at 305 meters (excluding spire height).
Iconic Design with Sustainable Vision
The architectural concept is being led by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), the global firm behind such landmark projects as Burj Khalifa in Dubai and One World Trade Center in New York. Skywaters embraces a design philosophy that merges urban density with ecological responsibility.
Key design features include:
- Vertical greenery and landscaped terraces to improve air quality and reduce heat
- Integrated photovoltaic panels on the roof and façade
- Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems
- Certification under BCA Green Mark Platinum, Singapore’s highest green building standard
Luxury Living Above the City
Skywaters will house approximately 215 private residences, offering:
- 2-, 3-, and 4-bedroom units
- Ultra-luxurious penthouses with sweeping views of Marina Bay
- Private lift lobbies and rooftop pools
- Smart-home integration and energy-efficient appliances
According to analysts, apartment prices will start from €2.5 million for a two-bedroom unit, with penthouses expected to fetch €12–15 million, targeting affluent local investors and global high-net-worth individuals from ASEAN, China, and the Middle East.
Connectivity and Urban Integration
The development is strategically located within walking distance of:
- Tanjong Pagar MRT Station
- The upcoming Thomson-East Coast Line
- Major expressways including AYE and MCE
Skywaters will also link to the expanding Green Spine pedestrian network, connecting Tanjong Pagar to Marina Bay, Fort Canning, and other key city hubs. Ground-level amenities will include upscale boutiques, gourmet dining, co-working zones, and event venues managed by brands such as WeWork and The Executive Centre.
The Rise of Tanjong Pagar
Tanjong Pagar is undergoing a dramatic transformation. Once dominated by office towers, the district is evolving into a mixed-use urban node emphasizing sustainability, community life, and vertical green infrastructure.
Skywaters will serve as the district’s crown jewel, redefining the skyline and reinforcing Tanjong Pagar as a premium lifestyle and business destination in Asia’s most dynamic city.
Economic and Investment Impact
The Skywaters project is expected to attract over €1.4 billion in investment. It is backed by a consortium that includes:
- Alibaba Group (via Lazada Southeast Asia)
- Perennial Holdings, a major Singaporean property developer
- Private equity funds from Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia
Approximately 40% of residential and commercial units are expected to be sold or leased by late 2026 — even before completion — reflecting strong investor confidence.
Annual rental income from commercial spaces alone is forecast to exceed €45 million, while capital appreciation on residential units could grow 5–7% annually post-launch.
Redefining Skyscraper Sustainability
Skywaters is designed not just as a skyscraper, but as a self-contained vertical ecosystem, prioritizing:
- Low carbon footprint
- Renewable energy
- Intelligent waste management
- Flexible space usage for living, working, and recreation
It exemplifies Singapore’s ambition to lead the next wave of “smart city” development in Asia, inspiring future towers in Hong Kong, Seoul, and Tokyo.
Public and Architectural Reception
While many hail the tower as a modern architectural triumph, some urbanists and residents have expressed concern about increased density and its potential impact on infrastructure.
However, the developers emphasize that the project is subject to comprehensive environmental and urban planning assessments, ensuring resilience to climate conditions and social needs.
Skywaters won the Grand Award at the Asia Pacific Property Awards 2024 in the sustainable mixed-use development category.
Conclusion
The Skywaters Residences project isn’t just about breaking records. At 305 meters, it will stand as a symbol of Singapore’s future — combining luxury living, intelligent design, and environmental stewardship.
As construction progresses, Skywaters will redefine what vertical living means in the 21st century, offering a high-rise blueprint for sustainable cities worldwide.
