Apple Store Marina Bay Sands: A stunning addition to Singapore’s Skyline
Many weeks of speculations came to close when Apple unveiled and removed the scaffolding at the center of what seemed like a giant ball at the Marina Bay area. Is it a museum? Another Merlion? A temporary display? None of these were right but after all, there are curious minds who guessed it right – the orb would be the newest and most interesting Apple Store in Singapore.
Apple Store Marina Bay Sands (MBS) opened in late 2020 with a promise to offer spectacular shopping experience. The store elevates the country’s skyline with its unique design and architectural inspirations. This 30-meter dome fully glazed with black glass base is a result of genius collaboration of Apple’s design team and Foster + Partners. The structure mimics a floating bubble surrounded by water and visitors are treated to a fascinating 360-degree panoramic views of the city.
Designed with sustainability in mind
The dome comprises of more than 100 pieces of glass treated with frit and coatings making its external appearance an eye-catcher. The interior features custom baffles integrated with solar shading that controls and reduced the area of exposed glazing which according to Foster + Partners, lowers the energy required to cool the space. The trees along the perimeters inside the store adds more shading creating a relaxing and green ambiance. The smart design complements the garden city’s ambition to move towards a net-zero nation in the future. Its 114 panels of glass also meet Singapore’s sustainability rating system prescribed by BCA Green Mark.
A tribute to the past and a celebration of light
Past meets present with the store’s iconic oculus at the center apex of the dome which is inspired by the Roman Patheon. Ray of light pours in through the oculus providing natural brightness much like how light enters the famous ancient site. The unmissable oculus welcomes visitors with remarkable and luxurious feel as they come up the escalator into the second level. In its press release, Stefan Behling of Foster + Partners refers to the dome as ephemeral providing a calming effect and it is not only a celebration of Apple’s products but a celebration of light.
An unforgettable experience
Being the first Apple Store to sit directly on water, the tech giant described it as the ‘most ambitious project’. According to Deirdre O’Brien, Apple’s senior vice president of Retail + People, the opening of the store is part of the company’s strong commitment to Singapore that began more than 40 years ago. The brand’s rich history in the city started in 1981 with the building of their first corporate office in Ang Mo Kio.
The store resonates with the brand’s pledge to provide a convenient experience to customers. There is a spacious area in the main atrium where they are welcomed to hang out and enjoy views of the Marina or try different Apple products.
The store also prides itself with a collaboration space where they host workshops and seminars for Apple enthusiasts and newbies.
Apple Store Marina Bay Sands is the third store in Singapore. Visitors can enter through the prominent Marina Bay Sands shopping mall where they will be welcomed by curved stone entrance. As they arrive, friendly staff will gladly assist them to an exciting journey. Whether they are decided to buy something, would like to browse, or simply hang out, they are up for an unforgettable experience. They will be surrounded by modern architectural milestone inspired by history’s iconic Pantheon and motivated by future sustainability aspirations.
Photos courtesy of Dianne Doctor
