National Museum of Singapore: A Story of Rebirth
The National Museum of Singapore sets a path to the discovery of momentous events and stories that have shaped the country. It is a place where social history, culture, and developmental milestones take the center stage. To stay relevant, the museum imbues an immersive voyage storytelling approach that creatively presents historical events–from colonial times and independence stories to highlights of the developmental trajectory.
Combining multimedia with the traditional presentation of artifacts, visitors are treated with an entertaining way of understanding history. The National Museum of Singapore is the country’s oldest existing museum. It serves as an eyewitness to the evolution of culture and history.
But how did a 173-year-old museum preserve its beauty while conserving its rich history? How did it evolve over the years and what role did architecture play to cement the museum’s significance in the Singapore story?
Prior to being known as National Museum Singapore in 1965, the museum embodied various roles and underwent several expansions. It was first built in 1849 and heralded as the Raffles Library and Museum.
Colonial Engineer Sir Henry E. McCallum originally designed the structure. With its symmetrical façade and strict proportions, the external structure displays a true neo-palladian style. The building also includes neoclassical features such as Doric columns and pilasters on the ground level and ionic pilasters on the second level. One of its key features is the dome which consists of zinc fish-scale tiles, elevating its grandeur.
Singapore commissioned its restoration to expand the museum’s collections and reach. The restoration took place from 2003 to 2006. Fusing the old and the new without altering its classic beauty, the redevelopment required innovative and bold ideas to present the museum in a new era.
Learn more about the evolution of Singapore’s oldest existing museum.
Photos Courtesy of Dianne Doctor
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