18 Cross Wins Big at the Asia Pacific Property Awards

Every once in a while, a project comes along that reminds us why we do what we do. Recently, 18 Cross was one of those moments.

We’re proud to share that this landmark redevelopment has been recognised with a 5-Star Award for Best Commercial Renovation / Redevelopment (Singapore) at the Asia Pacific Property Awards 2025–2026. As the main contractor, collaborating with the client, Benoy (ID), DCA (Architects), and Cundall (Engineers), we transformed a complex architectural vision into a fully realised, future-ready space. It’s a privilege to see that work celebrated on a regional stage.

Despite its prime location, the original development (formerly known as Cross Street Exchange) faced an uphill battle. The almost industrial-looking podium didn’t connect with its intricate surroundings. Shophouses functioned independently, with underutilised upper floors. The retail podium felt monolithic, foot traffic was low, and tenancy rates struggled to keep pace. Even the office tower lacked visibility from the street.

To meet these challenges, the design concept, aptly named 'Heart', set out to re-establish a human rhythm at street level. The concept sought to maintain the scale of the historic shophouses while introducing contemporary elements that didn't overshadow. From a cascading grand staircase to retail terraces and seamless access to the MRT station, the revitalised design stitched together a fractured site into a unified urban experience.

As the main contractor, we managed the delivery of this ambitious redesign while the building remained live. Office tenants stayed operational. Retail zones continued running. Our team staged construction in phases to minimise disruption, coordinating across stakeholders while navigating the technical complexities of retrofitting heritage and contemporary elements under one roof.

The result? A space that finally lives up to its potential, a space that thrives.

Through the high retention of original structures, upcycled materials, and optimised structural design, over 23,000 tonnes of embodied carbon were saved. A powerful example of how adaptive reuse can shape more sustainable cities.

As Dong Chen from Cundall shared.

From rainwater harvesting and solar generation to EV charging infrastructure and high-efficiency HVAC systems, every element was designed with long-term performance and environmental impact in mind. Earmarked for GreenMark Platinum certification, the upgrade improves occupant wellbeing while focusing on the building's sustainability performance. For those interested in a deeper dive into the design strategies and intricacies of the project, we recommend reading Benoy’s “18 Cross: Redefining Sustainable Urban Regeneration in Singapore’s Central Business District.”

What was once a disjointed complex is now a dynamic destination. Tenants have returned. Retail spaces are activated. The street-level experience feels vibrant and connected again. The ‘Heart’ concept hasn’t just transformed the façade — it’s brought new life and movement into the area.

We would like to extend our congratulations to Benoy, the project’s lead design consultant, whose creative direction brought the ‘Heart’ concept to life. It was a pleasure to help bring that vision into form.