Singapore’s Central Business District (CBD) is renowned for its efficiency, yet a new study by global architecture firm Gensler suggests its future success may hinge on becoming a vibrant, experience-led hub. The City Pulse 2026 report, surveying over 35,000 residents across 75 cities, highlights a “Perception-Behaviour Gap” in Singapore: whilst 74% of respondents praise the CBD’s experience, only 55% visit outside work, and a mere 13% linger for leisure.
The study underscores the need for a transformation towards a mixed-use, walkable, and culturally rich environment. Angela Spathonis, Managing Director of Gensler Singapore, emphasised the importance of creating a city centre that people feel emotionally connected to, choosing to spend time there beyond work hours.
Singapore’s ongoing efforts to rejuvenate its Downtown Core align with these findings. Initiatives like the Urban Redevelopment Authority’s CBD Incentive Scheme aim to convert older office spaces into diverse live-work-play environments. Respondents envision a future CBD as a lively mixed-use district, a walkable green zone, and a cultural destination.
The research indicates a shift in measuring downtown success, focusing on “dwell time” rather than just foot traffic or office occupancy. Spathonis noted that successful CBDs offer moments of discovery and community, becoming the “living rooms of urban life.”
As Singapore continues to evolve districts like Marina Bay and Shenton Way, the challenge remains to create spaces that support social, cultural, and community life alongside business activities.
