Union Square Residences, located at 20–28 Havelock Road in Singapore’s vibrant District 1, is an iconic mixed-use development spearheaded by the award-winning City Developments Limited (CDL). Strategically situated by the Singapore River, near Clarke Quay and Chinatown, the development epitomizes the confluence of luxury, heritage, and urban convenience, offering 366 premier residential units alongside commercial, co-living, and office spaces.

Union Square Residences is more than a conventional condominium; it represents a carefully curated lifestyle ecosystem that integrates residential, office, retail, hospitality, and co-living components. The development occupies the combined site of the former Central Mall and Central Square, spanning a gross floor area (GFA) of approximately 735,500 sq ft after a 67% GFA uplift under the Urban Redevelopment Authority’s (URA) Strategic Development Incentive (SDI) Scheme. This rejuvenation project, along with CDL’s Canninghill Piers and Newport Residences, reinforces the company’s pivotal role in transforming Singapore’s Central Business District (CBD) into a dynamic, livable precinct that balances residential, commercial, and communal needs.

The vision of Union Square Residences draws inspiration from Manhattan’s Union Square, delivering an environment where architecture and heritage harmoniously coexist. Conservation shophouses are retained and repurposed for retail and co-living, while the U-shaped configuration of office and residential towers fosters natural ventilation, pedestrian-friendly interaction, and an animated public realm. Central to the development is a pedestrian plaza that hosts community events, outdoor performances, and flexible leisure activities, thus nurturing a sense of place and belonging.

The design of Union Square Residences reflects a blend of contemporary sophistication and historic resonance. The site architecture is anchored by a 40-storey residential tower, a 20-storey Grade A office block, and a three-storey co-living and commercial hub. Notable features include:

 – U-Shaped Architectural Layout: This configuration symbolically unites the Riverside precinct with Singapore’s CBD fringe while maximizing communal space connectivity.
– Heritage Integration: Conserved shophouses repurposed for retail and co-living maintain the historical character and cultural memory of the precinct, celebrating the area’s kampong legacy.
– Public Realm Enhancements: Partial pedestrianization of Solomon Street and Merchant Road improves connectivity to parks including Fort Canning and Pearl’s Hill City Park, facilitating both casual strolls and structured community events.
– Community-Centric Spaces: The central plaza, amphitheater, and open promenades encourage placemaking activities, fostering social interaction and urban vibrancy.

Bespoke Landscaping: Integrated sky gardens, vertical green walls, and landscaped terraces promote sustainable biophilic design, enhancing both environmental performance and resident well-being.

Union Square Residences offers 366 residential units ranging from one-bedroom apartments to five-bedroom Sky Suites and a signature penthouse.

The variety of layouts ensures a tailored fit for individuals, families, and investors:
1-Bedroom (463–506 sq ft): Compact yet intelligently designed for singles or couples, with layouts enabling flexibility for home office use.
2-Bedroom / 2-Bedroom + Study (700–743 sq ft): Designed for small families or dual-use occupancy, featuring separated study and living areas for privacy and functional living.
3-Bedroom / 3-Bedroom Premium (990–1,066 sq ft): Spacious apartments with wet and dry kitchens, suitable for larger households or entertaining.
4-Bedroom Premium (1,518 sq ft): Exclusive units accessed via private lift, offering luxurious comfort with expansive living and dining spaces.

Sky Suites (2,476 sq ft) and Penthouse (4,833 sq ft): Ultra-luxury residences on the upper floors, maximizing panoramic views of the Singapore River and the city skyline.

Interiors reflect meticulous attention to detail, blending contemporary elements with functional elegance. Premium appliances from Liebherr, De Dietrich, and V-Zug complement engineered stone kitchen countertops and smart home automation, with integrated controls for lighting, air conditioning, and home security. Walk-in wardrobes by Rimadesio, privacy-oriented layouts, and expansive balconies provide elevated living experiences.

Union Square Residences offers a comprehensive suite of amenities, addressing lifestyle, wellness, and convenience:
Level 3: Lap pool, wellness pool, aqua gym, yoga studio, co-working studio, and social lounge.
Level 34: Sky pool, sky gym, clubhouse with function rooms, and recreational pods for active and contemplative living.
Concierge Services: Reception, transportation, dining and entertainment booking, mail and parcel services, housekeeping, private chef/catering options, and pet care, among others.
These facilities, coupled with curated recreational pods across seven floors and flexible community spaces, cultivate a resort-style living atmosphere within an urban core.

Union Square Residences’ prime location affords unparalleled convenience and access:
Proximity to MRT Stations: Clarke Quay (NEL), Chinatown (DTL/NEL), and Fort Canning (DTL) are within walking distance, ensuring seamless city-wide connectivity.
Access to Amenities: Residents enjoy immediate access to supermarkets, dining options, commercial centers like Clarke Quay Central, People’s Park Centre, and Chinatown Point.
Cultural and Recreational Attractions: Singapore River, Fort Canning Park, Pearl’s Hill City Park, and the Civic District offer extensive cultural, recreational, and leisure encounters.
Educational Facilities: River Valley Primary School within 1 km, along with nearby secondary and tertiary institutions, adds value for families with school-going children.

Union Square Residences represents a compelling investment and market potential proposition:
Launch Pricing: With an average of $3,200 PSF and starting prices from S$1.38 million for one-bedroom units, the development provides a competitive entry point in Singapore’s luxury residential market.
Comparative Advantage: Relative to nearby developments such as Canninghill Piers, Riviere, River Place, and UE Square, Union Square offers a balance of prime location, modern design, and leasehold tenure conducive to long-term capital appreciation.
Growth Drivers: URA’s ongoing central area rejuvenation plans, coupled with limited new supply of prime CCR units and the development’s mixed-use nature, signal potential for rental and capital value growth.
Sustainability Credentials: Green Mark Platinum Super Low Energy certification underlines the project’s forward-looking environmental and energy efficiency approach, contributing to its long-term market appeal.

Union Square Residences is a landmark development that redefines urban living in Singapore’s historic riverside precinct. It uniquely integrates luxury residential living, vibrant communal interaction, preserved heritage, and modern sustainability, all supported by a prominent developer with a strong track record. The blend of design excellence, extensive facilities, centrality, and investment potential positions Union Square Residences not only as a desirable home for residents but also as a strategic addition to a discerning investor’s portfolio. Upon completion in 2028–2031, it is poised to become a new icon along the Singapore River precinct, setting a benchmark for future mixed-use developments in Singapore.