SET to rise in a corner of the central business district, Singapore's highest condominium will not be a mere landmark.

It will be an Icon - literally. Far East Organization is set to launch its 646-unit Icon project at Gopeng Street, in the Tanjong Pagar area, in the first quarter of this year, sources said.

It is expected to be completed around 2006.

Rising 163 m high, the 46-storey building will dwarf its neighbour, the 18-storey, 67-m-high Amara Hotel.

It will also dethrone Allgreen Properties' 38-storey, 119-m-high Queens project at Stirling Road, which is currently the Republic's highest condominium.

But how does it compare with other giants on the Singapore skyline?

It will be about 40 per cent lower than Singapore's three highest buildings - the 66-storey UOB Plaza, the 60-storey OUB Centre and the 66-storey Republic Plaza - all of which are 280 m high.

But the Icon will be taller than the six 40-storey, 114-m-high Housing Board flats being built in Queenstown and Toa Payoh.

These HDB flats will be Singapore's highest public housing blocks when completed next year and in 2005.

But that record will last only until the Duxton Plain project comes along. Now in the design-development stage, the massive project - also in the Tanjong Pagar area - will have seven towers soaring 50 storeys.

The Icon will have 646 one-, two- and three-bedroom units including lofts and studio units. The top floors will have good views of the city skyline and the sea.

The Straits Times has learnt that Far East is planning to release 250 units of the Icon in the first phase of the 99-year leasehold project.

Analysts expect them to fetch $600 to $700 per sq ft - or $600,000 to $700,000 for a 1,000-sq-ft unit.

The Urban Redevelopment Authority has said that Icon's construction is in line with the Government's aim of providing high-rise city living.

Located near the Tanjong Pagar MRT station, it is also close to shops and major office buildings.

A highrise apartment there would be great! Imagine the view..
I thought Springleaf Tower was the highest condominium?

Any renderings?

springleaf residential? not sure about that.....but i think this refers to pure residential projects.....anyway the tallest housing now is in international plaza mah.....

International Plaza is mixed-use isnt?

Yeah....Springleaf as far as I noe is purely commercial except for 4 floors of apartments up above...

Source:
http://www.capitalandcommercial.com/commercia/state/index.asp?id=14

So cant really compare with a fully residential project. Anyway a new residential tower has been approved at the new downtown, and has a mazimum allowable height of 245m! :)

great. I am sure the design will be a nice icon for Singapore.

I want to stay there!!!

114 meters for 40 stories, thats very short though.

any renderings?? i'm sure it will be cool

The rendering was only published in the local press...none on the internet yet. Will post it here asap.

Anyway it will be hemmed in to the south and east, so I doubt you will get fantastic paranomic views just yet. Even the west view could be blocked off when the 7 block Duxton plains project creates a huge 50 story high wall just a year after the Icon is finished!

As for the 114 metres...that was for the public housing blocks, which usually have lower floor to ceiling heights, and hence lower overall height.

http://www.pearlbankapartments.com/P1_0501.jpg



This is it, incase you hadnt seen the plans

That is the Duxton Plain one. Not for this particular project. :)

Anyway both are in the Tanjong Pagar area. When will the Duxton project be commenced?

<table cellpadding=4 cellspacing=0 width=98% class="quoteBox">
<td align=left valign=center> <smallfont> <b>Quote</B> <I>originally posted by WillS </i></b> </smallfont> </td>
<tr><td align=left valign=top>http://www.pearlbankapartments.com/P1_0501.jpg



This is it, incase you hadnt seen the plans</td></tr>
</table>

this is it?? wow looks weird.........

<table cellpadding=4 cellspacing=0 width=98% class="quoteBox">
<td align=left valign=center> <smallfont> <b>Quote</B> <I>originally posted by RafflesCity </i></b> </smallfont> </td>
<tr><td align=left valign=top>Anyway both are in the Tanjong Pagar area. When will the Duxton project be commenced?</td></tr>
</table>

In 2005, if I remember correctly.

Wow, that looks really wierd....Dunno if i like it, i'd have to wait and see to really judge it.

it looks pretty damn impressive to me!

But Im sure its nothing compared to the monsters in Seoul. :)

Tallest condo sells 80% of initial launch units

By Vladimir Guevarra and Leong Pik Yin

ICON, Singapore's tallest condominium project, sold an impressive 80 per cent of the 161 units it released in an initial preview over the weekend.

This is the strongest sign yet that buyers are shrugging off the Sars crisis and providing a much-needed boost to the property market, analysts said.

Fuelled by overwhelming market interest, Far East Organisation broughtforward the private preview of the 646-unit development at Tanjong Pagar. The 46-storey-tall development will be ready only in 2006.

The units released comprised a selection of choice studio, one- andtwo-bedroom apartments. Prices range from S$350,000 to S$396,000 for the 583- to 601-sq-ft studio apartments; S$376,000 to S$414,000 for the 606- to 627-sq-ft one-bedroom apartments; and S$550,000 to S$625,000 for the 925- to 956-sq-fttwo-bedroom apartments. The average price is S$650 psf.

Take-up was strongest among the one-bedroom apartments. The buyers compriseprofessional investors, young executives working in the Central BusinessDistrict, successful young entrepreneurs, as well as residents in the nearbyTanjong Pagar area looking for alternative housing forms in the city centre.

http://www.straitstimes.com.sg/latest/story/0,4390,188641-1052776740,00.html?

eek i just got the invitation leaflet / brochure thingy to the Icon and GAWD! IT IS UGLY! i'll try to scan if i can find a scanner...

<table cellpadding=4 cellspacing=0 width=98% class="quoteBox">
<td align=left valign=center> <smallfont> <b>Quote</B> <I>originally posted by heirloom </i></b> </smallfont> </td>
<tr><td align=left valign=top>eek i just got the invitation leaflet / brochure thingy to the Icon and GAWD! IT IS UGLY! i'll try to scan if i can find a scanner...</td></tr>
</table>

dont scare us leh :bash:

I found the rendering (again)....

http://www.iconloft.com.sg/images/pix00_facade.jpg

http://www.fareast.com.sg/newsletter/40b_head.jpg
http://www.fareast.com.sg/newsletter/40b_pic.jpg
http://www.fareast.com.sg/newsletter/40b_pic2.jpg

Official website: http://www.iconloft.com.sg/

Anyone wanna visit the place with me?? :D

oh yeah.... isn't it ugly? i visited already... wid my mom - we both agreed it sounds much better than it looks :D

it's too "for the masses" to be interesting.

I think it looks great in the renderings and much better than International Plaza. Plus it will be great at night I'm sure!:guns1:

The houses at International Plaza are higher, and more dangerous!

The windows open completely!(from floor to celing) and you can just as easily step out and jump from 50 storeys, the only thing keeping residents safe is the ledges ouside.

I saw the new model of ICON, and it has a taller tower built next to it with a connecting glass bridge.

Originally posted by Cliff

I saw the new model of ICON, and it has a taller tower built next to it with a connecting glass bridge. Woah! Where did you see the model?

At the showroom:D

I think it's fake, how could they add another residential block out of the blue just like that? The building in the rendering is supposed to be the short building. The taller one will rise on the left of it if they did change the plans.

Originally posted by Cliff

At the showroom:D

I think it's fake, how could they add another residential block out of the blue just like that? The building in the rendering is supposed to be the short building. The taller one will rise on the left of it if they did change the plans. Is the showroom still open to the likes of heartlanders like me? :D

I think they never changed their plans. The fact is that this block is indeed the shorter tower. They are going to release the second taller block later. If you go to their website, you will know what I mean!

In fact, I have already added the info in s.com as two towers rather then one, and if i am not wrong one is 41 and the other 46 storeys.

The new one is slimmer, but has the same design as the shorter one, it is connected by a glass bridge at the sky clubhouse.

Ok....so is the showroom still open? Hopefully I can go take photos to bring to our audiences here. ;)

Not sure, but I heard it was selling very well, which means early closure. Like Nuovo's showroom closed after 3 days:D

Ah shit...sorry for monopolising this thread, but may I just find out when did you go, and where was the location for the showroom? I would really like to plan a trip there soon.

Last month:D
It's next to Internaational Plaza, I don't know the actual add, but you can see it. The last time I went there, the showroom was'nt even complete!

Originally posted by huaiwei

Is the showroom still open to the likes of heartlanders like me? :D

I think they never changed their plans. The fact is that this block is indeed the shorter tower. They are going to release the second taller block later. If you go to their website, you will know what I mean!

In fact, I have already added the info in s.com as two towers rather then one, and if i am not wrong one is 41 and the other 46 storeys.

So we will have 2 tall condos? Yay.. :D

Any idea how tall is the shorter tower? I estimate its 163/46*41 = 145m

Originally posted by TropicalSQ744

So we will have 2 tall condos? Yay.. :D

Any idea how tall is the shorter tower? I estimate its 163/46*41 = 145m Ho idea yet man. Anyway I have a feeling the rendering above is for the shorter tower. Did any of you see the other rendering in the Straits Times recently? It looks slimmer and taller! ;)

Has anyone seen the site yet? huaiwei pleasantly surprised me last night when he said its already under construction;)

Here's the January 1 2004 update...obviously its being constructed now! :D

Foundation works in full swing:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/3130/2829loft-1.jpg

Information panel:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/3130/2829loft.jpg

The personnel was kinda very sure it won't be Sg's tallest! He mentioned something "Queens" will be the tallest ;)

Originally posted by baqthier

The personnel was kinda very sure it won't be Sg's tallest! He mentioned something "Queens" will be the tallest ;) I told you his talking crap. :D

Queens: 119 metres, 38 floors

Icon: 163 metres, 46 floors

Now u understand why I say he is full of crap? ;)

Construction sites have never looked so good! :dooby:

btw we saw the model already..hope it will be as shiny in real life.

I wished I had a handphone with a camera....I just want a shot of that model!! :bash:

Wow! This site is the place where my former secondary school is!!:D

Gan Eng Seng ah? So cool..you could look at the booming skyscrapers when going to school:angel1:

I tot Gan Eng Seng at spottiswoode park last time?? :?

Yup! Spottiswoode Park is the second home...I spend my first year in Anson Rd, the school was built in the 50s... I still remember there was once a campfire, I was glazing at the former Treasury Bldg under construction from my tent!!
:)

Originally posted by benny1973

Yup! Spottiswoode Park is the second home...I spend my first year in Anson Rd, the school was built in the 50s... I still remember there was once a campfire, I was glazing at the former Treasury Bldg under construction from my tent!!
:) Woah!!! I am almost imagine that, from those photos of that era!! :D

You were from a uniformed group then?

Yes, NCC and Gan Eng Seng always comes in top in the best unit competition at that time. It was a boys school then...

Ooo....icic. Yeah I often forgot its co-ed now. ;)

Did you get a look at it recently huaiwei?:?

Yeah.....nothing much since then, but heres the views on 25/02/2004:

http://extranet.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2004/02/246638.jpg

http://extranet.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2004/02/246640.jpg

I'm actually quite eager to see what it'll turn out like. It seems quite promising. I like the logo. Lol. I find it very nice, elegant and simple.

Too bad the logo may not reflect that architecture of the building! :D

Originally posted by huaiwei

Too bad the logo may not reflect that architecture of the building! :D

Who cares? It's nice! ;)

Originally posted by EyeToEye

Who cares? It's nice! ;) Have you seen the rendering of the towers?

Originally posted by huaiwei

Have you seen the rendering of the towers?

Yes.... why?

Originally posted by EyeToEye

Yes.... why? The design cant exactly be called "simple" to me....

I was referring to the logo.

Originally posted by EyeToEye

I was referring to the logo. Yeah...but I was saying the logo and the building design itself are quite different? :D

Originally posted by huaiwei

Yeah...but I was saying the logo and the building design itself are quite different? :D

Yeah. But i was saying it doesn't matter, because the logo still looks nice? ;)

Originally posted by EyeToEye

Yeah. But i was saying it doesn't matter, because the logo still looks nice? ;) Well.....so lets hope they slap a huge logo across the facade then? :D

what's the logo look like?

Originally posted by huaiwei

Well.....so lets hope they slap a huge logo across the facade then? :D

Yes!!!!!!!! ;)

Originally posted by EyeToEye

Yes!!!!!!!! ;) Gosh...you have fever. I might as wel have u hung on the facade as well.

Originally posted by huaiwei

Gosh...you have fever. I might as wel have u hung on the facade as well.

Yes, please! And right at the top so i get a good view!

Originally posted by huaiwei

Yeah.....nothing much since then, but heres the views on 25/02/2004:

http://extranet.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2004/02/246638.jpg

http://extranet.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2004/02/246640.jpg

Thanks for the update!:cool:

Seems that they have cleared the area since then. I also noticed those huge boulders in the 2nd pic. Anyone knows what they are there for? Always see those on construction sites.

7 April 2004

http://img43.photobucket.com/albums/v133/RafflesCity/icona.jpg

Doesn't seem like much is happening at all leh...

Doesn't seem like much is happening at all leh...
They are admiring the machines...

Erm. Okay... Paiseh...

now we know why raffles boulevard still not up yet

And its marvellous to note that the hole on the ground is still patched up nicely by what looks like cardboard? :D

actually there have been some significant changes not very obvious from my pic. They have basically dug out the hole for the building and are laying the foundation. I saw metal grillwork covering the hole with some rods sticking out.

i think thats metal... and ok off i go to the airport :D

You took any other photo then this?

heirloom's flight so late at night? wah so excited ah.

@huaiwei, yup but they aint as worthy as this. Basically the other side of the site looks like the other one you posted. Do you know which side is the taller one being built?

Actually I have no idea yet. I forgot to look at the model more carefully the last time. Damn it!

Damn that stupid salesman! Serves him right this is no longer the tallest :cucumber:

Damn that stupid salesman! Serves him right this is no longer the tallest :cucumber:
Wahahaha....shall we get Szehoong to be our next "prospective purchaser" to walk in and spy for us?? :D

I'm not sure but I think they might have removed the showroom.

I'm not sure but I think they might have removed the showroom.
You saw it missing when you visited the site? Maybe its all sold out by now....

yah..it seemed missing. I wanted to try my luck and photograph the model again :bash:

yah..it seemed missing. I wanted to try my luck and photograph the model again :bash:
Even if it was there, I would be wondering how you can manage that alone and being heavily outnumbered by staff members!

there might be a chance it could be someone else and people's moods can be different on different days;)

Haha...oh well.....maybe they shifted the showhouse somewhere else?

Doubt it..I think most of the units have been taken up.

24 April 2004

More reassuring signs of growth. Beyond the blue scaffolding lies a deep hole.
http://mywebpage.netscape.com/ssc1819/theicon.jpg

Hm...seems like they are going to build a tent again.....over the core apparently?

not sure if thats the core..most probably.

Not familiar with construction techniques but it seems so strange...

not sure if thats the core..most probably.

Not familiar with construction techniques but it seems so strange...
Eh? What is so strange?

the purpose of that tent-like structure.

They had originally erected it at the Raffles Quay site only to remove it so I wonder what its purpose is.

Hmm...maybe coz they poured some liquid stuff into the core...which is slow-drying and would be affected if it comes under rainfall?

I also guessed that..but the tent looks useless now unless they drape scaffolding over it :D ;) :cool:

I also guessed that..but the tent looks useless now unless they drape scaffolding over it :D ;) :cool:
They just finished building the tent?? So impatient for wat? :P

I didnt see the tent from my last visit..so I dont know when it was built.

Arent you impatient to see changes?!

Hahah...I am just waiting for it to grow vertically. :D

Any updates?

yup..you got it:cool:

27 June 2004

Looks freaking huge but could be bcause its 2 towers.

http://img43.photobucket.com/albums/v133/RafflesCity/icon27.jpg

Here is the massing model. Those labelled with question marks are future possible highrise buildings.

http://img43.photobucket.com/albums/v133/RafflesCity/iconmod.jpg

7 July 2004

http://mywebpage.netscape.com/ssc1819/icon07.jpg

A close up view on the 30th of June:

http://img31.photobucket.com/albums/v94/huaiwei/Duxton%20Trip/Icon2.jpg

17 July 2004

Overall view of the construction site - huge!

http://img17.exs.cx/img17/2639/icon17.jpg

17 July 2004

http://img20.exs.cx/img20/262/icon17b.jpg

A rendering on the signboard
http://img19.exs.cx/img19/3627/icon17a.jpg

Looks stunning. :cool:

31 July 2004

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/500/103icon31.jpg

21 August 2004

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/500/103icon218.jpg

4 Sep 2004

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/500/103icon049.jpg

5 October 2004

http://img17.exs.cx/img17/4236/icon510.jpg

Btw Anson Centre in the background looks ugly...

18 October 2004

this project will have a huge podium containing shops. It can be seen from this angle

http://img95.exs.cx/img95/6820/icon1810.jpg

i didnt know icon had retail space?

It does..behind the tower lies a huge podium at least 4 floors high. On top of the podium will house the usual condo recreational facilities.

You can have a look at the model at the junction of Scotts/Cairnhill Rd where the showroom of Strata is.

so we can go shopping there?

not sure but I think there might be some shops open to public - I cant remember exactly what the sales girl was saying as I was looking at the model :D

Too distracted by the model or the girl? :D

:jk: :lol:

like I said, I was looking at the 'model' ;)

I hope it isn't the (human) model but the model of the tower! :lol:

Wah...it looks more like they are building a mall then a condo! :D

yah..so huge..wish it was taller than International Plaza :bash:

@redstone, actually the sales girl was quite pleasant so you ought to visit the models :lol:

some pics from thr architects website

http://ong-ong.com/graphics/wkimage/icon_3.jpg
http://ong-ong.com/graphics/wkimage/icon_4.jpg
http://ong-ong.com/graphics/wkimage/icon_5.jpg
http://ong-ong.com/graphics/wkimage/icon_6.jpg
http://ong-ong.com/graphics/wkimage/icon_1.jpg
http://ong-ong.com/graphics/wkimage/icon_2.jpg

Client : Lucky Realty Pte Ltd
Size : 55,159 square metres
Type : mixed
Completion : 2006

ICON is a residential development of 646 luxury apartments housed in 2 high-rise towers of 41-storeys and 46-storeys respectively sitting on a commercial podium. It is located in the prime CBD area at the intersection of Gopeng and Tras Street, next to the newly retrofitted Amara Hotel and within walking distance to Tanjong Pagar MRT station. ICON is prime real estate appealing to those who want it all!

Units are strategically designed to have panoramic views of the sea or the city skyline - each unit is designed to allow maximum flexibility in layout to suit the creative, discerning homeowner. Interiors are modern with state-of-the-art fixtures and fittings. The units’ layout and interior space planning befits a trendy, cosmopolitan lifestyle with a choice of studio, one, two and three bedroom duplex and non-duplex units (ranging from 55sqm to 108sqm). ICON is the closest to upper east side living in Singapore.

Shops on the first storey are linked via a network of internal streets, meandering through the alleyways may bring back nostalgic feelings of one’s last traipse through the cobbled streets of Milan or Greenwich Village. ICON is seamlessly integrated into the urban fabric - apartment entrances are accessible from street level with covered walkways linking the entire development.

The architectural language echoes modern refrains reflecting the urban spirit. The sleek lines created on the building façade complement the contemporary living concept of the apartments. Full height windows and glazing create a bold and dramatic statement – the glass reflecting the ever-changing skyscape lending an interesting addition to the business district.

ICON strives to be an urban village of sorts where friends and like-minded strangers converge – where the pulse of the city resides in this iconoclastic monument, an ode to contemporary living.

this looks alotalot better than the other renderings...

http://ong-ong.com/graphics/wkimage/icon_1.jpg

the Air-conditioning system planned in Icon project is expensive in maintenance as it is difficult to access and maintain.

why?

the design of the a/c uses a system that needs constants maintenance to the equipments as it serve a larger and taller building. imagine a office tower the height of the Icon.

but Icon is residential...is there a difference in the aircon supply between residential and office building?

12 December 2004

http://img128.exs.cx/img128/1797/icon12122cc.jpg

The model at the URA Gallery

http://img24.exs.cx/img24/6286/iconmodel4ag.jpg

As of today:

http://membres.lycos.fr/pengui/tour/050111_icon01.jpg

Floor plates are 9 stories.
Core is 12 stories.

http://membres.lycos.fr/pengui/tour/050111_icon03.jpg

The skyline view will likely be one of the coolest ^^

http://membres.lycos.fr/pengui/tour/050111_icon02.jpg

Of course, they are rather advertising the sea view, hehe ^^
I went to neighbouring Tanjong Pagar Plaza Block 2, 17th floor, to get a better idea:

http://membres.lycos.fr/pengui/tour/050111_from_tanjongpagarplaza01.jpg

Really cool ;-)
Only a few luxury units left on the uppermost floors, they say on the sign.

:eek2:

it has risen very fast! I can see the units forming!

until now, it took such a long time to see it rise, maybe becos the base is huge

however, those units facing the back might suffer if that plot of land is developed into a high-rise condo, which it is allocated for ^^

It's massive indeed :-)
We can expect it to rise fast with 3 cranes on site and all the dust they make ^^

24 Jan 2005
Update In Construction Progress. 1 floor up since 11 Jan 2005 post... so slow...

http://img196.exs.cx/img196/2430/icon200501249jl.jpg

hyacinthus> nice picture!.. you should go to the construction workers and tell them to hurry up!:) :)

they seemed to have grown 1 floor in 2 weeks?

but its wide! :eek:

Its going to make a big impact

@drwho
:lol: nvm... they can take their time...

@RC
Maybe, I'll just take 1 every 2 months so that we can see more difference?

once a month lor..since its so easy to see from your office :P

once a month lor..since its so easy to see from your office :P

alright... if you insist... :)

thanks :D

I'm hoping it will be faster now since theyve gone past the fat podium level :cool:

I still don't understand the a la HDB design... :nono:

u think it looks like HDB?

I mean having windows only on two sides...

1 Feb 2005
Update In Construction Progress. I think the Icon residents don't get much sunlight...

http://img166.exs.cx/img166/209/dscn01358pi.jpg

Would add some much-needed density to Tanjong Pagar... :yes:

That temple looks strange.... Any pics of it? :eek:

Would add some much-needed density to Tanjong Pagar... :yes:

That temple looks strange.... Any pics of it? :eek:

It's supposed to be an old temple... I dun have any pic of it alone.

11 Feb 2005
Construction Update

http://img17.exs.cx/img17/5571/icon5vg.jpg

Viewed from Tiong Bahru on 16th February ;-)
http://membres.lycos.fr/pengui/ssc/050216_icon01.jpg

Should have more very high-end condos there! :cool:

http://www.fareast.com.sg/landmark/4Q2003/img/sf01_title.jpg

In recent years, building and marketing a home has gone beyond just selling basic shelters of brick and mortar. Well-travelled and sophisticated homebuyers now demand a complete living environment with a total lifestyle experience that suits their way of life in a particular location.

Continuing its endeavour to break new ground with design innovation and create quality well-rounded developments that provide customers with an excellent environment to live, work and play, four-time FIABCI (International Real Estate Federation) Prix d’Excellence award-winning developer Far East Organization has made ICON’s city living an attractive option for homebuyers. Extensive research was carried out to study the market that prefers the city centre lifestyle, as well as its design and lifestyle aspirations, in order to tailor ICON more closely to buyers' preferences.
Conceptualised a year ago in June 2002, ICON is Singapore’s only development that offers a large concentration of small units with more than 400 studios and one-bedroom apartments and lofts. Designed and marketed by young professionals for young adults, it is created and packed with all the conveniences that the busy urbanites would want, neatly tucked away.

ICON’s apartments and lofts are individually crafted to allow homeowners the creative freedom to personalise their living spaces, with the full complement of choices in layout, finishes and materials. Four thematic design concepts are available – Avant Garde, Metropolitan, Urbane and Manhattan – to replicate the hip, chic and bohemian styles of New York apartments. With their thoughtful designs, ICON units ensure a seamless flow in the busy lifestyles of sophisticated cosmopolitans. Designer kitchen systems, unusual ceiling storage and concealed cabinets keep the apartments clutter free.

http://www.fareast.com.sg/landmark/4Q2003/img/sf01_pix01.jpg

The marketing activities are developed with an understanding of ICON’s niche customer base – young professionals, singles and DINKS (double income no kids couples) who can identify with the lifestyle that Icon depicts and promises.

To reward early birds, an exclusive lifestyle package was put together with vouchers that can be exchanged for upmarket goods that are synonymous with the lifestyles of ICON homebuyers.


Working together with co-branding partners between May and August, about twenty dinner functions catered by The Fullerton Hotel were held for guests to exclusively preview the new ICON showflats.

Going past the traditional advertising boundaries for properties, ICON’s snazzy print and television advertisements show couples doing mundane activities, like waking up and playing computer games, in the midst of the exciting and dynamic cityscape. These advertisements target the dreams and lifestyles of young professionals, and are designed to capture the imagination of the target market.

Bucking the trend further, reality marketing in the form of eye-catching street theatres were utilised to create greater awareness for living in the city. Passers-by can find young models living down at Far East Square and One Fullerton. The public can engage them as they rest on an elaborate queen size bed or chat with them as they apply make-up at an ornate mirrored dressing table.

Not a run of the mill development, ICON’s advertisements and marketing activities reach out to audiences that have a creative flair and sense of adventure in them. The understated advertisements with minimal text and clean layouts work because of the tasteful lifestyles they project.

16 March 2005

http://img11.exs.cx/img11/3008/icon1uc.jpg

its hyacinthus updating again! :D

certainly looks much taller now

Well.....how well is the Icon selling?

it was selling well right? but i think i read something that says its prices vary from 650 psf to 1000 psf... maybe remember wrongly lar. or some units are far more choice than others.

anyway the icon is so bland and ordinary almost like a hdb flat - i'm surprised that number of people bought it anyway.

the arris is far more attractive.

Icon looks so HDB-ish.... :(

If the plot of land behind the Icon is developed (its reserved for residential), the view from the lower floor units will get affected.

Anyway I think that vacant land around Tanjong Pagar MRT is slated for future highrise apartments

it was selling well right? but i think i read something that says its prices vary from 650 psf to 1000 psf... maybe remember wrongly lar. or some units are far more choice than others.

anyway the icon is so bland and ordinary almost like a hdb flat - i'm surprised that number of people bought it anyway.

the arris is far more attractive.
If its selling well, it would have been sold out by now. Apparantly it still hadent.

maybe because its too ugly

maybe because its too ugly
That is probably true if they all share your personality?

most people dont share your personality but most find the supreme court ugly.

anyway that was just a passing remark - i dont know why anyone wouldnt want to live in the city. in any case residential developments in the city still command higher prices than office.

The novelty, the closeness. The redundance of polymer sheets of paper. The brag factor.

29 March 2005

http://img205.exs.cx/img205/4254/icon18aw.jpg

http://img210.exs.cx/img210/1784/icon26nz.jpg

:eek: Thanks for the update! So blue! :D

OMG! IS THIS REAL?!

I didn't expect it to rise yet!

OMG! IS THIS REAL?!

I didn't expect it to rise yet!

Yes! It's REAL!!! :runaway:

lol Cliff, when was the last time you looked at the site? :D

Its really amazing though..looks a bit scary but should be better once they cover up with glass

update:

http://img225.echo.cx/img225/2899/icon6qe.jpg


its size relative to others

http://img225.echo.cx/img225/6333/iconrelative2vm.jpg

:eek:

It looks deceptively wide

I think it will need a nice facade in order not to look too disgusting

Deceptively? :D But its two wide buildings standing side by side leh...

i dunno i have this impression it will be like international building with more glass.

@huaiwei

thats why I said 'deceptively', cos its not that wide, but looks so cos they are side by side :yes:

i dunno i have this impression it will be like international building with more glass.
Wont be possible..coz they are too skinny for that. ;)

i dunno i have this impression it will be like international building with more glass.

It won't.:)

Hmmm...I don't see any huge window areas which will be the lofts...

mmm not in fatness perhaps, but in style.. they're both painted white right?

It's getting taller than the neighbouring HDBs now :-)

Construction update. 22nd floor now?

http://img175.echo.cx/img175/6223/icon9pu.jpg

I cant wait to see the cladding...but I guess it will take a long time

somehow it looked short at 22/3 floors... ceiling height is <3m?

somehow it looked short at 22/3 floors... ceiling height is <3m?

163/46 = 3.54, and it's supposed to be a luxury condo, so I would not expect the floor height to be lower than 3m.
The best way to figure out would be to find a close-up shot with some construction workers.

I think it looks short because it is next to International Plaza, and it is also wide

but if put elsewhere it would be quite gigantic :cool:

8 May 2005, seen from outside Capital Tower:

http://img143.echo.cx/img143/5373/img00140s3zp.jpg

http://www.geocities.com/unixxi/pict0024.jpg

The tower just next to international plaza is 23/24 floor now, the lift core is higher at 25/26.

6 June 2005

http://img222.echo.cx/img222/4026/dscn00015yj.jpg

17 Jun 2005
1 more floor up! :)

http://img175.echo.cx/img175/2366/dscn00910dl.jpg

I passed by the back...the podium can be seen to be u/c as well

wah so tall already!

13 July 2005

http://tinypic.com/919xdj.jpg

First few floors are now painted white.

have they started putting glass too?

windows. :)

2 Aug 2005

http://img73.imageshack.us/img73/5990/p10104869zd.jpg

cool! :D

it looks quite lovely with such windows I think :cool:

Lonely little temple....

19 Aug 2005

http://img383.imageshack.us/img383/3338/p10107573vm.jpg

What's happening beside the temple? :eek:

building a taller condo to block Icon's view :hahano:

I don't know.

Is it just me, or has anyone else noticed that Far East always uses cheap local main contractors?

Most of the other big developers prefer to use Japanese contractors with their sophisticated construction management/planning and technique, not to mention their sourcing for higher-quality building materials.

Why are Far East saving building cost at their consumers' expense? Not as if they price their developments more cheaply than others. What a rip-off.

i dont know about their contractors, but i notice far east dont provide very good quality furnishings.

Is it just me, or has anyone else noticed that Far East always uses cheap local main contractors?

Most of the other big developers prefer to use Japanese contractors with their sophisticated construction management/planning and technique, not to mention their sourcing for higher-quality building materials.

Why are Far East saving building cost at their consumers' expense? Not as if they price their developments more cheaply than others. What a rip-off.

but nicoll mrt station's consturction was also by Japanese contractors... and the highway eventually................

I think the works down there are something related to the Tanjong Pagar MRT station. I remember seeing the usual board there saying something like "A&A works to existing MRT station".

The works at Tanjong Pagar MRT station is to turn the area into a Park. Not too sure if that extends to the plot of land next to the temple cos on Master Plan 2003, it does not look like the area is going to be a park. well, I am maybe wrong. :)

http://img384.imageshack.us/img384/2971/untitled10fr.jpg

It will be strange if they convert that into a park, but that plot can always be used for something....nonetheless, the sight of the base of International Plaza is so ugly! :puke:

Maybe, IP mgmt should work with SMRT to increase retail space and modernize it. It will benefit people working in Tanjong Pagar area.

Something wrong with the map..... I can orientate.... :dizzy:

What's gonna happen to the temple according to the map?

The temple is not a preserved monument, is it? maybe, it's on lease land. dunno?

Where's Icon on the map?

hmmm... see "U"? That's the Singtel Building next to IP.

Compare 19 Aug - 9 Sep 2005 progress

http://img383.imageshack.us/img383/3338/p10107573vm.jpg http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/1769/p10201639kl.jpg

What's happening beside the temple?!?!?! :eek:

They are erecting a structure there. But, no information about it.

What structure? :runaway:

Compare 19 Aug - 9 Sep 2005 progress


Haha, Hya, are you going to do a regular update as I'm doing for Twin Regency ? ^^
That would be cool, in fact I'd do it for more projects if I had more time ^ ^

heh... something like that.

for redstone
http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/6669/p10201652kn.jpg

Something to do with the temple? :?

http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/1769/p10201639kl.jpg

wow nice update and blue is a great color for scalfolding nets!

Construction Update - Compare 9 Sep 2005 with 3 Oct 2005

http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/1769/p10201639kl.jpg

3 Oct 2005
http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/5545/dscn06149qz.jpg

Closeup
http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/356/dscn06158tj.jpg

This is starting to look tall... How many storeys left ?

not too sure. The higher ceiling floor is where their facilities are I think. So, 30th floor?

http://www.iconloft.com.sg/images/pix00_facade.jpg

LOL, funny how they removed International Plaza on this render :-) Wonder why ^ ^

You should look on your originals, it has the floor numbers written in red, but it's too small on this resolution for me to read :-)

just zoomed in, 31st is the high ceiling floor.

So about 10 floors to go for both towers... Cool :-)

notice that the facade is still the same though out the updates.

I suppose this was just a facade test... Maybe not satisfactory ;-)

Looks like theyve constructed the sky garden :)

Received this recently.

http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/1694/dscn12204wy.jpg

Observed that a new showroom (probably) was coming up next to the temple beside Icon. No info about it though.

That construction next to the temple looks like a showroom construction to me.

Maybe its used for Icon and also, for the future 43-storey apartment nearby at Natwest Centre.

a bit far for Natwest Centre's condo site, right? Probably, for Icon's

I'm just speculating ;)

So typical of condo maps. :lol:
Icon sin't near to IR at all....

Reached about 36-37 floor already, this was take last week 22/10/05.

http://www.geocities.com/unixxi/img_0838.jpg

8 Nov 2005
Reached 38th floor :)
http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/4444/dscn15647ry.jpg

Close-up on the taller portion
http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/6530/dscn15656gc.jpg

The new showflat?
http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/7694/dscn15673pl.jpg

the block on the left does indeed look tall now

Fairly reliable source says the white structure being built on the grounds in front of Icon will house showflats for Icon AND NatWest redevelopment.

Fairly reliable source says the white structure being built on the grounds in front of Icon will house showflats for Icon AND NatWest redevelopment.

Is NatWest going down already ?
Last time I had a look at it it looked empty.

Natwest is still there. There are security and Watsons is still operating on the ground level.

Thanks asciano for the info. Rafflescity: u r right. :)

Paid a visit this afternoon to the area. The Icon must be almost completed now. The show flats are still being constructed. The look of things, the Natwest site condo will probably house loft apartments as well.

I think Natwest site is rather small and very close to nearby buildings. Also, its views are quite limited too... either face the city buildings or the huge orange People's Park Complex :D

Shenton House is also going to be demolished to build condo izzit? If so, I think the view there is better. :yes:

1Shenton Way is being redeveloped by CDL.
A site visit showed a small tower lblock but huge podium area. So a huge residential complex can materialize. Unfortunately, one side will totally face the SGX buildings ( except if height exceeds SGX). Otherside faces the MArina downtown barelands which will certainly have something coming up on it.

http://img274.imageshack.us/img274/3889/ic3bk.jpg
^25 November

24 Nov 2005
Construction Update - The taller block is at 39th floor. The facade is ... :(

http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/182/dscn19844ga.jpg

^^
1 day earlier than yours

it looks slim and tall here:

23 November 2005

http://img436.imageshack.us/img436/117/icon23115he.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

RC: Where did you take that from?

Temasek Tower...

Nice! looks better than my updates :D ;) :)

thanks :) ;)

but actually your updates are better as they show more of the building and its future facade...this just offers a new angle

More City Residential Units to compete with Icons.
Icons Selling at $1000/square foot now ?

===================
Posted: 01 December 2005 1906 hrs

Conversion of old CBD office buildings could yield 3,400 homes: consultants
By Matthias Chan, Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE : The conversion of old office buildings in the Central Business District area could throw up as many as 3,400 residential units, say consultants.

Landlords are seeking alternatives for their aging office blocks due to the impending competition from the Business and Financial Centre.

And consultants think that these redeveloped projects could fetch between $800 and $900 per square foot.

Some office landlords are planning to convert their old office buildings in the CBD area into residential homes.

Far East is hoping to convert Natwest Centre into a 312-unit condominium, while City Developments has been granted provisional permission to build a 394-apartment block on its Robina House site.

Consultants said conversion of old office space was inevitable in the face of new office space from the upcoming Business and Financial Centre.

Mr Colin Tan, Associate Director of Chesterton International, said: "Landlords of existing buildings are apprehensive, more so for those who have buildings which are 30 to 40 years old.

"So they will need to look for ways to handle this challenge and I suppose the example of the Sail has given them some ideas of maybe converting office properties into apartments."

And there could be more to come.

Mr Tan said: "We have quite a lot of vacant space. Some of them are chronic cases, very difficult to lease out, estimate 5 percent of this stock belong to this category, 3.4 million square feet. Let's say the average size of the apartment is 1,000 square feet, so it will translate to 3,400 apartments."

However, consultants do not think that these redeveloped projects could fetch as high a price as existing city homes.

Latest figures show that the Sail is selling for as high as $1,300 per square foot, while the Icon is changing hands for about $1,000 per square foot.

Without typical condominium facilities, consultants say that the conversion of old office buildings like Robina House could fetch between $800 to 900 dollars per square foot. - CNA/de

More City Residential Units to compete with Icons.
Icons Selling at $1000/square foot now ?



Icon's recent transactions in the last 1 year:

$729.53
$961.06
$921.55
$701.15
$762.14
$718.68
$692.38
$705.37
$643.17
$800.39
$669.24
$687.48
$657.95
$843.29
$724.94
$753.88
$847.31
$859.05
$870.65
$858.65
$668.90
$696.77
$831.53
$624.51

It's madness...
I walked into the Icon showflat and the new "sky apartments" (2-bedrm) are now going for 900k+. :eek2:
The agent asked me what my budget was then and I mumbled something about "the unit is not the only thing that's sky high"

The agent asked me what my budget was then and I mumbled something about "the unit is not the only thing that's sky high"

LOL ^ ^ Indeed :-)

Tell us more abt the showflat at the Icon. Is this the new showflat in front of the Chinese temple at the foot of Icon?

Or is this the makeshift one in Amara Hotel?

No news about Icon so far. I have a recent picture of it. Not sure if i can upload it...

1 January 2006

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v427/rotpics03/icon0101.jpg

It seems that Icon is not growing any more...

3 Jan 2006

http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/8617/dscn24861te.jpg

its just 2 days! :lol:

anyway it will grow as you can still see the core sticking out

at least it looks big in the pics, without International Plaza

Different angle wat. Hope to see the facade soon.