THIS year is seeing Singapore consolidate its reputation as a ‘City in a Garden’ with construction moving apace on the first phase of Gardens by the Bay – a unique green urban planning phenomenon in the heart of downtown Singapore – and the presentation of world-class floricultural events, such as the World Orchid Conference.
Once completed, Gardens by the Bay will cover more than 101 hectares at three waterfront sites in the Marina Bay area, enriching the lifestyle and recreational activities for both locals and visitors with plant-based edutainment, garden craftsmanship and floral artistry.
Construction of phase-one, which lies adjacent to the iconic Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resort, is on track for its official opening in June 2012.
The first phase is 54 hectares (approx 72 football fields) and includes two state-of the-art cooled conservatories displaying plants from the Mediterranean and tropical mountain regions, the world’s first-of-its-kind Supertrees (pictured), horticultural themed gardens and events and dining spaces.
Visitors will be able to get a first glimpse of the gardens project from November 13 to 20, during the 20th World Orchid Conference (20WOC), when the Flower Dome opens for a sneak preview.