Holland Village is a popular shopping and dining destination. On any given day, Lorong Mambong teems with locals and expatriates vying for a table at some of Singapore’s most renowned pubs and restaurants. It is the seemingly unfinished and ad-hoc nature of the neighbourhood that gives it its unique atmosphere. MVRDV sought to preserve and amplify this character through a proposal that is open, expandable and flexible in nature. The resulting masterplan, a double circulation loop that orbits the Hawker Centre, ties into surrounding pedestrian networks while maintaining the ‘backyard’ character and scale of the neighbourhood.

MVRDV’s commitment to an accessible and inclusive Holland Village is evident in the design of public and landscaped areas. Here convention is eschewed in a proposal that centres on the pedestrian with streets and structures constructed around paths of circulation. Landscape interacts with art, buildings, playgrounds and pathways to create a sequence of shared spaces that come together in a narrative of relaxation, connection and enjoyment.

In a similar manner, the architecture of Holland Village adapts to the demands of context and climate. The proposal integrates seamlessly into the existing urban fabric by adopting a stepped massing that privileges existing views and acknowledges the scale of neighbouring buildings. Lower towers continue the urban edge along Holland Road while a 35-storey tower rises up to meet surrounding high-rise HDBs and anchors the proposal within the city. The grid-like façade of the buildings is equally dynamic. A dense grid on lower levels ensures adequate shading and privacy for residents. On higher levels, the grid opens up affording residents panoramic views to the city. Subtle traces of colour hint at the vibrant activities that take place within the village.