The Maritime House building in Tanjong Pagar, Singapore, is set to be demolished and redeveloped by late 2024, according to the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA). Designed to be a “home away from home” for seafarers, the Maritime House currently operates as a hotel exclusively for crew members visiting the Port of Singapore.
In March, the MPA issued tender documents for the redevelopment project, estimating costs at around S$30 million. The goal of the new design is to enhance accommodations for seafarers while establishing the site as a one-stop venue for international training, research, and forums. The tender for the redevelopment is scheduled to close on April 23.
The primary motivation for the redevelopment stems from the building’s aging status and escalating maintenance costs. MPA plans to increase the floor space of the Maritime House by approximately 30%. This upgrade aims to better accommodate seafarers’ needs and include areas for training and other complementary uses.
Originally, the Maritime House served as the head office for the National Maritime Board until 1996. Following a merger with several other government departments, it became part of the MPA. The Urban Redevelopment Authority has granted approval to increase the building’s gross plot ratio from 2.75 to 3.5. This change allows for a higher-density structure of over 36 storeys, with an increase in gross floor area from 7,428 square meters to 9,625 square meters. The redevelopment will allocate approximately 2,160 square meters for amenities and 1,030 square meters for office space. Importantly, the number of hotel rooms will rise from 46 to 190.
The redevelopment also includes specific provisions to design hotel rooms and the reception area to function as isolation facilities during pandemics or health emergencies. Currently, the Maritime House is home to several amenities, including the Mariners’ Corner Restaurant and Bar, the Maritime Medical Centre, a seafarers’ lounge, a gym, a student enrichment center, the Singapore Maritime Foundation, and a Hainanese Western restaurant.
MPA representatives have assured that existing tenants are informed about the upcoming redevelopment, indicating a transparent approach to the changes taking place. The plans signal a significant investment in improving facilities for seafarers in Singapore, aligning with the ongoing focus on enhancing maritime services in the region.
