Orchard Road’s rejuvenation excites, but will need fresh concepts beyond retail

REJUVENATING Orchard Road will require creativity on the part of the various developers undertaking mega mixed-used developments there.

Market watchers said they hope to see the area turn into a lifestyle destination incorporating not just the usual retail offerings but also luxury homes and hotels, offices, as well as healthcare and lifestyle facilities.

The area is about to see some of the most exciting redevelopments in years, but large sums of money will not be enough to make these plans succeed. Some observers have expressed concerns about the distinctiveness of these redevelopments – the key to drawing crowds back and returning the shopping belt to its halcyon days.