Twenty-three Singapore-based registered architects have been recognised in the fourth edition of the Urban Redevelopment Authority’s (URA) 20 under 45 programme. Second Minister for National Development, Ms Indranee Rajah, launched the programme’s exhibition and publication at the URA Centre, which showcases the personal journeys, aspirations and works of the 23 architects.
Together, they highlight the important role that architects play in shaping Singapore’s built environment and reflect what it means to practice architecture today. Minister Indranee also announced an upcoming competition open exclusively to the 23 architects, to design recreational amenities at a new waterfront park along Kallang River.
First launched in 2004, ‘20 under 45’ recognises young emerging Singapore-registered architects for their design excellence, ideas and leadership and the positive impact of their works on the built environment and communities. Across its three previous editions in 2004, 2010 and 2017, the programme has spotlighted 60 architects, many of whom have gone on to deliver impactful works locally and internationally, strengthening Singapore’s architectural standing.
Celebrating Architectural Excellence and Resilience
In view of the unprecedented challenges faced by architects during the COVID-19 pandemic, including significant project delays, the fourth edition recognises 23 architects instead of the usual 20, with the age criterion raised to 47. This adjustment ensures that eligible young architects are not disadvantaged by the two-year disruption brought about by the pandemic. The architects were evaluated by a selection panel comprising architecture professionals and academics from the public and private sectors.
The 23 architects exemplify architectural excellence through works that reconnect people with nature, sensitively restore heritage buildings, and create diverse and memorable living spaces. Beyond their professional practice, they also contribute to the industry and community as mentors and advocates, nurturing the next generation of architects and designers.
Designing Memorable Public Spaces Together
URA will be launching design competitions for public realm enhancement projects later this year. The first two competitions will focus on recreational facilities, including multi-purpose spaces at a new waterfront park along the Kallang River and a pedestrian mall in the Katong-Joo Chiat area. The competitions will build on URA’s Identity Corridors engagements over the past two years, where the community expressed a desire for more shared spaces in both neighbourhoods and elsewhere along the corridors.
For instance, stakeholders along Kallang River shared aspirations for more community spaces and amenities that make better use of the river’s unique green and blue setting. The design competition for the waterfront park along Kallang River will be open exclusively to architects from the ‘20 under 45’: Fourth Edition, providing an opportunity for them to create a meaningful space for the local community. The winning architect will be appointed to implement the design.
The pedestrian mall at Katong-Joo Chiat area has potential to be a focal point and gathering space for the community, and be designed with amenities like benches, landscaping and infrastructure for events. A design competition will be organised, to solicit the best design ideas that respond sensitively to the local culture and heritage of the area. Details of both competitions will be shared when ready.
The ‘20 under 45’: Fourth Edition exhibition will be held at the URA Centre from 23 January to 31 March 2026, with the accompanying publication available at all major bookstores. A series of public talks will also be held in February and March 2026, providing platforms for the architects to share their work and design philosophies with industry professionals and the wider community. More details of the talks will be released later online.
