Tour of Raymond Woo’s House
On 26 August 2023, the Singapore chapter of Docomomo organised two tours of the house of pioneer architect and SIA Gold Medal winner Raymond Woo.
At the beginning of each of the two sold-out tours, the participants were given what was originally intended to be a short overview of the life and work of Ar. Woo by Docomomo Singapore’s Executive Committee member Dr. Chang Jiat Hwee. It was complemented by a brief presentation on the design of the house by Docomomo’s volunteer Jacob Myers. At the same time, Ar. Woo interjected during the presentations and regaled the participants with little-known behind-the-scenes stories of his key works, such as the Singapore Science Centre, Loyang Valley Condominium, 78 Shenton Way, and of course Ngee Ann City. The insider tales enlivened what could have been rather concise and technical presentations, turning them into longer sessions where Ar. Woo’s humour elicited laughter from the audience. The audience also took the opportunity to ask Ar. Woo questions about his design intentions and strategies, turning the presentations into prolonged exchanges.
After the presentations, Ar. Woo personally showed the participants around his house and shared further stories related to the design and décor of the different parts of the building. Many participants lingered to talk to Ar. Woo after the end of the tours. It looks like they were happy to have the rare opportunity to visit a residential masterpiece in Singapore and interact with a living legend.
If you missed these two tours, fret not. We are in the midst of planning for a few more tours, including a tour of a rare 1960s modernist house that has been well-preserved in its original conditions. The house was designed by one of the most important modernist architectural firms in Singapore. Join our mailing list and you will be among the first to be informed about our forthcoming tours.
