Singapore has a well-developed architecture sector with firms ranging from large multi-disciplinary practices to boutique studios specialising in residential, commercial, and heritage work. Notable firms include WOHA Architects, SAA Architects, DP Architects, RSP Architects, Planners and Engineers, and Formwerkz Architects, each with distinct portfolios and areas of focus.
Leading Firms and What They Do
WOHA Architects (founded 1994) is perhaps the most internationally recognised Singapore-based firm, known for biophilic high-rise design. Their projects include Jewel Changi Airport (in collaboration with Safdie Architects), Parkroyal Collection Pickering, and School of the Arts. DP Architects is one of the largest practices in Singapore by headcount, responsible for projects including Marina Square and the Esplanade. RSP Architects, Planners and Engineers handles major commercial and civic commissions across Asia. SAA Architects (now merged with RSP) delivered Changi Airport Terminal 1 and multiple public housing masterplans under HDB. Formwerkz Architects occupies a smaller niche, focusing on residential and community work with a particular interest in adaptive reuse of Singapore’s older building stock.
How Singapore Firms Are Regulated
All architecture firms operating in Singapore must be registered with the Board of Architects (BOA) under the Architects Act. Sole proprietors, partnerships, and companies must hold a valid licence, and at least one director or partner must be a registered architect. The BOA publishes an online register of licensed firms, which is the most reliable way to verify a firm’s credentials before engaging them. Registered architects are required to complete continuing professional development (CPD) hours annually to maintain registration.
Choosing a Firm for Your Project
Project type and scale should guide your selection. Firms like DP Architects or RSP handle large commercial and mixed-use developments with dedicated project management teams. For landed residential or smaller commercial work, mid-size and boutique firms such as Aamer Architects, Lekker Architects, or Park + Associates are worth considering. Fees in Singapore are not regulated at a fixed rate following the removal of the BOA fee scale guideline, so comparing quotes across at least two or three firms is advisable for any project. Most firms charge either a percentage of construction cost (typically 8 to 15 percent for residential projects) or a lump sum agreed at engagement. Always confirm whether consultancy coordination, interior design, and submission fees are included in the quoted scope.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I verify that an architecture firm in Singapore is properly licensed?
Check the Board of Architects (BOA) online register at boa.gov.sg. The register lists all currently licensed firms and their qualified persons. It is updated regularly and is free to search. Engaging an unlicensed firm for work requiring submission to the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) creates serious legal and financial risk.
Do Singapore architecture firms handle HDB renovation projects?
Renovation to existing HDB flats is typically managed by HDB-licensed renovation contractors, not registered architecture firms. For structural alterations or additions to private property, an architect registered with the BOA must submit plans to BCA. Some boutique firms do take on residential projects that involve structural changes to landed homes or private apartments, but standard HDB interior renovation sits outside the scope of architectural submission requirements.
What is the difference between an architecture firm and an interior design firm in Singapore?
Architecture firms employ registered architects who can certify and submit structural plans to BCA. Interior design firms handle spatial planning, finishes, and fitout, but cannot submit structural or building plan applications. For projects requiring planning permission or structural work, you need a registered architect. For purely aesthetic or fitout work within an approved shell, an interior designer is sufficient.
