18 Cross

A Landmark Evolution Situated at the intersection of Cross Street and the vibrant, pedestrian-friendly Nankin Road, 18 Cross redefines urban regeneration in Singapore’s CBD. Seamlessly blending conserved shophouses, a reimagined commercial podium, and a modern Grade A office tower, the project weaves together past, present, and future. Formerly Cross Street Exchange, the 14,000-sqm site has been transformed by Benoy, in collaboration with PAG (client), DCA (local architect), and Cundall (engineer), into a dynamic mixed-use hub. Opened in early 2025, it comprises a four-storey commercial podium and a 15-storey office tower that integrates with the heritage fabric of Nankin Yard—set to complete in late 2025 with 18 conserved shophouses and six contemporary additions. From Fragmented to Unified Despite its prime location, the original site struggled with disjointed connections, an uninviting podium façade, and low visibility for the office entrance—resulting in low occupancy. The redevelopment resolved these issues, unifying the precinct through adaptive reuse, layered design, and a focus on accessibility and identity. At the core is a multi-level "heart"—an active, three-dimensional hub connecting Nankin Road, a grand public staircase, lifestyle retail, and the underground train station. This vibrant centre features 55,000 sqft of F&B, wellness, and coworking spaces, activated by spill-out terraces and a business club. The reimagined podium draws architectural cues from 19th-century shophouses with green terracotta tiles, timber accents, and a lightweight, breathable façade that integrates greenery and natural ventilation. A double-height entrance and a 20-metre vertical green wall create a striking threshold for the office tower, where former Grade B workspaces have been upgraded to Grade A standards. Floor-to-ceiling windows maximise daylight; exposed ceilings offer openness and flexibility; and modernised lobbies and common areas reflect premium, future-ready workplace design. Sustainability at the Core Sustainability drives every layer of the redevelopment. With Green Mark Platinum and WELL Platinum certifications, 18 Cross sets a benchmark in environmental, social, and economic resilience. • Environmental Sustainability: Retrofitting and structure reuse prevent over 23,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. Energy-efficient systems, solar integration, rainwater harvesting, and food waste collection support circularity and reduce impact. EV charging stations promote clean mobility. • Social Sustainability: A strong emphasis on wellness includes biophilic design, inclusive access, and commuter amenities—bike parking, showers, and lockers—that support active lifestyles and enhance the daily experience of tenants and visitors. • Economic Sustainability: Long-term cost efficiency, upgraded office environments, and sustainability certifications attract quality tenants and investors, enhancing asset value and driving urban revitalisation. 18 Cross is a model for adaptive reuse and community-focused urbanism—a site once defined by fragmentation is now a cohesive, high-performing, and vibrant destination that reflects Singapore’s evolving urban identity and future ambitions.