Photo courtesy Apple
Tech giant Apple has previewed Apple Marina Bay Sands, the company’s first store to sit directly on the water. Appearing as a sphere floating on the iridescent Marina Bay, the store introduces a new retail experience at one of the most iconic locations in Singapore.
Entirely surrounded by water, Apple Marina Bay Sands offers uninterrupted, 360-degree panoramic views of the city and its skyline. The sphere is a first-of-its-kind, fully self-supported, all-glass dome structure, comprising 114 pieces of glass with only 10 narrow vertical mullions for structural connection.
Inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, an oculus located at the apex of the dome provides a flooding ray of light that travels through the space. The interior of the glass is lined with custom baffles, each uniquely shaped to counter sun angles and provide a nighttime lighting effect. With trees lining the interior of the dome, the garden city of Singapore flows into the store, providing additional shading and soft shadows through the foliage.
Visitors entering the store encounter a reveal into the massive volume of the dome, where they can explore curated Apple products and accessories, receive personal technical support from ‘Geniuses,’ or take in the stunning view of Marina Bay. The forum is centred around a video wall, which will serve as the stage for Today at Apple sessions featuring Singapore’s artists, musicians, and creators. Entrepreneurs and developers interested in receiving training and advice can meet with Apple team members in Apple’s first underwater boardroom, located on the lower level of the store.
“We could not be more excited to open the breathtaking Apple Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, building on our commitment to this special place that began more than 40 years ago,” said Deirdre O’Brien, Apple’s senior vice-president of Retail + People. “Our passionate and talented team is ready to welcome this community to our new store and deliver the care and support that our customers around the world love.”
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