Jewel Changi Airport, which opened in 2019, is a world-class multi-dimensional destination that welcomes more than 80 million visitors annually. Jewel’s distinctive dome-shaped facade made of glass and steel, adds to Changi Airport’s appeal as one of the world’s leading air hubs.
The building extends Changi Airport’s principal function as a transit hub, to a public gathering space for Singaporeans and international travellers, establishing a new model for airports as destinations for shopping, entertainment, social activity and even accommodation. Nowhere in the world has a building been constructed that integrates the public realm with an airport facility so closely, according to its principal architect, Safdie Architects.
Spanning five storeys above ground and five basement levels, Jewel has a total gross floor area of 135,700 square metres. Located within the airport’s public area, Jewel is directly connected to Terminal 1’s Arrival Hall and linked to Terminals 2 and 3 via pedestrian bridges. Visitors can also access Jewel via the Skytrain to Terminal 1. The Skytrain itself also forms a unique spectacle in Jewel as trains travel through the lush Forest Valley.
Here are some of the key highlights of Jewel.
Rain Vortex
At the heart of the complex and Jewel’s centrepiece is the breathtaking 40m-high Rain Vortex and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. In the evenings, it is transformed into a captivating light & music showcase, creating a dramatic visual delight for all visitors to enjoy.
The Forest Valley surrounding the Rain Vortex is a four-storey indoor landscape filled with thousands of trees and plants. Two nature trails wind through the space, rising 30m from the Level 1 to Jewel’s topmost storey, offering visitors a tranquil experience amidst lush greenery.
For travellers seeking short stays or even a shower between flights, YOTELAIR marked its first-ever Asian property at Jewel.
The Canopy Park brings together landscaped gardens, play attractions and Instagram-worthy photo spots. The space is refreshed several times a year with seasonal floral themes and installations.
Cloud9 Piazza on Level 5 is a versatile and picturesque venue ideal for hosting MICE events and weddings.
Facilities to better serve travellers
Jewel enhances the passenger experience with a suite of aviation facilities located on Level 1. Travellers arriving early can make use of the early check-in counters and baggage storage service.
The pay-per-use Changi Lounge offers a comfortable environment to rest, relax or work. Spanning 920 sqm with seating for 120, the lounge features high-speed internet, ample charging and power points for devices, private meeting rooms, refreshments, shower facilities and napping pods.
Retail and dining experiences
The retail mix of 260 retail and F&B outlets comprises exciting new-to-Singapore concepts, top international brands, and home-grown names, offering visitors a diverse and dynamic shopping and dining experience.
The Duplex Boulevard features a grand double-storey format that allows brands to showcase their unique stores including the world’s first Apple Store located within an airport.
Level 1 serves as a premier mid-luxury shopping destination, showcasing a selection of international fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands including a Porsche showroom and café.
The mix of specialty stores tailored to young adults and enthusiasts at Level 4 is the go-to destination for character merchandise, designer toys and pop-culture must-haves.
Main photo credit: Tim Hursley/Safdie Architects
Photos of retail and dining areas provided by the writer.
All other photos courtesy of Changi Airport Group
