NTUC Club has revealed its newly rebuilt D’Marquee events venue at Downtown East in Singapore, where the venue boasts a striking contemporary design, significantly increased capacity, and a commitment to sustainability.
The new D’Marquee – which opened last month after a year of construction – sports a modern, industrial aesthetic, featuring a corrugated steel facade inspired by shipping containers and designed by award-winning Freight Architects.
The pillarless, open-concept interior now spans 2,400m2, a 40 per cent increase in floor capacity, with an eight-meter ceiling height. This allows for versatile layouts, accommodating up to 2,200 guests in theatre-style seating (up from 1,400), 500 in classroom style, and 1,320 in banquet style (up from 70 tables to 132). The venue can also hold up to 2,278 attendees for arena-style concerts, a 60 per cent increase. NTUC Club anticipates hosting at least 30 large-scale events annually.
Lim Eng Lee, CEO of NTUC Club, said: “The new D’Marquee is part of our ongoing evolution to refresh our facilities in Downtown East. The upgraded venue will be another platform for our UPlay ecosystem, hosting mega events such as consumer shows, corporate events and concerts. It would help to bolster even higher footfall in Downtown East. By creating a seamless synergy between event spaces, leisure facilities, and hospitality, we hope to create an even more vibrant hub that resonates with our members and guests.”
In partnership with technical production firm ExpoAV, D’Marquee is equipped with state-of-the-art features, including high-definition audio, soundproofed interiors, echo-absorbing ceilings, and cinematic LED lighting. The standalone structure also includes a new suite of integrated back-of-house facilities, such as a VIP lounge, storage and operations spaces, a nursing room, changing rooms, and accessible restrooms.
Sustainability is also a key focus. Starting in April 2024, solar panels will be installed on the roof, further enhancing the venue’s energy efficiency and aligning with NTUC Club’s “Go-Green” initiatives.
The original D’Marquee, a dome-shaped landmark since 2003, has played host to over 3,000 events in its two-decade history, from family-friendly shows like Sesame Street Live to major gatherings such as the May Day Rally.
