Apple’s Unique Dome Store To Open Sept. 10
September 8, 2020The long awaited opening of Apple’s fascinating new store in Singapore, is finally here. Called the Apple Marina Bay Sands, the floating sphere is one of several new stores that Cupertino has launched this year, including one in Thailand and the Sanlitun in Beijing, China. However, its unique design and placement, makes it far more special than the others.
Located on the Marina Bay, the ‘floating’ sphere is an all-glass dome structure that is self-supported. About 114 pieces of glass make up its facade with only 10 narrow vertical mullions put in place or structural connections. The design allows for an unobstructed 360-degree view of the city and its skyline.
“We couldn’t 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.
Apple says that the new store’s design was inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. An opening at the apex of the dome allows a ray of light to shine to the bottom, creating an interesting lighting effect down below. The interior of the dome’s glass panels are lined with custom baffles. Each are uniquely shaped to counter sunlight and provide a nighttime lighting effect.
Trees line the dome’s interior, which provide shading indoors and a more natural look and feel to the place. The main entrance to the dome leads to a large open space where visitors can explore Apple’s whole range of products and get technical support. Here’s where The Forum is located too. A spaced with a large video wall that acts as a stage for presentations or other sessions.
Those interested in receiving training and advice from the Apple team, will have access to Apple’s underwater Boardroom, located on the lower level of the dome. It’s a unique setting that is probably one of its kind for Apple. The entire store is run by a 148-person team, who speak over 23 languages. Apple Marina Bay Sands will open its doors for the first time on September 10th.
As per COVID-19 health requirements, screenings will be conducted on both employees and customers. This includes a mask requirement, temperature checks and social distancing policies. Admission into the dome is by appointment only. Customers can visit apple.com/sg/marianbaysands to choose the available visiting times.
