Urbanscape: "Old and New Buildings" (Monomad Challenge)

After my nature park adventure at the TreeTop Walk, I returned to the city for another photo walk. This time, my focus was on the architectural buildings I discovered while wandering around Dhoby Ghaut, North Bridge Road, Somerset, and City Hall. These areas have developed into an urban oasis while still preserving old buildings constructed in a traditional style.

Some might find this eclectic mix unusual, as urban development typically follows one of two paths—either maintaining traditional designs or completely revamping the landscape with modern architecture. However, that's not what happened in Singapore. Here, urban development took place while preserving historic buildings for their heritage and cultural value.

I love exploring these places because the coexistence of old and new architecture adds a unique charm to my photos. It creates an exciting contrast, allowing me to capture two distinct architectural styles from different eras in a single frame. This diversity makes the cityscape more visually engaging.

Now, imagine a skyline where every building looks the same—monotonous and uninspiring. In contrast, a cityscape that might seem chaotic at first glance can transform into a harmonious blend of diverse architectural styles. To me, that’s what makes a city truly fascinating.

I'm dedicating this post as my contribution to the Black and White community. I hope you find the photos interesting or, at the very least, enjoyable to view.

All photos were captured and edited using my Oppo Reno 13. I’ve only been using it for the past few weeks, but I can confidently say it’s the best camera I’ve had so far. What I enjoy most is the flexibility of the lens, especially the wide-angle feature, which closely mimics how our eyes perceive the world. This means that whatever vision I have for a shot, the phone can capture it accurately. I no longer need to guess or adjust my position relative to the camera’s angle—I can simply take the shot as I see it. It’s a really cool feature, and I’d love to showcase it through the photos below.

Exploring the city through my lens has given me a deeper appreciation for the seamless blend of history and modernity in Singapore’s architecture. Each photo tells a story of contrast and coexistence, capturing the evolving identity of the urban landscape. I hope these black-and-white images inspire you to see the beauty in both the old and the new, wherever you may be.