Cupertino-based premium smartphone maker Apple on Thursday opened Apple Marina Bay Sands, a glass dome that sits directly on the water. The design is similar to a floating lantern located in a luxury district of Singapore full of shops, restaurants, and the Marina Bay Sands hotel and casino.
The sphere is constructed from 114 individual pieces of glass held in place by 10 vertical mullions (the architectural term for supporting bars between panes of glass in a window), and Apple says the dome is a first-of-its-kind construction: all-glass and fully self-supporting.
“Our retail stores bring the best of Apple together and we’re so proud to welcome you to our newest home in Singapore, the breathtaking Apple Marina Bay Sands. Enjoy the view!” Apple CEO Tim Cook said in a tweet.
Inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, an oculus located at the apex of the dome provides a flooding ray of light that travels through space, according to Apple.
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 green garden city of Singapore flows into the store, providing additional shading and soft shadows through the foliage.
Visitors can explore curated Apple products and accessories, receive personal technical support or simply take in the stunning view of Marina Bay.
“The Forum is centered around a Video Wall, which will serve as the stage for ‘Today at Apple’ sessions featuring Singapore’s artists, musicians and creators,” Apple said.
Apple opened its first store in Singapore at the Knightsbridge building along Orchard Road in 2017.