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Dr Liu Thai Ker, the man often called the “Father of Urban Planning” and “architect of modern Singapore,” passed away on Sunday, 18 January 2026 at the age of 87. He was surrounded by family and loved ones when he died, following complications after a fall.
For more than half a century, Dr Liu’s vision, intellect, and unwavering dedication shaped the very fabric of Singapore — from its skyline to its neighbourhoods, from its public housing estates to the way its people live, work and play.
Born in Muar, Johor, in 1938 and arriving in Singapore at the age of six, Dr Liu’s journey mirrored the transformation of the city-state itself. A scholar and lifelong learner, he earned first-class honours in architecture at the University of New South Wales and a master’s degree in city planning from Yale University before returning to Singapore in 1969.
Upon his return, Dr Liu joined the Housing Development Board (HDB) and embarked on a career that would define Singapore’s built environment. Over two decades at the HDB, he oversaw the planning of 20 new HDB towns, shaping the homes and communities of hundreds of thousands of Singaporeans.
He later served as chief planner and CEO of the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), where his broad vision helped guide Singapore’s long-term development frameworks, conservation efforts, and citywide planning.
Dr Liu led a comprehensive overhaul of Singapore’s Concept Plan — a strategic framework guiding land use, transport and urban growth for decades. This 1991 Concept Plan re-envisioned the island’s spatial structure by dividing it into distinct regions with integrated housing, jobs, amenities and services, influencing how Singapore expanded sustainably over the long term.
One of his most lasting legacies at URA was the introduction and consolidation of the Conservation Plan — policies and practices to protect Singapore’s heritage buildings and districts. Under this initiative, areas such as Chinatown, Little India, Kampong Glam, Singapore River (including Boat Quay and Clarke Quay) and historic residential precincts were identified for preservation, ensuring that historic character remained part of the city’s evolving skyline.
Dr Liu helped formulate and streamline planning methodologies, including how development guide plans were prepared, clarified regulations for land use, and improved the planning application process. These efforts made Singapore’s urban planning system more systematic, transparent and navigable for property developers, agencies and the public alike.
Rather than simply focusing on physical development, Dr Liu’s revisions emphasized liveability, ecological sustainability, and human-centred design in strategic planning. His approach ensured Singapore’s growth was both functional and enriching — with thoughtful integration of green spaces, transport links, residential areas, and cultural identity in the city’s blueprint.
The work done under his leadership became a blueprint for subsequent URA plans, influencing how land was allocated for private housing, business districts, parks, industry, and infrastructure in the decades that followed. Singapore’s reputation today as a well-planned, compact and highly liveable city is rooted in the frameworks he helped establish.
Dr Liu’s influence is everywhere in Singapore:
HDB towns and public housing precincts that balance practicality with beauty, integrating green spaces, amenities, and community hubs within walking distance.
Urban planning philosophies that emphasized liveability — where people, nature, and urban spaces coexist harmoniously. Leaders and peers alike noted his belief that “to build a city, one must have the heart of a humanist, the mind of a scientist and the eye of an artist.”
A commitment to public purpose and long-term thinking that continues to inform Singapore’s development strategies.
Even after leaving public service, Dr Liu’s curiosity and passion endured. At 79, he founded Morrow Architects & Planners, a firm that extended his influence to cities across the world and where he continued to mentor the next generation of designers.
Singapore’s leaders and colleagues paid tribute to Dr Liu’s lifetime of contributions:
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said Singapore was “better because of Thai Ker’s service,” and that the everyday buildings and spaces Singaporeans use are quiet testaments to his vision.
President Tharman Shanmugaratnam recognised his role in making Singapore a liveable city in the tropics.
Countless planners, architects, and citizens recalled his generosity of spirit, humility, and devotion to improving cities not just as structures, but as places where people thrive.
His passion to build better cities remained a driving force right until the end — a testament to a life dedicated to public service and to the belief that thoughtful planning can elevate the everyday lives of people everywhere.
Dr Liu’s work and influence extended far beyond Singapore’s shores. He consulted on master planning projects in many cities around the world, sharing his insights on liveability and sustainable urban development. His legacy is global, and his ideas continue to inspire planners and architects internationally.
To his family — his wife, Ms Gretchen Gustafson, and his children — he was not just a visionary planner but a beloved father and husband whose warmth, wisdom, and humanity were deeply felt.
Dr Liu Thai Ker’s life stands as a testament to what thoughtful, disciplined, and compassionate planning can achieve: communities built not just for shelter, but for connection; cities designed not merely for function, but for the flourishing of human life. His legacy endures in every home, every park, and every street corner of the city he helped make.
