This paper seeks to examine Singapore’s recent attempt to search for place identity. There is a growing
tendency to take account of lay people’s opinions when making plans for conservation areas. Using the case
study of Singapore development plans, it will distil the process of participative place making that recognises
people as active participants in the making of place. As a portion of space, the richness of place is situated
in specific time–space contexts that call for consideration of not only expert opinion but also the opinion of
lay people such as residents and user groups when making plans for conservation areas