I'm completely taken and impressed by the planning authority of Singapore and its Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). It's the most cutting-edge agency in the world. They have very effective guidelines for development, and they review design as it evolves.

Moshe Safdie’s quote expresses his admiration for the planning authority of Singapore, particularly the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). He is deeply impressed by the effectiveness of the agency in guiding the city’s development, calling it the "most cutting-edge agency in the world." Safdie emphasizes the forward-thinking and innovative approach of the URA, which is renowned for its ability to balance urban growth with sustainability and aesthetic design.

The reference to effective guidelines for development highlights how the URA has established a structured and organized framework that governs the planning and construction of the city. By reviewing design as it evolves, the URA ensures that projects meet high standards of functionality, aesthetics, and environmental sustainability. This comprehensive oversight allows Singapore to maintain its urban landscape as one that is both modern and efficient, with a focus on livability.

Safdie’s admiration for the URA also reflects his broader views on architecture and urban planning. He is known for his work on large-scale urban developments and his belief in the importance of thoughtful, human-centered design in shaping cities. In this quote, he praises Singapore for being a model of how cities can approach development with vision, embracing both technology and design innovation to create a sustainable future.

The origin of this quote comes from Safdie’s experience as an architect with a global perspective on urban development. As someone who has worked on significant urban projects around the world, including in places like Israel, Canada, and the United States, he has seen firsthand how different cities approach urban planning. His praise for the URA reflects his appreciation for Singapore’s methodical yet dynamic approach to urban development, which integrates both long-term strategy and real-time review of design progress.