20 under 45: the next generation is a collection of works by Singapore-registered architects under the age of 45. Exhibited in late 2010, the small display is up again for a second viewing at the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) building at Maxwell Road.
Some outstanding works:
Above: Richard Hassel, WOHA Architects – 1. Alila Villas Uluwatu, Indonesia; 2. Crown Plaza Hotel at Changi Airport, Singapore. I love how alive these structures feel! It takes an inspired mind to soak in the culture and geographical beauty of these locations, blend that with a modern aesthetic, and create something as wonderfully surprising yet completely natural as these structures.
Above: Ling Hao, Ling Hao Architects – Small Worlds at Niven Road, Singapore
This sort of narrow multi-storey ‘shophouse’ is a common sight along the old streets of Singapore – it offers homeowners lots of exciting design possibilities – but also challenges (especially for bringing light into such a narrow space).
Above: Alan Tay, Formwerkz Architects – Aramsa Spa, Singapore
Aramsa Spa is a top class spa set none other than in the center of the humble heartlands at Bishan Park. The lush garden landscaping and graceful architecture of wooden walkways flanked by reflection ponds, glass rimmed lounges, bamboo beamed outdoor showers, and unexpected details (e.g. corrugated iron sheets reminiscent of kampong tin roofing are used to segregate the outdoor showers) give the place its irresistible allure. What I love is how open it is yet so private – rustic yet modern – and how it clearly loves nature and encourages visitors to commune with it. I’ve seen many imitations but Aramsa Spa really got it right down to the heart.
Homeworlds 