With rapid urbanization and “modernization” of many asian cities, large areas of these cities have been demolished to make way for “modern” developments, very often wholesale imports of western developments and culture. It is therefore significant for the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Singapore to safeguard what remains of the old city by way of conservation zones.
This project, located in the Blair Plain Conservation Zone, is such an example. With this project, the Architect attempts to re-interpret in a contemporary manner the spatial qualities and memory of the traditional shophouse without resorting to replication nor nostalgia. The original air-well has been retained but reinterpreted as a “lantern”, infusing the interior with light in both day and night. It becomes in fact, the focus of the house with the spaces related to it. Spatial layering, so common in Chinese architecture, is explored here both horizontally (via shelved screen and airwell) and vertically in the way how the spaces began to be more transparent as one proceeds upwards terminating in the highest room with the best view and yet the most”cocooned”. The architect hopes, with this project, he has left a legacy of Singapore’s built history for future generations find who they are and where they had come from.
ASSESSMENT:
June Song Pte Ltd.
By our assessment, the Architect had done an excellent job not only in conserving the unique qualities of this building, but also making it livable and adaptable to the modern lifestyle and conveniences. Our tenants have always enjoyed the experience of living in one of Singapore’s unique built heritage.