Chinatown


There are many interesting places in Singapore that I personally like to visit. However if I were to quote a place that left deep impression in me, it would be the place that is not foreign to a lot of us- Chinatown. Having chosen this place as my topic of my essay assignment for history some time ago, I was given the chance to circulate and understand the space and culture of Chinatown in detail. I personally like the unique qualities of shophouses and the sight of so many different types of shophouses existing within a single street of Chinatown is truly a beautiful sight. Through the shophouses, some refurbished while some remained in their old and run-down state, young generations like us are able to appreciate the quality of coexistence between the old and new.
With Singapore's initiative in making CHinatown a heritage destination especially for tourist, I feel that this definitely brought forth a lot more crowd to the place. The refurbishing of the streets often not only attracted tourists but also us Singaporean as well. Their are few things that I particularly liked about CHinatown; for example the heritage centre along pagoda street, specially set aside for vistors to know about the past of CHinatown, and also the food street set up ( hmmm not sure of the street name) to provide the experience of eating along the streets that is not unfamiliar to the older generation.
Chinatown is the place where history unveils and I am sure there are still many interesting things that I have yet to notice about the place. Perhaps I should visit Chinatown more during my free time and discover new layers of chronological findings!

Ho Han Nee Glenda

Little India


It was not long ago when I shunned this Little India stretch of Serangoon Road as much as I could. I didn’t like the perpetual crowd, errant pedestrians, and the overwhelming smell in the air which was a mix of spices, incense and garland flowers. But when I finally gave the place a chance and explored it beyond the comfort of a vehicle, there were actually many surprises to be discovered along these streets that were laced with Shophouses. Ever since being gazetted as a historic district by the URA in 1989, Little India has been constantly reinventing itself. On the main street of Serangoon Road, we could see many Shophouses being given fresh coats of paint to regain its original pristine self. However the most interesting area that are left untouched and allowed to aged naturally. There exist a stronger sense of authenticity to its façade as opposed to those that have been restored. Nestle among the neighbourhood are courtyard spaces which becomes a focal point for people to gather. Despite the picture being taken in the late afternoon, there were still crowds sitting around leisurely under the shades provided by the tree. There is a rustic charm to a scene as such, where people stop and genuinely enjoy the environment. In contrast to backdrop of the bustling town it is set in, it makes it even easier to appreciate the idyllic nature of this place.

Lin Shuxian

Lower Pierce Reservoir


I moved to somewhere near this reservoir about 10 years ago and fell in love with it almost instantly when I first visited the place. It is not huge and hilly and it holds a relatively small pool of water, human activity is low. But perhaps it is due to this that I could appreciate nature in a closer manner?
I’ve always loved walk through the reservoir from one end where the car park is, transiting to the open grass patch with little trees scatter to provide shade for the occasional “Fisherman”. The shore is lined with stones and water that rushes up to shore beats on it with a certain rhythm. It is easy to fall asleep just by following this rhythm with your eyes closed while sitting under the little canopies.
Further in are wooden paths that hover above the water and it eventually bashes through the jungle towards the other end of the reservoir. In the evening the sun sets and the sight is a calming one. The reservoir sits still as you stand on the wooden path. Time seems to stop.

Low Chin Win

A Secluded Place

This was the path I used to walk to my work place- Akitek Tenggara along Dairyfarm Road. Although it is very long stretch of road, I still enjoyed my walk because it is detached from the bustle of the main road. It sort of slow down my pace and allowed me to enjoy nature. The full grown trees provide shade which made my walk pretty comfortable and the little noise pollution made me aware of the sound of nature- rusting of leaves and presence of insects.


I am greeted with a lush landscape upon turning into the work place. The different varieties of plant make the landscape an interesting one. I often wonder how many offices provide such a refreshing way to start one’s day.

This is the back of the office with a pantry and washroom hidden at the back that is naturally ventilated.
Open the door and you will feel the inviting cool air that defines the office space.

Jun Fong

5 footway of shophouse in Kampong Glam










This site is historical place in Singapore. Because Kampong Glam has an antique mosque, and Istana. But there is another element of historical background. That is a shophouse.
The shophouse has a very narrow width, long depth, and low roof. And it has 5 footway. This name comes from the width. The width is about 5 foot size.
The 5 footway is originated for the wider area, using 2nd floor.
Trying to use longer spac, finally 2nd floor is almost reached at the road. So bottom of the 2nd floor and in front of 1st floor there occurred space seems like corridor.
The long parallel column gives me to feel strong perspective. And through many shops, I can feel the activity of merchandising, through the arrangement of various façade.

Ju Young Seok

The Olive Ristorante, Labrador Park

I came to know about the Olive Ristorante located in Labrador Park when our design studio went to the park for site study for the latest design project. The studio spent the evening there for a pleasant Italian dinner.
We first walked by the restaurant in the afternoon when we first arrived at the park. My first impression of it is a very welcoming space. This is because against the glaring sun of the afternoon, the restaurant offers a shady shelter. Just walking by the restaurant, one is attracted by the cooling shade created by the high over hanging roof. The roof reaches the height of up to 4 meters for the eave nearer the entrance. The roof for the rear of the restaurant is slightly lower, for a more intimate environment for dinning. The entire restaurant is thoroughly naturally ventilated, having an entirely open plan and no internal division to promote wind flow.
By the time we finished our tour and headed back to the restaurant, it was around 6 pm but the air was still humid and warm. However, as we entered the restaurant, it was suddenly a different climatic zone, one which is cooling and dry. The restaurant sits itself against a steep slope, overlooking the plateau of land of the neighboring golf course. This promises plenty of ventilation for the premise, as the restaurant is situated on a high point. The roof fans also aid in promoting ventilation.
Within the restaurant, there is effort to make the restaurant relate even more to its environment. The roof of the rear of the restaurant is of a translucent material for natural lighting of the space in the day. Some creeper plants are grown on top of the roof. The green leaves, together with the brown shed leaves dropped on the roof can be seen through the roof clearly, which lends a very natural and unpretentious air to the restaurant.
I thought that for a rather up-end Italian restaurant, the slightly rustic quality of the space and the completely natural way of ventilation and lighting gives it a more down to earth and approachable feel, allowing it to fit in nicely with the surrounding natural reserve of Labrador Park.

Yang Han

Memories…


The NS experience, one that all male Singaporeans can relate to. For many, this is one experience they wish they could do without; but for me, well, I definitely do not want to re-live my NS again, but the memories and friendship and life experiences that I’ve had from this experience, I’ll cherish and hold dear. One place that brought all these experiences together for me personally is the Officer Cadet’s School. The friendships, the suffering, the good times, the bad times, the times we almost got pissed drunk and the times we almost collapsed from sheer exhaustion, the stupid things we did and the stupid things we were made to do; most importantly, the WE that we could all identify with. This school, its buildings, the stones and tiles all stood witness to that.
Perhaps the most amazing thing about this place is the collective memories it holds for each and every batch of Officer Cadets, whether good or bad. The architecture may not have been amazing, groundbreaking or even fantastic. Some may even have liked to term it boring, but I find its spatial distribution, its hierarchy of spaces and its separation of private and public space very much the result of a successful design. While most spaces are not air conditioned, one would almost never feel the heat or be caught in the rain. Its attention to Singapore’s climatic features is reflected in its design what with high ceilings and strategically placed courtyards. And after having lived and used the place for 9 months of my NS stint, I must say that its design is a success.

Koh Eng Meng

In Chinatown@night

It was amazing when I traveled to the China town streets in Singapore last year.
This place reminded me of many pleasant memories. The sun set, and night came in china town, this place was different during the daytime. When the lights turned on, the street in between the colourful Peranakan facade started changing to a picturesque scene. It was looked so beautiful to pedestrians.
Then I found out that there were actually a variety of activities in the side streets in between the Peranakan facade buildings. The best impression one usually sees here is activity out of building in the interior side street.
Every activity which surrounded china town, and the Chiniee light into the road made people feel like it was a dream, and they could easily get closer to each other. I could also easily talk to strangers around me.
Sometimes I could see some kind of acrobatic show on the street.
This experience somehow became a symbol my travels because it gave me a good impression.

Mi Hyun-Mok

Little India

Little India, the exotic piece of land in Singapore that represents the Indian community in Singapore. To some people, it may just be one of the many tourist hubs that we have in Singapore; to others, it may be a gathering space for them to meet up with their friends every weekend. However, to me, Little India is a special place in my heart. This is because I have been residing here for the past 20 years. I have watched the place metamorphosized from being a weekly communal space for the foreign Indian workers to congregate to a vibrant tourist attraction that now, not only does it have the second biggest wet market in Singapore, it even has its own shopping mall, shopping arcade, and mega supermarket as well! The thing about Little India that touches me the most is the sense of nostalgia that never fails to makes me reminisce the years that have past in my life. Yes, Little India is indeed a visual gift, a once in a lifetime cultural experience, a sight to behold. But to me, the smells of frangipani, blasting of Hindi music, the palatable taste of Thosai and prata, epitomizes the definition of home.

Eugene Lau

Swimming Pool @ NUS


This is the swimming pool in NUS. I like this space. The reason is…
First, I like swim. And i haven’t experience outdoor swimming pool. Even if it has an outdoor swimming pool in Korea. But that is for water playing. But this swimming pool is for exercising. So I can swim with the sky. I always go to pool in early morning, so sun doesn’t matter. And I can rest on the stair at the same time; I can see the good swimmer, also.
Finally favorite thing is that I can swim with bird. Bird swims in the sky, and I swim in the water. I couldn’t image this before.

Kim Lui

School on a hill: St Nicholas Girls School


My old school holds many fond memories for me, having spent more then a decade studying there. The whole school, situated on a hill, is very near the central water catchment area. This could probably be the reason why it was usually quite cooling. One of the things firmly etched in my memories is the beautiful high ceiling spaces that are all around the school. The whole feeling of airiness and sunlit spaces accompanied me in all my schooling days. Not to forget were all the endless plants and flowers that defined the surroundings. Every classroom had its own balcony that each class was supposed to decorate. Pots and pots of bougainvilleas were placed in the balcony and along the corridor. I always sat near the corners of the class so that I can gaze out (either the courtyard or garden) and daydream.
Perhaps one of the best places in St Nicks is the spectators stand. Sitting there early in the morning watching the sky turn gradually from dark blue to light was a daily enjoyment just before school assembly. Evenings were also a beautiful sight, witnessing the sky turn from a hue of pink to a golden orange. The sense of serenity around the whole place is something not commonly found everywhere where places are either bustling with activities or just too quiet and cold. Another spectacular place in the school was the sunken forum. There is nothing that can describe the feeling of sitting on a railing under a high ceiling and watching lightning bolt across the sky in the dark night. It was an odd feeling of both security and excitement as it seemed as though the lightning can strike us any moment, and yet know that a ceiling is protecting us all the while. St. Nicks was a truly wonderful place where I grew up in. It is just too bad that the school will be rebuilt in a few years time. I guess I will just go back one of these days to take more photos of it to store in my memory before it is gone.

Regina Yeo

Park behind Prince George’s Park Residences

It is difficult to think of Singapore as a tropical country as it is so highly developed that my view of a tropical setting- lush vegetation, rainforests, and greenery becomes distorted. Walking behind Prince Georges Park residences towards Pasir Panjang road, however, can give glimpses of a tropical landscape with nature playing a dominant role in the environment. One can hear crickets, smell the earth and experience some of the quietness that is often lost in other areas of Singapore. Research institutes along this road also incorporate vegetation into their landscape. A restaurant located behind PGP also has a lake and a fountain that adds to the ‘jungle’ effect of the space as one can hear water. The path that I walk on is shaded by the tree canopy, the same canopy cools the breeze that is abundant on this site when it is about to rain. When rain pours down as is so common in Singapore, the canopy also serves to shelter to a large extent so one feel more protected here when not carrying an umbrella.
In terms of an architectural presence, there is a restaurant very close to this site, however, on its own it is not very effectively shaded ( shaded areas are dark) and fans are used to aid ventilation- the breeze is not very strong. Hence I would say it is more the approach to the restaurant rather than the place itself that is tropical in nature.

Ahana Basu

Kampong Glam

Singapore is one of the most splendid country in the world. In spite of small size, there is many space of interest and is modernization. Has many shopping center, tourist resort… etc., and all these things are new.
As a foreigner, It feels artificial. But there is contrasted place in urban surroundings.
This space in the Kampong Glam, Malay district.
It’s abandoned place. Building has coal trace by past fire and many part paints came off. And beside it, there is undressed nature.
But it’s very impressive space to me.
Green moss that is covering building shows traces of time, and harmonizes with side’s undressed nature. Light which enter through tree branches makes soft atmosphere.
This place gives mental comfort in urban surroundings. It felt as stay away a tempo.
This place was derelict, but is not derelict.
Because, it has function as necessary place to people.

Yu Hyunsuk

King Edward VII Hall


It's another overnight stay in studio due to submission. It's morning and the only thing come into my mind is rushing back to my hostel to sleep. The reason why I am so stick to my hall, King Edward VII hall is that I found it relief and comfortable staying here and it give me the 'home' feeling. Unlike other halls, KE VII naturally sits on a hill engulfed by forest. Whenever I came back into this 'abandoned' place, I can feel that I was separated from the busy school works and life. Climbing up the stairs with sound of trees rafting and crickets from the forest, my pace became slow and calm walking back to my room. My room is oriented in an interesting way. Its front is facing a thick tropical forest where I can find squirrels and birds hopping around inside. When I entered my room, a totally contrasting view is in front of me! Looking through the stripe window, layers of view come into my eyes. I can see bird's view of green forest immediately, then city, then port then finally is the sea! The unlimitedly opened sky view is totally contrasting with the thick and unlimitedly deep forest at the door. The cool and refreshing wind blowing across my room through successful cross ventilation makes my room a wonderful place for rest. This is King Edward VII hall which I think is an interesting place in my life in Singapore for 1 year.

Anthony Chung Ching Fatt

Pasir Ris Park

Pasir Ris Park is a beach park located in the north-eastern part of Singapore. It stands at 71 hectares of land, including 6 hectares of preserved mangrove forests and some reclaimed land.Boardwalks are built into the mangrove forests. Mud crabs, mudskippers and mangrove trees such as Rhizophora and Bruguiera are found in this park. Also in this park, there is a beach which is relatively popular to Singaporeans. There are also many other facilities like a cycling track, barbecue pits and dining. Some resorts near the park have gates linking to the park.
I could say that Pasir Ris Park was a place where I grew up in. Since the age of 3, my mother often brought my siblings and I to the beach or to the park to play in the sand. We would often climb up the spider-web, run around maze and stroll along the paved concrete roads, stopping occasionally to buy a ‘potong’ ice-cream stick.
Today, Pasir Ris Park has changed somewhat significantly from how I saw it as a child. Rows and rows of restaurants have now been erected along the coast. ‘Fisherman’s Village’ was termed as the place known to many Singaporeans. Though I felt that these rows of restaurats though strategically placed for a desired atmosphere for dining, it has blocked out the view to the sea when walking along the paved concrete road. However, I was glad to realise that further down the coast, most of the other parts of the beach were left untouched. I was more afraid of how commercialized this peaceful part of the island would become. The peace and serenity of the place was attractive to me.
Architecturally, it couldn’t be compared to the many other beaches on the island of Singapore. But the shelters built to hide-away when it rained was something I identified with this park. The rounded pitch roof shelther had a space large enough for 20 people yet when seen from a distance it doesn’t seem like it’s terrorizing the space too much.
The landscape of the beach is also beautiful. Rocks were erected for people to seat as close to the sea as possible, the number of palm trees were just enough for sea breezes to ventilate the area and yet still provide sufficient shading for picnic-goers. There are also enough open spaces for people to have fly a kite, kick a ball and play catching.
A space enough to stay in your memories should be a place worth visiting.

Adeline Toh

Raffles Hotel


Raffles Hotel--- It sits in the middle of the commercial district, with huge malls and busy roads, yet when one steps into the courtyards, it seems like the modern world is shut out. Traffic and pedestrian noise is reduced by the intervention of the buildings around the perimeter of the compound. The classical language employed makes for a romantic ambience. It almost seems as though the world is slowing down, with the porticos and verandahs shaded from the scorching afternoon sun, and people enjoying the shade provided.
The hotel lobby at the main building of the compound suggests a sort of grandeur with the grand and majestic wooden stairs, placed right in the middle. It makes for a dramatic entrance. Daylight filters into the lobby. The lobby is at the first of the 3 level, so when daylight hits the first level, it is warm, not hot, and suitably lit. The afternoon sun invariably feels like the morning sun, when the world starts to heat up all over again, after a cooling night.

Diong Fuhan

Food for the Heart

Labrador Park
A place of sacred peace.


When I first stepped into Labrador Park three years back with my mum, I was struck by the unscathed tranquility. There weren’t many people around there then as it’s existance was still unknown to many. I found my way to the coast and it was a relief to find the sea water clear enough to see the rocks below the waves. There, you’ll only hear the orchestra of the cicadas, the waves and the ocassional ships passing by. Coupled with the wind in the hair and the smell of the fresh, it was the perfect getaway, the oasis from the city life. All this is found right at the fringe of Singapore. When I was sitting at the jetty, I promised myself that I will return to this haven whenever I have the time. However, that was my first and last time there.
Three years later, in my second year of architecture, during one of the studio sessions, my tutor proposed a few sites for our upcoming project. And one of them was labrador park. When he asked if anyone has any preferences, everyone kept quiet. I tried to be cool in the beginning, keeping the silence, but the benson within me was shouting out “YOU IDIOT! SPEAK UP!!!”

“I propose that we choose labrador park as our site…”

My comment sliced the silence. And I proceeded on describing the place to the rest of my studio mates as most of them have never stepped into that sanctury before. I couldn’t help but lost myself admist the desccription. I know that I have to get that site for my project. Thankfully, my little speech managed to sway more than half of my studio mates in my favour. *Whew*
My second trip there, after 3 long years, was with the entire studio, including the tutor. The place was sort of “modified” by the government with pavilions, a huge exercising area that took up 1/6 of the whole coastal area, and a stragely designed playground that’s supposed to stimulate the WW2. The serenity of the place is now being challenged with these alien forces. Thankfully, the governmenr recognises the weight of the rocky beach and hence, the park and the beach was still kept in a pretty good condition.
Now that I’m back to asylum, I made every effort to frequent the place. Subsequently, the walk from the main road in and out has become part of the ritual of the entire trip. All I hope now is that the calm of the entire park will remain for everyone else who needs a refuge.

Heng Guan Hong

Vivo City at Harbourfront


My favourite place is the newly opened Vivo city is located at harbourfront. I went there on the second week of the opening. (it was very crowded then) and I personally think that the building is very vibrant. The façade of the building is very interesting because of its organic shape and the cladding is shape like the “wave” of the water. When I step into the building the organic layout actually is unique as it brings you a very different spatial experience and quality in terms of the human circulation. A place that I personally like is the yard facing sentosa. The view towards the sea and the use of material make you feel that you are actually on the cruise ship. It is also very also very windy as it is open to the sky.

William Tay

Changi SAF Yacht Club
Built on reclaimed land and officially opened on 28 May 05


I remember the pier extending, reaching, yearning, trying so hard to touch the horizon but never succeeding.
Amongst towering clouds, little specks of fast-moving white dotted the sky. Seagulls. As if mocking the pier, they zoomed towards the horizon, disappearing as fast as they had appeared, taking their cackles along with them.
Stationing myself at a seat at The WaterEdge Café, I took in the yachts tied to the sides of the pier. How majestic they seemed! How carefree they seemed! And yet, how plain they seemed compared to the lovely orange cocktail nestled in my hands. The sea agreed and celebrated my triumph by emitting a wind that played with my curls.
The sun struggled for awhile, then succumbed to the velvety night sky. In response, the boardwalk came alive with the orange spotlights and I smiled as a little child gazed in wonder at the sea, which had similarly come alive with the soft glow of the ships from afar. Without missing a beat, the waiter set our table aglow with flickering candlelight. The relaxing music of the 80s and 90s coupled with the soft, flickering shadows all around lulled me and drew me deeper into the inviting embrace of the swing’s couch and unwittingly, I dozed off for a good 10 minutes and dreamt of nothing but my troubles dancing along and fading away with the shadows.

My little secret hideaway, this quaint little yacht club.
Wait for me, you with your mind-stealing beauty.

Lim Hui Min Emily

Open space @ National Library


This place is the open space in National library. I can feel Nature in city. In Singapore that sunlight is strong and is always summer. I thought that I can not live without air conditioner but in this place I can endure hot weather. To me who has a headache if I feel the wind of air conditioner for a long time, this is the paradise.
In Korea, this place is popular in summer but in winter, people can not endure. Because the temperature descends by blow zero and snow falls. Now, Korea is autumn. The hot of summer disappears and it is the time to prepare the winter. The cool wind blows and the leaves fall down and the days are always cool. It is the time that my body that is adapted to Korea has to feel the autumn but now I feel summer, so I am exhausted and weak and my body is drooped.
To this me, the cool space is the heaven. Because in this place I can feel the wind of autumn that I feel in Korea.

Kim Jin Ah

Wheelock Place


Wheelock Place being a cone glass and steel structure lights up the entrance space with natural lighting (the combination of glass and steel frame allows light to shine into Wheelock Place yet casting shadows at different angles creating an alluring sight.) and when night falls, it becomes a sculpture which lights up from within.
It houses the Borders Books & Music.
I particularly like the fact that since the main drawing point of Wheelock Place is Borders Books & Music, and books bring about enlightenment, by building the main entrance using mainly glass allowing light to pass through, it sort of acts as a metaphor.
Shadow and light cast by the frames creates space at the main entrance making it appear larger then it is. When people arrive at Borders from the underground passage, they are welcomed with this "red carpet" in the form of light and space.
The entrance space is seducing enough for me to post this building on this blog.
Despite the building’s poetic use of natural lighting in the day, the one special encounter I had with Wheelock Place was in fact on a stormy night. I still remember despite my rush for time, when I looked up at the (glass cone) structure from the inside, it manages to sooth my mind. When viewed from the inside, there is a feeling as though one is inside a cascading waterfall as the raindrops hit the exterior and flow off the structure. As the rain water trickles down on the glass surface, it seems to wash all your troubles away and with the artificial lighting, the glass structure seem to be “communicating” with me as the bright lights and the sound & sight of the rainwater presents itself above me.
It was definitely a sight worth remembering.

Jason Tan Yaw Liang

the.blue.bench.

A place not very far away from home, a spot not very random… a blue bench under the weight of the world, hiding from the park.
Probably I had too much to think about and needed some air. At the edge of the park, the bench sat there under the lonely light, surrounded by huge trees, I guess I’ve found my place of solace.
Well, sitting there, I felt hidden from the world, yet I’m able to glimpse into various parts of the park. The trunks are my walls, and my roof is the rustling leaves above.
Maybe it’s the intimacy of the space, the darkness that calms, the calmness that sooth. Maybe it’s the breeze that gently caresses my skin, or the wind that whisper the nothings in my ears. Taking in a deep breath, I closed my eyes and counted to ten...

attempting to resolve my horrible, horrible design problems.

Tai Shijie.

NUS Campus



In campus, as an architecture student, we are always busy with our study. Studio is actually the second home for me beside my hall, it is a place to do our design, to chit-chat with fellows, to sleep and to live in. As I seldom go outing, campus has become a place that I have all my activities in my daily life. In this case, Central Library is another place that I frequently visit beside our lovely studio.
I like the way when I travel back to my hall from Central Library, I walk out from the library, without taking the elevator outside, walk on the steps towards the direction of Yusof Isak House. When I reach the dark corridor with a lot of lockers at both sides, the only way to follow is to turn left and get onto the way to the Chinese Library. And the turning point is the spot I like a lot, you will see light start penetrating inside the corridor from the corner, which is actually a small balcony for those air handling units.
When you stand at this spot, the view you that fits into your eyes will be the grand sea view, with the industrial harbor, ferries and etc. Nonetheless, the sunset is believed to be the main feature of the beautiful view. It is a present from god that gives me a feeling of relief and relaxes. Having a deep breath, it clears all the study stresses inside my heart.
Every time when I walk through this way, no matter it is a sunny day, cloudy day, hazy weather, or rainy day, I sure will take a stop and enjoy this special moment, especially it is during evening time where the sunset is underway. It is an extra gift for me when travel back from Central Library. I love this inconspicuous corner that brings me happiness and satisfaction.

Chai Ming Jie

My Home

My favorite place is my home. It is a place where I study, rest and be with my loved ones.
I have a room of my own and it is where I usually contemplate and do my work if ever I need to use the computer. It is also a place where I sleep, listen to the radio and watch TV most of the time. If my room is warm, I can either open the window to let the breeze in or switch on the fan to cool down the room.
If there is a need to do my models, I will do it in the dining hall where there is a huge dining table. It is much spacious to do my work there. There is good lighting and this space is located directly outside my room therefore it is
very convenient for me to access my computer if I need it.
Directly in front of the dining hall, I will see the kitchen. This is where I will have my meals. Every time I study or do my work at home, my mother will cook for me. It brings great joy to me when I smell the aroma of my mother’s cooking while I am doing my work. My home has all the necessities that I need to live comfortably. I have access to the toilet, relaxation/recreation space, study area and free food!
What more could a girl ask for…

Faradilla Bte Zakaria

graffiti walls at far east plaza-seize the day.


something beautiful
a contradiction
wanna play the game too
the friction
of secret messages and sweet exchange

bury them
with more paint
but, they won't be smothered
no, they won't be murdered.

with a thousand thoughts,
these empty walls are filled
with life and love
and volatile permanence.

come cloth these walls,
feel them, fill them
and love them like i do

emptiness does love company.

a spontaneous yes i would say, to leaving a print on the walls that line level one of far east plaza.
one place that never failed to arrest my attention during college days as a young and reckless adolescent.
these walls tucked way below level ground are most able to ironically satisfy or at least suffice the act and want of inclusion and involvement. Unconventional it may seem, but to me, it represents the notion of passing time, and brings back fond memories of juvenile years.
as it seems to me lately, that impulsiveness and recklessness aren't affordable no more.

tiffany ow hui ruan

Is City Harvest Church Singapore’s version of
Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao?


MSN-ing with my friend…

Mr. K: r u a Christian?
Me: yes, I am. y?
Me: no le…I tried looking for one..but…
Mr. K: so u wanna come to my church.


This is how I got to know about this church, City Harvest Church, Jurong West. It was on a Saturday evening when I first visited this church. The church is the first titanium-clad building in Asia. Some claimed that it modeled after the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain. Myriad of facilities provided such as lounge areas, large plasma televisions, waterfalls, gardens, coffee kiosks, a children’s playground, cafe and fountains. On the rooftop, it consists of a garden, a baptisim pool, a children’s wading pool and a coffee kiosk. During the daytime, the heat is warded off by the blast out moist air by cool mist fans. This church possibly owns the largest column-free church in the Southeast Asia.
The places I like the most is the fountain at the entrance. It is a place for fellowship after the services. The sound of the water is mesmerizing and soothing. Although the fountain is next to the main road, but one will not really noticed the vehicular sound maybe because the attention is directed towards the fountain and activities which are going on.

The next question would be…

Is this church an iconic building?

If yes, why is it have to be iconic?

This reminds me of what I learned in the history and theory of SEAsian Architecture module. Back in the past, iconic buildings were used to signify the identity and to show progress of a country. Is this church making a statement through the architecture? I personally think it is. This is largely related to the focus and method of organization of the church. City Harvest Church shows progress and modernity through their approach and building. There will soon be another City Harvest Church in near future. I can’t wait to see the church…
What will be the statement make by the church in future?

Lee Chin Wei

Hwa Chong Junior College


I guess my feelings towards Hwa Chong Junior College are rather mixed, having spent a good two years of my life schooled there. But the memories that I have collected from these premises are indelible, many of them beautiful and treasured. It was here where I forged new friendships and strengthened old ones, learnt lessons the hard way, and truly understood the importance of cherishing what you have in such a short period of your life. These photos were taken when I returned for our annual Mid-Autumn Festival Celebrations last year, and a walk through the school brought back the feelings of what it’s like to be a ‘uniform-ed’ student (and the thought that you could never be one again). When I visited these spaces, memories of the times spent came back at an instance: the canteen – its mad-rush and endless queues and queue-cutters); the central plaza – where we assembled every morning with reluctance and organized activities with enthusiasm; the class benches – where we mugged and gossiped and played poker illegally… These were the simple spaces that students utilized everyday and made the most out of, gathering and bonding at the same time. It was not until I left the school that on hindsight, I realized the kind of affinity I grew to have with these places. The school might have changed its name, but I guess it’s reassuring to know that these spaces which gave us our fond memories are here to stay, at least for now.

Zhang Shuhan

Pek’s Island


On the 6th level of the anglo-chinese junior college oldham wing block, there exist a humble balcony shaped in a square and opened on 3 sides. It seems like a space left over in the design of the building and seemingly possess no particular programe.
The journey to this balcony is not any unique experience, it takes the form of a boring and tiring climb up a neverending flight of stairs through a claustrophobic stair well of heavy and stagnant air to a balcony which sits above an office occupied by saddistic, teenager-torturing homosapiens (pe teacher) isolated and separated from the mains school building. Maybe that’s why no one uses it. More importantly, 17teen-year-olds and 18teen-year-olds have better and more ‘happening’ things to do than to embark on this unexciting pilgramage.
I happen to chance upon this space during a particularly taxing week. It immediately hit me as a very pleasant space.
Firstly, it is not enclosed and being on the highest level of the campus, it is all most always winding. In the mornings, the sun explodes into the space warming up the chills of the night; in the afternoon, the constant wind blows away the afternoon heat; in the evening, the main school building shades the sun while gentle breezes welcome in the night; and at night, being away from the escaping heat of the ground, is remains cool. Furthermore, being so high up, there is much need privacy while still being able to see everything that goes on below, from the voiddeck, to the grandstand to the track and sports complex and further of to the laughing and playing kid of the neighbouring school. Being there puts me above the sea of noise below. Up there there is almost silence, where troubles and frustrations are gone with the wind, revitalising me to step back into the dutys and expectations that awaits below.
It is a space set amidst a sea of controlled chaos and cacophony. Virtually unknown and unused by the very entities that created it and live below it.

Tiw Pek Hong

Golden Mile Complex

As a child, I never found this view breathtaking - the Oasis and magnificent (in my memory) Kallang Theatre on the left, our beautiful skyline to the right. The lovely breezes that wash over you as you overlook the water, dotted with its frequent visitors – sea sports enthusiasts. Running around on the balcony helping to water the plants, the splendour that splayed out in front of me was yet another backdrop of my life. The countless nights we came up to this apartment to watch fireworks and to play over the weekends, it never struck me as anything spectacular. To me, this was just a second home to run around in.
Now all grown up, I walk through the corridors and up the stairs with the spread of Beach Road all around me, and I inevitably notice the depth to which the internal atrium slopes, a complex structure of simple terraces. This lovely complex with all it’s Thai authenticity is a fascination in itself, and a joy to visit. For all it’s beauty, I never took notice of it until it was almost lost in the Nicoll Highway collapse. Now, once again I am forced to face the possibility of losing this, a place of many fond memories as developers threaten to take over. As an architecture student now, I look upon this revolutionary building with nothing but awe at the boldness and audacity of its creators. They took the leap to create something ahead of their time, ahead of Singapore’s. And I thank them for that. I can only hope and pray that its significance is likewise felt by others.

Choo Shih Pin Tiffany

Domes @ Old Supreme Court




It was amazing when I started studying the floor plan of the old Supreme Court last semester and found out that there were actually two domes in Supreme Court. Besides the taller one we usually see from the outside, there is actually another one hiding inside the building - the library. After visiting the interior of the Supreme Court, the two domes officially became my favorite place.
The most wonderful thing was when I stepped into the two domes was the experience of the light and shadow inside the domes. The blue sky outside the windows which surrounded the library dome left with me endless wonder, and the sunlight shined into the empty huge steel structure made me feel empty yet full. Empty in hands, but full with intangibles.
Another amazing experience was climbing up the spiral staircase into the huge dome. It was hard to imagine that such a huge dome, the only accessible route was this narrow spiral staircase. While I was climbing I raised my head, and saw the little blue from the hole that the staircase was leading to, was truly touched. How amazing the nature could sneak into every space that we had been trying to create, intentionally, or unintentionally by us. Even in this huge artificial form, somehow a symbol of a period of human history, which was full of sentiments and traces of human beings, the nature, could play a part. It is changing thing in this permanent still structure, yet it permanently exists.

Song Xiaoxing

Kent Ridge Park

Not many people visit Kent Ridge Park maybe due to its location being away from the city and its dense vegetation. However, this is one of my favourite places and I think it would be too for most nature lovers. It reminds me of Singapore’s history and the nature that still exists in Singapore’s concrete urban jungle. Although it is not the highest point in Singapore, once on top of the park, there is a sense of conquer, superior and dominant. At the same time, the closeness to the sky and the openness of the area makes one feel intimidated and small amidst the trees and vegetations.
The serenity and secrecy of the place makes one feel relax and calm. It is an interesting and quiet space where one is able to listen to the sounds of insects, birds and trees. At night, one can view the city from afar, feel the light breeze on the skin, and smell the air and nature. It is a place to unwind, away from the hustle and bustle of the city and where I can spend some quality time with my close friends. My only fear will be when the new circle line and other future developments are built around the place. Having new architectural interventions will disrupt the ambience and the secrecy of Kent Ridge Park. Thus, I strongly encourage those have not been there to visit the park.



Azizah Bte Sudar

Raffles Institution Boarding School



These four words might not bring forth the best of reactions and imageries from the most of us: school, boarding, institution, and Raffles. However, combining them together, we get Raffles Institution Boarding School, a place where stories of Life unfold and about which fond memories are told.
A place, that is a home away from home.
Having just celebrated its 10th anniversary, this special place has witnessed thousands of scholars living and growing through their crucial secondary and JC period.
What is so special about the architectural quality of this place is the flexibility that the spaces provide, which encourages vibrant lifestyle as they allow spontaneity and creativity to flourish.
The central courtyard and the surrounding landscaping are the favourite places for boarders to gather, celebrate birthdays and occasions like Chinese New Year and the mooncake festivals, practice for performances, dine, study, play a game of frisbee, or even use the benches as goalposts for a game of floorball.
It is also this openness of the central courtyard that allows sunlight to illuminate all the rooms during the day, which further encourages a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.
I find the richness of the architectural qualities of the place to contain vast amount of learning opportunities to me as an architecture student. Indeed, the boarding experience is always an enriching and life-changing one.

Ivan Novaleo Bunarsih

Waterfront @ Esplanade


The Esplanade, a S$540 million project undertaken by renowned architecture companies Michael Wilford & Partners and DP architects, possesses an amenity, which by itself, is a jewel that is unrealised by many – the Waterfront.
In times of sadness and despondency, the Waterfront at the Esplanade is the place where I seek inspiration and inner peace. Three major reasons which deemed it unique from any other places is one, its location; two, its functionality; and three, the numerous considerations imbued in it, camouflaged by the simplicity of the façade.
For many people, a popular place to go to during times of depression the beach. Just by listening to the sound of the gentle waves, we could feel a sense of tranquility and serenity. The waterfront provides an entirely similar effect, only in a more tidied urban setting. If one dislikes the urbanised clean touch, one could move further down along the riverbank, where he/she would find a rocky landscape, analogous to the breakwaters found at the East Coast Park.
As one gazes across the river while sitting on the concrete seats by the waterfront, one would come to realise a small, unlit plot of land in a distance. In the night, it would seem like it is there, but not there. Taking a more abstract perspective, one could think of oneself being on a cruise with the fabric covers of Esplanade’s outdoor performance area as its sails, moving steadily towards no man’s land. The small tourist bumboats moving on the river further materialises this illusionary experience.
It was not by chance that the architects came up with the idea of stretching the waterfront in a Northwest to Southeast manner. Such a layout, when coupled with the effects of the Sun, produces portraits, which could not even be found on the best postcards. At sunrise, as the Sun is creeping slowly out of the trees from the opposite side of Benjamin Sheares Bridge, the entrance of the Esplanade is illuminated. The sunrays almost seem to call out “This way please!” The sunset is all the more captivating. At dusk, the Sun would slowly descend behind the towering skyscrapers at Raffles Place. When the conditions are right, one would be able to catch the sight of bright red rays, blasting out in all directions from the back of the skyscrapers, and fading away into the darkening lavender sky. The rays literally seem to be highlighting the heart of the city and bringing life to Singapore’s iconic Merlion.
The waterfront was initially made to complement the “Theatre on the Bay”. However, I feel that it has surpassed its intended purpose. It was developed to provide a seamless link from the architecture to the waters. But in the midst of doing so, it has added colour to our monotonous city and most certainly impacted my life. In my opinion, the Waterfront at Esplanade deserves to be recognised as one of the most “well-designed” public spaces in Singapore.

Leonard Cai

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Feelings, memories, and thoughts... All these things come into my mind like a storm as I ask myself about the favorite place I have ever been to. The universe is so big, that it's impossible to know which place is the one. Maybe, somewhere in the future, the best places will come up as the worst ones; or sometimes, millions of people have the same favorite places. In this situation that it has to be about a place in Singapore, which means I should only choose one of those few places I have been to since I came here.
So far as I know, the place I always think of and want to see is my home… maybe it is the natural wish in every human to long for and direct toward somewhere familiar. There you find the peace in your mind and a feeling of belonging.
This picture of a courtyard garden somehow gives me a rather close feeling. Locating on the way from MRT station to terminal 2 in Changi airport, it is the image I would see the first or the last through every flight back home or returning to Singapore. Like there is a friend who will always be there waiting for you though you don’t see her at all time.
For each time passing by it I would stop without a special reason. Standing there looking at it through a large curtain of glass, I couldn’t walk in to see it closer although I really wanted to, afraid to somehow break that beautiful moment. The “white water” seems like coming from nowhere as a tall dark wall suddenly appears in the “higher up” white sky and becomes the water carpet. Trees keep on swinging in the air when the water flows out of the vertical wall and starts bobbing on a horizontal plane under their feet. They altogether look like a moving picture without any sound. As if it wants so much to scream out or in fact it is screaming so loud inside. I keep on wondering what it may talk to me…
It is natural that sometimes there is a “green space” in the heart of a busy city, like a blank in your mind to relax from all the thinking and feeling.

Nguyen Thi Thuy Trang

Chek Jawa

I got a chance to explore Chek Jawa and I was enchanted by nature at its purest that one can see and feel in urbanized Singapore. The greenery is unlike the artificial greenery seen in mainland Singapore. The existence of many marine floras and faunas, which most of us will not have a chance to see first hand, probes people to listen and learn from the guide.
I felt at peace with the breath-taking scenery. The amelioration of stress and weariness upon seeing nature and being in nature makes this a wonderful place to be in. However, there are plans to reclaim the land and all this wonderful nature is poised to be removed in 2012. Catch it before it is gone!

Chan Chee Hong