Places in Singapore

2008-12-04T08:26:00.004+08:00

Raffles Hostel, NUS

Lye Yee Pei (Thierry)

2008-12-04T08:14:00.004+08:00

Parkway Parade.

The familiarity of this place.
A place to be spent with the family, shopping for clothes, purchasing groceries, having meals. Amidst the crowd.
A place to be with friends, for mindless dwellings after school. To escape the afternoon heat.
A place of rhythms, walking round and round, level by level.
I used to live very near Parkway, and needless to say, my family, friends and I do almost everything there. And even though my family has since moved away (7 years ago), we still visit this place regularly although there are alternative shopping centres nearer to where we live. We are simple too used to this vibrant place in the east of Singapore.

Wong Shu Ying, Winnie

2008-11-12T16:48:00.003+08:00

Owen Lam

2008-11-12T16:42:00.002+08:00

JUXTAPOSITION

Yeo Hwee Ming

2008-11-12T16:33:00.005+08:00

A Taste of Happiness

The Daily Scoop, simply well named. It is indeed a place meant to be visited every day. I can find none other place to add sweetness to a mundane, or perhaps even lousy, day. Located at Sunset Way, Clementi Arcade, the small but amazing ice-cream parlour serves a variety of traditional, local, interesting, outrageous, unique and liquored flavours.

With only an estimate of 40 square metres of space, of which only half or less is used by the customers, Daily Scoops can only house around 30 ice-cream lovers at its peak periods, usually on a weekend night. The petite cafe is well organised and has large windows, letting in maximum daylight to ensure its spaciousness and reduce the feeling of enclosure. The interior is mostly furnished white to keep the place fresh and bright. The colourful collage on the left wall adds to the liveliness of the cafe and the strategic colour play of thick orange and red paint which accompanies its signature name helped boost the appetite of the patrons.

The fact that the Cafe is small and simple without any fanciful interior design; it instills a light hearted feeling and allows people to savour the ice-cream without distractions. The Daily Scoop is one of my favourite place, and definitely my favourite ice-cream parlour, because of its simple and lively interior space and more importantly, the superb and magical flavours which never fail to put a smile on my face even on the most exhaustive or moody days. I guess the goodness of a place is not always measured by how well designed or how much strategic thought is put in the organisation of space but also, what it has to offer to people using it. I always looked forward to my next visit every time I had to leave.

Alana Hong

2008-11-12T16:27:00.001+08:00

http://blog.nus.edu.sg/peixia/silence-kills/

Tan Phae Sia

2008-10-29T23:39:00.002+08:00

Leaf Architecture (London)
Posted by rivy at 10/21/2008 12:46 PM CDT
(Architectural Record website @ http://archrecord.construction.com)

An alternative perspective on place - put here to contrast against the climate of Singapore.

For those of you who made it outside on Sunday in the Northeast, you were treated to fall at its most glorious. The leaves were changing; the sky was brilliant and blue; the air was apple-crisp. Car by car, families and singles and pairs and groups of friends lumbered out of the city, hoping for a taste. Some of you found the secret: to walk into a natural, covered space, surrounded by a leaf canopy. No sound. No formal structure. But the leaves, and the trees, and the rocks, and the hillside speak in such a natural room, shifting slightly in the breeze in a constant fluid music that evades any acoustic sense.

The arc of leaves above forms a space as discretely as any human structure, with a top and bottom, though few sides. Moving, changing, shifting in the light from darkness to translucence, creating layers upon layers of pixilated color and pointed form, occasionally opening up to the blue and yellow above.

Color saturates the air, from the cool blaze of sunlit shafts piercing through the yellow canopy and splayed against a tree trunk to the green leaves caught in the act of turning scarlet on a single maple, which somehow, small though it might be and slender, sends two artfully curved branches up in an arc that then droop downward like feathers.

The rocks, split and splayed and dusty gray, lichen-covered and witnesses of force, sit silently beneath—an underpinning for the teeming richness above. No words said; no words necessary—no search for greater meaning. Just a time for architects, for anyone, to stop talking and soak it in.

2008-10-13T12:16:00.001+08:00

Living Waters @ ACSI

Being a member of Living Waters Methodist Church (LWMC) and worshipping in the church since I was 13, I felt that LWMC would be the place and space I wanted to write about.

LWMC is situated at 121 Dover Road, and it was the space where I would go to every Sunday to worship. Together with a congregation of about 200 people, we form a close knit community with each other, having activities such as family camps, community services and celebrations. It was not only a place where I worship, but also a place where I grew and mature in my teenage years.

But it’s not only about the community, friends and family and activities that happened that give a sense of nostalgia. As an architecture and design student, I also believe that the architecture and design of the space plays an important role in giving the sense of atmosphere, feelings and sense of attachment to the place. For LWMC, it is no different.

LWMC started out in Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) in the Centre for Performing Arts in 1999. In 2005 its interiors and outer walls was refurnished and transformed into a church and sanctuary. I guess because of this, the congregation had a space to call their own, and people could see the difference from then and now, and appreciate its beauty.

When you walk along the outer walls of the church to walk into the main entrance, you first notice the facade of polished wood. Clean and smooth, it gives this sense of earthly feel to the viewer. There are three thin columns of window, side by side, for the viewer to look inside its interiors and the activities happening inside. And then you open the doors and you see the sea of red. The cushioned seats are of a bright crimson red, which stands out from the light brown of the wooden facade.

And then you walk along the centre aisle and right in front of you is the cross, high and large, almost as if touching and ceiling. Lights shine out from behind the cross and you see the lines and edges, light and shadow at play to create the shape of the cross.

As you walk more into the front, you realise there is a balcony overlooking the front. As mentioned earlier, the church was a former performing arts centre, and interestingly, you can see the shape of a theatre, but the front is not the stage but an elevated platform and the cross. It is a hybrid mix and these layers can be seen.

Sometimes I feel the whole architecture was made this way to show that ‘blood’ was spilling out from the cross, filling it with a sea of red. And the shape of the theatre was still there to show that we, like an audience watching a show, are witnesses to the message of Jesus Christ.

I believe that its people will remember this space even if they leave this place.

Leong Hui Han Dominic

2008-10-13T12:09:00.003+08:00

Club CSC @ Bukit Batok

Luxurious heartland getaway.

Hidden amidst lush greenery.

Tranquil and refreshing.

Absolutely stunning.

Nur Syafiqah Nahadi

2008-10-13T12:00:00.000+08:00

Dempsey Road

Teo Qiao Lin

2008-10-13T11:56:00.001+08:00

Chek Jawa

Loh Zixu

2008-10-13T11:38:00.000+08:00

The Singapore Quarry – A Secluded Nature

The Singapore Quarry ceased its quarrying operations in the early 1970s and was left abondoned since then. Part of the quarry face can be spotted from the Rail Mall commercial and residential area, and along the Upper Bukit Timah Road that heads towards the City direction.

Unlike the Hindhege Quarry located at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve that has proper built-up facilities cater for the public uses, the Singapore Quarry is still preserved as its original nature.
One has to explore the area and follow the natural pathway that leads to the quarry. At certain point, one may feel lost in transition and have to find the correct route to the quarry.

The natural site of the Singapore Quarry is a perfect getway that separates itself from the daily busy city life. The Malayan railway track acts as a buffer between the isolated quarry site and the bustle of Upper Bukit Timah Road with residential housings located beyond.

Standing in front of the quarry, one is overwhelmed by the extreme quietness and peaceful ambience. One can appreciate the sound of nature. One can feel the calmness of the nature. One can feel that time seems to stop at that particular moment.

Tan Tiang Soon

2008-10-13T11:27:00.000+08:00

Bukit Merah Childhood

Bukit Merah was where I spent most of my childhood before moving to my present place. The Town Central was located just a minute’s walk away from my place and had many facilities such as a bus terminal, supermarket, hawker centre, polyclinic, bank, post office and library. Not only was it accessible in terms of public transport, but also the proximity of the facilities made it possible to run many errands within a short time.

I remember the times spent walking within the Town Central, having a meal, accompanying my mother to the bank, buying groceries, posting letters and even going to the doctor’s when I felt unwell. However, one activity that I particularly enjoyed was going to the library, borrowing books and watching librarians stamp the multiple borrow slips and scanning the library cards. The library has undergone a renovation since then and some parts of it have changed but visiting it always brings back fond memories.

On a macro scale, the Town Central was planned as a courtyard-like setting, with 4-storey rows of buildings enclosing the space, thus providing an intimate feel. Where the human traffic is most on the first storey, there is no blockage, especially the hawker centre, which allows a constant breeze as well as sufficient light to enter. Along the wide open passageways, trees were planted intermittently which provide shade without cluttering the pathways. This probably accounts for the relatively cool temperature and breeze as well as the visual treats of the landscaping.

Even up till today, my family and I would still visit the place since it is so accessible, and the comfort of walking around while running our errands makes it a pleasure to do so.

Yeo Kee Aik Shaun

2008-10-13T11:22:00.001+08:00

When the Merlion rests…

It is a Tuesday. It is 1am. The usual crowd of tourists seen in the day and evening hanging around the bridge has dispersed. There are only a few couples scattered around on the steps doing their own things. I am sitting at the steps facing the sea. On my left is Singapore‘s own pride and joy: the Esplanade and the brightly lit Singapore Flyer. In front of me across the sea are the national birds of Singapore, “Cranes”. It kills the view ahead. The land breeze is strong yet comfortable. The air temperature is cool and the wind is warm. That makes my spot here rather ideal for relaxing after a full day work. The noise level has dropped to the minimum. The Merlion has stopped sprouting water so just the light waves slapping against the steps. The usually busiest part of Singapore in the daytime has now been reduced to a state of serenity which would be quickly broken once the sun rises, marking the start of another brand new day.

Neo Wen Hao

2008-10-13T11:18:00.001+08:00

Shaw Towers

2008-10-13T11:06:00.003+08:00

Playground

Joleen Woon

2008-10-13T10:21:00.000+08:00

Cheng Meng

Tan Shujun

2008-10-13T10:15:00.002+08:00

Ann Siang Hill

Ann Siang Hill Park. A space for enjoying solitude, time seems to slow down when I visit this place. Located in the heart of the city, this park nevertheless maintains a tranquil air. When coupled with the quaint shops located nearby this area affords the passer-by a moments respite from their hectic lifestyle.

Quek Li-En

2008-09-06T21:37:00.004+08:00

Journey

"A journey of a thousand miles must
begin with a single step.”
- Lao Tzu

I cannot change the direction of the wind,
but
I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.

WAITING

We wait
because
Somewhere,
something incredible
is waiting to be known.

We wait,
for the start of the journey
alone,
but
not lonely.

We wait,
for the unknown destination
marvelously,
but
never afraid.

Xing Ying

2008-09-06T21:26:00.003+08:00

Changi International Airport, Terminal 2 Viewing Gallery

The viewing gallery has changed.

Midnight, I would eat ice cream (double, chocolate chip). Freezing-cold, dead-quiet. Soft music emanates from a hidden alcove as planes roar silently into the night sky, leaving us with a gentle earth-shaking. The gallery is empty, dark, like glowingly with orange from the runway. Couples sit silently in communion with the ephemeral spirit of arrival-departure. The windows shake a little.

Is this the same place? It reflects how time has changed. I see planes, giant behemoths, though double glass, a consequence of terrorists.

But still, families still come late at night, hands filled with ice cream. Children still watch with delight and wonder as giants leave the earth for the sky.

It is still quiet.

It still has the tingle of, a new feeling,

change-arrival-leave!-holiday-fly-flyhigh-stomach-dropping sympathy-wonder-delight-night-goodbyegoodbyegoodbye.

Cheong Yong Hui Grace

2008-09-06T21:23:00.000+08:00

My Dwelling

Tan Chieng Siew

2008-09-06T21:17:00.002+08:00

Smith Street at Chinatown

Walking on the Smith street in the five foot way of the colourful shophouses, one can smell the aroma of food from the intimate eateries, see groups of men socialising under the low pavilions and hear constant yelling from the stall vendors, all happening at the same time. Unlike being in the built up areas such as shopping malls, the atmosphere at night is also noisy but it is at the same time enjoyable to be in. This is partly due to the engaging of activities with the shop vendors where everyone bargains for cheaper goods.

The streets are very vibrant and full of activities that one could walk over and over again without feeling tired. The open air eateries adds on to the charm of Chinatown, not the usual air conditioned space but it is filled with the aroma coming from the food and the noise made by the bypassing vehicles which gave a very out to nature feeling where one can seldom find in the high end restaurants. The brightly lit streets filled with colourful light fittings and signboards enhance the intimacy of the streets which in turn give a warm feeling.

The night market in Smith Street give me a sense of belonging where it cannot be found in another place which gave an identity to the place itself.

Wendy Ang Wen Ling

2008-09-06T21:07:00.000+08:00

Rooftop at VivoCity

Vivo city was chosen by me because it is one place I often visit during my leisure time. As vivo city is not very far from the place I stayed, it is convenient to travel there and have some entertainments, such as watching movies, shopping or starving for delicious food there. However, the roof top garden is the most suitable place for relaxation and rest, especially in the cloudy days which the weather is not that hot to walk around the area. I would not say that the roof top garden is a sustainable design, but it is surely a good place for people to take a break from their heavy work and enjoy the greenery and sea view. Walking around the space, get in touched with the water pond nearby or sit down and feel the breeze that comes from the sea side. I would say that majority of people would love the kind of feeling on the roof top garden as it is very comfortable and tranquil. At least I do love the feeling there.

Furthermore, the roof top garden is a fantastic place for kids or youths to play with. As there is not many activities for young people nowadays to play with, the roof top garden provide an area for them to have fun and play together. There is kid playing ground somewhere in the middle. There is shallow water pond for them to splash over one another. The space is such a wonderful place for all ages of people to enjoy it.

Hu Linyuan

2008-09-06T17:41:00.001+08:00

Giant @ Vivocity

2008-09-06T17:29:00.005+08:00

Lor 27 Geylang Road

Place of Reminiscence:
The backlane behind the shophouses along Lor 27 Geylang Road is where I used to spend most of my childhood in as I stayed in one of the shophouse apartment, and studied in Geylang Methodist Primary School which was located nearby.

This particular backlane is always bustling with activities, be it the morning crowd from the little market stall at the edge of the backlane workers handling the ingredients at the back of the shop, shopkeepers hiding behind to enjoy a little time-out or lunch, or simply the passer-by who uses the backlane to go from one point to the other; not to mention the services that is installed behind. It used to be much cooler in the day and the backlane acting as a shady and chill alternative for the pedestrians but with the installation of all the services and machinery, the heat is seemingly unbearable these days.

There used to be a lot of stray cats at the backlane and there would be a nice petite lady who feed them during dinner. Thus I'll play with the cats whenever I'm on the way home from school and I'll then take a detour towards the backlane or whenever I feel like it.

I'm no longer staying around this area but this area is definitely the best growing-up memories I had of authentic Singapore and where I had experienced the lifestyle of a bona fide Singaporean then.

Tan Lee Hua

2008-09-06T17:06:00.003+08:00

Tai Wah Chok Kee Coffee Shop

Built in the early 1970s by the Housing Development Board (HDB), the area was the beginnings of present day Hougang Estate. With industries located nearby, Tai Wah Coffee Shop set its roots here in 1975 and enjoyed brisk business from residents and workers alike. Since then, it has gone on to prosper in present day, boasting a colourful history of 33 years. I grew up with the business and saw its daily changes from the frequent customers who come early in the morning to have their fix of freshly brewed coffee, lazy afternoons spent in the shade and noisy evenings when beer drinkers and families gather to end the day over a meal. What is found here is unique to old housing estates, where close relationships have been formed and nurtured over the years over countless cups of coffee and tea. It is here with memories that I hold.

Lim Zhan Quan Andrew

2008-09-06T16:44:00.002+08:00

The Sculptures of Biopolis

Art meets Science:
For the horticulturist, a sculpture shelter inspired by the leaf of the Weeping Fig;
For the acoustics, a sound amplifier;
For the geneticist, a tertiary protein structure;
For the botanist, a dandelion clock ready to take flight.

Last Saturday, as part of Architour training, I had the opportunity to explore Bio-polis, a cluster of buildings dedicated to the sciences. Upon entry, we experienced the undulating terrain designed by Zaha Hadid, heard the sound of water flowing upstream in the park and admired the irregular buildings forms. But what really strikes me was the effort put in fusing art with science in the compound. As seen in the picture, the sculptures are all related to science. While they seem quite literal, the rarity of such sculptures in Singapore makes this place a must visit for sculpture lovers.

Tan Yuk Hong Ian

2008-09-06T16:38:00.001+08:00

Singapore Polytechnic Food Court 1

The food court nearest to the studios in my old school, Singapore Polytechnic holds lots of fond memories for me. It was where all of us, architectural slaves, gathered to lament about unsolved design issues, engage in intellectual architecture conversation, mindless gossips or plain good old chit chatting to get away from projects for a few minutes. The food court is spacious with an open plan, completely open on all 4 sides with no internal obstructions and thus allowing prevailing winds to ventilate the space. The mechanical fans on the ceiling also help in promoting wind flow.

Apart from being naturally lighted by the 4 sides, the top façade and the roof have wide glass panels to ensure sufficient day lighting. It was never a problem to find seats, to encounter congested queue lines or to have difficulty getting through to your tables, even during lunch hours, thanks to the generous spatial planning. In my second year of study in SP, new benches were installed outside in the food court on timber decking, complementing the existing trees and shrubs, which also help to shade the area, providing a cool and relaxing outdoor place for meals and conversations. The design strategies, simple yet effective, have indeed created a gathering place worthy of praises. Every visit has brought it closer to my heart and I will, as clichéd as it may sound, remember every piece of memory collected there.

Lim Wei Ling

2008-09-06T16:34:00.002+08:00

Reminiscence: Queenstown Cinema

Like a cinematic view, the Queenstown Cinema came into view from a distance. Cladded in a patina of rust and mold, it fondly reminded me of the times when I was just a 4 yr old kid, begging my parents to buy that 5 dollars ticket to watch a movie, even though I have no idea what it was. I remembered that movie posters weren’t printed, but painted by an artist. I remembered that eerie cinema toilet which I was so scared to go in alone.

Around the corner emerges the abandoned KFC. Images of my 7th birthday celebration with my now deceased grandparents flickered on my mind. I remembered the times I wanted to sit at the window, watching the public play bowling, even though I have no idea how the game was played. I remember waving at strangers whom I never knew.

Moving on to the ticketing counter, I remembered the time when my mother scolded me in public for the first time. I stood at the exact spot I was back then, and remembered how massive my mother looked. I remembered my tears, my sobs, under the scrutiny of the public. How embarrassing it was back then!

Now as I think back, these memories, happy and sad, ugly and beautiful, a sense of nostalgia warmed my heart.

The building will soon be demolished to make way for new development. People will see a new sleek and stylish building in its place. I might not remember the movies that I watched there, but memories of that old, rusted and dilapidated cinema will always remain in my mind.

All buildings grow old. Some might fade away. But memories of times spent at the building will never diminish. A building might be gone physically, but it continues to live forever in the memory of one.

Tan Soon Lee Alex

2008-09-06T16:25:00.003+08:00

Kampong Lorong Buangkok

A place I discovered accidentally, not at the place itself, but through one out of millions of photos in the internet. It surprised me of its village scene in the context of Singapore as a crowded and developed island. A place looks so familiar to what I used to live in my hometown in Malaysia; I could not believe that the pre-urbanized look of Singapore still exists in the middle of the high rise residential and commercial area in Buangkok, Singapore.

First time exploring this place, I entered the village from the back, through thick, secluded woods and serene footpath surrounded by dense vegetations, not knowing where it is and how could I get to the location. Across a wooden bridge, it seems as if one has left the modern city core and entered an expected village in some undeveloped places but definitely not in Singapore.
The smell of the earth, sounds of the birds, crickets, droppings of chickens, together with the presence of the howling voice of the wind and rain upon my arrival, add on to the feeling of being away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and the hectic pace of life in Singapore. A single soul is hardly seen here, but there is always a feeling that there are people around you, perhaps being conscious that the place is surrounded by high density neighbourhood. Yet, it evokes some kind of nostalgic feelings in me; it just reminds me of my childhood days in my hometown miles and miles away from Singapore, yet still visible here.

Kampong Lorong Buangkok, a secluded village from the context of the civilized Singapore, yet still survives in the city itself. One could find the old Singapore here, and perhaps, it also reflects the old root of Singapore, which is before all the transformation and modernization took place on this island a few decades back in time.

Lim Chu Hwai

2006-11-15T08:34:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-06T08:35:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-05T19:40:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T17:15:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T17:03:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T16:43:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T16:40:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T16:28:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T16:25:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T16:18:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T16:11:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T16:07:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T15:53:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T15:48:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T15:43:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T15:33:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T15:28:00.000+08:00

Food for the Heart

2006-11-04T15:22:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T15:15:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T15:09:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T15:00:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T14:52:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-04T14:49:00.000+08:00

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.

2006-11-04T14:44:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-03T09:06:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-03T08:57:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-03T08:11:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-02T09:09:00.000+08:00

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

2006-11-02T08:09:00.000+08:00

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

2006-10-31T09:02:00.000+08:00

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

2006-10-30T09:10:00.000+08:00

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

2006-10-28T14:53:00.000+08:00

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

2006-10-28T14:46:00.000+08:00

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

2006-10-27T08:43:00.000+08:00

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

2006-10-27T07:50:00.000+08:00

. . . blank . . .

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

2006-10-26T08:00:00.000+08:00

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

2006-10-26T00:08:00.000+08:00

The spirit of the campus.

This is my room in Prince George’s Park (PGP). I have been thinking about what is the place I want to be in the most, the place I feel most comfortable in. And after thinking about it for a long time, I still come to the conclusion that it is my room, a piece of this world where you can, at least temporarily, be lost in yourself. I cannot think of a place I love to be in more. The atmosphere is brilliant. Even though the room is small, the windows which stretch the whole height of the walls allow daylight in wonderfully, making the small room comfortably lit and welcoming to be in. This really brings home to me the importance of providing adequate daylight for comfort in a space. I think it’s important to live close to the school, which is why I absolutely have to stay on campus. I think that positive energy dissipates the further you go away from the school, just like how the vibrant energy dwindles as you move further away from the city. I think this has very important implications, if my opinion about this is right. The whole structure of our country should change. The new towns are doing nothing,
they are just satellite communities of living quarters that will never amount to anything in terms of contributing to the creative energy of our nation. In this age and time when the government is putting so much energy into promoting the arts and making our city a vibrant, ‘renaissance’ one, it should consider how to link the various new towns to the city, spiritually, architecturally. It’s no use to plonk new settlements everywhere on new areas on the map, when they’re so removed and alienated from the energy of the city. I feel nothing when I’m in the so called heartlands. I feel lethargic. I feel meaningless.
In school, I feel the vibrancy, the force which pushes me to move on, to study, to work. The whole atmosphere tells me this is the place I should be in, at this moment in time. When I look out of my window at night, 2, 3, 4am, all I see are lights. In school, no one sleeps at night. Students never sleep at night. This is the spirit of the school, just like the spirit of the city that never sleeps.

Ho See Jia

2006-10-24T19:44:00.000+08:00

Pearlbank Apartment
A spectacular Residential Complex since 1970s

I have noticed this unique skyscraper (although it was heavily criticised for being an eyesore sometimes ago) when I was taking SBS bus 33 passing-by Chinatown area 4 years ago when I was just came over to Singapore for my tertiary education. The slender and curve look of the building which sit on top of Pearl Hill gave me the mysterious feeling when I viewed it from the street level. Pearbank private apartment which was completed its construction in 1976, is designed by Tan Cheng Siong of Archurban Architects and Planners. At the time of its completion, being Singapore’s tallest and most dense residential complex, it was hailed as a feat of design and construction. In 2001, the Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA) recognized the design merits of the building, and declared it a "Singapore Housing Icon".
I have never expect that there was a chance for me to get into this significant building (strict security nowadays) until I was designated with the task to help my attached company to do the Baseline Calculation of the whole building in August last year. I visited the building for 3 times, analysed the apartment from the basement carpark to the penthouses which spread from level 36 to 38. I went into the 4 different types of units in this apartment, with photo and on-site measurement; I fully understand the combination of the individual cubes that juxtaposed and interlocking one another. A circle of shops and management and security offices filled the ground level. One particular provision shop’s décor (or lack thereof) will surely bring you back down memory lane to the 1970s.

The building looks very linear and defined from the exterior view, but the internal space is so complicated that I need to spend days to fully understand the flow of levels within the building before I actually get down to the site. All the units in the building are multi split level (like a maze I feel) offering unique generous spaces in a splayed trapezoid shape. The suspended staircase from every units not only act as a 2nd escape either from upper or lower level of the unit, but also act as a feature that contributes to the façade design of Pearlbank. I doubt the external staircase is up to current BCA rules and regulation. I feel so nervous when I walked on the suspended staircase. I was very concentrating on my every single step (about 200mm for the tread where current regulation is min 225mm) when I used that to go down to the lower level or else it might trap and fall......(not the lower floor, but ground floor….imagine walking down the suspended staircase from 25th to 24th story, quite scary!!)

Looking back again the Peralbank Apartment today, although those paint on its walls area really showing its age, I still feel it stands majestically!!!

Tan Kok Ming

2006-10-24T19:34:00.000+08:00

Six degrees of separation

Six degrees of separation
An urban jungle: sights and sounds

The traffic roars pass
She smiles obligingly offering her service
He walks pass, looking doubtfully at a map.
She steps under the shade and sat with a cup of tea
She flipped the page as she seeped her mocha
The “Alice in Wonderland” sculpture stands beside us.
She has a big bump, no wait, she’s pregnant
They stopped and looked at Alice
He bent over with his phone at his ear
Those little blue eyes talking to you, as he gets pushed away.
The wind blows and she brushes her hair across her face
She smiles, he waves, they finally met
They rushed across as the numbers starts to count down
The plasma screen in constant movement just like anyone else
He pulls his shirt, its getting hot.
Two dogs, one in a red slash other in blue.
She plays with her earrings as if in thought
He stares at the giant block that covers the sky as he runs through the morning news
She has her last taste of tea and walked away as her once clean napkin falls to the ground.

Li Ka Yui(Jiayi)

2006-10-23T10:57:00.000+08:00

Seletar Airport

I got woken up one morning by my mum to accompany her to fetch my daddy to work. I got lured out of bed by the enticing prata at Jalan Kayu. But what greeted me was the long roads leading into Seletar Airport, making me forget about the prata. The long road leading into the airport almost seems to bring you away from the city life of Singapore into a little village in the countryside. A place with quaint street names as though it were in a storybook - Edgware Road, Mornington Street, The Oval, Haymarket Road etc. and an old fashioned letter box. Everything seems so serene and time seems to pass slower there. Residents cycle freely along the long roads around the estate and dogs prancing on the patches of green. Houses that once belonged to the British army have a charm of its own now. Drive on further and you will reach the runway of the airport where airplanes still do take off. There are also restaurants situated inside the airport, providing one a place to sit, eat and enjoy the beauty of the place. The stillness and charm of this place really captivated me and I do wish that one day I can wake up to a place like this.

Benita Tan

2006-10-23T10:53:00.000+08:00

The Bottle Tree Village at Sembawang

The Bottle Tree Village occupies the former Sembawang Sea Sports club, now renovated to fit a seafood restaurant, a small shop that sell small trinkets and such and a playground for kids. It sits far removed from the hectic city life, on the far northern tip of Singapore near Sembawang Park. Even the trip to get there is an ordeal in itself. A narrow gravel lined road through thick foliage, unlit by street lights or guided by reflectors, invites you into the ethereal darkness. And then in the distance you see a tiny light bobbing in the darkness, the torchlight of an old uncle that guides you to your parking space. Then, a sudden explosion of light, as you round the corner and the building reveals itself, bringing you back into a familiar civilization. The seafood restaurant was purportedly quite good so I gave it a shot. The ambience of eating outdoors was wonderful, under the night sky next to the seaside, the far-away lights of Johor across the sea. Never mind that I couldn’t see what was on my plate, the remoteness, the obscurity of place, it all sums up for the ultimate escape from the familiarity that is the city.

Thomas Wong

2006-10-23T10:41:00.000+08:00

National Library Building (Central Lending Library at Basement 1)

This place is a sanctuary for me to just leave my worries behind and be lost in the books (mostly comics and novels). I find this place special because once I enter the space, I can feel my burden from the outside world being lifted and all that I am left with are my pure self and my ability to imagine and dwell in the books. Why is this so? I think that when the entire space is at the basement, my visual connection to the outside world, the streets, the cars, the buildings and the noises etc is blocked and all that I could see are the books, the two outdoor gardens and my fellow readers. I particularly like to position myself beside or even lean against one of the glass panels when I am reading, it gives me a special sense of being in that place while my thoughts flee from that area to a wider surrounding through the glass. When I am in this place, I feel protected, secure and I could think of anything without being interrupted, unless, when the library is about to close and I need to decide which book I should borrow.

Leong Mun Chun

2006-10-20T08:29:00.000+08:00

Staff Canteen at Changi Airport Terminal 2

Burger King, Coffee Bean, Starbucks, MacDonald’s, T2 Staff Canteen- what do these places have in common? Students of course! Besides chilling out with friends, there is also the “Mugging” Season. “Mugging” Season (September-December) is defined as the critical time period before the O and A levels. Signs that the season has arrived are sightings of teenagers in uniform glued to their seats from day to night, noses stuck in notes/calculations, often with a cup of drink beside them which they sip throughout the whole day. I was one of them. Take a look at my successors!
Naturally, serious “muggers”, like me, will settle for a most conducive space. You do not need to be an architect to know a good space from a bad one. The back of the staff canteen in Changi Airport T2 is secluded, quiet, cooling, and the lighting is perfect for lingering at the spot for long hours. Though the area is just beside a wall of glass, a combination of appropriate horizontal shading device, plant shading, protective film, natural with artificial lighting and suitable air-conditioning created a space that allows the people in it to feel pleasantly comfortable. Let us see what exactly is going on outside.
There are no fanciful designs, no historical layerings, nothing special, just an incidental (or not?) space created with all the right conditions. Even if one was not studying (which by the way has already been banned), one can just sit there alone, and contemplate nothing and everything at the same time away.

Christina Seet Hee Ling

2006-10-12T22:44:00.000+08:00

Bugis Street

Bugis, this is a place of youth, energy and density. Parco shopping zone, Bugis junction and Bugis street form a very unique shopping landscape of the city. I like the idea of introducing a street into the shopping complex like Bugis Parco, of course Bugis junction is also a lovely place, but of all these, I like Bugis Street most.
The intensity of shops in Bugis street form a shopping environment connected, intersected or crisscrossed by small streets. There are new shops coming out every month and you can see renovating works frequently. The wire mashes holding different kinds of sales products make the shops almost translucent. You can see shops behind and just walk through one shop to reach another shop. The atrium create a large void above all the small shops, it helps to ventilate the overall congested shops.
I guess the most attracting point of this place is its intimacy to the people, small scale of the shops with raw and random set up of shop interiors. You may find cheap stuffs and interesting small items in a secret corner. You can also see nail beauty shops with long bench semi-exposed to the ‘streets’. I see people with different expressions on their face, very diversified. It is not a “formal” shopping centre, it is free to express. I can even hear young lady singing the latest song while shopping for cute skirts. If you walk in Paragon, this intimacy will be lost in the large volume of space and clean cut of the shop fronts.
The space is lightened up by the shops while the ‘streets’ are dimmed by the crowd. There is no big brand or high-end shops, it is all about discovery. A good counter proposal to the Parco streets, isn’t it?

Wang Kai

2006-10-09T22:18:00.000+08:00

'twixt Kampung Glam and Bugis

Scents waft, senses draft
Merges with a cosy site
To flavourful delight

A veil of tranquility struck me as I detached myself from all the hustle and bustle, nesting myself into this neat little street tucked right in the middle of Kampung Glam and Bugis area. For all the modern skyscrapers and confused monstrosities which Singapore has in excess, I find Haji Lane a gem of a find. It has a really intimate gesture about it - a long narrow lane where people and vehicles jostle and brush to get across; a pattern of facades from different origins weaved into an intricate fabric of history; peeling layers of paint seen at face level divulging secrets from a less prosperous era.
I also like how this slice of the past is not being disregarded, but allowed to breathe new air as a vibrant culture of the place has emerged; where high-fashion guerilla streetwear meets Arab tailors meets 2nd hand Japanese denims, where young couples browse through designer furniture, where groups of friends chill out amidst hypnotic Turkish beats with sheeshas emanating fruity odours into the air.
With such surprising colour and verve from this quaint little street, I would urge you to take a walk off the beaten path and explore this place of understated beauty and charm called Haji Lane.

Tan Hong Guan

2006-10-09T21:45:00.000+08:00

LaSalle-SIA College of the Arts studio

I could never really understand what is life and what it entails but I do know I love Architecture.
My life really began when I rebelled against my parents and decided to pursue a route less taken. When I was removed from Singapore Polytechnic, I enrolled myself in LaSalle-SIA College of the Arts and so I choose and started my education as an Architect more or less.
The interior space is that of my first studio in LaSalle. It was converted from an old school building. It shows my studio mates trying to piece our individual projects together before submission. You probably cannot see it but it was quite frantic. The interior was white washed almost clinical and the floor concrete screed. It felt really cool coz you feel a certain sense of history. The stories as to what this room experienced when you look at the marks on the floor and the drawings or materials on the wall that the white paint could not really cover.
This room meant a lot to me, it was the place when I first experienced the joy and pains of being an Architecture student, the same room was also the “Killing Grounds” so to speak with all the critique sessions going on. It was also a pleasure room with unofficial majong sessions and the “drunken from Champagne” recovery room when we finish our “visits” at openings of art exhibitions at Earl Lu gallery which is just five minutes away. It was the place that I met good friends and lecturers and had a wonderful time. Thomas Kong, Peter Tay, Peter Chen, Jacinta Neoh, Faris, Mike, Hendra, Jamie, Rong Ren, Tern Yuan, Ben… you Guys ROCK!! It was a place where Architecture first seduced me and is leaving me stranded now.
Sadly, LaSalle is due to move to its new campus next year and the fate of this room and the present campus (Designed by William Lim) remains unknown but I am almost sure it will be town down. A building, a place, a space can never be detached from the memories and feelings of its users. And each place is unique according to one’s experiences. Perhaps that’s the invisible part of Architecture or least one aspect of it. It’s not just the physical and measurable. I can never recreate that place with its people ever again and why should I attempt to. It was for that moment and that moment only.
My favourite place does not exist anymore but I hope to visit my old studio again more or less.
Your life is but a Moment, Live this Moment-Unknown

Chua Co Seng

2006-10-05T06:06:00.000+08:00

Potong Pasir

Food attracts me to places. Here lies one of Singapore’s last stands of ‘old’ places, Potong Pasir (thanks to Mr. Chiam See Tong). Located amongst an area of private houses are these shophouse look-alikes. It occupies only a small area though. What is left are various shops like provision shops or small warehouses and of course a good number of coffeeshops and a hawker centre. Besides good food here like prawn mee, mince meat noodles and crabs (you got to try them though), I love this neighbourhood. Though I do not live there, I frequent the area…to eat, but it never fails to make me feel so at home. The uncluttered five foot way finally feels like a five foot way. Being the only pavement to walk around, I guess everyone loves the shade that it provides so do I and I simply appreciate it, yes appreciate. Though eating here is a tad hot but I just love the contrast of shade and the afternoon sun, I love the occasional breeze if fresh air, I love the smell of food the floats through the street, I love the sound of cooking and cars passing by. There are no squeaky white tiles, tables and chairs that make the food seem pale in comparison. No Bright white lights and no cool and comfortable enclosed spaces that takes away the smell and aroma of the food. I feel natural here. I guess that is my take on the “tropical feeling”. It reminds me of who I am and where am I, a form of identity, somewhere I truly belong.

Lloyd Ng

2006-10-05T05:59:00.000+08:00

Monorail Station @ Sentosa

Singapore is quite a small island. Sentosa is way, way smaller. And yet, there are always gems neatly tucked away in some corner, or just slightly off the beaten path. Recently, while on my way to visit Beaufort Hotel for a Southeast Asian History assignment, I spotted one such building – an abandoned monorail station.
The monorail system in Sentosa was opened in 1982 and subsequently ceased operations since 16 March 2005 to prepare for its successor, the Sentosa Express. Many old stations are undergoing renovations to be integrated into the new line, but some, like this particular one, were left out.
Its faded paint and discoloured walls stand out from the rest of the bright, clean facades on the island. The suburban feel is uncanny, like you've suddenly left the touristy island for Chinatown or the outskirts of Johore Bahru. Yet it is strangely peaceful. Memories of past journeys across Sentosa on the monorail, of the people around you at those times, and the slight tinge of regret at the termination of the monorail system.
I remember using the old monorail many times, but I don't ever remember using this particular station. Maybe it was its apparent lack of use that led to its abandonment; which unwittingly led to the creation of an architectural monument to our pragmatic and somewhat ruthless approach towards architecture, and with it, our history and heritage.

Jonathan Yue

2006-10-05T05:46:00.000+08:00

Giraffe Cafe

Either in the day or night, Giraffe dinning restaurant gives a various experiences. Giraffe consists of bar and dinning sections. The 2 storey restaurant is located in the middle of the Istana Park. The full height glass windows give all round views from the enclosed interior however enhancing the closeness with the exterior. The square gentle pitched roof constructed with strip of fixed glass, shelter and provides the dinning area with sufficient natural lighting. There are seats around the glass railings that people can enjoy the greenery and city movement.
If I need to choose between the day and night, I will prefer the nightlife in Giraffe. At night, Giraffe transforms into a musical modern world blends with the tropical garden. Although the park is not visible, I still can hear the buzzing sound from the park. The well-design lighting glow up the entire cozy surrounding. The pond which is located beside the outdoor bar creates a sense of lightness. Giraffe is an excellent place for relaxation and slow down the paces of your busy life.

Goh Chee Wee

2006-10-04T23:59:00.000+08:00

Fountain at Bugis Junction

Bugis Junction is a place popular with both teenagers and families on weekends. I used to work in this area and spent my break time wondering around between the two shopping centers. Most of the time, I would just sit near the fountain area during the last ten minutes of my lunch break because it’s got good shade and most of all, IT’S FREE!
I find this open space between Parco and Seiyu indeed a remarkable space.
The water fountain in the middle of the open space has become a landmark of Bugis Junction. It is the default meeting place for shoppers and movie-goers.
On weekends, one can easily find children with/without their swimwear on, playing at the water fountain and making friends with other children. Parents socialize while watching their kids play in the water. It’s almost like a playground within the HDB flats except there are no slides and swings whatsoever.
With shoppers rushing between the doors of the two buildings and the sales people returning from lunch at Liang Seah Street just across the road, I find it interesting how this space gathers the two groups of people. They share the same space. Yet in this space, there is no mind about who should be doing what. There is no need for the sales person to be at anyone’s service here. They are all spending their own time, enjoying this very space to themselves.
Also, it is an ideal place for youngsters to spot trends. With Bugis Village nearby, it is not difficult to find teenagers hanging around showing off their latest outfit they bought at a cheap and good deal! They have contributed a fresh energy to the scene of Bugis Junction with their gaudy and ever-changing fashion sense.
In all, this is a comfortable place for people-watching. Everyone sits around observing other people, waiting, waiting to be observed. I believe it is a memorable place for many. For some, they spent their time here passing time with their loved ones. For others, they spent time reflecting and thinking while waiting for their friends to arrive. For them, this amount of short time spent to themselves might just be the most meaningful time spent for the day.

Zheng Xin Jia

2006-10-04T23:52:00.000+08:00

Seats at Holland Village

Evening breezes slink down the quiet street, shrubs strung with fairy lights shuddering in their wake. Feel the cool touch of polished wood beneath my palms. Draw my legs up under me; nobody's watching.
Above, the night sky with its pin pricks of light; in the distance, the sounds of merry-making.
Savor the night, in company or solitude.
Bringing a meal out to eat under the open sky is my main memory of this place. The things I enjoy most about this little corner near Holland Village are factors that are present in many of my favorite places: a sense of peace, greenery, the proximity of good food and other essential amenities, and last but not least, a comfortable place to sit.
A place where one can be alone but not feel too lonely.
It is modest; just a few benches on a raised concrete pavement, protected from the elements by a retractable canopy, with only the creepers climbing alongside for ornament. But this is enough.

Li Miaoling

2006-10-04T23:35:00.000+08:00

The Esplanade

Esplanade, also known as ‘the Durian’- Theatres on the bay, that presents myriad of local and international performances, located at the waterfront overlooking Marina Bay where it attracts many locals and tourists. Of course, I am also one of them. It is my favorite hangout place during the weekends.
Like others, I sit along the waterfront enjoying the cool gashing wind with the panoramic view of the city skyline that resembles the prosperous Singapore that many people might not have notice. The Wind helps to cool the prickly gigantic durian and its surrounding. I also notice the front of the building facing the main road has water feature on both sides towards the entrance that I feel it somehow ties back to the same ‘language’ as the waterfront with a special feature lying underneath. Close up you will see Circular openings that serve as light box planted at designated locations to allow natural daylight through and into the carpark yet able to prevent heat transmission. Even though incorporating of daylighting will reduce the amount of energy needed for artificial lighting, but excessive of natural daylight will increase the consumption of energy in another way, which is the air-con. For this case, the building covered with spiky sun shading devices that allow for partial sun light along with views, which I think it is an interesting feature that draws my attention. Furthermore, the large volume of space at the entrance creates a grandness feeling when you enter. The overall building though appears like the durian however, comprises these interesting features that one will experience unknowingly. Like me.

Huang Caijin

2006-10-04T23:20:00.000+08:00

Entrance at ISEAS

The place I’ve chosen for my blog entry is the entrance at NUS Institute of Southeast Asian Study (I think it was designed by my AR1326-module tutor). I happened to find the building on an afternoon when it was quite hot outside. It was not a trip on purpose. The reason was that: I had never known how the Lee Kwan Yew School of Public Policy looked like, and I was trying to get there and have a look. However on my way there, my eyes were drawn towards the right side of the road, where stood a mysterious red tile-roofed building, hidden peacefully behind a row of coconut trees. I proceeded, and found the building’s name engraved very beautifully on two strips of wood: ISEAS - Institute of Southeast Asian Study. I was quite amazed by the opening entrance and decided to get in (forgetting my own purpose of visiting the Lee Kwan Yew School earlier on). As I passed through the long roofed-entrance, turning on the left, I found the scene that I have here in my picture. It was a really unexpected encounter, full of sensation and wonders. I couldn’t define my feeling at that very moment, although there were many words that I was able to use: warm, intimate, mesmerizing, mysterious etc.(?) But it was true that I really found myself rested by that space. I felt some breeze on my face. I heard the splashing on the water. I saw these koi fish freely swimming around, forgetting all about their outside world. I saw that palm tree casting shadows on the white wall. I saw reflection of the water… No doubt, it was a perfect scene for a hot and humid afternoon! I thought I had fallen in love with the space!
Then naturally, I wanted to proceed and sit down by the pond to watch the fish swimming as usual, but the cleverly designed wooden-floor prevented me from doing so. After a while, I found myself instead rested on the nice-looking chair already placed there, watching the shadows of the roof and the trees on the wall slowly fading out in the late afternoon. For a moment, the space reminded me of some garden in Mexico by one of my favorite architects – Louis Barragan, with the same mesmerizing shadow cast on a white wall, at the end of a long, long water feature. They must have given me the same precise feeling – this feeling, of calm and peace (although I had never been to Barragan’s garden in Mexico). Yes, “they must be the same”, I guess - a feeling that belongs to the tropical’s.
Lingering around the entrance for a while, regretting the peaceful feeling that the space had given me, I reluctantly enter further and explore the other parts of the building as I often do…
Lately that afternoon, the guard saw a young guy trying to climb out of the building from the rear door, hurrying towards the Lee Kwan Yew School of Public Policy, while the sun was going to set so quickly.
No one was left. The front entrance had long been closed for the day...

Tran Thanh Duong

2006-10-04T22:25:00.000+08:00

Gazebo - Bandstand
Singapore Botanical Gardens

This is a must visit place when I visit Singapore botanicals gardens. This is my favorite resting spot and picnic spot. This place use to be a bandstand for military band to perform but now it a pavilion for people to rest their legs. This place is surrounded with beautiful flowers and trees. In the bandstand you can see 3 heritage trees average heights of 40 meters. This place give me a peaceful, clam, cheerful feeling. The yellow flowers bring clarity and awareness to the surrounding. Yellow also exhumes a rather joyous and serene ambience. This is a place where most people start looking up at the bright yellow flowers on the trees and start to be aware of the surrounding. It's definitely a place for people to rest and enjoy serene of the
botanical gardens.

Tan Cheng Hiong Shaun

2006-09-27T08:40:00.000+08:00

Singapore Art Museum (SAM)

Zaha Hadid’s, Auguste Rodin’s, Botero’s,
Georgette Chen’s works above.

Singapore Art Museum. I have always loved the feeling of walking along the sunlight colonial-architecture corridors and envisaging myself in the footsteps of those lucky students back in those days. Having almost claimed the SAM as my second home when I was back in secondary school and Junior College doing museum guiding, researching, and exhibiting my artwork, I nevertheless would find excitement in each time I visit the place. As I entered what used to be classrooms I think, I always looked forward to satisfying my eyes with art paintings, installations, ideas, concepts. I could almost remember the placement of artworks, as they don't change the permanent collections often. Yet, the placements of changing exhibits every now and then, that laid placed conspicuously or humbly in every nook and cranny is an exploration that I look forward to each time. The interaction of the exhibition walls and spaces with the artworks, how huge works fit into small spaces, or how artists “intervened” in the spaces are questions that I ask. As Frank Lloyd Wright has it, “Space is the breath of art”.

The conservation of the place that led to the installation of glass panels allowing air-conditioning to control the humidity of air in order to prevent degradation of artworks is one that is commendable. For one, I am able to look out of the corridor into the spaces beyond SAM, the buildings surrounding it and the activities of people below. Also, the transparency enables me to see the continuity of artworks and individual exhibition area. The interchanging spaces provided by the courtyard and spiral stairs add to the beauty of each threshold of spaces. My only reservation is that I wished they were able to include natural lighting (diffused) in the galleries, although I know it’s a hard practice even in many of the prominent art museums.

Nevertheless, it is indeed a weekend escape for me! :)

Lee Hui Lian

2006-09-27T08:17:00.000+08:00

Colbar Eating House @ Whitchurch Road

Living in a city surrounded by major dining labels, it is refreshing to know places such as COLBAR still exist, and best of all, it is tucked away in a rather inconspicuous location, and so for people out there looking for a private dining experience, this is the place to be.
While I have only started patronizing COLBAR only recently, I must say each visit is always a pleasure as there is simply no fuss and pretense in its food and the surroundings. This 58 year old restaurant is non-air-conditioned and rustic and the entire structure was actually transplanted (after much debate) from its original site (which is five minutes away from its present location) as it was in the way of the highway construction, which makes me wonder about the fate of these historical structures in the nation’s progress towards a global city.
Moreover, COLBAR is a place for both adults and kids, and I just love the playground just beside the restaurant, where kids run around under the canopy of trees above, during a hot and sunny day. The feeling experienced at COLBAR is simply nostalgic and serene, and the idea of the bustling city is thrown way behind, just for a moment, I am at peace.

Paul Yeo

2006-09-26T08:41:00.000+08:00

Plaza at Plaza Singapura

The open plaza in front of the Plaza Singapura is an interesting space, whereby it acts a buffer zone, a transition space, and a meeting space.
Many people have visited Plaza Singapura (PS) quite often. However, I’m sure many would have walked pass the open plaza without paying much attention to what is being done there purposely, much less what are the results of it.
The trees help the surroundings in many ways; they block out some noise from the busy road, provides shades for the seats (as you can see, even in a hot afternoon, people stick around under the tress rather than in the open), the winds blowing through and under these trees will be much cooler. As described in one of the lecture (Wind), the cooled wind will be somewhat guided towards PS.
As seen in the picture, between the trees and PS, Starbucks Coffee and Café Cartel arranged their tables in the open plaza, making full use of the Natural ventilation.
At night, as seen in the pictures below, the place will be lit up interestingly from the ground level; from the soil to the trees, from the steps, and from under the seats. This ambience creates another whole new world at night.
This open plaza has become a recognizable space both in day and night. A beautiful transition space draws more people into PS, not forgetting a great meet-up space.
All these are happening, with the effects of the compositions of the trees, surroundings, spacing and landscaping.

Phyo Si Thu

2006-09-25T16:37:00.000+08:00

Prince George's Park

Prince George's Park Residences is so popular with NUS students. Each corner in PGP more or less have become a specific memorial place to a student who has ever lived there. The corridor leading from main foyer to the bus terminal, with me, is the remarkable one.
To PGP residents, this pathway is so familiar. They are rushing in the corridor to go to school on time, to go back their rooms after a hard working day, or just rushing for dining with their friends. Everybody must have been in the corridor at least a number of times, but they rarely realize it is more than a pathway.
The corridor is so meaningful with me not because of its architecture but its atmosphere. I can feel all of students’ activities after school just around this area. Coming back late after studio, contrasting to the quiet and warmly lighting corridor, I feel the light shining from a reading room where friends are still studying hard. I can listen to the sound of typing on computer and the music from other private rooms. Walking few steps further, I feel a little cool air escaping from the meeting room and even the heat and smell of cooking from the canteen nearby still remaining after closing. Walking through the corridor actually is a journey of experience. All of them are so friendly and familiar. Surely, after walking through the corridor and coming back my room, I myself experience this atmosphere again but with my own food, my own computer, my own music and my personal emotions.

Nguyen Hoang Duc Duy

2006-09-23T17:28:00.000+08:00

Rochester Park

I used to jog a lot in the past and jogging allows me to explore unnoticeable places by trying new path and route. My greatest discovery by far, Rochester Park, is located in a discreet spot covered up by lushly grown vegetation along North Buona Vista Road. Rochester Park is a chill-out place set in a rustic background with huge green canopies surrounding the site. The 1930s colonial style black and white residential houses have been refurbished into an alfresco space to relax. Views to surrounding tall buildings and noise from traffic were obstructed by the lush greenry that surrounds the site. It unconsciously helps to reduce the presence of an urbanise city. Cooling comfortable climate and quiet setting allows one to take a step back from everyday hardwork while enjoying a meal and have a peace of mind. From lush greenry and birds chirping to 1930s colonial style house, Rochester Park has created an nostalgic and relaxating ambience. With One-North developing at the moment and huge publicity of Rochester Park, it may soon turn out to be noisy and filled with people.

Foo Chuan Dian

2006-09-12T09:20:00.000+08:00

The Botanic Gardens

Everyday on my way to the University, I pass by the Botanic Gardens and I kept wondering what’s beneath that nice looking pitch roof with plants on top of it that was not there before when I was younger. So, I decided to spend my Sunday visiting back one of my favourite places in Singapore.
That Sunday, walking towards the Botanic Gardens, I kept pondering to myself, what could it be under it . . . a café or just simply a pavilion for visitors to rest. As I move towards the building, I was somewhat disappointed. It was a Visitor’s Centre filled with tourists. No place for me to spend my afternoon. Then I discovered beneath the Visitor’s Centre is a food court. Excited, I went there but to my dismay, it was air-conditioned. Not only that, the new shelter leading towards the Visitor’s Centre is made of glass supported by steel structure that made the place even warmer.
But I have to say that by introducing the greens above the roof of the Visitor’s Centre does help bring down the temperature within the building in comparison to the temperature around the new landscape.
As I move deeper into the garden, I sat under the tree and gazed upon the man-made lake and it gave me a sense of nostalgia. I also felt cooler sitting under the tree than sitting on the benches around the new landscape. But I believe the new landscape will be a nice place too when the new-planted trees have grown in the future. To me, the Botanic Gardens is like a sanctuary to get away from the hecticness of the city.

Harvey Lukman

2006-09-06T11:38:00.000+08:00

HDB apartment at Bain Street

My favourite place would be a HDB apartment in the city. One of the last surviving ones would be at Bain Street, otherwise known to many as the Bras Basah flats. Apart from having Art-Friend a lift ride away, the view on the top floor is fantastic. Where else can one admire the sunset like this? With the natural light mixing with the artificial from the surrounding buildings and traffic, no view from any hotel can match this. One is placed right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city and yet at above 13 storeys everything is calm with the cool breeze and traffic noise is soft (yes soft) and one can view the faint image the coast of our island and the sea beyond.

Jonathan Lin