Singapore residential development gets top architecture gong
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The creative minds behind The Interlace, architect Buro Ole Scheeren from Germany and Netherlands-based OMA, opted for a medium-density design that features apartment “towers” that are only six storeys high — small fry for Singapore where sky-high living has become the norm.
The Interlace has got the top gong at the architecture “Oscars”. Picture: Picture: Iwan BaanSource:Supplied
The creative minds behind The Interlace, architect Buro Ole Scheeren from Germany and Netherlands-based OMA, opted for a medium-density design that features apartment “towers” that are only six storeys high — small fry for Singapore where sky-high living has become the norm.
The Interlace covers 170,000sq m and includes 1040 apartments. Picture: Iwan BaanSource:Supplied
What makes the complex much more complex is how the apartment blocks are perched together in groups of four. And there’s a whopping 1040 apartments in it.
Placed together in a unique formation, the residential blocks create a hexagonal shape which makes room for eight communal courtyards on the site.
Described by Mr Scheeren as a “vertical village” the winning project also has a 50m pool on site, a clubhouse, reading rooms, gyms and games rooms and even a space for communal karaoke. For fitness junkies living on the densely populated island there is also a 1km running track.
The unique complex was designed as a village rather than just a building. Picture: Iwan BaanSource:Supplied
Described by Mr Scheeren as a “vertical village” the winning project also has a 50m pool on site, a clubhouse, reading rooms, gyms and games rooms and even a space for communal karaoke. For fitness junkies living on the densely populated island there is also a 1km running track.
Rather than sky-high towers, The Interlace is a cluster of 31 six-storey blocks. Picture: Iwan BaanSource:Supplied
Finished in 2013, The Interlace, which covers a huge 170,000sq m surface area, won favour with the panel of judges thanks to its “radical and alternative approach” to contemporary living.
“For fitness junkies living on the densely populated island there is also a 1km running track.”
The mixed-use structure is located within a green belt area of the city-state’s southern ridges.
Professor Sir Peter Cook, founder of architectural group Archigram, and one of the design event’s jurors, told CNN: “It’s very difficult, with so many beautiful, quite worthy projects.”
“I think you look for a power of impact. It’s something you know you’ll remember in two years’ time. It’s a game-changer.”
“So much of architecture is predictable, particularly housing. Another block, another block, another block. But this isn’t ‘ho-hum here we go again’,” he said.
And Australia also got a look in at the global event with a Sydney site earning a prestigious nod.
SJB Architects won the Mixed-Use Development Award for its Casba project in Danks St, Waterloo which includes 65 residential units and 3000sq m of retail space.
Retail and residential development Casba snagged the Mixed-Use Development Award.Source:Supplied
SJB Architects won the Mixed-Use Development Award for its Casba project in Danks St, Waterloo which includes 65 residential units and 3000sq m of retail space.
Casba also won the Urban Development Institute of Australia’s coveted NSW President’s Award this year.
Questions & Answers
Q.Which firm designed The Interlace?
Which firm designed The Interlace?
German architect Buro Ole Scheeren and Netherlands-based OMA were the creative minds behind The Interlace. They opted for a medium-density design featuring six-storey apartment blocks.
Q.What facilities are available at The Interlace complex?
What facilities are available at The Interlace complex?
The complex includes a 50m pool, a clubhouse, reading rooms, gyms, games rooms, communal karaoke space, and a 1km running track. It aims to provide amenities for residents on the densely populated island.
Q.What was the main reason The Interlace won its award?
What was the main reason The Interlace won its award?
The Interlace won favour for its 'radical and alternative approach' to contemporary living. Professor Sir Peter Cook described it as a 'game-changer' due to its unique design, contrasting with predictable housing.
Q.Did any Australian projects receive awards at the event?
Did any Australian projects receive awards at the event?
Yes, SJB Architects won the Mixed-Use Development Award for its Casba project in Danks St, Waterloo. This Australian site includes 65 residential units and 3000sq m of retail space.
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