BIOPHILIC COEXISTENCE IN THE GARDEN CITY by Nimesha Anarkalee

BIOPHILIC CO-EXSISTENCE IN THE GARDEN CITY bringing the outside in

Special thanks to : Nadia Wagner (Lecturer), Lee Seung-Ho (Lecturer), Jawn Lim (Lecturer), Mark Teo (Lecturer), for the support and guidance in the creation of the portfolio. My family and friends, for the immense love and support given always.

the Portfolio is done by, K M Nimesha Anarkalee BA (Hons) Interior Design The Glasgow School of Art (Singapore)

PROJECT AIM Using biophilic design and nature, my aim is to allow us to experience the outdoors and nature all whilst being safe in your own living spaces and allow the idea of having plants and greens all around us in our day to day living – making Singapore the real green city it should be. Therefore, using the concept of Inside Outside to connect man and nature all whilst being indoors – further enhancing that notion with the use of greens and plants.

CONTENTS i) Introduction

Singapore, the Garden City, in this pandemic world

ii)

Design Intention & Research

What am I doing, why am I doing this? What is Biophilia Benefits of Biophilia in Architecture and Sustainable Design The concept of Inside Outside COVID19 and living in isolation COVID19 and Space Design Being around Plants My perspective of Biophilia Singapore’s Garden City Vision

iii)

Context/Site Analysis

Singapore’s Garden City Vision BLK 470C Upper Serangoon Crescent

iv) Making

Collages (Outside Inside)

INTRODUCTION Going against the superficiality in the supposed biophilic green design in Singapore and bringing these concepts of green, plant design into living spaces.

Is Singapore really the Garden City we call it? Sin-

And also, with the current COVID-19 pandemic

gapore is known worldwide for its excellent green

that has caused an inevitable pause in our daily

and sustainable efforts, but are we really a green

lives, this idea of having a green city around us is

city? Or are we really just a ‘manicured’ garden

something that needs to be more prominent. This

that attracts tourists and foreign investors? Sin-

pandemic has put a major pause on our lives: no

gapore’s ‘green’ areas have been trimmed and

gatherings, no going to school or work, no going

carefully curated into a garden to suit the taste

outside – right now it is all about being indoors.

of outsiders and to allow Singapore to appear at-

This “new normal” has caught us off guard with

tractive and beautiful to these foreign eyes. This

drastic changes in our usual everyday lives and

then takes away the idea of a Green, Natural City

our living spaces. Right now, our personal life,

as it is carefully made and curated.

work life and leisure life have been reduced to “four walls”. So how do we experience the outside all whilst being inside?

There will be four books in this entire project portfolio. This first introduction booklet introduces the overall project: Biophilic co-existence in the Garden City. This booklet contains a look into biophilia and biophilia in indoor spaces and “Live, Work and Play” can be done with biophilic design. The booklet also introduces Singapore’s Garden City idea and what is being done. Site analysis is also included in this booklet. Booklet two starts off with part 1 of the Project: “Living with Plants”. It touches on the idea of day to day living with nature indoors. Booklet three continues with part 2 of the Project: “Work with Plants”. This project then deals with the work side and working from home while being around nature and plants. Booklet four then ends with part 3 of the Project: “Play with Plants” This final part ties up the whole project with allowing residents to be able to have fun all whilst being indoors.

DESIGN INTENTION AND RESEARCH

WHAT’S THE DESIGN INTENTION?

Using the concept of Inside Outside spaces to connect man and nature, the aim is to integrate the idea of “outside” into indoor space. The idea of inside and outside as separate spaces will be changed. The invisible line that divides these spaces will be removed by using biophilic design/nature (which represents the outside) to ‘invade’ into indoor living spaces How can I have the “outside” around while I am safe at home/on the inside/ in isolation?

WHY THIS? WHY IN ISOLATION?

In relation to the current pandemic, people were ‘locked in’ and had to stay at home for several months a time, losing the connection to the outside and to keep the connection between man and Earth going whilst still being safe at home/indoors.

WHAT IS BIOPHILIA? HOW DID IT COME ABOUT?

Biophilia According to a theory of the biologist E. O. Wilson, biophilia is an innate and genetically determined affinity of human beings with the natural world. Biophilia refers to the connection that humans seek with nature and wildlife. The word biophilia was first made popular by Erich Fromm, a psychoanalyst. In his work, The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness (Fromm, 1973), he used the word to describe the biological drive toward self-preservation. It was then made popular again in 1984 by Edward O Wilson, an American biologist through his book, Biophilia (Wilson, 1984).

BENEFITS OF BIOPHILIA IN ARCHITECTURE AND SUSTAINABLE DESIGN

Biophilic design aims to bridge the outside and

Integrating nature and natural elements into

inside, man with nature. Stephen Kellert, a pro-

architecture benefits man in many ways – re-

fessor at Yale University states that “We have

ducing stress, improving eyesight and cognitive

this need to affiliate with nature, but the built

functions, creativity and thinking skills and much

environment is where we spend 90 per cent of

more. Biophilic design also comes in hand with

our time”. With this need for man to connection

sustainability which enhances the aspect of sav-

with nature, biophilic design plays a huge part

ing the Earth and its environment. However not

in achieving these needs by integrating these

everyone finds biophilic design stress relieving,

elements of nature into the built environment

some may see it has scary and even cause stress

around us.

– biophobia. When it comes to integrating nature into the built environment, it must be dealt with clearly with much researching and careful studying. (Ulrich, 1993)

However, there are criticism in the use of biophilia in the built environment with it being fairly new and also the high cost in maintaining the plants and nature integrated as part of biophilic design. (Birrane, 2016)

THE CONCEPT OF INSIDE OUTSIDE

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BRING THE OUTSIDE IN? (INSIDE OUTSIDE)

The idea of biophilia in the built environment

Various elements in architecture also contributes

also enhances the idea of bridging the natural

to the whole concept of Inside Outside – elements

world and built world – indoors and outdoors. This

such as big floor to ceiling windows, open ceilings,

brings upon the notion of outside inside design,

a sky roof etc. Using these elements to allow the

integrating the outdoors inside.

view in helped bridge the outdoors and indoors. A prime example is the Villa Savoye done by Le Corbusier in 1931 (below left). Le Corbusier’s Five Points of Architecture which he addressed in his book (below right), ‘Vers une Architecture’ in the 1920s highlights the five elements that enhances the idea of letting the outside in. The five points are:

Villa Savoye by Le Courbusier, 1931

LE CORBUSIER’S POINTS OF ARCHITECTURE (INSIDE OUTSIDE) This is important to biophilia as biophilia is not only the use of plants in design but nature as a whole. And nature are made of several elements such as sunlight, water, wind etc. The study of the Inside Outside concept allows us to be able to use architecture to allow these elements of nature be in the space.

Pilotis – replace supporting walls by a grid of reinforced concrete col-

umns that bear the structural load, which is the basis of the new aesthetic, the columns then allow a much more open space as compared to having walls that block the exterior views 2.

The free designing of the ground plan – the absence of supporting

walls – means the house is unrestrained in its internal use 3.

The free design of the façade – separating the exterior of the building

from its structural function – sets the façade free from structural constraints 4.

The horizontal window, which cuts the façade along its entire length,

lights rooms equally like the outside 5.

Roof gardens on a flat roof can serve a domestic purpose while pro-

viding essential protection to the concrete roof, the roof garden gives the outside aspect in this indoor setting

The whole notion of using biophilia as means of the Inside Outside concept had not yet been introduced in the 1920s, thus the idea mainly being architectural elements only.

A Nordic Architecture style designed home

Another example is Nordic Architecture which

The structures in the house are mainly of

also looks a lot into the Inside Outside concept.

wood material giving the place a natural feel

Many homes are built with large windows giving

all while being indoors. (Plummer, 2012)

an incredible view of the surroundings. Some of the windows are so gigantic, they take up the entire wall allowing you to pull it open and sit right beside it, looking at the outdoors all whilst being inside.

The openness of the space is something that can be used in this biophilia project. The openness allows natural elements such as sunlight and shadow in the space and also allows direct visual connection to the outside spaces.

A Nordic Architecture style designed home

So now, the aim is to understand how this concept of Inside Outside design can play a part in the project? And how can biophilia be brought in and integrated into this concept?

In these two collages, Le Corbusier’s Villa Savoye is used as the ‘indoor living space’ due to its well-known use of the Inside Outside spaces concept. The green plants coming in are plants common to the existing from the HDB sites themselves.

COVID-19 AND LIVING IN ISOLATION

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused the whole

The idea of being in isolation for long periods of

world to make drastic changes in the way peo-

time causes long term stress and pain to peo-

ple lived by limiting physical human interaction

ple. Physical interaction with people and the

with the outside world. This has also caused chal-

outdoors are an important component in the

lenges in changing the current public and private

human life. Being outdoors and have outdoor

spaces to accommodate these ‘rules’ of limited

interaction allows humans to heal and relieve

interaction and social distancing. The virus has

stress. (Holt-Lunstad,2020)

continued to spread to almost every part of the world which has made more and more countries ordering their citizens into staying indoors at home and avoid physical contact with anyone other than those living in the same house.

COVID-19 AND SPACE DESIGN

HOW DOES COVID-19 AFFECT SPACE DESIGN?

Journalist Kyle Chayka categorises the spaces into 3

Right now, these points show that space de-

groups: domestic space, office space and city space,

sign plays a huge part in keeping these stay-

in his article on COVID-19’s impact in space design.

ing safe rules and helping humans adapt with

(Chayka, 2020) Domestic spaces: our home spaces,

isolation healthily. The challenge of having

spaces where non-essential workers are going to be

our working life, home life and leisure life all

couped up in for a long time. He then refers to sev-

in a single space has caught many off guard.

eral architects and celebrities who have their hous-

So now the question is, how do we use the

es designed to top notch and to their own taste but

same place that we sleep in, to work? All the

are not able to stand being inside for long periods

outdoor activities, how do we now bring them

of time. (Chayka, 2020) Moving on, office space: the

indoors so we can be safe? How do we social-

space where we work, where we sit with our col-

ly interact with loved ones while not being

leagues together.

in physical contact? And how can nature and biophilic design aid in the use for safe isola-

He addresses the idea of a “1.5 metre society” and “masks and gloves being our second skin” referring to the 1.5 metre social distancing and hygiene care that must be done when outdoors. (Chayka, 2020) And finally, City spaces: spaces where we go to eat, sit, or meet with friends and family. He addresses the idea of having to place meal tables or seating benches at a distance to avoid crowding and social distance (Chayka, 2020) which also contradicts the idea of huge meal tables which are used to sit and eat with loved ones.

tion design.

BEING AROUND PLANTS

Right now, how do people live with plants or greens

This idea of having potted house plants in

in their own living spaces? Many people have trac-

homes is a small step and leans more towards

es of plants in different corners of their person-

being in control of the plants. How do I then

al spaces – a succulent on a work desk, a hang-

bring in the big aspects of plants and biophil-

ing potted plant in the bedroom, plants along the

ic design into small living spaces? What is the

corridor of a HDB flat etc. These traces, although

reason that it is not being done now? And how

small, are traces of people co-existing with plants

can I ensure the idea of merging Earth and Man

in their personal spaces. There are many benefits

into a single small space will not overwhelm

in having plants in our living spaces. Journalist So-

the occupants living in them?

phie Lee (2017) addresses the numerous benefits in having house plants in her article, ‘Why indoor plants make you feel better’ (2017). Having plants in your house improves productivity, stress levels and your overall mood.

MY PERSPECTIVE AND INTERPRETATION OF THE TOPIC Various precedent studies were analysed on the different types of biophilic designs there are. Biophilic designs come of various sizes and extents. It can start at a small scale with just a single plant on a study table to being fully overtaken and covered with plants and nature. The scale below represents the scale and extent biophilia starts and ends, the simple being controlled and the complex being uncontrolled.

I discuss this scale in terms of controlled and uncontrolled on the following pages.

Eco-Link Bridge at BKE, Singapore

CONTROLLED BIOPHILIC DESIGN Controlled biophilic design refers to how the green/nature is controlled by man, which can also be categorised as ‘unnatural’ nature. It has been placed there and lead in a direction by man and not naturally. Its controlled and not allowed to take over the man-made surrounding it has been placed in. One example of controlled biophilic design is the Eco-Link bridge at BKE in Singapore (shown below). The bridge was built by man and the trees and greens were placed there by man as well. The nature on the bridge is often well groomed and nicely kept by people, not allowing any messy overgrowing, or overtaking. However, the one aspect that makes the place ‘natural’ is the animals that have found their own way onto the bridge – they were not placed there, they came on their own accord.

Sekeping Serenda by Ng Sek San

UNCONTROLLED BIOPHILIC DESIGN The man-made structure is placed in the nature and has allowed nature to take over the structure. It is not pushed and directed in a certain way or direction by man but is allowed to “move” on its own, thus it being uncontrolled. One example is the Sekeping Serenda Retreat in Malaysia design by Ng Sek San. The retreat is in the forest with the idea of connecting man and nature. The retreat consists of several shelters that are very open which allows man to take a break from the “4 walls indoors” lifestyle and interact and surrounding themselves with nature. Ng Sek San and his group aimed to build the shelters without any damage or disruption to the original forested site.

SPACES THAT HAVE BEEN RECLAIMED BY NATURE : EXTREAME CASES OF UNCONTROLLED BIOPHILIA

There are many abandoned places and buildings,

The absence of humans and presence of nature

which were once occupied by Man, in the world.

also invites wildlife into the setting. The lack of

After years and years of not being used or of any

disturbances in abandoned places allow animals

human activity, nature has found its way into spac-

to form safe nesting spaces and home which en-

es and taking over them – reclaiming the space

courages more breeding and producing of wild-

that once belonged to them. This idea of nature

life. Would having wildlife in homes affect the

reclaiming the space on its own without any hu-

concept of living with nature? Should wildlife be

man efforts shows how nature works without the

introduced? Or should we stop at just plants?

presence of humans and maybe help to push the concept of how it would be different if it were in

The following examples show various spaces,

the presence of humans.

once used for human activities, now taken over by nature and wildlife.

CONTEXT ANALYSIS The project is situated in Singapore. The following addresses the Singapore Garden City vision and it’s ideas.

SINGAPORE’S “GARDEN CITY” VISION

On May 11th, 1967, the late Prime Minister Lee

However, the late PM Lee’s main goal from the

Kuan Yew introduced the “garden city” vision to

vision was not exactly catered to Singaporeans

Singapore. He wanted to transform Singapore into

but more for the outsiders. The “garden city”

a city with ‘abundant lush greenery and clean en-

vision was to signify that Singapore was a well

vironment’. (Lee, 2000) It was first introduced as a

organised city and a good destination for tour-

tree-planting programme in Singapore which ended

ists and foreign investments. Although he did

up being extremely successful. By 1970, 55,000 new

have Singapore and her citizens in mind, it is of

trees have been planted across Singapore island

certain to some extent that the whole vision of

wide. This continued for the many years after and

making Singapore clean and green was to make

by 2014, 1.4 million new trees have been planted.

her look good in the eyes of outsiders.

IS SINGAPORE A CITY IN A GARDEN BUT NOT A GREEN CITY?

While the news of Singapore being a city in a garden

Singapore has also the seventh largest car-

isn’t unheard of, the question of whether Singapore

bon footprint in the world. If everyone in

is green stands. In my opinion, Singapore is a garden

the world lived like Singaporeans, we would

city, but it is not green. A garden is managed and

need at least 4.1 more planets to be able to

made by Man. It is unnatural and has been shaped to

sustain our needs. (Philomin, 2014) So, is Sin-

the desire of humans and their needs. Singapore has

gapore really a green city? Or just a city in a

over 300 parks and 4 nature reserves, but they are

made-up garden by Man?

all curated and managed, none of which are natural. Only 5% of the original primary forests remain in

Singapore has also the seventh largest car-

Singapore. (Hong, 2017) An example of “garden city

bon footprint in the world. If everyone in

but not green” is Gardens by the Bay. Gardens by the

the world lived like Singaporeans, we would

Bay is a well-known landmark here in Singapore, but

need at least 4.1 more planets to be able to

it is far from nature. The whole place was built on

sustain our needs. (Philomin, 2014) So, is Sin-

reclaimed land and the whole thing is just populated

gapore really a green city? Or just a city in a

with artificial trees made of concrete, so is it really

made-up garden by Man?

Gardens by the Bay?

SITE ANALYSIS

THE DISCUSSION OF THE SITE BEGINS WITH A FEW KEY QUESTIONS

WHAT TYPE OF SITE? WHY THIS SITE? The site will be a HDB block. This is because 80% of Singaporeans live in HDB flats. There are different user groups that live in HDB that require different living needs and have different ways of living.

WHO IS THE DESIGN FOR? The project is designed for the various groups that live in HDB such as families with young children, elderly and family with working adults/grown children.

SITE LOCATION The HDB chosen is the Upper Serangoon Crescent BLK 470B. This is because it is located beside nature reserve/parks.

WHY HDB ALONG NATURE RESERVES AND PARKS? Though most parks are man-made, the plants and trees in the parks are often allowed to take control and overtake the man-made elements in the area. The aspect of ‘uncontrolled biophilia’ is also present in parks. Using HDBs beside parks will also allow the idea of letting “uncontrolled” biophilia take over the man made elements all whilst being “maintained’/” controlled” by man. Having HDB located along parks as a site allows the idea of “controlled-uncontrolled biophilia” (man + nature) to be more emphasised.

SITE

Upper Serangoon Crescent BLK 470C (ALONGSIDE Punggol Park)

Site map that shows BLK 470C located near Punggol Park

OBJECTS THAT SHOW “HUMAN PRESENCE” OUTDOORS

There were many traces that humans left behind in the surroundings both in corridors and void decks, but most of the traces are bicycles left in the void decks etc. The bicycles are not allocated a parking space, but it seems that the residents have allocated a space on their own just by placing the bicycles there. These moments show like how in our own home we allocate our own spaces by placing our belongings there – it is done outdoors here as well.

ii)

TRACE OF NATURE AND BIOHPILIC DESIGN IN THE SURROUNDINGS

There are a lot of nature and biophilia integrated into the surroundings. There are plants and small trees growing underneath the void deck. The sitting areas are also integrated and decorated with nature and in the surroundings of the sitting area. The siting areas face Punggol Park, giving residents the view of the nature in the park. However, although the many traces of nature in the surroundings, just like the previous site, there was not any integrated into the HDB building or into the living spaces itself.

iii)

BOUNDARY LINE

The “invisible” boundary line between the HDB estate and Punngol Park is the walkway with drains as shown above. This is the boundary line that acts like a “barrier” or “wall” that prevents to bridge the gap between the HDB estate (inside) and the Park (outside). However even with the walkway as the invisible barrier, residents seem to have created their own “bridge” by cutting directly across the walkway to get to the park from the HDB estate and vice versa, as shown below.

DESIGN EXPLORATION: LIVING WITH PLANTS

I made some collages on the whole idea of bringing the outside nature inside. The collages show the nature outside invading into the living indoor spaces.

BIOPHILIC CO-EXSISTENCE IN THE GARDEN CITY bringing the outside in

PART 1: LIVE

THE WAY WE LIVE/HOW DO WE LIVE? In this booklet we start with part 1 of the Project : “Live with Plants”. This project deals with the work side of “LIVE, WORK AND PLAY” and the idea of being safe indoors in the HDB block while being around nature and plants. I will be dealing with the idea of living with plants and biophilic design in the comfort of being indoors and near your home. To live means to “spend your life in a particular way”. To live at home means to be able to do everyday activities in your own way – eating, sleeping, resting etc. It also means to be with family and loved ones. Basically, to be able to do anything you want in your way in the comfort of your own personal space. So how can this be placed in the scheme of living with plants? How do we live with plants?

CONTENTS i)

Design Thinking and Making

Design Intention

THE HDB INTERIOR UNIT SPACE ii)

Plant as Material

Abundant plants outdoors but not indoors Having plants as surfaces and barriers, how does that work

THE EXTENDED BRIDGE SPACE iii)

Visual Connectivity to the Outside

Abundant plants outdoors but not in the unit interiors

iv)

Plants in Indoor Spaces Type of plants used How are plants maintained and taken care of

DESIGN THINKING AND MAKING

DESIGN INTENTION The intention is to integrate the idea of “outside” into indoor HDB spaces. The design intervention is mainly for residents in HDBs. The intention also removes the idea of inside and outside as separate spaces. The idea is to remove the invisible line that divides these spaces by using biophilic design/nature (which represents the outside) to ‘invade’ into the surrounding interior spaces of the HDB. The question is now how I can have the “outside” around while I am safe at home/ on the inside/ in isolation.

THE HDB INTERIOR UNIT SPACE

PLANTS AS MATERIAL How can we use plants to divide and create our spaces? To have them as walls, ceilings and floors? To be in a building that grows itself?

ABUNDUNT PLANTS OUTDOORS BUT NOT INDOORS

Many signs of plants/greens were observed at the surroundings of the HDB ground floor. Trees stood at walkways leading to the HDB building, small trees also planted in open pocket spaces inside the HDB void deck. The seating areas is surrounded plants - left, right, bottom and even above with ceiling trellis hanging above the seats.

However, towards the upper floors with the HDB units, there are little to no plants with the exception of several potted plants placed outside the units by the residents. The corridors and building walls are also completely clear of any signs of nature or plant life.

With the major lack of nature elements in the up-

The precedent study shown below, the Oasia

per floors, the design intention now was to bring

Hotel, uses plants to build to grow its facade,

in nature into the indoor spaces of HDBs. Spaces

which was an idea that helped with this proj-

including corridors, lift lobby spaces and even the

ect’s design. Like how the Oasia Hotel uses

small air condition system’s balcony spaces of the

plants as their wall ‘material’, the HDB uses

units.

plants as their railing and ceiling ‘material’. The HDB facade that are not part of the units

In this drawing, railings are covered fully with

also have plants/creepers (refer to plant study

plants making it seem as if the railings are made

booklet page for more information on creeper

of plants. The ceiling is also fully covered in vines

plants used) covering the walls, similar to what

and ivy plants. The empty walls that are not win-

the Oasia Hotel has.

dows along the corridor will be replaced with urban farming set – ups to allow interested residents to grow their own plants or edibles.

Oasia Hotel, WOHA, Singapore WOHA’s Oasia Hotel is well-known as a ‘living’ building in Singapore. The facade is made of 21 different species of plants and it is used as a ‘wall material’. The outdoor seating spaces in the hotel have plants in their ceiling trellises making the plants the ‘ceiling material’. These plants attract insects and birds - adding to the ‘living’ aspect. (More information can be found in the Case Study Booklet)

In these drawings, The railings and ceilings have plants as “barriers” and “planes” in the spaces - taking in the form of walls, railings, ceilings to cover up the actual concrete ones. This allows the residents in the space feel as if they are surrounded by nature even when though they are still in their HDB blocks.

Fujimori’s Tanpopo(Dandelion) House is made up of planter boxes filled with flowers which alternate with layers of stone to make up much of the exterior. Fujimori uses these dandelion flowers as an exterior material of the house - using plant as material/planes. (More information can be found in the Case Study Booklet) Tanpopo House, Fujimori, Japan

HAVING PLANTS AS SURFACES AND BARRIERS, HOW DOES THAT WORK?

Having plants as build elements, how is that

What about ceilings? Plants for ceilings: Ceilings

going to work?

will still be of concrete/their original material. The ceiling will have a metal mesh layer similar

Plants as fences: There are plants that grow

to the one of railings. The plants will then creep

among fences creating a “living fence”. Flower-

and grow through the mesh, covering the ceiling

ing plants such as Wisteria, Black Eyed Susan and

expanse.

Morning Glories make for great fences. These flowering plants grow and attach themselves to

For overgrown or dead plants grown in this mesh,

the fences, covering these fences fully with their

the residents themselves can clear away these

beautiful flowers. Many non-flowering plants are

plants or have the official authorities to come

also able to grow into these fences, plants such

and get them cleared.

as the English Ivy and Creeping Fig. The fences will be made with metal mesh and with metal railings. Mesh to allow the plants to go through the holes in the fences and grow into the fence.

THE EXTENDED BRIDGE SPACE

VISUAL CONNECTIVITY TO THE OUTSIDE How can we have visual connections to the outside spaces and views, when we are all inside our homeS?

ABUNDUNT PLANTS OUTDOORS BUT NOT INDOORS

There are plants in the surroundings and outside of the HDB but there arent any inside the units itself. There is the question of preferance when it comes to having plants and nature in indoor living spaces, so how can we include plants in indoor units without having various problem arising? And what about residents who do not like having plants in their personal spaces?

To address the issue of lack of plants in indoor

In Seksan’s 10@mont’kiara in Malaysia, he used

unit spaces, a new addition is added to the

metal structures as space dividers and creators

HDB blocks, (referring to the image) – a bridge

instead of walls, allowing those passing through

that starts from the inside of the HDB till the

to have direct visual connections to the exteri-

outside. This bridge allows residents to be out-

or surroundings. The bridge design of this proj-

side all whilst still being in their own homes.

ect uses the same method of having no walls and

The bridge only has railings, allowing to be ful-

just metal railings. This is also applied to the units

ly open and visible to the outside.

where the walls that make up the HDB facade are changed to full length windows for the units.

10@mont’kiara, Seksan, Malaysia Seksan’s 10@mont’kiara uses steel structures to create a sense of openness and allow direct visual connection to the outside. With the metal structures and lack of tall opaque walls, sunlight and wind are also able to reach into the interior walkway spaces. (More information can be found in the Case Study Booklet)

With reference to the drawing on the left, the

Looking at Glenn Murcutt’s Lee Simpson House,

bridge’s railings are of full glass and steel mate-

he uses the concept of having open spaces with-

rial and well covered and taken over by plants.

out walls but instead using columns and windows

The plants line up against the railings to act as

to maximise direct visual connection to the out-

the actual railing by covering up the true glass/

side. In this project the use of railings instead of

metal material. (refer to plant study booklet

walls is to also expect the same kind of intention

page for more information on plants used)

of direct visual connection.

The openness and lack of walls encourages sunlight and rain fall into these bridge spaces allowing the plants in these spaces to grow and nourish well.

Lee Simpson House, Glenn Murcutt, Australia Glenn Murcutt’s Lee Simpson house uses the idea of openess by having plenty open spaces with only columns and windows as space divders and creaters. The openess of the spaces allow visitors to view the vast outdoor views while still being in the space. Abundunt sunlight is also allowed filtered into the space. (More information can be found in the Case Study Booklet)

The model shown represents the overall bridge design in the HDB flat. The bridge would be located on every floor with metal see-through flooring and with railings to allow direct visual connection to the outside surroundings. The see-through also indicated the lack of walls and only mainly having windows and columns to allow maximised views to the outside park - similar to Seksan’s and Glenn Murcutt’s idea of no walls.

PLANTS IN INDOOR SPACES In the following pages, research on various plant types that are suitable for the project is shown. Plant types based on the location and weather/humidity conditions of the site. For clearer and more in-depth analysis of plant types used in the project, refer to Plant Study booklet.

WHAT TYPE OF PLANTS ARE USED? HOW TO CHOOSE?

These are some research on the different types of plants and plants that I will be able to use in my space*. The research was done with by looking at various local Singaporean precedent projects on biophilic design such as WOHA’s Park Royal and understanding the type of plants that were used in those projects. *For clearer and more in-depth analysis of plant types used in the project, refer to Plant Study booklet.

Pickering Park Royal, WOHA, Singapore WOHA’s Pickering at Park Royal Hotel uses a vast number of plants. all of different species and types. The plants used in the space fit into the tropical climate and humidity in Singapore. WOHA also look into what type of plants could be used indoors, or outdoors, or plants that repel bugs or plants that attract butterflies etc. (More information can be found in the Case Study Booklet)

The spaces are labelled with the appropriate plant types that can be used*. For example, the use of boxwood hedges for railings and walls, the use of bougainvillea vines for ceilings and exterior façade walls. *Again, for clearer and more in-depth analysis of plant types used in the project, refer to Plant Study booklet.

HOW ARE THE PLANTS MAINTAINED AND TAKEN CARE OF?

The plants in the HDB will be taken care by the

For official and gardening matters that require

residents of the HDB (those who wish to). Similar

professional support, the appropriate author-

to community gardening, the plants will be wa-

ities will be called in to handle various ser-

tered and weeded by the residents to promote

vices. These services include the clearing of

community bonding within the residents of the

dead plants and the ridding of the pests and

flat. The gardening is also a way to allows resi-

mosquitos that harm the plants and residents.

dents to take a break from being inside their own

These services may come every few months

units all day and to step out and have a conver-

to do a check-up on the greenery in the flat.

sation with their neighbours or spend time with A committee will be formed with the resi-

family,

dents who would like to contribute and the For example, like Singapore’s Khoo Teck Phuat

gardeners that deal with the current gardens

Hospital, they have their very own roof top gar-

will also help to keep the space and plants

den where their own staff help to take care and

tidy and alive.

grow the plants. This activity allows bonding between the staff and improves work morale and teamwork within the staff in the hospital.

Khoo Teck Phuat Hospital, RMJM, Singapore Khoo Teck Phuat Hospital grows their own vegetables and fruits in their very own rooftop garden. This garden is managed by the staff in the hospital. The staff look after these plants and this allows them to take a break from their hectic work lives and also promotes bonding between the staff members of the hospital. (More information can be found in the Case Study Booklet)

Overall, the whole aim is to bring in outside spaces into the indoor home spaces and to be able to experience the outdoors all whilst being in isolation, safe at home. To further emphasise the idea, biophilia is brought in due to the various benefits of having biophilic design in living spaces. Biophilia also allows the whole idea of bridging the outside and inside and allow residents to experience the notion of coexisting with nature.

BIOPHILIC CO-EXSISTENCE IN THE GARDEN CITY bringing the outside in

PART II: WORK

THE WAY WE WORK/HOW DO WE WORK? This booklet continues with part 2 of the Project : “Work with Plants”. This project deals with the work side of “LIVE, WORK AND PLAY” and the idea of working from home while being around nature and plants. With the recent COVID-19 pandemic, many of us had to stick with the mandatory “work from home” setting which entailed us to having our work life even at home. This caused a major disruption in many of our lives, having to juggle personal and work life in the same place. In this part, I will be creating a space where residents can comfortably work/study all whilst being around nature and having the elements of outdoors all whilst being indoors.

CONTENTS i)

Design Thinking and Making

Design Intention

THE HDB INTERIOR UNIT SPACE ii)

Visual Connectivity to the Space

Double Volume spaces

iii)

Plants/Trees in Indoor Spaces

Trees in Indoors Indoor Urban farming

THE EXTENDED BRIDGE SPACE iv)

Visual Connectivity to the Space

Windows as walls

Plants/Trees in Indoor Spaces

Plants in enclosed spaces Plants and the Scale

vi) Plant as Material

Plant as furniture

vii)

Sunlight and Shadow in Indoor Spaces

Other elements of Nature

DESIGN THINKING AND MAKING

DESIGN INTENTION The intention is to integrate the idea of “outside” into indoor workspaces. The design is mainly for working adults and studying children/adults (those who need a workspace). The intervention is having a “work from home” type of situation, but instead it is “work near home” with workspaces being available on two floors of the HDB. The reason for this “work near home” idea came out from the pandemic’s “work from home” movement. However, instead of working from home and being cooped up in the same four walls every day, the work near home allows residents to leave their homes and work in other spaces near their homes. The work near home also prevents far travelling for the residents when in need on conducive workspaces other than their own homes. Nature and plants will be present throughout the building. This the allows residents to be near or cross paths with nature and the outside, even when working.

THE HDB INTERIOR UNIT SPACE

VISUAL CONNECTIVITY TO THE OUTSIDE How can we have visual connections to the outside spaces and views, when we are all on the inside?

The site remains the same as Part 1. The HDB is located along the Serangoon River and beside Punggol Park. Two floors of the HDB, stories 8 and 9, will be removed of residential units and converted to office/workspaces for residents, this is to allow them to be near their home and indoors in the HDB building all whilst being able to see and be close to the outdoors. The reason for these two floors is because the higher floors provide a vast view of the park located beside, giving the residents working a great view of nature to look at.

Workspace area for residents to use, the furniture are of wood material to emphasise on the natural aspect and are mainly of warm tones to allow the green colour of the plants to light up the space instead.

DOUBLE VOLUME SPACES The once residential units will be converted into workspaces for both adults and student residents to work and study. The space will be easy access as it is located in the HDB flat itself. The exterior walls are replaced with full windows to allow direct visual connection to the surroundings which includes the Punggol Park and the Serangoon River. The double volume space allows those on the second floor to be able to have visual connection to the lower floor and the plants that are growing on the floors. The full windows were placed in reference to Seksan’s and Glenn Murcutt’s “openness” concept. The lack of opaque walls allows the vast view of the outside, similar to what Seksan and Murcutt has done - their works mainly only have columns and railings, allowing direct visual connection to the exterior surroundings.

Lee Simpson House by Glenn Murcutt, Australia

10@mont’kiara by Seksan, Malaysia Seksan’s 10@mont’kiara has open steel structures for its walkways allowing it’s spaces to be fully visible to the outside and Glenn Murcutt’s Lee Simpson house uses the idea of openness by having plenty open spaces with only columns and windows as space dividers and creators. Both spaces allow users to view the vast outdoor views while still being in the space. Abundant sunlight and wind are also allowed in the spaces. (More information can be found in the Case Study Booklet)

Floor layout of the first floor of the workspace that has taken over the residential units. The first floor provides both workstations and casual seating, the latter in direct view of the tree canopy in the space.The first floor has a private garden space, (on the right), that allows the residents to do their work there instead.

Floor layout of the second floor of the workspace. The second floor is only a single small room for the residents to use. The room gives a sense of privacy to those who wish to work in quieter environments.

The residents will be facing the tree and the plants growing from the urban farming areas. Residents sitting on the second floor are also able to view the tree canopy on the first floor with the given direct visual connection. The large double volume atrium space allows the space to feel more open. The tree canopy also provides casual seating space for those who wish to work in a less rigid area.

A green wall is also placed in the space and covers the entire double volume, from the floor to the ceiling. This provides more greenery in the space apart from the urban farming and the tree canopy.

PLANTS/TREES IN INDOOR SPACES In the following pages, research on various plant types that are suitable for the project is shown. Plant types based on the location and weather/humidity conditions of the site. For clearer and more in-depth analysis of plant types used in the project, refer to Plant Study booklet.

In what ways could I include plants in the space? Could a tree be placed in the space? Or maybe have plants in the space as dividers and space creators? Maybe I could also include indoor urban farming for the residents? And if I were to include a tree or indoor urban farming, how does it work? Has it been done before?

The images on the left are the thinking process/ideation for these questions above. The top two images: Having a tree canopy in the space ; then need to remove the second floor and making it into a double volume space. The images on the bottom show using plants as surface and space dividers : such as using the tree canopy as a space for casual seating, or having bushes around each work station for a sense of privacy.

Office/Study area in the HDB for residents to use. The office area allows direct views to the tree and plants in the space. Having visual connections to plants/greenery is extremely beneficial and allows residents to be less stress and more relaxed with the amount of nature in space.

TREES INDOORS A tree is grown in the space to encourage greenery in the surrounding and promote well-being. How does this work (with reference to the case studies below): The type of tree used is a Willow Fig Tree; this tree type can grow with limited soil amount in a soil container and grows well in an indoor space. The soil container is also of appropriate depth to ensure well growth of the tree in the space.

Willow Fig Tree grown indoors

Trees grown in an indoor office Top: The tree used in the living space is a Willow Fig Tree. The tree grows well in an indoor setting and with limited amount of soil and light needed. Bottom: An office in Germany grows trees in their indoor spaces with seats surrounding. They look into the necessary arrangements that had to be done for a tree to grow in an indoor space: type of tree, amount of soil needed, amount of sunlight and water needed

INDOOR URBAN FARMING Referring to the drawing on the left, Indoor urban farming is introduced in the office space to allow the residents to be a part of the plant life cycle. Residents can aid in the growing of plants of even grow their own plants in the space. Even if residents do not wish to farm, just by looking and seeing the plants growing already includes the green idea into their daily lives. And looking at plants brings major benefits especially in aiding stress relief and boosting creativity and focus - qualities that are essential and helpful in a work environment. Similar to the Pasona Urban Farm in Japan, the urban farming in the office space grows vegetables. The office emphasises that the growth of these plants and vegetables are not for sustainability efforts but rather for beneficial purposes such as stress relief, just like how it is done in the HDB space.

Pasona Urban Farm, Tokyo Japan The Pasona Urban Farm in an office in Japan allows the growth of their own vegetables right in their office. The office workers are able to eat the vegetables that are/were produced from these urban farms. The main goal was not to energy save etc but instead was to allow the inclusion of plants into the daily lives of the office workers - even if it were subtle. (More information can be found in the Case Study Booklet)

THE EXTENDED BRIDGE SPACE

VISUAL CONNECTIVITY TO THE OUTSIDE How can we have visual connections to the outside spaces and views, when we are all on the inside?

WINDOWS AS WALLS

The two floors that were made into workspace also includes the bridge space that was introduced in part 1 of the project. How can I convert these spaces into work friendly spaces for the residents?

The extension bridge space on the office floors of the HDB, provide seating spaces for residents to rest, read or even get their work done in this space instead.

The bridge space consists of hanging chairs

This is inspired by the Selgas Canos Office in

made of twigs and branches, allowing residents

Spain, where a long full-length window is used

to sit and use their laptops, read, study or even

instead of walls. The window extends to the

simply just taking a break and looking outside.

ceiling allowing light to enter the space. The

The full-scale window provides a sense of open-

use of the long window allows the users in the

ness and a great view to the Punngol Park and

space to view the forest in the surroundings and

also ample sunlight into the space.

the animals passing by. In reference to that concept, the HDB bridge space also uses full length long windows to allow the users a direct view to the park located just beside the block.

Selgas Canos Office by Jose Selgas and Lucia Cano, Spain The whole idea of the office was to be ‘working in the woods’ surrounded by nature. There is a long window that also acts as the wall that extends into the ceiling allowing natural light in and not needing any artificial lighting. Those working have direct views to the outside. (More information can be found in the Case Study Booklet)

Resting bridge space that residents are able to sit and read or even take a break and enjoy the outside scenery

PLANTS IN ENCLOSED SPACES The enclosed bridge space has plants all-over the walls and potted plants in the space. Referring to NBBJ’s Amazon Spheres, this office space is airconditioned and enclosed with devices that changes the temperature and humidity in the space. NBBJ had devices installed in their enclosed spaces as well, in order to keep the plants in their spaces well and alive. The temperature and humidity changes with the device, to fit and cater to the needs of the plants in the space, allowing them to grow well and comfortably.

Amazon Spheres by NBBJ, Seattle, Washington, USA NBBJ has installed devices that control the temperature and humidity in the space that adjusts accordingly throughout the day and throughout the seasons in the year. These adjustments are done to suit the plants and trees in the space and allow them to grow well and healthy in an enclosed environment. (More information can be found in the Case Study Booklet)

Resting bridge space that residents are able to sit and read or even take a break and enjoy the outside scenery

PLANTS AND THE SCALE There are plants on one side of the space and none on the other. The plants on one side of the space lies against the window that faces the interiors of the HDB, whilst the other window left bare faces the Punggol Park that is just beside the block. Doing this allows the residents to experience both ends of the ‘Living with Plants’ scale (refer to introduction booklet) - controlled and uncontrolled biophilia. The plants in the space being controlled as it is manicured and carefully curated for the space. And then the park on the outside being uncontrolled where the plants are able to go freely and widely. The residents simply just need to turn their heads left and right to observe this change.

PLANTS AS MATERIAL How can we use plants in the space? As furnitures?

PLANT AS FURNITURE The seating in the enclosed space is made of twigs and branches (natural materials) to further promote the idea of having nature always around us. The seating is similar of used in Bali, Indonesia. (Refer to image below)

Nest Seating, Bali, Indonesia A nest like structure found in many parts of Bali that can be used for seating and laying back, made out of twigs and branches of trees.

SUNLIGHT AND SHADOW IN INDOOR SPACES Aside from plants, there are other elements that contribute to nature as a whole. Sunlight and shadows are on the those set of elements that are looked at in this project.

Sun path/direction at 470C Upper Serangoon Crescent

OTHER ELEMENTS OF NATURE

The use of sunlight and shadows in the spaces

With the same concept of Kevin Low’s casting

emphasises the use of natural elements in the

shadows in mind, I tried playing with sunlight

space. Other elements such as these are also as

and shadows. The images on the left show how

important as having plants and greenery around

shadows are different with different types of

us.

plants, leaves, objects etc. The idea of using different plants allow the idea of uncertainty

Looking at Kevin Low’s Gardenshade shed de-

that comes with nature. The shadows also cre-

sign, he uses a translucent material as his ceil-

ate the presence of nature in the space without

ing to allow sunlight and shadow into his space.

actually having plants/nature in the space.

The fallen leaves from the surrounding trees fall onto the ceiling and cast shadows. By doing this, Low has allowed the presence of nature in the space even without having to even put actual plants in the space.

Gardenshade Shed by Kevin Low Kevin Low’s Gardenshade Shed uses the idea of shadows to include nature into the space. The leaves of the surrounding trees fall onto the translucent ceiling which casts shadow imagery on the ceiling and the floor. (More information can be found in the Case Study Booklet)

The images on the left shows the shadows cast-

In Seksan’s Ampersand, he uses full length win-

ed into the space when the sun is shining in

dows and open spaces to allow ample sunlight

that direction. Throughout the day, the sun

and wind into the space. Although he does not

moves, causing the shadows to ‘move’ as well.

put plants into his space, he uses the plants

These shadows fall onto the skin of the resi-

around him to allow this to happen. Following

dents in the space. The residents are then able

this, the HDB design also has full length win-

to witness the movement and flow of time in

dows to allow sunlight in the space. And with

nature and how nature moves and changes not

the lack of plants around the space, plants are

only throughout the day but even throughout

added into the interior spaces instead.

seasons when they grow, wither, and die.

Ampersand by Seksan, Malaysia Seksan’s Ampersand, similar to his 10@mont kiara, uses open spaces to allow sunlight and direct views to the outside. The full-length windows and open spaces allow ample sunlight and wind into the space. (More information can be found in the Case Study Booklet)

Overall, the whole aim is to bring in outside spaces into the indoor workspaces and to create a ‘work near home’ setting instead of the standard ‘work from home’. This allows residents to leave their units but be in their own blocks, near their homes. To further emphasise the idea, biophilia is brought in due to the various benefits of having biophilic design in indoor spaces. Biophilia also allows the whole idea of bridging the outside and inside and allow residents to experience the notion of coexisting with nature.

BIOPHILIC CO-EXSISTENCE IN THE GARDEN CITY bringing the outside in

PART III: PLAY

THE WAY WEPLAY/HOW DO WE PLAY?

This booklet ties up and ends the Project with part 3: “Play with Plants”. This project deals with the play side of “LIVE, WORK AND PLAY” and the idea of playing and having fun indoors while being around nature and plants. The definition of play in this case is by making the learning of plants and gardening fun.

Being stuck at home during the circuit breaker we had in Singapore, we had to enjoy our leisure time indoors within the four walls of our own homes. This caused us to not be able to enjoy the outdoors and the nature as often as we used to. In this part, I will be creating spaces where residents can play/relax within the HDB building itself. The ‘playing’ will be with plants as plants represent the outside.

CONTENTS i)

Design Thinking and Making Design Intention

Plants/Trees in Indoor Spaces ii)

Garden One : Non - flowering

iii)

Garden Two : Flowering

iv)

Garden three : Vegetables and Fruit

Garden Four : Rooftop Garden

DESIGN THINKING AND MAKING

DESIGN INTENTION

The intention is to integrate the idea of “outside” into indoor spaces. The design is mainly for the children living in the HDB to be able to have some fun while they are indoors. Adults are able to use the space as well, they can join the children in their activities or simply just take a break and rest or even garden. The intervention is having a nature trail within the HDB block by having several garden spaces on different stories of the HDB.

The nature trail will consist of four gardens, three in the residential stories and the final rooftop garden. The trail starts off with the first garden - nonflowering plants, then it continues to the second garden - flowering plants, the third garden - vegetables and fruit garden and it finally ends with the main roof garden space. The nature trail allows both children and adults to have fun going through the nature trail doing activities and learning about plants and nature.

For clearer and more in-depth analysis of plant types used in the project, refer to Plant Study booklet.

NATURE TRAIL

The nature trail consists of four gardens.

The first three gardens are located

The first garden is on the 6th story and

on the ends of each corridor in order

showcases non-flowering plants species.

to attain much sunlight. The differ-

The second garden is located on the 11th

ent gardens also have different activ-

floor and showcases flowering plants.

ities that the residents can indulge in and enjoy themselves. More details

The third garden is on the 13th floor and

on the gardens will be addressed in

showcases vegetables and fruit plants.

the following pages. All the three

The final garden is the rooftop garden,

special gardens include fun activi-

where there are different type of plants

ties for children and rest spaces for

types. Why these plant types and the

adults if they do not wish to engage

separation of these types? These three

in the activities.

plant types of the main plant types and separating them allows residents to learn more about the specific type in each of

The roof garden is inspired by the

the gardens.

rooftop of HDB carparks in Singapore, which will also be addressed in

The four gardens will have new plants growing every few months, this ensures that the gardens are not always the exact same but instead constantly changing and growing.

the following pages.

GARDEN ONE

The first garden is on the 6th floor and is a non-flowering plant garden. The non-flowering plant species has greater adaptability to the environment, no need a strict specification on the type of location needed.

The plants are able to adapt to the environments characteristics and grow well in the space, thus a higher floor for more wind and sun is not really required. The corridor space is 5m wide, 7m long and a height of 3m. The openness and location of the space allows just enough sunlight, wind, and rain to come in.

INFORMATION BOARDS

PLANTS IN THE SPACE

The information boards provide informa-

The walls are covered with metal mesh to

tion on the various plant types used in the

allows plant vines and creepers to grow.

space. Information like the plant species,

The ceiling is also covered with non-flow-

the amount of water and sunlight needed.

ering plants and covering the original

Though it is mentioned that non-flowering

bland white ceiling instead.

plants are able to adapt to the environment’s conditions they are in easily.

*For clearer and more in-depth analysis of plant types used in the project, refer

*For specific information of plant types showcased in the boards and used in the project, refer to Plant Study booklet.

to Plant Study booklet.

CASUAL SEATING BENCHES

ACTIVITIES

There are benches for casual seating and

This long strip below indicates a measur-

for those who wish to take a rest or even

ing tape that allows children and adults to

be outside their homes for a bit. These

measure themselves against the height of

mainly are for the parent/guardians who

creepers and vines that are being grown in

are tagging along with their children.

the space.

However, anyone is welcomed to take a rest at the benches in the garden.

The residents in the estate can also grow their own creepers on the mesh and compete in who’s creepers grows the fastest and tallest over a specific period of time. This allows residents to learn about the characteristics of creeper plants.

ACTIVITIES

PLANTS IN THE SPACE

Plant soil boxes are placed along the cor-

The railings have a metal meth that con-

ridor to allow residents themselves, both

nects the handrails to the railings on the

adults and children to take part in the gar-

floor above. These mesh will have creepers

dening process and the “growing’ of the

and vines growing and climbing up them.

space.

These then create a indicator of where this garden space starts and ends and also

Children can also take part in the activity

allow residents to spot the garden easily.

of growing their own greenhouse in a bottle or jar. The children will get to learn

*For clearer and more in-depth analysis

on the ecosystem alongside their parents

of plant types used in the project, refer

and how different plants grow in different

to Plant Study booklet.

conditions.

This plants along railing were inspired by this photo I came across of a HDB in Singapore. A Singaporean man grew climbing plants such as grapes and blue peas along his HDB corridor and creating a trail of cascading leaves, brightening up the HDB’s dull atmosphere. Inspired by this, I decided to use creepers (as mentioned)

Climbing plants along HDB corridor, Singapore

to create the “plants all around us” atmo-

Singaporean, Donald Tan, grows climbing plants along his HDB corridor with just 2 hours of sunlight each day. Using edible plants that suit his HDB setting, Donald has a wide variety of plants growing in his corridor space, not just these climbing plants.

sphere.

GARDEN TWO

The second garden is on the 11th floor and is a flowering plant garden. Flowering plants do not adapt as easily as non-flowering plant, thus requiring a specific amount of sunlight in the space. The space is located on the upper floors to then provide this ample amount of sunlight needed. The space is 6m long, 5m wide and 3m in height. Though located on the opposite side of the HDB from the other two gardens, the space is still widely open and allows plenty sunlight, wind, and rain to come in.

ACTIVITIES

INFORMATION BOARDS

The large rectangle surface below rep-

The information board(s) above the set of

resents a white canvas. Residents, both

flowers provide information on the various

children and adults are able to paint ac-

flowering plant types used in the space.

cording to the flowers they see in the

Information like the plant species, the

space or even paint flowers that are not

amount of water, and sunlight needed etc.

present in the space. This allows residents

Flowering plants require more sunlight

to learn the different color types that dif-

and attracts more insects and birds than

ferent flowers come in.

any other plant types.

Another activity is the dissection of flow-

*For specific information of plant types

ers. Both children and adults can learn

showcased in the boards and used in the

about the flowers and their parts through

project, refer to Plant Study booklet.

this activity.

Bougainvillea Climbing Plant

Portulaca grandiflora, Portulaca pilosa

Senecio sp., Talinum paniculatum

Portulaca oleracea, Bidens pilosa (Beggartick)

PLANTS IN THE SPACE

CASUAL SEATING BENCHES

A whole set of plant soil boxes are mounted

There are benches for casual seating and

on the wall to allow the growth of differ-

for those who wish to take a rest or even

ent types of flowers. Soil boxes are placed

be outside their homes for a bit. The

from top (more sunlight required) to bot-

seating area also has a layer of flowering

tom (less sunlight required). Residents can

creeper plants covering the walls, allow-

choose to grow their own or admire those

ing the area to feel more cooler for resi-

already grown.

dents to be in.

*For clearer and more in-depth analysis of plant types used in the project, refer to Plant Study booklet.

ACTIVITIES

PLANTS IN THE SPACE

Plant soil boxes are placed along the cor-

Plants are grown along the railing with the

ridor to allow residents themselves to take

same intention as the previous garden:

part in the gardening process. An activity

which was to create an indicator of where

that children and adults can participate

this garden space starts and ends and also

in is the painting of their own pots/vases.

allow residents to spot the garden easily.

This makes gardening much more fun and enjoyable. They can also place their own

*For clearer and more in-depth analysis

vases/pots of flowers in the space.

of plant types used in the project, refer to Plant Study booklet.

The children can also to press flowers and how to keep dried flowers intact and preserved for a long period of time.

The flowering plants are along the handrail and provide a type of “pathway” or “tunnel” leading them to a location. Using this idea of creating a pathway using plants : I decided to use the plants to show difference in the spaces instead, a normal corridor space and a corridor garden space.

Climbing flowering plants along walls

GARDEN THREE

The third garden is on the 13th floor and is a edible plant garden (vegetables and fruits). Most vegetable and fruit plant require a lot of sunlight. On the 13th floor, they will be able to receive direct and stronger sunlight compared to the lower floors.

The space is 5m wide, 7m long and a height of 3m, it’s on the exact same side as the first garden, just that it is on another floor. The openness and location of the space allows ample sunlight, wind, and rain to come in.

INFORMATION BOARDS

ACTIVITIES

The information boards provide informa-

The box on the left represents a table

tion on the various plant types used in

where residents can smell and taste the

the space. Information like the vegetable

vegetables produced on this garden, and

species, which can be grown indoors, and

also dissect the vegetables and have a look

which cannot. Some vegetable and fruits

inside to see where the seed grows from.

require deep soil amounts thus these plant types will not be able to grow in this space.

The children and adults can also learn about the type of flowers edible plant type product and identify which flower belongs to which edible plant.

PLANTS IN THE SPACE

CASUAL SEATING BENCHES

There is an urban farming station with the

There are benches for casual seating and

required UV lights etc. needed for growing

for those who wish to take a rest or even

edible plants. There are also wall mount-

be outside their homes for a bit. The seat-

ed soil boxes and hanging pots allowing

ing can also be for the parent or guardian

residents to contribute to the garden.

of the child to wait and watch over their children.

*For clearer and more in-depth analysis of plant types used in the project, refer to Plant Study booklet.

ACTIVITIES

PLANTS IN THE SPACE

Plant soil boxes are placed along the cor-

Potted plants are grown along the railing

ridor to allow residents themselves to take

with the same intention as the previous

part in the gardening process and watch

gardens: which was to create a indicator

the space grow into a garden. Residents

of where this garden space starts and ends

can also grow their own salads using the

and also allow residents to spot the garden

plant soil boxes.

easily.

Children can also bring in scraps of vegeta-

*For clearer and more in-depth analysis

bles and fruits from their homes and plant

of plant types used in the project, refer

in these soil boxes to see if they would

to Plant Study booklet.

grow. This allows children to be more personally involved in their own gardening.

This plants along railing were inspired by another photo I came across of a HDB in Singapore. A Singaporean resident had grown his very own herb garden. The garden made of hanging pots along the railings that lead to the escalator. This inspired my idea to have pots allows the handrail of railings. They are tightly secured and are of the inner side to avoid killer litter incidents.

Herb garden along HDB corrdior, Singapore Singapore resident, Balan Gopal, planted more than 200 herbs along his HDB corridor leading all the way up to his lift landing.

ROOFTOP GARDEN

The rooftop garden consists of all the types

The seating is done in the shape of a flow-

of plants from the three small gardens. The

er with a shelter over with trellis ceiling

rooftop garden will be on the roof of the

and climbing plants above. The climbing

right block and it will have seating spaces

plants cover the outline of the trellis in

and a small greenhouse for growing of veg-

order to avoid blocking the sun for the

etables by the residents themselves or the

plants in the seating spaces.

gardeners too. The rooftop garden was inspired by Keat This garden does not contain many activities

Hong Neighbourhood 8 Carpark’s roof gar-

for the residents, but instead is a space for

den in Choa Chu Kang. The garden has

residents to relax or exercise on their own

a seating area with trellises and also an

time.

abundance of plants with information boards on these plants, allowing residents to learn about the type of plant.

Keat Hong Neighbourhood 8 Carpark RoofGarden, Singapore The green filled rooftop gardens built at the housing projects help to ease the concreteness of Singapore’s urban housing and reduce heat gain. The space can also be converted for gardening and farming use, creating opportunities for community bonding and interaction among the residents (More information can be found in the Case Study Booklet)

INFORMATION BOARDS

PLANTS IN THE SPACE

The information boards provide informa-

There are small trees in the space and

tion on the various plant types used in the

also abudunce of plant species. The plants

space. Information like the plant species,

are along the seating and also on the ceil-

the amount of water, sunlight needed

ing shelter. The greenhouse also provides

and type of insects the plants repel and

farming and gorwing of plants for the resi-

attract. The information boards will be

dents to engage in. The plants in the space

placed everywhere around the space and

will be maintaned by the HDB gardeners.

near the plants they are referring to. *For clearer and more in-depth analysis of plant types used in the project, refer to Plant Study booklet.

ACTIVIITIES

CASUAL SEATING BENCHES

The greenhouse allows the growing of var-

There are benches for casual seating and

ious plants. Residents can bond together

for those who wish to take a rest or even

as a community while gardening or in the

be outside their homes for a bit. The seat-

event of no residents being able to plant

ing spaces also have plants all around

or farm, the HDB gardeners will take care

them, allowing them to feel like they’re

and help with the planting.

outdoors.

Overall, the whole aim is to bring in outside spaces indoors and to create a space where residents can relax and spent time being around nature while indoors. This allows residents to leave their units but be in their own blocks, near their homes. To further emphasise the idea, biophilia is brought in due to the various benefits of having biophilic design in indoor spaces. Biophilia also allows the whole idea of bridging the outside and inside and allow residents to experience the notion of coexisting with nature.