A GREEN & LIVEABLE CITY

A GREEN & LIVEABLE CITY

SINGAPORE URBAN DESIGN GUIDEBOOK
Published by Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA)

Copyright © 2023 URA

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in

any form or means - graphic, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying,
recording, taping or information storage and retrieval systems - without the prior
written permission or the publisher.

ISBN 978-981-18-8192-0 (Digital)

Written by:
Nicholas Li

Edited by:
Fun Siew Leng
Yap Lay Bee

Illustrations by:
Andrew Teo
Chan Huiyuan
Chan Junhao
Chan Yushen
Chew Shanwei
Claire Wong
Clifford Auyong
Keith Law
Lim Xiao Wei

Layout by:
Janet Er
Mohamad Iswadi
Muhammad Hairul
Wang Youquan

Printed by:
Oxford Graphic Printers Pte Ltd

Most of the photographs featured in this publication were taken before early 2022.
Various reflections and insights from individuals and stakeholders are adapted
from past interviews carried out by URA.

Printed in Singapore
 1

A GREEN & LIVEABLE CITY

SINGAPORE URBAN DESIGN GUIDEBOOK
2 3

PREFACE
REVEALING THE HAND OF URBAN DESIGN IN SHAPING A CITY IN NATURE

This second book in the Urban Design Guidebook By working closely with our agency partners, standards to even more areas in Singapore, and
series details URA’s strategies in shaping a URA has developed guidelines and policies introducing guidelines to enhance the ecological
Green and Liveable City. The garden city vision to ensure that greenery is integrated into capital of developments. This guidebook is
was introduced by then Prime Minister Lee developments and the wider public realm. being launched at an opportune time to recap
Kuan Yew in 1967 to transform Singapore into Recognising that creation of greenery is the various initiatives under LUSH that promote
a city with lush greenery to create a clean not enough, URA works with NParks and urban greenery, and outline new strategies that
environment for better living. This resulted in researchers to understand how urban greenery promote sustainability such as passive cooling
over 55,000 trees planted around Singapore by supports ecological outcomes and ecosystem in developments.​
1970, with the Parks and Trees Act enacted in resilience in the city, updating our LUSH
1975 to require all developers including HDB and (Landscaping for Urban Spaces and High-rises) The achievements in the greening of Singapore
JTC to set aside spaces for trees and greenery. policy over the years to reflect these findings.​ would not have been possible without support
Today, roadside trees and green buffers are and collaboration of the architecture and
ubiquitous features in our cityscape. In addition, Greenery is a key priority in urban design landscape design fraternity, developers and
many buildings feature skyrise greenery in the in Singapore. It is one of the 9 urban design building owners as well as the landscape
form of sky terraces and roof gardens. ​ elements that form the toolkit for URA’s urban maintenance industry. Their contributions
designers that drives URA’s urban design work. have also been profiled in this series of
This book explains the role urban design plays URA was an early promoter of greenery in guidebooks, to inspire us with their creativity
in coordinating the overall outcome, helping buildings before it became a priority around the ​ and commitment to integrative architecture and
Singapore to transition into its stated ambition world – incentivising the creation of sky landscape design.
to become a City in Nature*.​ terraces, planter boxes and covered
communal ground gardens since the 1990s,
Urban design governs the built environment, before launching the LUSH (Landscaping for
covering both buildings and the spaces between Urban Spaces and High-rises) policy in 2009
them, including streetscapes, public spaces and to consolidate these guidelines and make
landscapes. It therefore plays a significant role landscape replacement mandatory in key areas.​
in the overall effort to restore nature into the Fun Siew Leng
urban environment, to create a more liveable, LUSH is now into its fourth edition, expanding Chief Urban Designer,
sustainable and climate-resilient Singapore. ​ its scope to extend landscape replacement Urban Redevelopment Authority

Source: Finbarr Fallon

*Over the years, the Garden City vision has evolved into
“City in a Garden”(2011) and now “City in Nature” (2020)
to reflect growing efforts to integrate nature into the
city and meet sustainable development goals under the
Singapore Green Plan 2030.
4 5

CONTENTS Introduction
Singapore’s Urban Design Framework 7
How do we make the city green and liveable? 15

1 Greenery at the urban-scale

1.1 Parks & Open Spaces
1.2 Green & Blue Networks
1.3 Streetscape Greenery
17
32
51
1.4 Landscaped Waterways 65

2 Greenery at the development-scale

2.1 LUSH & Landscape Replacement
2.2 Sky Terraces
2.3 Green Roofs
79
90
97
2.4 Communal Planters 103
2.5 Green Walls 110
2.6 Covered Communal Ground Gardens 116

3 Sustainability
3.1 Sustainability

The way forward

122

From Garden City to City in Nature 134

6 7

How to read this publication About this series

Each chapter covers a Online links to key policies
different Urban Design topic and guidelines
Behind the many places that are loved and
cherished across Singapore are careful and
concerted efforts and strategies to shape them,
sometimes hidden from plain sight. This series
on urban design aims to demystify the work of
urban designers and illuminate the impact of Different books are planned within the Urban
Each chapter explains 3-4 key their work in shaping Singapore.
considerations around each Design Guidebook series to cover the range of
topic / policy issues urban design looks at in the city:
It will provide insight into URA’s planning and
urban design policies, explaining the rationale
and interpretation of various guidelines through
3D visualisation. It also provides best practice DISTINCTIVE & DELIGHTFUL
guides on the application of these guidelines, This book looks at the urban design strategies
highlighting successful examples by architects, used to enhance the legibility and imageability
developers and government agencies in of the city’s districts and urban form to make
shaping urban outcomes. Singapore distinctive and delightful. It also
looks at placemaking strategies that enhance
Through a curated selection of projects and the “sense of place” and result in endearing

Case Study on successful

initiatives, this series will unpack the insights, places that people are emotionally connected
to.
GREEN & LIVEABLE
Interviews with planners, urban designers innovations, learning points and outcomes This book looks at the ways greenery is
built examples and industry practitioners
of urban design efforts that have shaped the integrated into the urban fabric at various
physical environment of Singapore. scales to enhance the liveability of the city,
CONNECTED & HEALTHY covering planning and urban design efforts to
Urban design plays a key role in shaping help Singapore transition from being a “Garden
effective walking networks that are functional City” to a “City in Nature”.
and enjoyable in the city. This book looks at
the various scales of connectivity in the city
and how comprehensive walking and cycling
networks are realised through different
FROM PLANS TO REALITY
Realising urban design outcomes requires
mechanisms. careful navigation of complex development
frameworks and processes. This book
Online links to longer examines how good urban design is realised
versions of interviews through guidelines, incentives, promotion and
education efforts, with close collaboration
between public and private sector entities.
8 9

How is urban design URA’s urban design

realised in Singapore? framework
Urban design entails the complex act of bringing together URA’s approach to Urban Design can be summed
many elements of the built environment to create a coherent Distinctive & up in the diagram below:
and cohesive whole, such that the city is made more Urban Design Plans Delightful
functional, attractive and liveable.​
implemented through: Tropicality Identity
Contextual: Urban design always starts by
having a thorough understanding of the unique
URA uses three main levers to realise urban design outcomes demands of each site, resulting in proposals
across Singapore:​ and interventions that respect and enhance the
existing physical, social and economic context.​
Development Control Sustainability Sense of Place
Development and building works are regulated through Contextual Human-centric: Urban design focuses on
the Development Control arm of the URA. As the planning Development Government Infrastructure people – shaping environments that are safe
authority in charge of planning and development approvals, Control Land Sales by and comfortable to be in and to move around to
URA is able to ensure that urban design guidelines and Functions Programme Government Resilience Imageability conduct daily work and social life. ​
conditions are adhered to before planning permission is
granted for development and building works. This means Holistic Implement-ability: Implement-ability: This
that every time new buildings are built or buildings undergo is what separates plans from reality. Urban
redevelopment and major alterations works, they are guided Well-being Legibility design guidelines are grounded in realities like
by a set of urban design guidelines relevant to their site • Urban design • Land sales • Government Implement- Human- development costs, timing and market conditions,
context.​ Guidelines tender investment often requiring private sector participation. ​
ability Centric
Sale of Sites
documents infrastructure
It is also part and parcel of urban design work to
Secondly, URA is also the land sales agent for the government • Planning Green & Connected develop procurement mechanisms and incentives
• Concept & Approaches
and is therefore able to include urban design guidelines as incentives Liveable & Healthy to encourage good design outcomes.​
part of the tender conditions issued for the sale of sites, and Price Tenders
ensure that they are complied with as part of the development
• Regulatory Outcomes
approval process. In addition, URA may convene a Design
Advisory Panel to guide the design of strategic developments function • Design
Competitions Inclusivity Accessibilty
in the city.​

Infrastructure Integration Efficiency

Thirdly, where necessary, URA also implements works to
enhance the city, such as environmental improvement works
at key streets and public spaces. These works help to improve
the image of the city or create conditions for developments to
achieve better design outcomes. These works help to improve
the image of the city or create conditions for developments to
achieve better design outcomes.
10 11

The guiding plans for

urban design in Singapore
Over the years, URA has developed several key plans
which serve as the guiding framework for its urban
design work.

District Character Plan Parks and Waterbodies Plan Building Height Plan Landmark and Gateway Plan Activity Generating Uses Plan Night Lighting Master Plan
This plan outlines the various districts in the This plan maps out where existing and Certain sites or districts are subject to building This plan identifies strategic sites that mark This plan identifies where activity generating This plan identifies areas where there are
Central Area which are distinctive due to their future green spaces and open spaces are height controls to shape legibility in the urban key locations and approaches in the city where uses (AGU) such as shops and restaurants are requirements and guidelines for external
unique positioning, land use, built form and envisioned, and how they will be connected form. For example, building heights may be landmarks and gateway developments are required along the 1st storey of developments building lighting, to contribute to the character
history. Detailed urban design guidelines have by comprehensive walking and cycling links. guided to relate to natural features like hills and desired, to strengthen sense of orientation and to enliven key activity corridors in the city, of each district.
been developed for each district to enhance Developments are required to contribute to waterways to avoid overshadowing them. Higher structure for the urban fabric. These sites are such as along pedestrian malls and waterfront
their characters and identities. the network of parks and open spaces as heights may be stipulated around transport subject to special urban design guidelines and promenades.
part of redevelopment or major additions and nodes to optimise development density around design evaluation through different mechanisms
alterations work. transit. such as Design Advisory Panels or Concept
Price Tenders.
12 13

Explaining the urban

design elements
The 9 urban design elements were developed
as a toolkit for URA’s urban designers to better
identify and organise the components of the built Urban Pattern Open Space Greenery
environment for intervention and guidance.​ Urban pattern refers to the way of organising Open spaces provide spatial relief in the Greenery became a key element of urban
and structuring the city in a legible and city and are important for the well-being design when the idea of marrying greenery
The initial list started with 7 elements but identifiable way – by providing a structure to of its inhabitants. Open spaces are usually into the built environment was introduced
expanded to include Nightlighting and Greenery distribute and place the different functions and comprehensively planned as a network through the Landscaping for Urban Spaces
to reflect the importance of these aspects as elements of the city. of spaces in conjunction with pedestrian and High-rises (LUSH) programme, which
URA developed plans and policies around them networks, through city‑scale urban design required developments to replace
in later years.​ Building Form plans such as the Parks and Waterbodies
Building form refers to the three-dimensional Plan. Roofscape
The elements form the basis of urban design expression of development in the city, Roofs are considered to be the ‘fifth’ elevation
guidelines which have been developed for manifesting in different building typologies. Streetscape of buildings that need to be designed to
various areas around Singapore Detailed guidelines ensure that building forms Streetscapes are important components of complement the overall building form,
are compatible with their context, for example the public realm where people interact and with the potential to contribute to district
encouraging party-walled developments versus experience the city. More than just residual character. Increasingly, roof spaces are also
standalone towers, or terraced houses versus space between buildings and vehicular encouraged to be designed as communal
bungalows.​ roads, well-designed streetscapes have the spaces for public enjoyment.
potential to contribute to the vibrancy and
Pedestrian Network walkability of urban areas. Vehicular Access
These refer to the network of pedestrian Vehicular access refers to the management
walkways which improves the walkability of Nightlighting of vehicular ingress/egress and service
an urban area. A comprehensive pedestrian ​Nightlighting contributes to district vibrancy access points of developments to minimise
network encourages seamless movement and supports a night economy for Singapore. disruptions to pedestrian movement and
between transportation nodes, open spaces It focuses on the management of the amount pedestrian-vehicular conflict, which are key
and points of interest. and quality of lighting on buildings and in strategies in shaping a more walkable and
public spaces, as well as prevention of glare liveable city.
and light pollution.

Urban Design Guidelines

Urban design guidelines have been published for different
areas in Singapore such as Central Area districts and the Source:
Regional Centres. Building Form: Teo Zi Tong
Open Space: NParks
Greenery: Patrick Bingham-Hall
They can be found at this link. Nightlighting: Patrick Bingham-Hall
14 15

How do we make the

city green and liveable?
Scales of Implementation Quality and Sustainability
By taking a systematic approach of creating Singapore’s Green and Blue assets are also At the scale of individual developments, skyrise
greenery at different scales in the city, managed as integrated systems to be self- greenery is also being harnessed as a tool to
Singapore has managed to preserve and expand sustaining and resilient. This is also referred to cool ambient temperature, reduce​stormwater
its area of green cover to 46.5% 1, one of the as an urban systems approach.​ runoff and filter air pollutants. Green Plot Ratio
highest amongst comparable cities in the world.​ was introduced in LUSH to ensure higher density
To ensure that the Nature Reserves can function and quality of planting. URA also actively reviews
At the macro level, major areas of greenery and as healthy repositories of biodiversity gene landscaping proposals to ensure viability of
biodiversity are set aside as Nature Reserves. pools, nature corridors are also identified plant growth and optimal layouts for public
They act as green lungs and provide ecosystem between them to allow for ecological access to greenery.​
services like clean air and water. Next, parks connectivity with surrounding habitats. Nature
and open spaces are created at different scales Parks are also established around them to These efforts ensure that there is quality,
to serve as green relief and recreational spaces buffer from developments and human activity. ​ not just quantity, of green and blue assets in
in the city. Park connectors and other green Singapore.​
Islandwide Network
Nature Reserves & Areas
links are created to connect them together. Nature Ways are being implemented along ​
Regional Parks Come 2030, every household will be within a our roads to facilitate movements of birds and By taking an urban systems approach,
Nature Corridors 10-minute walk to a park 2.​ butterflies between habitats. These strategies Singapore’s green and blue resources can be
Park Connectors help strengthen Singapore’s overall ecological carefully managed to ensure that they enhance
Singapore’s roadways are also a major resilience and biodiversity value.​ liveability and sustainability in the long run.​
contributor of greenery, with mandatory tree
planting within the road space. Landscaping To tackle the challenges of climate change, In this guidebook on shaping a Green and
is also used to provide shade and shape the Singapore is beefing up its network of parks and Liveable City, we delve into how greenery is
character of roads and streets. Waterways are open spaces to enhance cooling of the city, with created at various scales in the city, from the
carefully designed to achieve unique blending of wind corridors introduced in major development urban scale to development level, and explore
green and blue outcomes. ​ areas to facilitate passive cooling of buildings the art and science behind how they are shaped
and public spaces.​ to bring value to peoples’ daily lives.​​
District Level At the development scale, Green Buffer
Town – Neighbourhood Parks
Precinct Greens
planting around the boundary contributes to Agencies and developers are adopting biophilic
Streetscape Greenery greenery provision. In addition, greenery is design approaches, to plan and design
Landscaped Waterways also incorporated into buildings in the form townships and buildings that integrate with
of Sky Terraces, Roof Gardens, Green Walls, nature. For example, bioswales and rain gardens
Development Level etc, which were introduced via guidelines and help with storm water management, while bird
Landscape Replacement Areas, e.g.:
Sky Terraces
incentives over the years. These policies were sanctuaries and butterfly gardens help with
Green Roofs consolidated into LUSH (Landscaping for Urban habitat creation, among others. ​
Planters and Greenwalls Spaces and High Rises) in 2009, which also
Covered Communal Ground Gardens
introduced mandatory landscape replacement
requirements.​
16 17

Why are they needed in the

urban fabric?

1.1
1.1.1: Enhance the liveability
of the city
General benefits for liveability The challenge of creating space for
Parks and open spaces are crucial in a highly greenery
urbanised city as they provide relief and enhance Singapore has the challenge of fitting in the
the well-being of its inhabitants. Interaction with functions of a nation in an area typically suited
greenery is proven by research to have cognitive to a small city (being ten times smaller than
and physiological benefits.
PARKS & OPEN London), having to carve out space for ports,
military bases, reservoirs in addition to space for

SPACES They act as gathering spaces in the city, for

activities and chance encounters, and support
working, living, learning and recreation without
any hinterland. This makes setting aside land for
community bonding. Social interaction is also greenery all the more challenging.
Seen from the sky, parks and open spaces important for the elderly to improve mobility and
form a green tapestry in the urban fabric prevent cognitive decline. Yet, through careful planning, Singapore has
providing relief and breathing spaces managed to increase the amount of green cover
for the city. They have been planned and They are also important for ambient heat
in the city from 35.7% to 46.5% between 1986 to
created strategically around Singapore to regulation in the city. There is increasing
2007 1.
ensure good accessibility for all. evidence that even small pockets of greenery
have cooling effects on their surroundings 3.
This is done through comprehensive planning
This makes them critical tools in the fight
against climate change and urban heat island and careful design, beginning from when plans
effects. are first drawn up for new development areas to
when planting is introduced and maintained in
individual developments.

1.0 Greenery at the urban scale

This first part of the book will look at how
greenery is shaped and created at the macro-
scale. From setting aside space for parks and
open spaces to shaping the green and blue
networks that connect them, with detailed look at
streetscape greenery and waterway treatment.

Source: NParks
18 19

How are parks and open space After assessing the existing context and
created in Singapore? Acces s ibility by
Accessibility geographical dis
by geographical tance (100m
distance (100mbands )
bands) S core byScore
dis tance and park and
by distance areapark
(us ing 40m
area hexagons
(using 40m )hexagons) spatial availability, the locations where
new parks and open spaces are required
1.1.2: Create park spaces 10 are then stipulated in the Parks and
Waterbodies plan, which is one of the
minutes from every household Special and Detailed Control Plans of the
Master Plan. This provides clarity and a
When developing new and existing areas of
framework for the realisation of these
the city, parks and open spaces are located
green spaces, by government agencies
strategically within the urban fabric for good
and developers.
accessibility, ensuring they are well-distributed
and within walking distance from every
As the main government land sales
household.
agent, URA guides the implementation
of new parks and open spaces through
On a macro level, URA’s planners ensure there Park coverage by E uclidean dis tance (left) and park s core (dis tance + park area) (right)
tender requirements of Government
is good provision of park spaces islandwide,
400m geographical dis tance 400m dis tance (us ing actual w alking paths ) Land Sale Sites.
striving to set aside at least 0.8 hectares of Park coverage by Euclidean distance (left) and park score (distance + park area) (right)
green space (about the size of one Raffles Place
Through its development control
Park) for every one thousand people by 2030. 400m geographical distance 400m distance (using actual walking paths)
function, URA also provides guidance
Acces s ibility by geographical dis tance (100m bands ) S core by dis tance and park area (us ing 40m hexagons )
to land owners to realise new parks
Data analytics is used to establish the optimal
and open spaces as part of major
level of coverage based on the size and
redevelopment proposals.
proximity of parks around the island. A method
known as Network Analysis is used to calculate
proximity factors based on actual walking
distances for more accurate results.

Netw ork Analys is us ing actual w alking paths gives more accurate proximity as s es s ment than us ing dis tance “ as
the crow flies ”
Park coverage by E uclidean dis tance (left) and park s core (dis tance + park area) (right)

400m geographical dis tance 400m dis tance (us ing actual w alking paths )

The Parks and Waterbodies plan – green areas

Network Analysis using actual walking paths gives more accurate proximity assessment than and red dots denote existing and planned
using distance “as the crow flies” parks and public spaces respectively
20 21

Interim Parks are sometimes located on

land without assigned land uses or only
needed for development in the long term
Admiralty Park & Woodlands Waterfront Park
These regional parks are more than 18ha
combined and provide access to the
1.1.3: Ensure a variety of park Woodlands waterfront

typologies
To meet the diversity of recreational and
social needs of the city, URA and NParks have State Land without assigned
developed a hierarchy of parks that perform a long term land use is also put
variety of functions to serve the city at different to interim community use
scales, from regional parks to compact city
parks and neighborhood greens.

Source: STB
Regional Parks Neigbourhood Parks
At the larger end of the spectrum, regional parks serve the major regions of the island. Their wide range of serving precincts around
facilities help provide for recreational needs at a national level the larger estate

Woodlands
Neigbourhood Town Parkserving
Parks East precincts
A 6.0ha town
around park created
the larger estate on a 30m
hill, taking advantage of good views and
greenery to cater to the recreational
needs of township residents.
Source: HDB

Source: STB
Town Parks Neighbourhood Parks City Parks (found in Central Area)
Next, major parks are created to serve residents at the Smaller community parks are provided in neighbourhoods City parks comprise a variety of green spaces
town level, e.g. Toa Payoh Town Park, Jurong Park, Pasir and precincts, serving local communities found in the Central Area, some of which are This diagram shows the distribution
Ris Town Park, Ang Mo Kio Town Garden West. historic, e.g. Fort Canning, or created to provide of various park typologies in a typical
public spaces to serve new areas, e.g. Merlion Park housing town like Woodlands
22 23

1.1.4: Create memorable

experiences and sense of place
URA’s planners take advantage of geography, Park planners and designers take cues from
topography and the presence of water to create context and history to shape identity and
dramatic, memorable park spaces around create a “sense of place”. Historic structures

Source: NParks
the island. This approach also maximises the like gates, follies, fountains can be preserved,

Source: Keith
functional and aesthetic values of existing sometimes strategically relocated, to act as
forests, hills and waterbodies in the city. focal points in parks and open spaces.

Major regional parks like Jurong Lake Gardens Another technique in the urban designer’s Esplanade Park Telok Ayer Green
and Gardens by the Bay were created around repertoire is the creation or protection of Created in 1922, this former sea fronting park is home The 0.5ha pocket park sandwiched between
newly created waterbodies in the city, while to monuments such as the Cenotaph and Lim Bo shophouses has sculptures of a Chinese lantern
significant views and vistas that enhance the procession and Indian milk trader to recall the
parks like the Southern Ridges were created by Seng memorial. The Tan Kim Seng fountain was also
park experience. Framing views of landscape

Source: NParks
relocated here in 1925 from Fullerton Square when history of Telok Ayer as the landing point for
connecting the peaks of adjacent hills. Parks and elements was a technique of ‘picturesque’ the Fullerton Building was constructed immigrants in the 1800s
publicly accessible Nature Areas have also been English gardens in the 1800s and widely
created around the Central Catchment Nature employed in the Botanic Gardens 4.
Reserve, to allow people to come close to lush
rainforests with rich biodiversity. Many other parks are formed around major
view corridors in the city, such as Zhongshan
Park – created to open up views of the Sun Yat
Sen Memorial Hall from Balestier Road. The
trees around Empress Lawn were relocated in
2015 to reestablish views from Anderson Bridge
towards Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall.

Gardens by the Bay Jurong Lake Gardens

A series of three gardens spread 90ha gardens set around Jurong
over 101ha and three sides of Marina Lake, with “destination islands” in a
Channel to form the centrepiece of garden setting. The lake was formed
Marina Bay, giving it its “waterfront by the damming of Sungei Jurong View corridor across Empress Lawn towards Victoria View corridor across Zhongshan Park to the Sun Yat Sen
city in a garden” identity in the 60s Theatre and Concert Hall and Anderson Bridge Nanyang Memorial Hall
24 25

1.1.5: Take an integrated CONCEPTS EXPLAINED

urban systems approach

Source: Priyadarsini Rajagopalan et al

URA takes an optimisation approach to planning, How do parks and open
ensuring that even parks and open spaces are
multi-functional in use. These large areas of
greenery contribute to the healthy functioning of
spaces cool down the city?

Source: PUB
Singapore’s urban systems like greenery, water
and even energy. Scientific research has shown that green Green spaces in the city also combat urban
spaces and vegetation help to cool the city heat island (UHI) effects, by reducing the
through the process of evapotranspiration: amount of urban surfaces that trap heat
Bishan-AMK Park was redesigned with a floodplain in The 1.5MWp floating solar PV systems at Bedok Reservoir trees and plants consume heat during during the day. In 2006, research by Asst Urban heat island map of Singapore
2012 that has become a popular place to wade into a and Lower Seletar reservoir collectively generates enough
photosynthesis, and provide cooling when Prof Winston Chow and Prof Matthias Roth
river and come close to flora and fauna energy to power 800 four-room HDB flats annually
water evaporates from their surfaces. from NUS reported that UHI in Singapore
can be as high as 7 degrees Celsius 7.
Research from Richards, Fung, Belcher and
Edwards (2020) 5, on the “Differential air Reports emerged in 2019 from the
temperature cooling performance of urban Meteorological Service Singapore that
Green urban system Water urban system Energy urban system vegetation types in the tropics”, showed Singapore has been heating up twice as fast
Large areas of greenery contribute ecosystem Parks and open spaces can play a role in Today, even reservoirs are being fitted with that green areas had a measurable cooling as the rest of the world, at 0.25 degrees
services like fresh air and clean water, urban hydrology, combining infrastructure like floating photovoltaic cells to generate energy. effect in the city, with secondary forest celsius per decade 8. With high humidity
sustaining the urban water cycle through detention ponds and pumping stations with having the greatest cooling effect while levels, such temperature increases can
evaporation and precipitation. recreational uses, through clever design. Floating solar PV systems perform better than increasing the cover of managed trees also cause heat-related body stress and affect
a typical rooftop solar PV system in Singapore, significantly reduced temperatures. liveability in the city.
Singapore has set aside 4 Nature Reserves For example, Marina Barrage was designed with primarily due to the cooler temperatures of the Cooler patches of green are observed around park bodies
and 20 Nature Areas, which protect our core a roof garden that concealed a pumping station reservoir environment. Additionally, the solar A NUS study in 2006 by Chen, Wong, on the This makes our efforts to provide green like Fort Canning Hill and Gardens by the Bay (circled)
biodiversity. below, and has become a popular spot for kite panels, being out in the open waters, do not “Thermal Benefits of City Parks” 6 studied spaces around Singapore even more critical
flying and watching fireworks at Marina Bay. experience shade from any nearby buildings or Clementi Woods and Bukit Batok Nature as we combat climate change.
By making them accessible with trails and structures, which further enhances their ability Park, and suggested that up to a 1.3 degrees
observation points, park visitors can learn about to maximise solar energy generation.

Source: Cundall
Source: Cundall
cooling effect can be measured within a
unique indigenous ecosystems (like lowland 50m cooling radius of the park.
dipterocarp forests, freshwater swamps, sea
grass meadows, etc) and find respite from the
city – discovering jungles and swamps in the
This infra-red heat mapping of Oasia Hotel Downtown
heart of Singapore. reveals the cooling effect of green surfaces
26 27
Promontory and Padang and Fort Canning Hill
Gardens by the Bay Lawn@Marina Bay Hong Lim Park Esplanade Park

The Lawn@Marina Bay The Promontory Getting the private sector involved
The Lawn is a linear open space extending A promontory extends out into Marina Developers play a part in building up the
inland from the promontory, about 140m Bay as part of the necklace of attractions green and open space network. Within
in length and 50m wide, with commanding along the waterfront. It was originally land parcels sold under the Government
views of the bay. It accommodates up to conceptualised as part of I M Pei’s Land Sales programme, URA has included
3,000 people and is popular for concerts masterplan for a pair of landmark towers requirements for developers to create
and events such as the Prudential Marina in Marina Bay in the 1980s. The 1.6ha space “city-rooms” as an extension of the public
Bay Carnival. is one of the many attractions around the space network, where people can gather
bay and is used in the interim as a site for and enjoy activities.
events and festivals.

Green Heart - Marina One

The Marina One development has created a
“green valley” in response to the “city-room”
requirement. The lushly planted green open
space terraces resemble cascading paddy
fields or a green tornado depending on how
CASE STUDY The Gardens by the Bay
some visitors describe it.
At the heart of Marina Bay lies the 101ha MBFC ad
e
Parks and open spaces are not planned Ground en
The parks and open as standalone features in the city, but
Gardens by the Bay, sprawling over three
sides of the Marina Channel. This park
Plaza
yP
ro
m
The developer was also guided to create
Lawn @ a a pedestrian mall connecting the city-
spaces network at
B
often integrated into larger green and blue Marina in
a
was configured to take advantage of Bay ar room towards the Central Linear Park and
networks that help to maximise people’s M

Marina Bay generous waterfront spaces as well as Cube @ future Marina Bay Station Park through the
encounters with nature in their daily lives. Asia
create extensive park frontages for the Square building.
The various green spaces of Marina developments around the district.
Utilising a network of open and sheltered
City Rooms Bay are no exception, comprising major
The Bay South Gardens were completed Central walkways, through-block links and
City Rooms are sheltered public spaces within public greens and intimate “city rooms” Linear
developments, or Privately-owned Public Spaces (POPS). in 2012 after a Design Competition that pedestrian malls, URA ensures that the
They may be excluded from GFA computation under the within developments, linked together Green
attracted 70 entries from 170 firms from Marina One parks and open spaces of districts like
POPS scheme if they are large enough – at least 1sqm by a convenient network of walkways,
for every 50sqm of total development GFA, or 25% of the 24 countries. The Bay East Gardens will
Green Heart Marina Bay are well-connected as a
pedestrian malls, through block links and
building footprint, whichever is lower.
Future Marina Bay network.
cycling paths, to ensure easy accessibility host the Founders’ Memorial targeted to be Station Park
Find out more about the POPS guidelines at this link.
for residents and workers in Marina Bay. completed in 2027.
Bay South
Gardens
 28 29

Shaping the Gardens

by the Bay
Focus on greenery from the beginning A waterfront city in a garden Design competition Integrating developments with the gardens
The Gardens by the Bay were the culmination Around the turn of the millennium, cities around An international design competition was Located between the gardens and the Singapore
of plans to make Marina Bay a one-of-a-kind the world began undertaking major regeneration organised in 2006 to generate ideas for a world Straits, a precinct called Marina South is being
“Waterfront City in a Garden”, starting from projects to compete for investors, talent and class gardens. developed as an attractive urban mixed-use
studies by Kenzo Tange and I M Pei in the 1980s. visitors. To set Singapore apart from the residential neighbourhood with pleasant walking
competition, URA and the agencies positioned Grant Associate’s winning design for Bay South streets. The pedestrian network will connect
Reclamation of Marina Bay began in 1971 and Marina Bay as a one-of-a-kind “Waterfront City Gardens was inspired by the geometry of the seamlessly with the gardens through elevated
masterplan studies for the reclaimed area in a Garden”, capitalising on the tropical climate orchid. They focused on creating a Supertree links, while shaded walkways and cycling paths
began shortly after. In 1981, URA commissioned and waterfront setting of the area. grove at the heart of the Gardens, which would will enable residents to get around easily.
Kenzo Tange and I M Pei to explore rise 25-50m to break the flatness of the site.
development concepts for Marina Bay. They The decision was taken to set aside 101ha of The first developments will soon rise at Marina
each proposed different reclamation profiles land for the gardens, a massive investment The Supertrees instantly became iconic South. New buildings shall be oriented and
and masterplan concepts as part of their in greenery to allow the gardens to compete additions to the Marina Bay skyline, stepped in height to create wind corridors and
studies. in scale with Central Park in New York City transforming nightly as part of an exuberant maximise views of the gardens. Buildings will be
and Hyde Park in London. The gardens light show. They functioned as vertical gardens required to provide sky terraces, roof gardens
I M Pei’s plan for a grid-like urban structure and waterfronts helped extend a sense of (with more than 200 plant species embedded and communal planters in line with the LUSH
was eventually adopted. His plan emphasized ‘islandness’ to the core of the city centre, where in the structure) as well as pipes to purge hot policy. (“Landscaping for Urban Spaces and
the provision of greenery, proposed a large city people could live, work and play near the water, air from the conservatories. Highrises” – a topic which will be covered later
park in the Marina South area and created a surrounded by lush greenery. in this book). This will ensure that the greenery
continuous waterfront promenade around of the gardens extends visually and physically
the bay. into the precinct.

Sustainability at the heart of the gardens

In line with the vision for Marina Bay to be Biomass is collected and burnt to create power,
sustainable and liveable, the carbon emissions supplemented by solar energy in the Supertrees
from cooling the buildings within the Gardens which help power the nightly light shows.

Grant Associates
aimed to not exceed those of typical office
buildings in Singapore.

Source:
To achieve this, the conservatories and gardens
were designed to share energy and water
processes symbiotically. Hot air from the
conservatories is purged through the Supertrees
Find out more about the sustainability initiatives in
to drive ventilation and create breezes at ground Gardens by the Bay – articulated by the environmental
level, while rainwater is collected throughout and sustainable design consultant, Atelier Ten here.
Masterplans for Marina Bay: left by I M Pei and right by Kenzo Tange Design sketches for Bay South Gardens the gardens to irrigate the conservatory. Planned Marina South District next to Bay South Gardens
3030CHAPTER
CHAPTER
1 PARKS
1 PARKS
ANDAND
OPEN
OPEN
SPACES
SPACES | GARDENS BY THE BAY 31

BEHIND THE SCENES All these design moves were carefully staged
and calibrated to ensure that various pieces
of the Marina Bay puzzle would come together
Assembling the puzzle to form a coherent whole, orchestrating a

of green spaces at blending of green and blue at the heart of URA’s

plans.
Marina Bay Then Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew was
very involved in the plans and development
Linda Lui and Andrew David Fassam oversaw of Marina Bay. What guidance did he give to
the planning and urban design of Marina Bay the team in shaping the Marina Bay we know
during the early 2000s. They share more on the today?
planning and urban design considerations that
took place behind the scenes. Linda: It is widely publicised that Mr Lee Kuan
Yew was responsible for challenging the
What led to the decision to set aside a large government agencies to dam up the Marina
tract of land for a waterfront park right in the Channel and create Marina Reservoir. This has
heart of Marina Bay? had a pivotal part in the place making of Marina
Greenery and open spaces set aside in Marina Bay
Bay as it resulted in the phasing out of the
Andrew: The decision to set aside almost 101 ferry and lighter activities at Collyer Quay and
hectares of prime waterfront reclaimed land What were some of the key considerations in Overall, the gardens retained a predominantly allowed for the bay to be not just converted into
for the Gardens by the Bay was a bold one, the shaping of the Gardens? east-west alignment to maximise solar a freshwater reservoir, but into a recreational
considering that the prime downtown area could insolation for plant growth, and minimise space that has been used for water-based
have been easily assigned for development Andrew: The intention was to take advantage over-shadowing from surrounding high-rise activities such as sailing, dragon boat festivals,
of premium apartments and office buildings of the water body at Marina Channel to create buildings. F1 powerboat races, firework display and light
instead. This decision was not taken lightly, multiple waterfronts for the Gardens, hence they and water shows.
and was carefully studied and evaluated by the were laid out over three parts of the coastline The plans for the gardens also took into
agencies and ministries. around Marina Bay, from Marina South, Central consideration the former Marina City Park, The phasing out of the former activities at
to East. The waterfront would allow visitors to building on it and extending towards the then Collyer Quay also allowed for the injection
In the early 2000s, extensive studies were observe aquatic activities along Marina Channel. upcoming Marina Barrage in a sweeping ‘fan of new public fronting uses that have opened
carried out with NParks on the optimum scale shape’, creating the a characteristic curve to up access to this part of the waterfront and
and configuration for the gardens, that would The Bay South Gardens, at 54 hectares, was Marina Gardens Drive. allowed for the completion of the waterfront
meet the ambition to create a world class green also centrally located within the Marina South pedestrian promenade around the entire Bay.
space while balancing development outcomes precinct to maximise the potential enhancement The Marina Barrage and Pumping Station was
for Marina Bay. to surrounding land uses, which could enjoy also being designed at this time. With guidance
views of the gardens on one side, and major from the URA team and the Design Advisory
There were a number of options that were waterbodies on the other. Panel, the design team developed the roof
explored and the process involved a lot of above the pumping station as an accessible
The longer version of this interview can be found at
iteration as we layered in the sometimes landscaped public space which formed a Configurations of the Gardens by the Bay, in relation to other green spaces in Marina Bay,
this link.
conflicting considerations into the final outcome. seamless extension of the adjacent gardens. that were studied by URA and NParks (sketches from 2004)
32 33

How did these networks first

come about?

1.2
The main challenge to realizing green and This approach to double up infrastructure
blue networks is finding space in the city for recreational use began in the 1980s,
for connectors and pathways. They can when the Drainage department first
be planned upfront in new development provided jogging paths over drains. This
areas, but existing built-up areas often lack led to the creation of the Park Connector
available land. Network.
Why are green and blue
networks needed in a city? To find space for such connections, To extend the experience of lush greenery
government agencies are repurposing along the Park Connector Network, a
1.2.1: Create an integrated,
GREEN & BLUE larger sense of nature
existing infrastructure like drains and
spaces under viaducts, which are linear
strategy of “borrowing greenery” from
adjoining land is also used, by placing
NETWORKS Green and blue networks refer to walking
spaces that are too narrow for other uses,
to build these connections.
walking and cycling paths next to planted
areas like green buffers and peripheral
and cycling infrastructure built up to connect planting strips within developments.
Over the years, URA has coordinated the
linking of up park connectors, greenways, parks and waterbodies around the city,
waterfront promenades and bridges to making them accessible to people and part
create extensive green and blue networks of daily lives. Park Connectors
that bring people closer to nature and
recreation in a small urbanised island. Given its limited land, Singapore lacks large
This is coordinated through the Parks areas of uninterrupted greenery. These
and Waterbodies Plan which was first networks connect individual green and blue
introduced as the “Green and Blue Plan” spaces together to help create a larger
in the 1991 Concept Plan. sense of contiguous and immersive nature.

People usually have to travel far out of the

city to enjoy walking trails, hikes and long
distance cycling experiences. With well-
planned and immersive networks, these
experiences can be created within the city
and enjoyed by more people.

Drai Road
nage Rese
Rese rve
rve

Walking and cycling paths are often Likewise, walking and cycling paths are
integrated into the Drainage Reserve often stacked on top of road side drains
to optimise land that cannot be used within the Road Reserve
for other purposes
34 35

2.5m cycling path 9m planting space

1.5m cycling path 6m cycling and

walking path

Road
Rese
rve

1.2.2: Connect people to Promenades (yellow) and greenways (green)

nature and recreation spaces 4m wide Park Connector

within the Road Side Table
15m wide Park Connector
along the Round Island Route (RIR)
5m wide Park
Connector in the form
effectively of a Boardwalk along the RIR

The main priority of green and blue networks Types of connections Implementation framework How should connections be
is to connect people to nature, providing Green lines in the PWB plan represent park The Parks and Waterbodies Plan provides clear designed?
convenience and choice. connectors, comprising shared paths for direction and an implementation framework for
walking and cycling. connections:
These networks comprise walking and cycling
1.2.3: Optimise land and Park Connectors
Park Connectors are represented by green lines In more generous settings, like coastal sections
paths and are sometimes planned on a separate Wider green lines represent various types of • Within privately owned land, land owners are beautify infrastructure in the PWB Plan. The standard typology for a park of the Round Island Route, the walking and
system from roads. They are also lushly planted greenways or green corridors, usually linear required to realise parts of the walking and
connector is a 4m section comprising a 2.5m cycling paths can be separated and more
so that they form seamless extensions of the parks managed by NParks or green fingers cycling network as shown in the plan when
wide shared walking / cycling path and 1.5m generous planting space provided.
parks they connect to. running through public housing developments they undertake major development works. The PWB plan maps out existing and planned
planting space.
or private developments. walking and cycling paths in 2D. The challenge
The Parks and Waterbodies Plan (PWB) maps • Within State Land, URA coordinates with the sometimes lies in realising these links on
Within the roadside table, drains are decked over
out existing and planned green and blue spaces Yellow lines represent malls or promenades agencies to implement the network. the ground as there is often need to integrate
to create space for the PCN, while greenery is
islandwide, and the connections between them. in various settings, such as pedestrian malls connections into infrastructure like drains and
borrowed from planting within adjacent
There are three main types of connections in the cutting through development parcels or along • Connections are sometimes realised within the canals, to create seamless connections across Walking and Cycling Path Standards
developments for a lusher outcome.
PWB plan. linear urban features like boulevards or drainage reserve overseen by PUB, or under different settings and even topography. A set of design guidelines has been published to guide
waterways. park land managed by NParks. Linear strips the development of walking and cycling paths around
Within the Drainage Reserve, PCN can be created Singapore. For example, intra-town cycling paths are
of park zoning on the Master Plan reflect this With creative and sensitive design, some of
from space carved out of the sides of drains and required to be at least 2.0m wide, while Inter-town cycling
arrangement. these utilitarian connections can also be turned paths have to be at least 2.5m wide.
canals. Under the Active Beautiful Clean (ABC)
into scenic green and blue spaces.
Waters programme, some of these canals are Find out more about the design standards at this link.
naturalised and landscaped to resemble rivers.
36 37

2m wide planter beds At least 4m

clear walkway
6m clear walkway

Promenades
Malls or promenades are represented as orange
lines in the PWB Plan. Promenades can be found
in urban corridors or along waterfronts, as
popular spaces to gather and stroll.

They usually range between 10m to 25m in width,

to provide enough space for walking and cycling
paths, planting and even seating areas and
alfresco dining spaces.

Adjacent buildings are typically guided to

15m 10-15 provide human-scale and active frontages
m
to frame promenade spaces sensitively, and
6m green finger created 4m green finger over provide vibrant street life. Pedestrian malls
over Old Punggol Road existing drainage reserve Urban promenade at Waterfront promenade at
(former roadway) at Haig Walk Albert Mall, Bras Basah.Bugis Keppel Bay can be created by pedestrianising former
roadss (e.g. Albert Mall) or carving land
out of development parcels to be built as
Greenways pedestrianised streets (e.g. One North).
Greenways are represented as thicker green Green Fingers are usually found running
lines on the PWB Plan. Greenways are either between public or private developments. Waterfront promenades are usually created
created as linear parks or as green fingers Within public housing, they can be inserted along popular waterways and waterbodies like
cutting through developments (not zoned as into spaces between buildings. Within private Singapore River and Marina Bay, with the land
park but maintained as green spaces). developments, they are usually either carved zoned as open space or park land. They are also
out as green spaces and returned to the state sometimes created by pedestrianising former
Linear parks are often created along natural for ownership and maintenance (a process riverfront roadways, or carved out of private
features like waterways (e.g. Kallang River) known as vesting) or retained in private land developments under the Foreshores Act which
or created to form larger green networks (e.g. but physically set aside as publicly accessible requires part of waterfront land to remain
Bidadari). Sometimes they are created out of green space within the development. publicly accessible, such as at Keppel Bay.
former transport infrastructure like railways
(Rail Corridor) and expunged roads (Old
Punggol Road).
38 39

3m wide 4m wide 6m wide

walking / cycling bridge tree-top Walk pedestrian bridge 1.2.4: Support movement of
flora and fauna between key
biodiversity areas
From creating access to nature for people, green In 2015, a 62m long purpose-built bridge for In 2021, an islandwide Ecological Profiling
and blue networks are increasingly being wildlife, Eco-link@BKE, was built to connect Exercise was carried out by NParks to
planned and designed for biodiversity and the Bukit Timah and Central Catchment Nature understand how our vegetated spaces act as
ecological outcomes. Reserves over a six-lane highway. The first of refugia for biodiversity or ecological connectivity,
its kind in Southeast Asia, the bridge facilitated strengthening nature conservation efforts by
Park connectors and roadside greenery are wildlife movement between the nature reserves the agencies. One major outcome is the planned
being strengthened with Nature Way planting, to expand their habitats and widen their gene creation of the Clementi Nature Corridor, which
to mimic natural forest structures and provide pools 9. connects Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and the
sources of food for wildlife. Southern Ridges.

Bridge over Kallang River at Bridge in the form of a tree-top walk at Bridge over roadway – Henderson Waves at
Kolam Ayer Southern Ridges Southern Ridges

Bridges
Bridges are used to create access across For significant bridges, URA procures designs
impassable features like rivers and highways, through competitions or consultancies to ensure
and sometimes mitigate level differences attractive engineering and design solutions,
to reach locations like hilltop parks. They such as the sculptural Alexandra Arch and
are represented either as green or orange Henderson Waves along the Southern Ridges,
lines crossing elements like roadways and and the Helix Bridge around Marina Bay.
waterbodies in the PWB plan.

They can provide enjoyable vantage points over Nature Ways created using road side planting Eco-link@BKE: a purpose-built bridge for Clementi Nature Corridor: a vegetated
the city and unique experiences, like tree-top designed to mimic forest structures and facilitate wildlife moving between Nature Reserves corridor which enhances ecological
walks. movement of insects and birds at Bukit Timah connectivity
40 41

Find out more about the various routes and trails Sungei Khatib Bongsu Cololnial bungalow at Changi Point
that form the national Park Connector Network,
covering more than 370km of paths around Singapore
at this link. Mandai Mudflats Jalan Kayu
1.2.5: Tap on context and
heritage to create clear
positioning and identity
To help people make sense of the plethora of

Source: NParks
park connectors, greenways, promenades and
bridges built up over time, themes and narratives
are sometimes used to help differentiate parts of
the network from each other.

For example, the more than 370km of park

connectors criss-crossing the island are
structured as six regional loops. Each has its own
Tapping on history and heritage also helps to
positioning and identity, such as the 36km long create identity for various networks. The 50km
Central Urban Loop that showcases the charm long Greater Rustic Coast was curated to create
of heartland towns at Bishan and Potong Pasir. a journey through military and industrial heritage
areas, recreation destinations and biodiversity
sites along the northern coastline of Singapore.
Additional notable routes include the “Round The network follows the Round Island Route to
Island Route” and several “Coast to Coast Trails”, Greater Rustic Coast allow people to walk and cycle between various
which help to provide a sense of structure to the Sembawang nodes and enjoy a getaway from city life.
overall network.
Woodlands
Source: NParks

Yishun
Park Connector Trails and Loops
Round Island Route Northern Explorer Seletar
Rail Corridor Northern Eastern Riverine Pulau Ubin

NSC Central Urban

Punggol
Coast to Coast Eastern Coastal

Western Adventure
Changi
Southern Ridges
Pasir Ris
 42 43
Botanics
Garden

The Istana
Orchard
Tanglin

Somerset
Mid-level bridge connection: Alexandra Arch High level bridge connection: Henderson Waves Tree-top boardwalk: Forest Walk
Dhoby Ghaut

Urban Design guidelines and other interventions can also

be layered onto these networks to create or enhance a CASE STUDY
sense of place. For example, along the 6km long historic
green connection from Botanic Gardens to the Singapore
River, landscaping guidelines will be introduced to
The green and blue network of
reinforce the sense of lush greenery, while road spaces will the Southern Ridges
be reclaimed to create public spaces for people to enjoy.
How the idea came about Design competition
Fort From as early as 1989, the idea of linking A design competition was organised Within the first two years of the Southern
Canning Mount Faber and Telok Blangah Parks was for the two bridges in November 2003, Ridges opening, more than a million
Park briefly explored, but it was only from the attracting 65 submissions. 2 schemes people visited it.
early 2000s that the idea for a network of were selected for further development:
interconnected parks along the Southern “The Surface Bridge” by RSP Architects / “It is a rare contiguous recreational space
Ridges took shape. Extensive public IJP Corp for Henderson Crossing, and “The in densely populated Singapore,” said
consultation as part of the Concept Plan Mile-a-minute” bridge by LOOK Architects the Jury when the Southern Ridges was
Review in 2001 revealed strong public / ECAS-EJ Consultants for Alexandra. awarded the Urban Land Institute Global
Singapore support for URA’s proposal. Awards for Excellence in 2010.
RIver
URA worked with the teams to refine the
Some of the key connections envisioned engineering design of the bridges, The bridges became popular photography
to realise the network were in the form selection of materials and lighting spots thanks to their stunning views of the
of a high-level bridge across Henderson proposals. They looked at how the bridges surrounding landscape, while the tree top
Road and a mid-level boardwalk across could be constructed with minimal impact walk and hilltop trails allowed people to
Source: NParks

Pearl’s Hill Alexandra Road. Together they would link to the natural environment and remain come up close to the spectacular nature of
City Park up the existing network of trails across the easy to maintain in future. the Southern Ridges, comprising colourful
hilltop parks into a 9km long system. birds, majestic trees and flowering plants.
Artist impression of a possible nature playgarden on a pedestrianised
segment of Orchard Road in future
44 45
Kent Ridge
Park Alexandra Arch
Connecting the ridges to the coast
After the completion of the Southern Ridges URA was able to secure public access through
Henderson Waves trail in 2008, URA conceptualised an extension them under the provisions of the Foreshores
of the network towards Labrador Nature Act, which was introduced in 1901 to govern the
Reserve and the Keppel waterfront, in the form use of coastal areas defined by the high tidal
of a 2.3km long Labrador Nature and Coastal water mark.
Walk, weaving green and blue together as part
Telok Blangah
Park of the overall network. Amendments to the act in 1983 enabled
URA to require developers to set aside their
This extension was completed in January 2012, waterfronts for public access in the form of
Southern Ridges Trail (9km) comprising a long park connector known as the a pedestrian promenade. In this case, the
Alexandra Garden Trail, a mangrove boardwalk developers and architects worked with URA to
called Berlayer Creek and a seaside walkway design the promenade with attractive walking
known as the Bukit Chermin Boardwalk. These space, seating and landscaping, to form a
provided a wide variety of coastal habitats to seamless extension of the coastal walking
explore – mudflat, mangroves, coastal forest, network.
Mount Faber rocky shore and Adinandra Belukar (a type of
secondary forest). In time to come, this coastal trail will
seamlessly connect the Southern Ridges
To further connect the Southern Ridges hilltops to Sentosa and the Greater Southern
towards Sentosa Island, the coastal walking Waterfront.
Former Keppel Golf Club (upcoming HDB)
network had to pass through several
condominiums occupying waterfront land.

Bt Chermin Boardwalk

Source: srx.com.sg
The Southern Ridges route connects to nearby Labrador Nature and Coastal Walk (2.1km)
coastal walks, nature trails and park connectors Publicly-accessible boardwalks through waterfront The Bukit Chermin Boardwalk
to form a green and blue network for the area condominiums at Keppel Bay
46 47

Creating visual connections to water

Connections to green and blue do not This is a subtle but important detail that
always imply physical walking or cycling allows visitors to continue to appreciate
links. Another way the Southern Ridges the unique geography around Sentosa and
are connected to the waterbody at Keppel the Southern islands.
Bay is through view corridors established
from key vantage points on the hill tops. Today with advancement in simulation
software, URA is able to map out views on
These view corridors protect views of a digital model to allow urban design
The view corridor from Mount Faber protects the channel of water between Sentosa guidelines to be even more specific and
views of the water channel between Sentosa
and the mainland, which helps define the and the mainland, from Mount Faber. The fine-tuned. View cone analysis can be
“islandness” of Sentosa heights of buildings along the waterfront carried out to accurately map out the
are moderated so that the water channel visual impact of new developments along
is not blocked, without which the view of the waterfront.
the island and the sea from the hill would
be lost.

Digital model analysis of views from Mount Faber – cyan denotes parts of the water channel
that are visible from the important vantage points around Mount Faber
48 49

BEHIND THE SCENES

Source: LOOK Architects

Forming a necklace of
gems at the Southern
Ridges

Source: RSP Architects

Teo Chong Yean joined URA as an architect in
2003 and was closely involved in many aspects
of the Southern Ridges project. We take a
behind the scenes look at the challenges faced
Map of the Southern Ridges showing the two hilltop bridges as drawn up by URA
as he and his team brought the plans to reality.

How does URA plan and achieve connectivity What are some challenges in realising Can you share any interesting experiences you
and linkages in the city, how did this lead to the connections in the city, especially in built up had while working on the Southern Ridges?
conceptualisation of the Southern Ridges? areas where space is not available, or in the
case of the Southern Ridges – linking up the Chong Yean: 1 December 2007 was a memorable
Chong Yean: In planning and urban design, we various hilltop parks? night. On that night, the longest segment of the
Henderson Waves was lifted 36m above ground Design details of Tree Top Walk Simulations of Henderson Waves Crossing
take a macro view of the area to (re)discover
and visualise the possibilities. The Southern Chong Yean: One of the most important and placed in position over Henderson Road,
Ridges has always been there. For a long time, consideration is the trade-offs that we need completing the structure. The Contractor had
we saw and treated the parks as separate gems to make in terms of spatial provision – in earlier assembled the 55m long segment above
and jewels. It was only when we took a step back the case for the Southern Ridges, how much the Henderson Road. The road was closed for
Aerial photograph of Tree Top Walk
and looked at a map from a broader perspective greenery will we be affecting? When building this launching. The segment was lifted at the
that we realised we could stitch the parks with the Forest Walk, we told the contractor that rate of 10m rate using hydraulic jack and four
bridges, elevated walkways, boardwalks and the construction access through the secondary 180mm diameter steel cables – each capable of
footpaths. The gems now form a necklace. forest on the slope was only the width of the lifting 180 tonnes and was only used once.
elevated walkway and 500mm on both sides It reached the top only at 6am on the following
The necklace of parks at the Southern Ridges of the walkway. While the Architect had day. Watching the launch the entire time, the

Source: Patrick Bingham-Hall (photographer)

and the waterfront allow us to walk, jog and designed for the parts to be fabricated offsite architect and myself cheered when we heard the
cycle in different natural environments – from and assembled onsite, the contractor must find contractor said it was in placed.
manicured gardens to secondary forest, ways to bring in the parts. To bring in the metal
mangrove swamp, rocky beaches and deep gratings, they assembled a ‘flying fox’ and sailed
harbour. The loop, which passes several them down to slowly assemble them from the
transport nodes, allows us to plan a two-hour, from the top. As a result, many large mature
half-day or full-day excursion, immersing trees were kept intact.

& LOOK Architects

ourselves in a circuit of nature.

The longer version of this interview can be found at this

link.
50 51

Streetscape planting can turn expressways Why is streetscape greenery

into lushly landscaped corridors needed?

1.3
Bougainvilleas were first planted along overhead
bridges in the 1980s to add colour to streetscapes

1.3.1: Increase surface area for

Centre Median planting divides road ways planting in Singapore
– flowering trees add a splash of colour
Given Singapore’s limited land area, the
doubling up of streets and roadways as planting
Tree planting forms a visual barrier between
developments and the expressway
space is key to maximising green coverage in
the city for liveability outcomes.

STREETSCAPE In addition to increasing plantable areas for

trees and other landscaping, they also help
When did streetside planting
GREENERY to enhance ecological connectivity across the
island, supporting the movement of birds and become a priority?
insects between areas of biodiversity. The sight of interlocking rain trees forming a
Streetscape greenery is pervasive green tunnel along the East Coast Parkway
in Singapore. It comprises trees and Streetscape greenery also softens the edges of is usually a welcome sight for many
shrubs along almost every road across the city, turning otherwise prosaic roadways Singaporeans and visitors returning from
the island. Streetscape greenery is an into lushly landscaped corridors. They also Changi Airport.
important consideration in urban design, keep streets shaded and cool enough for
contributing to the success of street life walking during the day, supporting street life Efforts to green the city started since
and Singapore’s image as a City in Nature. and restoring nature into the urban fabric. 1967 when then-Prime Minister Lee Kuan
Yew initiated the Garden City campaign to
Streetscape greenery reinforces Singapore’s help transform Singapore into a clean and
image as a City in Nature and has become a key green city to improve the well-being of
part of its tropical identity. The use of Singaporeans and attract investors to the
landscaping can also shape streetscape country 10.
character, enhancing district identity for
imageability and legibility of the urban fabric. A mere three years from the launch of the
This is done through comprehensive planning campaign, 55’000 trees were planted all over
and careful design, beginning from when plans Singapore 11, primarily within newly-created
are first drawn up for new development areas to parks and along roadways. Legislation such
when planting is introduced and maintained in as the Trees and Plants Act was introduced
individual developments, such as the case with in 1971 and road codes were developed to
Marina Bay. protect the newly planted trees around the
island. Today there are over two million

Source: NParks
trees planted along roads, park connectors,
parks and State Lands in Singapore 12.
52 53

Guidelines on Greenery Provision

Mandatory tree planting softens
the edges of roadways and visually CONCEPTS EXPLAINED
and Tree Conservation for Developments breaks up the scale of the road

Why does URA sometimes

NParks has published guidelines on the different types of
greenery provision required along roadsides as well as
within developments.

Find out more at this link.

ask for the Green Buffer to
be “externalised”?
Around Singapore, NParks requires most developments to provide
Green Buffers fronting public roads. This is a strip of planting
area along the boundary line that serves as a vegetation buffer
How is streetscape greenery between the development and the road. It also helps to augment
shaped under urban design? roadside greenery. The only types of developments exempted from
this requirement are Landed Housing fronting Category 5 roads,
Example of Externalised Green Buffer at The Creek@Bukit
1.3.2: Create layers of greenery With lushly planted Central Medians, pedestrians on either side only visually perceive half the road or certain developments in urban design areas where urban
streetscapes are desired, e.g. along Orchard Road.
along streets and roadways
Depending on the category of the road, the width of the green buffer
Layers of landscaping are integrated into Wider multi-lane roads tend to have Centre To enhance the visibility of Green Buffers from
will differ. Generally, the higher the road category (i.e. the more
Singapore’s streetscapes under its codes Medians to divide traffic flow and can the street, URA would require boundary fences
major the road), the wider the green buffer required. It ranges from
governing road and development design. This is accommodate additional planting, which further along some streets to be visually porous.
3.0m to 5.0m.
why tree-lined roads are so pervasive in the City soften the impact of the road by dividing it Another strategy is to externalise Green Buffers
in Nature. visually into half. by setting back the boundary fence behind the
Where the development type tends to have boundary fences, e.g.
green buffer line.
residential condominiums, URA may sometimes guide the green
The primary provision for streetscape greenery To augment tree planting within the Road
buffer to be “externalised” – by setting back the boundary fence
are green verges of minimum 2m width for tree Reserve, Green Buffers are provided along In urban settings where there is more human
behind the green buffer. This allows the planting to directly contribute
planting lining the road carriageway within the the sides of the development boundaries that traffic or activity along the street, Green Buffers
to the greenery along the street, and is only pursued in districts
Road Reserve. front a public road. Green buffer requirements may not be required under urban design
or streets where there is urban design intention for streetscape
range from 3m for lower category roads to guidelines to allow unimpeded movement of
greenery to be augmented, e.g. Lentor Hills. There are also many
Trees need sufficient space and soil depth to 10m for Heritage Roads with significant green people between covered walkways in buildings.
examples of developments that have externalised their green buffers
grow well – many people believe that tree roots character.
voluntarily, contributing lush planting and even water features along
mirror the shape of the tree crown, but in reality
the streetscape for all to enjoy.
most roots spread out and extend no deeper
than 2m.
There are also many examples of developments that have
externalised their green buffers voluntarily, contributing lush planting
and even water features along the streetscape for all to enjoy.

Example of Externalised Green Buffer at Sophia Residence

54 55

Streetscape greenery for suburban streets Streetscape greenery for urban streets
Road Reserve Road Reserve

Development
Boundary Line

Cycling Paths

Cycling Paths
Footpaths
Footpaths

Development
Boundary Line

Centre Median
Tree Planting Landscaped walkways
with secondary row of
trees within the building
setback area

Multi-tiered Tree Multi-tiered Tree

Planting within Planting within
Road Reserve Road Reserve

Green Buffers
within
developments

Along suburban streets, generous tree planting Along some boulevards in the city centre, Green Buffers are substituted by
requirements within the Road Reserve and development landscaped walkways to allow more seamless movement of pedestrians
boundaries contribute to lush streetscapes and reinforce between developments and the street. Lush landscaping can be achieved
our City in Nature setting with a secondary row of tree planting within the building setback area
56 57

Maximising shade given climate and context

With the objective to maximise shade, the The choice of tree planting also depends on
types of trees planted are tailored based on the availability of space for the tree crown to
the orientation of the street. East-west streets spread. When buildings are built up to the Road
receive more solar exposure throughout the Reserve Line, the facades are usually only
day, hence trees with wide-spreading canopies 3-5m away from the trees planted along the
COLLAGE OF IMAGES are frequently used. Trees with wide crowns road, this limits the choice of trees to those
are thus commonly deployed along major with narrower crowns. Wider setbacks allow
thoroughfares like Orchard Road trees with larger crowns to be used, or another
(a predominantly E-W oriented road). row of landscaping to be introduced.

On the other hand, north-south oriented streets

are better shaded by adjacent buildings as the
sun moves east-west during the day, hence
tree crowns with less spread are usually used
North-South East-West to ensure that sufficient sunlight reaches the
street for healthy plant growth.
Spot readings demonstrate the cooling effect of the landscaping Thermal analysis shows that planting can lower temperatures by Trees with wider crowns are usually planted
along Orchard Road 8-9 degrees in unshaded areas (Paya Lebar Quarter – top row) along east-west streets to maximise shade
and by 1-2 degrees in shaded areas (Fusionopolis – bottom row) for pedestrians

1.3.3: Maximise shade, create

thermal comfort for Building Setback Building Setbacks allow additional rows
of landscaping to complement road side
pedestrians planting or larger tree crowns to grow

In Singapore’s hot and humid climate, many Under the afternoon sun however, exposed
people prefer the comfort of shopping malls streets in Singapore can frequently measure 40
and underground links to outdoor streets and degrees and above.
public spaces.
Unlike cities in the northern or southern
Local research suggests that with humidity hemisphere, where buildings can permanently
levels hovering above 80%, temperatures cast shade on sidewalks, the sun is usually
higher than 31.7 result in conditions outside the overhead in Singapore, rendering building
range of thermal comfort 14. shadowing effects seasonal at best. Trees
therefore form a central strategy in creating
comfortable conditions for street life.
58 59

1.3.4: Create unique character 1.3.5: Mimic self-sustaining

using shapes, colour and forest structures
smells Datum Tree
As Singapore transitions to a City in Nature,
Streetscape greenery is often used to create streetscapes have evolved to provide more
a sense of place and identity for streets and ecological functions. NParks’ Nature Way
corridors, which helps to create structure planting, for example, connects our green
for the city, define its districts and shape spaces and restores nature into our urban
Secondary tree
memorable experiences. fabric by introducing multi-tiered tree planting.
The emergent, canopy and understorey tree
Coordinating different layers of planting layers mimic the natural forest structure,
Usually, a datum tree is chosen as the primary and species that provide food and habitat for
element for streetscape identity, to line both biodiversity are selected.
sides of the road. Other secondary trees and Shrubbery
shrubs may be added to further enhance the By 2030, about 300km of such Nature Ways will
local identity. connect Singapore’s green spaces.

Planting within developments can also be In suitable locations, streetscapes can also be
aligned with the landscaping identity of the Streetscape Elevation view showing layers of landscaping to create shape, colour and even smell designed to be more naturalistic. For example,
street or district, through guidelines that shrubs and native plants that require less
stipulate preferred species for green buffers, frequent maintenance can be chosen.
Using different attributes of planting to create
peripheral planting zones, building setback character
areas etc. Designers use different arrangements of size, Less structured arrangements of trees and
shape, colour and even smell in streetscape plants, sometimes mimicking natural forest
Relating to different scales of the city greenery to create different characters and structures, can create a scenic, rustic effect.
When shaping the desired street character, evoke varying sensory experiences.
designers take into account perception of the The choice of colour can also convey meaning
landscape at different scales of the city, at the Trees with strong shapes arranged in repeating on district positioning. For example, a gold and
city, motorist and pedestrian levels. order can create a formal and rhythmic yellow palette is used in the Central Subzone
Datum Tree
effect, suggesting a sense of procession and of Marina Bay to connote wealth and prosperity
Over the years, more attention has been Secondary tree

Source: NParks
Shrub
ceremony. This formal effect is often deployed around the business and financial district.
paid to shaping the pedestrian experience, along key boulevards and gateways in the city,
Central Median
as Singapore transitions from car-centric like Orchard Road and the ECP. Identity can also be based on the history of
Development landscaping
planning to people-centric environments. Many the street. The landscaping of Orchard Road
streets today have a variety of smaller shrubs Layers of greenery created along streetscapes in urban and suburban setting Landscaping with atypical attributes, like takes into account its heritage as a road of
planted to enhance the street view experience. shades of purple or unusual shapes, can plantations, with plans to introduce former From roadways to Nature Ways
convey a unique sense of place and mark a crops like nutmeg and cloves at strategic NParks has introduced strategies to transform
Larger trees can be appreciated from afar - their size, shape and colour form the primary impression of the streetscape greenery to support ecological outcomes.
streetscape at the city level. Medium sized trees are highly impressionable to motorists, and usually planted at
special destination in the city, such as Bayfront locations.
intervals between the larger trees to reinforce local identity. At pedestrian level, smaller shrubs and flowers Avenue near the Gardens by the Bay with Find out more about Natureways at this link.
add visual and sensory accents to the landscaping, such as smell and even seasonal displays of colour conical Jelutong and Chengal Pasir trees.
60 61

Ample building setbacks along Orchard Road Curation of layers of landscaping by shape, colour and
minimise tree canopy conflict with the façades 260 Orchard Road smell creates multi-sensory streetscapes at Marina
of adjacent buildings Bay, and maximises shading for pedestrian comfort.
ne
k Li
11.6m etbac 7.0
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Se Bu
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Setback ac in
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6.0m Clear
The Heeren
Walkway Zone e
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Minimum 3.6m ary
und
wide covered ent Bo Ap
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walkway velo ox
/ De 30
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55 Roa
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2.0m Tree
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Res
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Roa e
Orc / Bo Lin
d Res ha und ary
e rd R ary und
rve
oad Lin / Bo
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und e erve
ary d Res
Lin Roa
e
Bui
lding Secondary Row of planting
Set (medium sized trees): Brazilian
bac
kL Iron Wood (caesalpinia ferrea)
ine

Primary Row of planting

de
ena
(large trees): Sepetir Trees
(sindora wallichi) rom
ay P
11.6m i na B
Building Mar
Setback

6.0m Clear
Walkway Zone
Solar Panel
“Breeze Shelters“
Minimum 3.6m
wide covered
walkway

2.0m Tree
Planting Strip
62 63

CASE STUDY Shaping street identity

The various landscaping attributes were
carefully orchestrated to create different
Sensory streetscapes at Marina Bay identifies for the key corridors of Marina Bay,
to assist in wayfinding and orientation.
A Landscape Masterplan was developed for
Marina Bay to create unique characters and Marina and Central Boulevards
identities for different districts. The Masterplan Forming the main east-west spine of Marina
considered the shape, colour and smell of trees Bay, a formal boulevard effect was created
and plants to create multi-layered sensory using large round canopy Sepetir Trees
experiences. (sindora wallichi), which cast generous shade Formal Boulevard Effect: East-west orientation of the street requires trees
throughout the day. They were complemented Marina and Central Boulevards with wide spreading crowns for shade
Maximising thermal comfort in the tropics
by double rows of Brazilian Iron Wood
A key objective of the landscaping strategies Bayfront
(caesalpinia ferrea) trees planted in the
was A key objective of the landscaping (Green)
building setbacks, to add a ‘dappled’ shading
strategies was ensuring thermal comfort along
effect along the sidewalks.
the streets and public spaces to encourage
street life and vibrancy. Trees with wider crowns

e
Bayfront Avenue

nu
were chosen along east-west oriented streets
Columnar Jelutong Trees (dyera costulaata)

ve
for shade throughout the day, while smaller

tA

e
and Chengal Pasir (hopea odorata) were used

nu
on
crown trees were used along North-South

ve
to create a distinctive image while allowing

y fr
streets where shade from adjacent buildings

sA
Ba
sunlight to more easily filter down along a

re
was in abundant supply.

ea
north-south oriented street. These were Signature Drive with columnar trees: North-south orientation requires trees with narrow

Sh
Colours by the Bay Central Subzone complemented by pseuderanthemum pink Bayfront Avenue crowns to ensure sunlight reaches the street
Ma
Another strategy was using colour in (Gold) r in shrubs to create a reddish carpet effect,
aB
landscaping to set apart the different ou complementing the pink colour scheme
l ev
neighbourhoods, using flowers, fruits and even ar around Marina Bay Station.
Marina Bay Ce d
colourful leaves. The introduction of colour nt
ra
Station (Pink) lB
focused on creating accents to the greenery to ou Sheares Avenue
allow for subtle differentiation of the precincts. l ev As the main gateway connecting to the East
ar
d Coast Parkway, Sheares Avenue was planted
Yellow and gold were chosen for the Central with Rain Trees (samanea saman) as an
Subzone to connote wealth and prosperity, pink extension of the ECP, forming a grand gateway
was chosen around the Marina Bay Station to into Marina Bay from the airport. Colourful
symbolise happiness, and green around Bayfront shrubs such as crinums and hippeastrums Grand Gateway with iconic rain trees: Rain Trees are planted to form an extension of the
to symbolise peace and harmony around the added bright flowers to the streetscape. Sheares Avenue ECP gateway into the city
waterfront.
64 65
From taming water to embracing water Source: huntergol hp
Singapore’s relationship with water used to be fraught with challenges, and
early efforts focused on quelling floods and ensuring clean water supply by
building up an extensive network of drains and canals around the island.

1.4
The 1991 Concept Plan signaled a paradigm shift to Singapore’s approach,
from developing water infrastructure to transforming them into recreational
spaces. Water is integrated into many urban environments today – such as
waterways weaving through Punggol Town and mangrove rivers running
through Pasir Ris, as well as attractive urban waterways at Singapore River
and Marina Bay.

LANDSCAPED
WATERWAYS
Singapore has 17 reservoirs, 32 major
rivers and 7000km of waterways 16,
making them a constant presence in the
landscape. Urban design guidelines help
to shape attractive waterfront outcomes,
through landscaping, public realm and
building form design. Landscaping strategies have enhanced the sense of place at Robertson Quay, with Trumpet Trees
adding colour to the predominantly residential precinct

Why is waterway enhancement

Time spent by the water is greatly restorative,
important? promoting relaxation and well-being. Urban
“blue spaces” are increasingly seen as a
1.4.1: Reinforce a sense of measure to provide public health benefits in
the city.
islandness and promote
well-being Successful waterfront design also enhances
people’s quality of life, bringing character and
Given the busy urban lives of Singaporeans, it vibrancy to different districts, even attracting
is easy to lose sight of the fact that the city is a investment and enhancing land values.
small island surrounded by water. Urban design
helps to integrate waterways into the urban The city’s waterways can also be settings of rich
environment sensitively so that water is never biodiversity, supporting unique ecosystems and
too far from the daily routines of Singaporeans. boosting Singapore’s natural capital.
66 67

How do we turn waterways into Urban Waterfronts

In the city centre, former trading quays along
recreational spaces?
Singapore River and Collyer Quay have been
transformed into lively pedestrian riverfont
1.4.2: Create networks of publicly promenades. Many of these were rezoned
accessible waterfront spaces from former service roads and quay spaces
into “open space” in the Master Plan. They are
For any waterfront to be successful, the issue of also marked as promenades in the Parks and
access has to be addressed upfront. URA relies on the Waterbodies plan.
Foreshores Act to ensure that waterfront spaces are
set aside and designed for public enjoyment. These promenades are seamlessly connected
to each other with bridges and under-road
Introduced in 1901 to govern allowable uses of crossings, so that people can use them as a
foreshore land (defined as the area between the network for walking and cycling. The network
high and low water mark of the spring tide), the act also extends “inland” to multiple side streets
includes provisions for URA to review any proposed and nodes like MRT stations and bus stops to
development works within 15m of the foreshore line. improve overall accessibility.
This space is usually safeguarded for public use with
Coastal promenade network at Keppel Bay Waterfront promenades in the city centre, zoned as open space, largely built over
walking paths, public seating and landscaping. former trading quays and service roads

Coastal Promenades
Coastal promenades are created this way –
waterfront developments are required to set aside
10-15m of space fronting the water for public access
as attractive promenades. URA guides the design
outcomes during the Development Application
stage. After completion, these spaces may continue
to be owned and maintained by the developments,
or be vested back to State. They are sometimes
linked up by bridges or boardwalks to form
extensive green and blue networks.

Along Keppel Harbour, private developments

like Vivocity and Reflections at Keppel Bay have
provided parts of a coastal promenade that includes
the government-built Bukit Chermin Boardwalk and
Berlayer Creek, to form part of the larger Labrador
Nature and Coastal Walk. Publicly accessible waterfront space is carved out of Some parts of the waterfront promenade are built up
private developments under the Foreshores Act by adjacent landowners, with opportunity to customise
the design and finishes of the waterfront to match the
development, such as at The Fullerton Heritage
68 69

Riverine Parks and Park Connectors

Outside the city centre, where waterways are
1.4.3: Create blending of green
less urbanised, access to the water is mainly and blue elements
secured through the creation of walking and
cycling trails within the Drainage Reserve (DR) Littoral spaces present opportunities to create
or a strip of land zoned as park zoning along unique blending of green and blue outcomes.
the water.
Along urban waterways, landscaping design
Many scenic waterways are also used as tends to focus on providing shade, colour and
park connectors, and feature look out decks, visual interest, which can complement the local
floating pontoons and water sensitive urban waterway character, e.g. blooming Trumpet
design (WSUD) features like water remediation Trees are used to shape a unique character
gardens and stormwater detention ponds. for the residential segment of Robertson
Quay. Landscaping is also often used to frame
Riverine parks and park connectors along Kallang River, created picturesque views of the water.
Where possible, such infrastructure is
within the Drainage Reserve and park land lining the river
built up within the Drainage Reserve (DR)
encompassing the waterway. Additional land Along natural waterways, the line between
along the DR is sometimes zoned for park use, green and blue is usually blurred, with
to provide more space for park connectors and trees branching out over the water surface,
even lush planting. mangroves straddling land and water, riparian
vegetation lining riverbanks etc. Here,
Most of these riverine parks and park landscaping can take on more ecological
connectors are implemented by the considerations, to serve as habitat creation or
government. Popular riverine parks like Kolam provide ecological connectivity.
Ayer ABC Waterfront and Alexandra Canal
were completed under PUB’s ABC Waters Littoral spaces in Singapore also offer diverse
Programme. ecosystems to explore, such as fresh and
seawater mangroves, rocky shores and even sea
grass meadows.
Many of these ecological spaces can be found in outlying areas such as Chek Jawa in Pulau Ubin
and Sungei Buloh. Some are fairly close to the city centre, such as Labrador Nature Reserve
at Keppel Bay. Segments of Kallang River are already lush riparian environments that are
attractive to roving otters and other riverine and avian species
70 71

Levels Seating Boardwalks and floating structures

1.4.4: Create opportunities to One strategy is to design the waterfront with Comfortable, shaded seating spaces are needed Boardwalks, floating pontoons and bridges give
sit near or look out over the different levels –upper promenades serve to allow people to sit by the water. Major people the opportunity to venture out further
as fast activity zones for joggers and cyclists waterfronts that host events like performances over the water.
waterway whereas lower boardwalks act as slow activity or fireworks require ample seating to serve the
URA and the agencies aim to design waterways zones that allow people to sit and stroll closer crowds of people during events. The meeting point between water and land also
with opportunities for people to come as close to the water. gives rise to unique ecosystems. In such natural
to the water as possible to enjoy its therapeutic Seating can be standalone or integrated into settings, these devices allow people to come
effects. Waterfronts are designed for universal fencing right at the water’s edge. Sometimes close to semi-aquatic habitats, to observe and
accessibility, with levels mitigated by barrier- steps and terraces that lead down to the water engage with nature.
free ramps as far as possible. can double up as popular seating spaces.

Multiple levels create Steps allow people Seats can be Waterplay areas allow
vantage points over to come close to integrated into people to wade into
the water the water level transitions and touch water
along the
waterfront
Water edge treatments in natural settings
The range of design options to bring people closer to
water are only limited by the designer’s imagination.
Some of the common typologies in Singapore are
illustrated as shown

Lower boardwalk at Marina Bay Sands Steps and terraces at Singapore River Public space with seating integrated with fence
at Esplanade Pedestrian bridge at Kolam Ayer Trails and waterplay areas at Alexandra Canal
72 73

Meandering river and cascades at Bishan-Braddell ABC Granite tiles, terracotta pavers and timber promenades
are among the materials found along Singapore River

Auditory Tactile Olfactory

1.4.5: Design the environment Soundscapes can sometimes be more Tactile design plays a key role in creating The sense of smell has been described as
to stimulate the senses effective than visual stimuli in arousing moods pleasure. Materials and finishes need to be the one most closely related to memory and
and emotions 19. Designers should consider carefully considered in the overall design. emotion. Certain smells inherent to waterfront
Good urban design strives to engage and delight the existing auditory qualities of water and the Different floor materials suit different activities, settings can be nostalgic – the salty air of the
the human senses, creating environments which surroundings to derive the appropriate spatial e.g. sturdy granite tiles can support high speed sea, or even moisture around reservoirs.
are delightful to see, touch, smell and even hear. design response. activities like cycling and jogging along the
Waterfronts, at the confluence of land and water, promenade, terracotta pavers are loosely Unfortunately, littoral spaces are also prone
offer a wide range of these sensory stimuli. Gentle grassy slopes with benches allow packed and create the feeling of walking along to unpleasant odours. In fact, before it was
people to come closer to the meandering river quaint cobble stone streets, timber planks cleaned up, the biggest affliction of the
Visual at Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park to enjoy the sound used for lower boardwalks evoke the feeling of Singapore River was its smell – an aspect still
Research shows there is a deep biological Al fresco dining areas, or Outdoor Refreshment of trickling water, which is calming - a form of walking on historic piers, etc. commonly remembered. Today, pollution is
connection between our minds and water. Area structures (ORAs), along the waterline “white noise”. prevented through careful planning, thereby
The sight of water can induce a flood of should be designed to be visually porous so Materials should remain comfortable to touch eliminating the worst smells from Singapore’s
neurochemicals that promote wellness, increase that views of the water are not blocked. ORA A cantilevered promenade at ABC Waters @ even after being exposed in the hot sun. Along waterways.
blood flow to the brain and induce relaxation 17. structures along Boat Quay were enhanced to Kallang River (between Bishan and Braddell Empress Place, seating ledges are lined with
Another theory is that the soft simuli of water open up views of the Singapore River in 2015. Road) allows people to perceive the din timber planks for people to sit on, instead of
promotes involuntary attention and recovery of cascading water along the canal, which exposed granite.
from cognitive fatigue, this is called attention Layering also creates depth and visual conveys vitality and awe, from afar.
restoration theory 18. complexity for the waterfront. The rows of
walkways, landscaping, alfresco areas, etc are Sounds of human activity are an important
Waterfront design is about maximising visual intended to give order to space but also create part of the experience – Marina Bay was sized
and physical engagement with water. This can layers of “scenes” along the promenade, making strategically to ensure that sounds and energy
be enhanced by creating levels that step down to them ideal places to watch the world go by. from opposite sides of the bay can be heard
the waterline, creating multiple vantage points. from any one point along the promenade.
74 75

Blending of green and blue along Robertson Quay creates Blending of green and blue along Kallang River through
a unique riverine identity, with pink flowering Trumpet PUB’s Active Beautiful and Clean Waters Programme
Trees (tabebuia rosea) creating a splash of colour for also creates opportunities for rainwater cleansing and
this residential section of Singapore River outdoor classrooms

Arthur Ng
Development Zone: Spaces for
al fresco dining, Secondary
Row of tree planting (dalbergia Ixora orange
olivieri)

Vicky Lim Yen Ngoh

Patricia Yap
River Zone: 4m Walkway,
Primary Row of Tree

Arthur Ng
Planting (tabebuia rosea)

Licuala grandis Cordyline

fruticosa
Upper Promenade Zone
- for general circulation

Chua Liat Seng Gary

Leptospermum (cycling, walking)

Patricia Yap
Clerodendrum
laevifolium

Dalbergia oliveri and tabebuia rosea

Potong Pasir ABC Waters Project

Lower Boardwalk Zone – for

opportunities to engage the

Cerlin Ng
water

Riparian Planting – for water

Chan Chun Leong

Pauline Tay cleansing and habitat creation

Source: NParks
Flora & Fauna Web
76 77

Rivergate Condominium

Skyrise greenery
Looking up between the trees, lushly planted
Sky Terraces with overhanging creepers rise
up the sides of the Rivergate condominium.

CASE STUDY URA had permitted the development to

exceed the prevailing standard 4-10 storey
A green riverbend at Lush tree planting
The Singapore River Promenade Guidelines
building height control along Singapore River
due to the landmark status of the site, on
Robertson Quay guides the realisation of lush planting along the
river, prioritising local species to enhance the
the basis of an innovative design concept
which successfully carried greenery both
Walking upstream towards where the tropical identity of the river. horizontally and vertically through the
Singapore River transitions into the Alexandra development.
Canal after Kim Seng Bridge, we find a section Along this stretch of Robertson Quay, two rows
of the Singapore River that is especially green of Tamalan Trees (dalbergia oliveri) line the Green landscape deck t
men
pedestrian walkway, casting generous shade The Rivergate condominium sits on a carpark ev elop
and lush, in response to a variety of urban te D
and creating a lush green environment. deck which has been concealed from view by rga
design strategies. Ri v e
a sloping landscaped berm (with a 1:2.5 slope). Sky terraces with overhanging
greenery
Gently sloping river embankment. URA’s Landscape Deck policy allows carpark
The promenade guidelines also guide the type decks to be bermed up at the sides so that
Boundary Fence set back to top of
of riverwall condition depending on the location they do not have be fully sunken underground, berm and concealed in shrubbery
along the river and its historic condition. creating green landscaped berms along the
development boundary.
Singapore River Promenade Design Guidelines At this location, a Type A river wall condition is Landscape Deck Berm (to conceal carpark)
The Promenade Design guidelines were first published w ide)
in 1999, to provide an overview on landscaping, space required – where the promenade meets the river The boundary fence has also been set back (15m
de
in the form of a 4m wide gently sloping grass to the top of the berm, so that the greenery ena
planning and design parameters for different stretches rom Site Boundary Line
Ri v er P
of the Singapore River Promenade. embankment. This offers a softer edge to the around the development boundary is
Find out more about the requirements at this link. river compared to the more urbanised stretches externalised for public enjoyment. Double row of Tree
elsewhere. Planting

Sloping Embankment
(Type A Riverwall) Illustration of Singapore River Promenade Section in front of Rivergate development
78 79

The Oliv by W Architects Why does URA require greenery

provision in developments?

2.1
2.1.1: Augment provision of
2.0 Greenery at the
development scale greenery in the city
The second part of the book will
look at how greenery is realised and While individually small, greenery in
integrated within developments, developments can collectively impact the
taking the form of sky terraces, roof city by increasing overall green surface area,
gardens, green walls, etc, so that increasing ecological spaces, improving carbon
sequestration and reducing energy consumption,
LUSH &
greenery is brought closer to the daily
lives of Singaporeans. amongst other urban system benefits for
How did skyrise greenery come
LANDSCAPE Singapore.
about?

REPLACEMENT Greenery in developments also improves

quality of life factors such as mental well- The origin of the term skyrise greenery can
being, physical activity and social interaction, be traced back to a series of skyrise garden
Having seen how greenery is by increasing connections to nature for building exhibitions in the 1990s held by the National
systematically created at different scales occupants. Parks Board to promote gardening in high-
in the city in the past four chapters – from rise apartments. Skyrise greenery also began
setting aside land for Nature Reserves and Beyond creating greenery, it is important to to be incorporated in buildings as an energy
Nature Parks, to planting along streets take a science-based approach to preserve conservation measure under Green Mark,
and waterways to form the green and blue and enhance surrounding biodiversity and which was introduced in 2005 by BCA. Between
network, the next few chapters will look into ecosystem services, to ensure that the the 1990s to 2000s, URA also introduced various
how greenery is created within development development gives back to nature as much as guidelines and incentives that promoted skyrise
spaces where people live, work and play. it is enriched by it. greenery, such as for sky terraces, planter
boxes and 1st storey communal landscaped
areas.

In 2009, URA consolidated the various skyrise

greenery guidelines into the LUSH programme
and introduced the landscape replacement
requirement for developments in strategic
areas like the Downtown Core and Jurong
Lake District. As of 2020, the programme has

Source: Oliv - Teo Zi Tong

contributed more than 176 hectares of greenery.
The total amount of LUSH greenery island wide
has also been increasing at an annual average
of 15 per cent.
80 81

CONCEPTS EXPLAINED How do we replace greenery

as we develop?
What is landscape 2.1.2: Turn horizontal and Within strategic areas like the Downtown Core Additionally, Green Plot Ratio (GnPR) standards

replacement and why is vertical surfaces into

plantable areas
and Jurong Lake District, the total replacement
requirement is set at 100% of the site area (70% if
there are height limitations).
were introduced in 2019 to ensure higher quality
and density of planting within softscape areas,
which is computed by the following formula:
it required? Overall landscape replacement Landscape replacement requirements This can comprise a mix of softscape, which are
Total leaf area of greenery counted as
areas must add up to meet the With part of the site consumed by the physical permanent planting areas, and hardscape, which Landscape Replacement (softscape)
Replacing greenery as we develop required landscape replacement are circulation or recreational spaces around Gross Plot Ratio =
building footprint, it is necessary to maximise
The Landscaping for Urban Spaces and High-Rises policy, Site Area
target under LUSH horizontal and vertical surface areas in the softscape areas.
also known as “LUSH”, plays a key role in creating greenery in development for greenery to meet the landscape
developments by requiring landscape replacement. replacement requirements under LUSH. Outside of strategic areas, the replacement The overall summary of landscape replacement
requirement varies depending on the area (LRA) and green plot ratio requirements for
The premise of landscape replacement is simple – developments development intensity, ranging from 30-40% of developments around Singapore is as follows:
must create green areas in the building equivalent to the site area, the site area, with only softscape areas counted
so that greenery displaced during development is replaced. This is to towards the requirement.
ensure that as Singapore continues to urbanise, the overall amount of
greenery on the island is sustained.

Landscape replacement areas comprise a multitude of horizontal Location LRA Minimum Minimum
and vertical, exterior and interior, exposed and enclosed spaces in a Softscape GnPR
development that can accommodate planting.
In strategic areas height
100% 40% 4.0
The total area of these surfaces are added up to meet the landscape control > 80m SHD
replacement area requirement, which will vary according to the
location of the development. In strategic areas height 70% 40% 4.0
control > 80m SHD
The LUSH guidelines has been reviewed several times over the years
to expand the range of greenery typologies that can be counted as Outside strategic areas
landscape replacement, and include more areas where landscape 40% 40% 4.0
GPR > 2.8
replacement is required.
Outside strategic areas 35% 35% 3.5
1,4 > GPR > 2.8

Outside strategic areas 30% 30% 3.0

GPR > 1.4
LUSH strategic areas (dark green)
82 83

Types of Landscape Replacement Areas (LRAs) The types of horizontal and vertical green spaces
LRAs can take the form of horizontal or vertical within a building that are counted as LRAs can be
green spaces, with horizontal ones prioritised as broadly defined as a number of skyrise greenery
they can be more easily integrated into common typologies, shown in the following diagram.
circulation areas like roof gardens and sky
terraces for public enjoyment.

Starting with LUSH 3.0 in 2019, vertical

landscaping, i.e. green walls, can be counted
Sky terraces are unenclosed,
towards fulfilling 10% of the total replacement sheltered and landscaped public
requirements, in recognition of their contribution spaces created at intermediate
to visual impact and sustainability. levels of the building
Green roofs can come in the form How do we increase human

Source: Patrick Bingham-Hall

of roof gardens that are publicly
accessible or as non-accessible roofs connections with nature?
with a thin layer of vegetation (known
Landscaping for Urban Spaces and High-rises as extensive green roofs)
Green walls are vertical
(LUSH)
The LUSH programme was introduced in 2009 to consolidate
green elements on the building 2.1.3: Ensure greenery in
such as creepers
various skyrise greenery guidelines into one and introduce
minimum landscape replacement requirements for different
or vertical greening modules developments are well-
areas around Singapore. designed, accessible and
Find out more at this link. enjoyable
Communal planters are
horizontal planting spaces The key principles governing the design of
within publicly accessible different LRA typologies are driven by the
areas, such as roof gardens Covered communal ground gardens
or along balconies are covered landscaped areas at the intention of maximising human connections
first storey within sheltered parts of the with nature.
building
Open and naturally-ventilated Publicly-accessible Well-designed and integrated
All landscape replacement areas within Landscape replacement areas should also be Landscape replacement areas should be well-
the development are required to be either located in areas that are easily accessible to the designed and integrated into the overall form
100% replacement unenclosed and open-to-sky, or if sheltered – public or building occupants. Certain spaces like and architectural treatment of the building. To
OUTSTANDING open-sided and naturally ventilated. This is to
ensure sufficient access to sunlight and fresh
sky terraces are required to be accessible to all
occupants of the building, with at least one set
encourage this outcome, URA allows communal
planter boxes to be wider than 1.0m if they are
air for plant growth as well as human enjoyment. of communal access via lift or staircase. Types integrated with a larger landscaping scheme.
Building occupants who spend more time of LRA which may be harder to access, such as This ensures that landscaping works together in a
outdoors as part of their daily routines are less green walls or extensive green roofs, should be development to create immersive environments
likely to suffer the detrimental side effects of well-externalised and visible to building users and meaningful nature contact for building
“sick building syndrome”. and the general public. occupants.
84 85

CONCEPTS EXPLAINED

What are Environmental Impact

Assessments (EIAs) and what
do they look at?
Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) are Potential development impacts are then
tools used to assess the impact of development identified, covering the full life cycle of the
projects on the environment, in particular to development works, from pre-construction
the development site and its context. to post-completion. Such impacts can include
How do we ensure that loss of habitat, disturbance from construction

Source: DHI Water & Environment (S) Pte Ltd

development greenery has They are systematic frameworks that identify activities, and even light nuisance to sensitive
the potential impact of development and animals post-completion.
environmental benefits? mitigation measures at each stage of the
project. Planning approvals are only granted by Mitigation measures are proposed in response
2.1.4: Take an ecologically URA when they have met the requirements by to the findings, which can include the protection
sensitive and science-based regulatory agencies such as NEA and PUB for of significant patches of biodiversity, replanting
pollution and NParks for wildlife issues. of certain plant species that support the
approach wildlife, using biodegradable construction
Steps in the process elements etc.
Going beyond landscape replacement, it is The EIA starts by conducting extensive baseline
important to take an in-depth, science-based surveys to determine the existing flora and Finally, environmental management and
approach to restore and enhance nature fauna on site, using methods such as physical monitoring plans are developed to ensure

Source: Bayshore Environment Impact Assessment

within a site. Green and Blue Plan showing ecological connectivity corridors mapping of vegetation types and camera traps regular tracking of environmental performance
to record wildlife movement. and adjustments of mitigation measures where
Within ecologically sensitive areas, URA

Study, DHI Water & Environment Pte Ltd

needed.
and NParks require Environmental Impact The conservation value of the recorded
Assessment (EIA) studies to be done prior to These approaches allow for more effective To assist in the identification of ecologically biodiversity on site is then evaluated based on EIAs are carefully considered by the agencies
development works. EIAs provide a systematic strategies to be developed. For example, sensitive areas islandwide, NParks carried a number of factors, such as overall species in consultation with community stakeholders,
framework to identify existing biodiversity in a landscape designers can plant the types of out an Ecological Profiling Exercise (EPE) richness, presence of rare species, level of including nature groups, before granting
site and determine the appropriate mitigation trees and shrubs that serve as food sources in 2021 for terrestrial, coastal and marine disturbance etc, to help determine the right planning approval for the project to proceed.
measures against development work. for nearby insects and wildlife, or they can environments, using agent-based modelling to conservation strategies for the site. EIA reports are also made publicly available
more accurately restore habitats for rare or identify areas and corridors of ecological value online. Some development areas that have
Beyond ecologically sensitive areas, EIAs are endangered plant and animal species discovered in Singapore. conducted EIAs include Bayshore, Springleaf
not required but developers and architects may on site. and former Keppel Club.
conduct biodiversity surveys to help understand The outcomes of the profiling exercise are
the ecological attributes of their site. reflected in the Green and Blue Plan.
86 87

CASE STUDY Multi-disciplinary Study Environment Impact Assessment

Following up from the baseline study, An Environment Impact Assessment
A greener development at URA engaged a multi-disciplinary team of
architects, ecologists, landscape architects
(EIA) was conducted in 2020 to better
understand the impact of these
Springleaf and other experts to explore ideas for a strategies in a proposed masterplan.
biodiversity-sensitive development within An Environmental Management and
An ecologically-sensitive site Springleaf. This led to the formulation of the Monitoring Plan (EMMP) was also
Springleaf is located between the Central following strategies for the site: prepared to provide a framework to track
Catchment Nature Reserve (CCNR) and Upper the mitigation measures.
Seletar Reservoir. It was part of Nee Soon
Expanded Park Area in
• Adopting a Biodiversity-Sensitive Urban
village and subsequently a swamp forest before Springleaf in previous
Master Plan amended Master Plan Design (BSUD) framework and related Based on the proposed development
the construction of the Seletar Expressway. principles to guide master planning of the
Today, the site is mainly forested with some masterplan, the EIA proposed the
site; following additional measures to protect
historic buildings still remaining (the former
Seletar Institute and Nee Soon Post Office). the sensitive biodiversity on site:
• Designating the most ecologically
Originally planned for mixed commercial,
sensitive areas as Significant • Safeguarding an additional 30m buffer
residential and park use in the 2014 Master Plan, Conservation Areas (SCA) and immediate zone beyond the SCAs for extra
URA revised the zoning after completing an surrounding areas a ‘no-go zones”; protection;
environmental baseline study and environmental
impact assessment between 2018 – 2021. • Limiting development to less sensitive • Targeted reforestation or revegetation
parts of the site that are already of corridors to enhance connectivity
The study identified the swamp forest in the urbanised or disturbed areas; between Springleaf and the adjacent
middle of the site as a “Core Conservation
forests; and
Area”, while the area around it comprised • Keeping building footprints small to
various habitat types that were also important minimise habitat loss; • Implementing a landscape planting guide
for biodiversity, such as grassy woodland,
to maintain the forested nature of the
secondary forest and riparian stretches. • Designing buildings with greener facades
site.
to minimise bird strike;
The study also revealed that the freshwater
swamp was home to a rich variety of flora and • Enhancing ecological connectivity through
fauna, some of which were unique to Springleaf, targeted tree planting;
such as aglaia yzermannii (a type of flowering
plant from the Mahogany family). • Integrating Active, Beautiful, Clean (ABC)

Source: Sitetectonix Pte Ltd

Safeguarded Green Area
Disturbed ground / less sensitive water design features into waterways and
areas drainage infrastructure; and
Heritage buildings
Significant Conservation Area • Exploring new development typologies
that would respond sensitively to the site.
 Source: STB
88 89

BEHIND THE SCENES

Greenery requirements to support ecological outcomes The role of landscapes

Source: MKPL Architects

Taking the feedback from nature and heritage groups, industry experts
and academics, URA will be refining the plans for the area to achieve an
ecologically sensitive development.
in shaping our physical,
social and cultural
The development will be required to meet minimum landscape replacement
and softscape requirements under LUSH, to maximise the area of greenery environment
within the site. It will also have to respond to the unique challenges of
preserving and enhancing the rich biodiversity and ecological value of the Srilalitha Gopalakrishnan is current term
Blanks Walls Nee Soon Swamp Forest. president of Singapore Institute of Landscape
to be setback Architects (SILA) and a landscape architect with
min 2m for over 15 years of professional experience with
Planter Boxes
projects across Singapore, Malaysia, China, India
and Hong Kong. She shares her views on the
Glass Facades/ role of landscape design in shaping a greener Lush greenery within Shangri-La Hotel
Windows and more liveable Singapore.
to be setback How does landscape design speak to building
min 5m for we have the potential to pivot the sustainability
Green Decks How has the focus of landscape design evolved trajectory from net zero to net nature-positive in user. How does it create a sense of place and
over the years in Singapore? What do you hope the near future. meaning for the people who encounter it and
to see in its future? live, work and play in it?
Tower Modules
(3 storeys) What is the role Landscape Architects play,
2 storeys Srilalitha: The evolution of landscape architecture especially in developments that require Srilalitha: User-space interactions are the core
with recessed in Singapore is driven by the evolving perspective landscape replacement under the LUSH of landscape design. A successful landscape
facades and
of the value and significance of urban greenery. guidelines? space is one which connects with the users at
1 storey with
The idea of weaving nature into the built many levels, including emotional, psychological,
min 5m wide
Perimeter environment was well established from the Srilalitha: The introduction of ‘skyrise greening’ as and functional needs.
Green Deck onset by the vision of a “Garden City’ by the an incentive programme for replacing greenery
founding fathers. lost on the ground with high-rise terraces and It creates a sense of place and meaning by
gardens in the sky added a new layer of social weaving together various elements to form
With the ‘City in Nature’ vision, urban greenery space for recreation and gathering. Thus, the an environment that resonates with users’
must focus on the connectivity of green open identities, experiences, and aspirations. A
Source: MKPL Architects

scope of landscape architecture is more integrated

spaces within the city, where every landscape with the building envelope and not limited to only thoughtfully designed landscape goes beyond
space is a socio-ecological node and an spaces outside the buildings and at ground levels. aesthetics to enrich the lives of those who
integral part of a larger urban green network. encounter and engage with it.
Connectivity and interactivity will be critical In addition to providing aesthetic value, the
Building typology explored by MKPL Architects to increase drivers of nature-based urban ecosystems Landscape Architect has a holistic view of
greenery in building facades approach to planning future cities. integrating the ecological, environmental,
The longer version of this interview can be found at
social, economic and infrastructural value of the this link.
By embracing regenerative strategies in landscape spaces and highlighting the ecosystem
planning and designing our built environments, services benefits that can be achieved.
 Source: .K. Kopter
2.2
90 91

How should sky terraces be GFA-exempted areas

Non GFA-exempted areas
designed? 45deg line

2.2.1: Size them sufficiently Planter beds can be exempted

from occupancy load calculations
for public use if raised above 30cm. It shall be
capped at 45cm for them to be
integrated with public seating.
SKY TERRACES Sky terraces shall be of a meaningful size
and configuration for communal use - as a Water features higher than 30cm
general guide they should have a minimum are also exempted from
depth of 5m. occupancy load calculations.
The 45-deg line encourages developers to provide
loftier sky terraces, as higher volume spaces have
Sky terrace areas are exempted from GFA more GFA exempted floor areas
computation up to an area defined by a
45-degree sloping line taken from the edge Additional height for
sky terrace floors
of the overhanging structure.
Source: ShotSighted Studio
The 45-degree line principle encourages Water features
developers to provide loftier sky
terraces, as higher volume spaces are Raised planter beds
visually more attractive and promote
healthier plant growth. The 45-degree Sky terrace at Oasia Downtown Hotel
line will be measured from the edge of
any overhanging permanent or opaque Nonetheless, landscaping features such as
2.2.3: Keep open and
Sky terrace at One George Street
structure (excluding drop panels). Predominant sky terraces can enjoy additional floor-
2.2.2: Ensure communal planter beds can be omitted from occupancy unenclosed for good views
What are Sky Terraces? to-floor height (only applicable on the sky terrace level) access and lush landscaping load calculations provided they have a minimum
Sky terraces are communal spaces provided at Developers are encouraged to provide height of 30cm and fully covered in planting, to To ensure good views from the sky terrace and
intermediate levels of a building that are open larger sky terraces (also known as Sky terrace within 45-deg line Sky terraces must be accessible to the public or ensure they are used for planting rather than as to allow the greenery to be visible from outside,
sided and naturally ventilated, in other words, predominant sky terraces) occupying more Residual areas outside 45-deg line (can be GFA building occupants. There shall be at least one occupiable spaces. sky terraces must remain unenclosed with at
exempted as Sky Terrace is >60% of floor plate)
sheltered public spaces in the sky. than 60% of the building floor plate through Non GFA-exempted areas outside 45-deg line set of common lifts or staircases serving the sky least 40% of the perimeter of the sky terrace
Under the GFA incentive, these covered spaces additional GFA exemption and height terrace. Where taller raised planters are proposed, they kept open.
are not counted as GFA. relaxation. should be designed in a manner that ensures
Sky terraces shall also be generously the sky terrace remains a generally open The perimeter is considered open as long as
The sky terrace guidelines were introduced in landscaped, with a preference for sunken and unenclosed space with contiguous and parapet walls are kept 1.3m or below in height.
1997, and early examples included One George Sky terrace guidelines planting beds for better spatial and visual meaningfully-sized gathering areas. For predominant sky terraces, at least 60% of
Street (2004) and Newton Suites (2007). Sky terrace guidelines were first introduced in 1997 openness. Planter beds should have sufficient the perimeter shall be kept open.
and incorporated into LUSH in 2008. The guidelines
Sky terraces are now a common feature in stipulate the design requirements and GFA exemption
soil depth for healthy plant growth. Architects and designers have to balance
many condominiums, office and mixed-use incentives to encourage bigger, greener and loftier between spatial design outcomes, plant growth Extensive shear walls should also be
developments, providing building occupants sky terraces. As popular gathering spaces, sky terraces and fire safety considerations, to ensure that sky minimised within and along the boundaries of
communal spaces to gather with elevated views Find out more at this link. Predominant sky terraces can enjoy more exemption of account for a higher occupancy load factor and terraces remain enjoyable public spaces and are the sky terrace space, as they reduce the sense
of the city in a garden setting. residual areas beyond areas defined by the 45-deg line) fire escape requirements. designed with safety considerations. of openness for public enjoyment.
92 93

CASE STUDY Sky terraces count as Landscape Replacement Areas (LRAs)

for developments subject to LRA requirements under the
LUSH policy. At least 40% of site area shall be for permanent
A living tower of green planting or “softscape”.

Oasia Hotel Downtown | 2016

The green façade extends
One project that has stretched the imagination Described as a “device in the city that supports the greenery along
Location: 100 Peck Seah Street on how sky terraces can be integrated in a a thriving eco system three-dimensionally in a Duxton Plain Linear Park
Developer: Far East SOHO Pte Ltd very dense environment”, Oasia Hotel Downtown into the sky
development is Oasia Hotel Downtown.
Architect: WOHA Architects Pte Ltd is designed around a series of three lofty, lushly
Landscape Consultant: Sitetectonix Pte Ltd
Completed in 2016, it is hard to miss this planted sky terraces that define the building in four
Main Contractor: Who Hup (Private) Ltd
Mechanical & Electrical Engineer: Rankine & landmark with its red mesh façade covered in distinct segments. It also has a vegetated outer skin
Hill (S) Pte Ltd flowering creepers rising 191m tall next to Tras of aluminium mesh covering the entire building.
Link Park in Tanjong Pagar.
Predominant sky terraces
WOHA Architects designed each sky terrace to
occupy almost the full building floor plate, with
the lift and service cores at the four corners of
The building is organized
the building. This opened up the sky terrace into a
into a series of L-shaped 21m
blocks wrapped around more contiguous space enjoying 360-degree views
sky terraces of the city, which would not have been possible
26th storey
(rooftop bar
with a typical centre-core tower. 47m
and restaurant)
By occupying more than 60% of the floor plate and
21st storey being more than 60% open-sided, each sky terrace
(urban resort
with infinity
qualified for additional GFA exemption for residual
Sky terraces amplify the
pool) areas and additional height allowance, under the area of green cover for
‘predominant sky terrace’ incentive. the development and act
as communal spaces in
12th storey the sky
(garden An additional bonus height of 15m was granted
verandah to be used for the sky terrace floors (different
with activity height bonuses are applicable depending on the
courtyard)
overall storey height of the development). Each sky
terrace therefore has at least a 1:1 height-depth ton
Source: Patrick Bingham-Hall

ratio, creating a bright and airy environment with Dux in

generous cross-ventilation. Pla ear
6th storey Lin k
(sky lobby for Par
offices)
94 95

Additional height and GFA exemption is granted

More than 10x green An easily maintainable green façade The landscape architects stressed the This diagram illustrates how GFA exemption For larger predominant sky terraces, which
for predominant sky terraces occupying more
According to the design team, the amount An extensive green façade covers the entire necessity of easy maintenance and good was applied for the 21st storey sky terrace in than 60% of the building floor plate, to encourage occupy more than 60% of the floor plate,
of replacement greenery in Oasia Hotel building, adding an additional 25,000sqm soil depth for the green facade planters to Oasia Hotel Downtown. larger sky terraces in developments residual areas beyond the 45-degree line that
form an integral part of the Sky Terrace (shaded
Downtown is over 10 times the site area. of landscaped surface area to the building, ensure lush plant growth in keeping with the yellow) can also be considered for exemption
forming a “vegetated outer skin”. ambition and scale of the greening. Hence they To qualify for GFA exemption, the sky
The development has managed to achieve this designed 1m deep planters all along the edge terrace shall be:
with the help of generous sky terraces. The green façade also acts as a sun break, of the façade, at each level or at least every
absorbing heat and providing self-shading other level of the building. a) Lushly landscaped;
Compared to a traditional podium-tower to combat the greenhouse effect in the hotel
building, which has limited horizontal surface rooms. Access was built in to every planter in the b) For communal use;
areas for greenery (see diagram below), Oasia form of cat-ladders, so that maintenance
Hotel Downtown’s three Predominant Sky Oasia Hotel Downtown extends the greenery can be done without the need for ropes or c) Generally kept open (at least 40% of
Terraces and roof garden created additional of the linear park from ground level to the sky gondolas. the perimeter of the sky terrace is to
areas of greenery, multiple times the site through its extensive green facades. 45-
remain unenclosed); and deg
re e
area. line
f ro m
d) Minimally 5m in depth. ove
rhan
ging
eave
The general area of the sky terrace that
is exempted from GFA is defined by a
A traditional podium-tower block has limited Oasia Hotel Downtown’s three sky terraces and roof garden
horizontal surface areas for greenery have multiplied the site area for greenery by several times 45-degree line from the overhanging
eave / external wall (shaded green).

At least 40% of the perimeter of the sky

terrace is to remain unenclosed and open

At least 40% of the perimeter

of the sky terrace is to remain
unenclosed and open
 2.3
96 97

CONCEPTS EXPLAINED How should roof gardens be

designed?
Why does URA discourage 2.3.1: Form attractive

Source: Patrick Bingham-Hall

long shear walls along landscaped areas for public
enjoyment
sky terraces? GREEN ROOFS Prior to the introduction of the LUSH
There is performance criteria for sky terraces to meet in order Guidelines in 2009, roof areas in buildings
to qualify for GFA exemption. In general, they are required to be around Singapore were typically

Source: Freight Architects &

Darren Soh (Photographer)
open-sided, lushly landscaped and communally accessible, to inaccessible spaces used for M&E
ensure that they work well as attractive public spaces in the sky. services.

URA requires sky terraces to be open-sided and unenclosed to When landscape replacement area
provision became mandatory for certain Intensive green roof at Kampong Admiralty
ensure that greenery within them can be enjoyed by the building (publicly accessible)
users as well as the surrounding environment. It also ensures developments under LUSH, roof areas
quickly became critical areas for planting,
qualities of openness and good views for occupants within the
being horizontal planes that could be
sky terrace. Extensive green roof at Skool4Kidz Campus@Fernvale
designed with greenery.
Green roofs
At least 40% of the perimeter of the sky terrace must be kept open. What are green roofs?
Green roofs refer to publicly accessible roof New developments began to incorporate
While parapet walls can be provided along these stretches, they
gardens or non-accessible roof covers planted lush gardens into roof spaces for public
should not exceed 1.3m in height. For predominant sky terraces,
with greenery. enjoyment. NParks also offered a cash
the requirement is 60% of the perimeter.
grant to co-fund the installation of green
They are a relatively easy way to make up for the roofs on existing older buildings in 2008.
The use of shear walls especially in Residential developments shortfall of green spaces and surfaces in the city,
sometimes poses a challenge in meeting this objective. Without as existing buildings can be quickly retrofitted with To count as LRA, green roofs have to be
careful management, extensive shear walls and deep columns can green roofs. well-designed and lushly landscaped for
significantly affect the spatial quality and sense of openness of sky communal use by the public or building
terraces. They can form continuous visual walls when viewed from Non-load bearing roof canopies with a thin layer occupants.
an angle and significantly narrow the field of vision of people in the of planting are known as Extensive Green Roofs.
sky terrace. Newer developments are usually designed upfront
Under LUSH 3.0, extensive green roofs,
with publicly accessible roof gardens, with deep
soil beds to support plant growth – these are also which are not accessible, are also allowed
Where possible, developments should minimise the depth and to qualify as LRA.
Studies on shear wall depth around the perimeter of sky terraces known as Intensive Green Roofs.
frequency of shear walls along the outer edges of sky terraces.
One option is using transfer beams to reduce the needed depth of Green roofs help with energy conservation, with
column members or creating openings in the shear walls to create some studies suggesting they can reduce up to 79%
visual porosity. Planters should also be sited along the edges of the reduction of peak cooling load on buildings. They are
sky terrace to allow them to be appreciated from the surrounding also known to help mitigate pollution and support Green roofs can take the form of publicly accessible
environment. biodiversity in the city 20. roof gardens or non-accessible extensive green roofs
98 99

CASE STUDY

2.3.2: Support activities such Village green for a vertical kampung

as rooftop dining, urban
Kampung Admiralty | 2017
farming and solar farms Gardens
Restaurants
Under the scheme, the rooftop ORA is capped In land-scarce Singapore, green spaces are Behind the design
To encourage building owners to convert M&E space Location: 676 Woodlands Drive 71
at 50% of the overall roof space or 200sqm, making a comeback in the form of green roofs The project was initiated through the collective
rooftop spaces into attractive roof gardens, URA Developer: HDB, MOH, NEA, NParks, LTA, ECDA
whichever is lower, to ensure that the majority on buildings. In the north of Singapore, a effort of several agencies – the Housing
began to grant bonus GFA for rooftop outdoor and Yishun Health Campus (YHC)
of the roof area is kept for landscaping. The Architect: WOHA Architects Pte Ltd lush roof garden paradise with edible plants, Development Board, Ministry of Health,
refreshment areas (ORAs) under LUSH in 2009.
ORA is to be designed as an open and porous Landscape Consultant: Ramboll Studio Dreiseitl vegetables, fruits and spices, is being tended to Alexandra Health System, National Environment
structure, with only 50% of the bonus GFA Singapore Pte Ltd by senior citizens and nearby residents, located Agency, NParks, Land Transport Authority and
The guidelines were introduced for
allowed to be enclosed (e.g. as kitchens or
Main Contractor: Lum Chang Building Contractor within an integrated community development. Early Childhood Development Agency. Various
developments in Downtown Core, as well as Ltd
service areas). functions were integrated with the development.
parts of Orchard and Singapore River planning Mechanical & Electrical Engineer: AECOM Pte Ltd This integrated community development is
areas, and incentivised rooftop bars and
URA also began allowing rooftop urban farms Kampung Admiralty, combining senior care, The close proximity of healthcare, social,
restaurants in open settings, offering dining
and greenery beneath solar panels to be studio apartments, hawker centre and medical commercial and other amenities supports inter-
options with dramatic views and lush greenery
counted as landscape replacement areas centre with a lush roof garden, in the heart of generational bonding and promotes active aging
in the city. Rooftop M&E spaces are encouraged to be transferred to
under LUSH 3.0 in 2017. This helps to augment Admiralty. in-place.
one of the top three floors below the roof to free up the
Singapore’s food and energy resilience, roof area for greenery

Source: .K. Kopter

beginning a new chapter on roof areas being A mixed-use planning approach was adopted to This means that the elderly residents of 104
used as green and productive spaces. co-locate different uses in this development to studio apartments in Kampung Admiralty
2.3.3: Transfer M&E spaces to create a convenient one-stop senior care hub
next to the MRT station.
can continue to live and age actively and
independently in their own homes and
Bonus GFA is granted for
rooftop ORAs provided one of lower three floors community, with easy access to medical and
they are accompanied by The green roof became a unifying architectural other institutional support.
lush landscaping. Prior to LUSH, rooftops were usually used for feature to tie the various uses together and
M&E equipment where they were exempted create an immersive, therapeutic environment To bring the different programmes and users
from GFA, being open to the sky or concealed for seniors to live, work, play and farm in a together, WOHA designed the green roof at
under screening trellises or roof covers. ‘kampung’ (referring to villages in the local Kampung Admiralty as a series of terraced
vernacular) setting. gardens, spread over the 3rd to 9th storey, to act
URA now allows rooftop M&E services to be as a “village green” for the development.
transferred from the roof to one of the top
three floors directly below the roof, where they
could continue to be exempted from GFA, in
order to free up the roof area for greenery.

Any M&E services or back-of-house facilities

remaining on the roof level, such as lift motor
50% ORA cap
rooms or staircase cores, shall be clustered
50% Enclosed Area cap
and integrated into the roof design.
100 101

WOHA designed the green roof as a series of terraced Level 9 Urban Farm
The community farm is located on
gardens, spread over the 3rd to 9th storey, to act as a “village the 9th storey, with farming boxes

Source: Patrick Bingham-Hall

green” for the development. linked by handicapped-friendly
Studio Apartments ramps for barrier free access. This
for elderly The roof garden is lushly landscaped to create an immersive farm is tended to by volunteer
gardeners under NParks’ Community
green environment that put residents and visitors at ease,
in Bloom initiative.
and cleverly structured around different themes that
supported social interaction.

Childcare Centre Senior Apartments

Acting Aging Hub Admiralty MRT Perched on the roof garden so that all
units enjoy immersive views of greenery
Level 6 Exercise Corner and

Source: Patrick Bingham-Hall

A blending of green and blue
on all sides. Apartments are designed
in pairs (four pairs on every floor) to Playground OUTSTANDING
encourage friendships between A children’s playground and senior
To recreate the setting of a tropical forest Medical Centre Medical Centre fitness station are located on the
the residents.
and ‘kampung’, the roof garden was covered 6th storey, bringing the child care
in burgeoning fruit trees, herbs and spices, and senior care centres together to
encourage inter generational bonding.
vegetables and medicinal plants. Familiar edible
plants being harvested by the residents here are Plaza Retail
chiku, longan, chilli, and sweet potato leaf. Community Farm
Carpark Supermarket Childcare / Eldercare Facilities
Co-located next to each other to
In total, permanent greenery covers over 50% of Carpark encourage inter-generational bonding.
the building’s site area, helping to contribute to Source: WOHA Architects

Source: Patrick Bingham-Hall

100% landscape replacement area. OUTSTANDING

© Patrick Bingham-Hall
What is less visible is the water management Exercise
Section of Kampung Admiralty
system designed into the building and roof Corner
garden, which collects and cleanses rain water
for irrigation of the development’s landscaping
and community farm.
Multiplier effects on biodiversity
bioSEA conducted a biodiversity audit for Their study concluded that this could be Rain
A rain garden on the 3rd storey forms a Medical Centre Garden
Kampung Admiralty in 2018 and found a rich attributed to the community farm on the green Level 3 Rain Garden
dramatic landscape bringing light and greenery Playground
diversity of 50 animal species attracted to the roof, as it was largely kept pesticide free and The ‘rain garden’ courtyard sits in the
into the medical centre. A rainwater harvesting middle of the polyclinic on the 3rd storey,
development, attracting more animal species had a rich variety of edible plants.
tank detains and recirculates excess water to Outdoor bringing sunlight and greenery views
than nearby parks such as Woodlands Crescent to patients and staff. Rainwater is also
the drainage network. Living
Park and Woodlands Admiral Garden. 21 Room channeled here first before going to the
eco pond on the first storey.
 2.4
102 103

BEHIND THE SCENES PARKROYAL Collection Pickering is a project Urban greenery can significantly boost How should communal
described as having a higher upfront cost to the natural ecosystem if done right.
get the greenery and sustainability systems
planters be designed?
Are there any interesting ecological
Pushing the in place, with cost savings in the long run. outcomes as a result of your building 2.4.1: Locate in communal
How were these costs and savings quantified,
boundaries of living and has this actually panned out well for the
designs?
areas for public enjoyment Lift
with nature building owners?
Hong Wei: It made some news the year before.
To enjoy GFA exemption, planters shall be
Lobby

Phua Hong Wei and Pearl Chee are directors

Hong Wei: Sometimes we do get pragmatic
with the numbers and costs but the benefits of
A Himalayas vulture was seen hovering around
Oasia Downtown Hotel. For Oasia, it’s only one COMMUNAL PLANTERS located along communally accessible areas
Office
Communal
Space
building surrounded by a concrete jungle, so of the building, where more people can
at WOHA, which is responsible for three nature cannot be quantified entirely because the enjoy them. Planters accessible only from
of the case studies in this book, namely there’s only so much you can do in terms of
returns are always much, much more. We make individual residential or office units are
Kampung Admiralty, Oasia Hotel Downtown attracting or supporting an ecosystem.
it a point to commission ecosystem services considered private planters and not eligible
and PARKROYAL Collection Pickering. They surveys to understand the performance of the for GFA exemption.
talk about WOHA’s motivations behind its However we commissioned ecosystem surveys Public planters
building in health and comfort, and biodiversity
impressive track record in creating trend- for Oasia and Kampung Admiralty. Dr Anuj of Private planters
surveys to quantify and track nature attracted by This is because such planters could be
setting biophilic architecture. bioSEA did a projection that if you have ten
the building. converted to other uses, or have their Green roofs can take the form of publicly
Oasias they would create sufficient mass to host

Source: Patrick Bingham-Hall

the same number of urban adapted species as planting removed over time. accessible roof gardens or non-accessible
WOHA’s projects regularly stand out when it The costs of maintenance are always a concern. extensive green roofs
comes to greenery and sustainability. Can you you can find at Duxton Park.
However, the benefits of nature cannot be
share with us what drives WOHA to constantly entirely quantified – the value of greenery in our 2.4.2: Design for function –
push the limits of green design? Pearl: We are happy that with data evidence,
buildings is so much more.
greenery in buildings can be successful and it plant growth and maintenance
Hong Wei: We imagine tropical buildings as a will be beneficial to the city – to link and connect
Pearl: The simple rule-of-thumb for designers Planter beds and boxes provide the medium Structural engineers have to account for
generous, responsible and sustainable typology greenery between buildings if possible. Like
is we always want to be able to walk right up for vegetation to grow in developments. heavier soil weight assumptions to account
that can contribute back to the city. It is not just Hong Wei said - if we had ten Oasias, the impact Publicly accessible Communal Planters at
to the landscape to maintain it. If there are To support healthy plant growth, they for plant growth, e.g. a large tree can weigh
about green-washing, but how the greenery on the city can be tremendous. PARKROYAL Collection Pickering
maintenance units or cranes then usually it should have sufficient soil depth. The 2-4 tonnes initially and increase to 4-5
can benefit not just the development but the is not very sustainable, or acceptable to the recommendation is minimum 1m depth tonnes over 10 years.
surroundings. What do you think should be the next step What are Communal Planters?
developer. for trees and 50cm for shrubs and other
for LUSH and URA? These are externalised planter boxes installed
within the building that support vegetation growth, smaller plants. Good drainage is also needed in the
Pearl: I think that passive design really needs to Hong Wei: It almost has to be low tech. It takes a planters to prevent waterlogging of soil
make a comeback. For a very long time we have Hong Wei: The LUSH programme is a game within publicly accessible areas.
collective effort from the developer, consultants Hence the planters shall be designed upfront which leads to root rot.
tried to emulate what the west is doing. Because and stakeholders to steward the project to changer. It motivates and reinforces the need to as part of the building design, instead of
we are going for high density, high-rise, hence have skyrise greenery. I think we all can see that Planters can form a significant part of landscape
deliver more socially and environmentally having to be modified around beams, slabs Architects should also plan for easy
we see glass boxes in our downtown. Singapore is ahead of the curve in terms of that. replacement strategy in a development, especially
responsible buildings. We cannot run away from and columns which are planned before the maintenance. Planters on the building
It is now up to the designers to see how we can multiplied over many floors in a high-rise building.
maintenance, we have to see maintenance as a landscaping stage. exterior shall be designed for easy access
From our experience with the three buildings means to desired outcomes too. In PARKROYAL optimize and maximise the guidelines.
Research has found that greenery on building by gardeners, e.g. with catwalks or
[in this guidebook] people are actually quite Collection Pickering, the client was convinced attracting or supporting an ecosystem. maintenance paths.
comfortable to be outdoors. We are studying facades, especially along urban canyons, can
of the design, as they also saw that the finished
how these typologies that incorporate natural reduce nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate
product would be differentiated from others. The longer version of this interview can be found
ventilation can work in other climates too. at this link. matter (PM) along the street by 40% and 60%
respectively 22.
104 105

CONCEPTS EXPLAINED
2.4.3: Incorporate as part of
integrated landscape designs
What is green plot ratio
To be exempted from GFA, communal planters
and how is it computed?
are generally to be kept at 1m in width and GnPR 1.0 GnPR 2.0 GnPR 3.0
should have a minimum depth of 50cm to To ensure better density and quality of planting, green plot ratio
support plant growth. Communal planters (GnPR) standards were introduced as part of LUSH 3.0.
should also be sufficiently externalised and
visible from outside the building. The GnPR framework was originally developed by Dr Ong Boon
Lay of NUS in 2002, to help estimate the environmental benefits

Source: Fabian Ong

However, larger communal planters exceeding of greenery 23.
1m width can also be considered for GFA
exemption, in consideration of the overall Higher leaf density would generally result in greater water
landscaping scheme for the development. retention and carbon dioxide uptake by the plant. Setting
Planters up to 2.2m wide are incorporated into the façade of the
minimum green plot ratio standards therefore ensure higher GnPR 4.0 GnPR 5.0 GnPR 6.0

Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum density and quality of planting in a building.

GnPR is computed by taking the total leaf area of greenery

Total Leaf Area within LRA
provided in softscape areas divided by the site area. Larger, Green Plot Ratio =
leafier trees and plants have a higher leaf area index (LAI) value. Site Area

To obtain the Leaf Area Index (LAI) of various plant species,

applicants can refer to the Flora Fauna web portal set up by
NParks.

The minimum GnPR requirement for developments ranges from

3.0 to 4.0, depending on the development density (GPR) and
1m deep
planters location (within or outside Strategic Areas).

Green Plot Ratio

The green plot ratio (GnPR) provides an objective measure of the
density of greenery within a site. Find out more about the
requirements at this link .
Typically, planter boxes must be communally URA may consider GFA exemption for larger GFA exemption areas – more than 1m
accessible and not exceed 1 metre width to communal planter boxes if they are part of a larger width per planter The Leaf Area Index of various plants can be found at the NParks
qualify for GFA exemption landscaping scheme, based on design merit Flora and Fauna web portal, at this link . LAI = 2 LAI = 3.5 - 4.5 LAI = 2.5 - 4
106 107

CASE STUDY Planters on Tower

Planters on Podium

Planters in the sky Green arbor and

water gardens
PARKROYAL Collection Pickering | 2013 Behind the design
The design of the building was strongly
along covered
linkway along Upper
motivated by the idea of ‘giving back to the city’, Pickering Road
PARKROYAL Collection Pickering needs little
Location: 3 Upper Pickering St continuing the act of altruism of Mr Cheang
introduction. Its breathtaking greenery hanging
Developer: UOL Group Limited
Hong Lim’s, when in 1876 he bought and donated
over the sides of terraces and planters,
the land that became Hong Lim Park, a 9’400sqm
Architect: WOHA Architects Pte Ltd overlooking Hong Lim Park, have fired the
patch of greenery in the city 24.
Landscape Consultant: Tierra Design Pte Ltd collective imagination of travellers and fans of
Main Contractor: Tiong Seng Contractors (Pte) Ltd green architecture worldwide.
The architects and client were inspired to mirror
Mechanical & Electrical Engineer: BECA Carter the creation of greenery on a vertical scale, and
So much so that when the Council of Tall
Hollings & Ferner (S. E. Asia) Pte Ltd would go on to eventually achieve a reported
Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH), an
15,000sqm of greenery within the development,
international body in the field of tall buildings,
double that of the site area.
compiled the list of ‘The 50 Most Influential
Tall Buildings of the last 50 years’ in 2019, this
In addition, the valuable ground plane was
building was one out of only three buildings
kept open as a porous public space, instead of
with vertical greenery featured, amongst other
being maximised for other commercial uses.
landmark buildings like Burj Khalifa (Dubai) and
Planters were widely deployed throughout the
One World Trade Center (New York) in the list.
development to create walls of greenery along
Upper Pickering and Upper Hokien Streets.
A vertical extension of Hong Lim Park
When URA launched this sale site in 2007, the
The building treats the tree canopy line as a new
intention was for the greenery of Hong Lim Park
datum of greenery in the city, one which visually
to be extended into the development through
merges with the lushly landscaped podium
well-landscaped open spaces at street level.
deck and breaks the volume of the building into
two parts, to allow it to respond to the city at
WOHA Architects, with the support of the client,
different scales.
conceptualised the design for planters at
Source: Patrick Bingham-Hall

various levels of the building to extend the sense

The 5-storey tall podium, housing the carpark
of green from park vertically up the building.
and lobby, forms a human-scale presence
They also took it upon themselves to ensure
along the street with a tiered sculpted façade
that sustainability would permeate all aspects
embellished with planters.
of design, including the long-term performance
and maintenance aspects of the building. Hong Lim Park
Above it are perched the hotel and office towers
on stilts, with sky gardens and planter boxes
hanging on the façade that are visible from
surrounding areas.
108 109

Supporting healthy plant growth

Planter boxes shall be minimally
An orchestration of planters Planters in the sky 50cm deep to ensure sufficient
PARKROYAL Collection Pickering features The sky garden planters at tower level facing Hotel soil depth to accommodate
Bath healthy plant growth. URA
planters ranging in widths up to 3.9m the park are planted with a combination of tall Room
Room
1m deep requires communal planters to
wide, allowing a symphony of planting to be Palms and Frangipanis, which frame views of planters
created across the building. the city from the hotel room windows. be at least 1m in width and 50cm
in depth to be considered for
GFA exemption
The landscaping palette was also carefully Sky garden planters at the rear are planted
developed to create a lush and exotic with man height shrubs like calathea lutea to
tropical garden. screen away the rear service lane.

To avoid the need to use a maintenance gondola

to maintain the greenery, the architects divided
the building into blocks with linkways and
Naturally ventilated corridors
terraces to allow ease of access for a gardener
Naturally ventilated corridors
and a wheelbarrow to attend to every section of are additionally cooled by water
planting. features and overhanging
creepers to make for a
Planters along the street comfortable walk
The podium façade planters are planted
Section of PARKROYAL Collection Pickering with broad-leafed shrubs like monsteras to
screen the podium carpark, while fast growing
overhanging plants spill over the tiered
City Scale – towers and sky planters.
gardens relate to the skyline Putting greenery at eye level
Planters are raised 500mm
On the street level, tall Frangipanis create from finished floor level to
Street Scale – podium and planters an arbor along Upper Pickering Street to ensure that the greenery is at
relate to the streetscape form an extension of Hong Lim Park. Dense eye level for guests seated or
undergrowth shrubbery prevent jay walking. in the bath tub
Shade-loving plant species were also chosen in
response to varying light conditions along the
four sides of the building. Maintenance
Paths

An automatic irrigation system reduces need

for manual watering of the planters. Gardeners
only check and do trimming twice a week
across the property.

Source: WOHA Architects

2.5
110 111

How should green walls be

designed?

2.5.1: Integrate with overall 2.5.2: Ensure easy

building form and maintenance and upkeep
architectural treatment
GREEN WALLS A wide variety of green wall systems are
available for application in different contexts.
Regardless of the format, architects can design
planters to be easily accessible for maintenance,
2.5.3: Harness cooling effects,
As with communal planters, green walls
e.g. through catwalks and ladders. shape ecological outcomes
shall be well-integrated into the overall Panel systems green walls come with plants
Source: smuconlaw, wikimedia

design expression of the building, and pre-grown onto panels (or cassettes) and Research carried out collaboratively by NUS,
Certain green walls have provision of built-in
visibly showcased. installed vertically onto mounting structures. NParks and BCA indicated that vertical green
irrigation systems to minimise the need for
maintenance visits. walls help reduce temperatures, with a
Architects have used green walls to shield Green walls Tray systems keep plants in nursery pots and maximum of about 12 degrees recorded in the
afternoon sun facing facades (e.g. Treehouse can be quickly set up and refreshed. afternoon. This can lead to significant reduction
Condominium), dress up building frontages in energy consumption to cool down the
around a park (SMU), mark dramatic Conventional planter and climber systems building.25
entryways (Ocean Financial Centre) and provide cables for creepers to climb on and
even wrap up entire buildings (Oasia take time to establish. Planter / climber system Many developments in Singapore therefore
Downtown Hotel). – planters shall be located install green walls along facades facing the
at intervals that do not
exceed the maximum afternoon sun.
Green wall at Ocean Financial Building Under prevailing guidelines, green walls can growing length of
count towards LRA requirements (capped at creepers Green walls can also support local ecosystems.
What are green walls? 10% of site area) if they are well-designed Flowering plants and creepers are attractive
Green walls refer to vertical surfaces of a building and integrated in the façade, externalised
Tray system – plants
Green walls should be well-integrated into the are grown in nursery to pollinators and even birds. Bees have
that are covered in greenery, that work hand in hand and visible from surrounding areas. overall façade design and visibly located Panel system – usually
pots and can be easily been known to fly up to the 19th storey of
with communal planters to green up the building comes with irrigation
replaced
to water plants pre- the green wall at Treehouse Condominium 26,
facade. grown onto panels while Himalayan Vultures have visited Oasia
Some have climbing plants with self-clinging roots Downtown Hotel in Tanjong Pagar.27
growing directly on cables or other surfaces. In
recent years green walls have evolved to feature Biodiversity surveys for the site can help identify
more varieties of plants on vertical mounting appropriate plant species for the green wall that
systems, sometimes with built-in irrigation. can benefit nearby wildlife.

Over the past 10 – 15 years in Singapore, green

walls have made the transition from being mainly Green Walls
indoor features (e.g. Changi Airport Terminal 3, Green Walls can be counted towards Landscape
Six Battery Road) to building exteriors, sometimes Replacement requirements.
covering the full height of skyscrapers (e.g. Oasia Common green wall systems in Singapore include panel systems, tray systems, Find out more about the requirements at this link.
Hotel Downtown, Treehouse Condominium). Example of a tray system green wall Example of a planter and climber system as well as planter and climber systems
112 113

CASE STUDY

Biomimicry: nature-inspired solutions

Treehouse Condominium | 2013
Rising 24 storeys into the sky, the Treehouse The architects at ADDP drew inspiration from 3 key species of creepers
Location: 60 Chestnut Ave were planted: thubergia
condominium is a local landmark in the Dairy the site context, to create an environmentally
Developer: Chestnut Avenue Developments Pte grandiflora, bauhinia
Farm neighbourhood. Strikingly, the entire and ecologically sensitive development that
Ltd kockiana and quisqualis
Architect: ADDP Architects LLP façade is one continuous green wall – in fact would fit in and complement the nearby Bukit indica
Landscape Consultant: COEN Design Intl Pte Ltd the largest green wall in the world as certified Timah Nature Reserve.
Main Contractor: Tiong Seng Contractors by the Guinness World Records, a remarkable
Mechanical & Electrical Engineer: United Project feat for a residential project in the suburbs of A vertical bio-shield
Consultants Pte Ltd Singapore. Bio-mimicry is not new in architecture, offering
us solutions inspired by nature as we work
towards more sustainable outcomes. In the case 60cm deep planter boxes
of Treehouse, the idea of photosynthesis was the were located at two storey
intervals as the maximum
starting point of inspiration for the architects. length of creepers was
N typically 8m
North-south oriented blocks to
minimize afternoon sun exposure. Leaves can absorb sunlight as energy and yet
Block placement was also based on dispel excessive amounts of it as heat. This
optimal ventilation and wind flow inspired the architects to propose a 24-storey
high green wall to act as a bio-shield on the
westfacing end of the building, to harness the
Water features with bio-filters sun for vegetation growth but also block solar Aluminium maintenance
to clean surface run off catwalk was installed at
radiation heating up 48 master bedrooms behind every level with access
the wall. balconettes to the planters

The developer shared that the green wall has

cut the building’s carbon footprint by reducing
the need for air-conditioning, saving the
residents between 15% to 30% of energy usage
Sky terraces were inserted
and over $500,000 in utilities costs a year. at 6-storey intervals, which
also act as maintenance
access points

Eco-pond to slow down

stormwater run off before
discharge to sewers
 115

BEHIND THE SCENES

Source: Jonathan Choe, Archigardener

Several species of creepers were used for
the green wall: the fast-growing thunbergia
The architects were not aware they had
designed the world’s largest green wall. Pushing the Raymond (R): When we conceptualised the
green wall we intended it to bring nature
grandiflora helped establish green cover
quickly, while the slower-growing bauhinia
Acting on a hunch, the developers contacted
the Guinness World Records and made the
boundaries of living from the Bukit Batok Nature Reserve into
the development. The original idea was to
kockiana (a woody vine) ensured a longer
lasting layer of greenery. A third species
discovery only after it was completed. with nature have the green wall on every block but we
quisqualis indica was added to attract A naturally ventilated basement scaled this down to one due to concerns
Tang Kok Thye and Raymond Yap are the of inviting too much wildlife into the
pollinators like butterflies and bees. Taking advantage of the topography, with
project architects at ADDP who worked
slopes of 5m across the width of the site and residential development.
on the Treehouse Condominium project.
As creeper plants can typically only grow up 12m across the length, the architects created a
They reflect on the challenges they face in
to 8m, the planters were located at every two semi-sunken carpark which was partially open Can you share more about taking a Over time we seem to be seeing lusher
realising skyrise greenery for their projects,
storeys to ensure good coverage of greenery. for natural ventilation. wholistic approach to sustainable design? greenery outcomes in condominiums.
and where we are as a society moving
The soil beds are also 60cm deep to allow for
towards becoming a City in Nature. What in your opinion led to this trend?
better root and plant growth. Strategic openings were introduced to bring
KT: We use Greenmark and URA’s LUSH
Source: Finbarr Fallon
in fresh air to avoid the need for mechanical
Each planter was designed with its own ventilation. These voids also brought in It is a remarkable feat that a private policy as a guide - these are strong KT: We have been doing condominiums
aluminium maintenance catwalk access, daylighting and created views of the gardens condominium development in Singapore fundamentals that align our products to for many years. The early focus was on
with access balconettes interspersed along above it for the carpark. holds the Guinness World Record for the sustainability. As architects, we have to find creating facilities like barbeque areas,
the planters to create points for pruning and world’s largest Vertical Green Wall, how the balance between sustainability and the swimming pools, etc, but in the past five
cleaning debris. Water management features did this come about? bottom line. years or so the focus has been more on
Sited on sloping terrain, rainfall would be biophilia and nature.
Sky terraces were introduced at 6-storey channeled towards a bio-retention basin at the From day one, we set a target to get
intervals, so that maintenance workers would lower southern end of the site, which would Kok Thye (KT): Getting the record was
not our objective. We have to thank our Greenmark platinum [certified]. We placed This developer shift is due to a shift in
Green wall at Treehouse condominium, ADDP Architects only have to walk up and down 3 storeys to collect and slow down stormwater discharge
access all parts of the green wall. into the public drainage system. collaborator from the developer’s side the blocks in a staggered manner so that buyer preferences. Whether for HDB or
for this. He worked on it with us from the they do not overshadow each other and condos, people seem to want to have more
The world’s largest green wall The landscape consultant also advised for a Treehouse condominium raised the bar concept stage and when it was completed, allow wind penetration through the site. nature in their surroundings. Another
The construction and maintainability of a green metal plate to be discretely installed at the in skyrise greenery and innovation, he asked if we had a chance to submit for This was supported by the wind studies we driver was URA’s LUSH requirements but I
wall of this size were key concerns. top of the green wall, which would heat up in demonstrating how the world’s largest green the record. It wasn’t our intention to get the did. We were a little too successful in that think that was also driven by public desire
the sun and act as a natural barrier to creeper wall could be achieved using simple design and “world’s largest green wall” – and maybe we ended up with a problem of wind driven to have a greener environment. Hopefully
While proprietary systems at the time such growth. This was to prevent the greenery maintenance approaches. It is also a showcase rain.
because of that we had less pressure doing down the road there will be more and more
as soilless hydroponics were considered, a from growing beyond accessible areas for of how sustainability requires a comprehensive
simpler, cheaper and more effective system maintenance. approach, to consider environmental and it but had a lot of fun instead. new ideas on skyrise greenery and I am
The other thing was the basement – the sure URA is keen to see how they can be
was ultimately chosen: the conventional ecological outcomes in the design.
planter and climber system, modified to allow As a finishing touch, the architects added a
site was undulating, sloping down from executed too.
easy maintenance access and ensure lush xylem inspired white aluminium lace pattern the north side to the south. Hence we
green coverage. to the green wall. were able to design the basement to be
naturally ventilated – we did not need any The longer version of this interview can be found at
this link.
mechanical ventilation.
2.6
116 117

How should covered communal

ground gardens be designed?

2.6.1: Cover ground areas 2.6.2: Form bright and airy

generously, blur boundaries spaces
between inside and outside Predominant C2G2 shall be designed as bright and airy spaces. This is
COVERED COMMUNAL Under the C2G2 guidelines, landscaped sometimes achieved by lifting up the building from the ground for a loftier

GROUND GARDENS areas within the building footprint can be

exempted from GFA, up to the extent of a
ground floor and C2G2 space.

(C2G2) 45-degree line measured from the edge of

the overhead structure.
The landscaping should also flow seamlessly into surrounding landscaped
areas (outside the building footprint), through an integrated landscaping
scheme.
Source: Andrew Bromber
(photo by Paul Warchol)

Landscaped areas within the 45-degree To encourage more generous ground

line which can be exempted from GFA
greenery, GFA exemption can be extended GFA exemption will not be extended to landscaped spaces tucked away in
under the C2G2 guidelines (green) C2G2 space
beyond the 45-degree line if the covered dark or inaccessible corners at the ground level which are not conducive
garden occupies more than half the building for landscaping and public use.
footprint, and at least 60% of the covered C2G2 should be bright and airy
garden is lushly landscaped. These are spaces with landscaping flowing
termed predominant covered communal seamlessly from outside to inside of
ground gardens. the building 2.6.3: Landscape luxuriously
Covered ground garden at Sandcrawler Building and ensure public access
Secondary C2G2 C2G2 spaces should have luxurious provision of quality landscaping with
What are C2G2? GFA exemption
Predominant C2G2 variety of vegetation.
C2G2 refer to landscaped areas on the ground can only be
up to the 45- If more than half the
floor covered by the building footprint. Visually they
degree line building footprint is Shade loving plants tend to perform better in covered spaces. The spaces
come across as gardens flowing from the outside a covered garden,
should be open and inviting, and remain accessible during operation hours
to interior spaces of the building. this is a Predominant
C2G2, where GFA of the building, e.g. in office developments.
exemption can be
To facilitate such blending of “outdoor” and “indoor” extended beyond ORAs are sometimes provided within these spaces to create alfresco dining
greenery, URA exempts the covered landscaped the 45-degree line
experiences (the ORA spaces are not computed as GFA).
areas from GFA computation, despite them being
covered habitable spaces.
Areas in red
This has encouraged designers to create bright and (not GFA exemptiaable
Covered Communal Ground Gardens
as it is outside the 45-
airy garden settings around lobby areas. In some degree line degree line
There are two types of C2G2: Secondary and Predominant C2G2.
developments, it is possible to wonder through the Find out more about the requirements at this link.
gardens and not realise one has passed through Predominant C2G2 can enjoy GFA exemption beyond the 45-degree
the building. line if the covered garden is more than half the building footprint C2G2 space at GSK Building
118 119

CASE STUDY

An other-worldly ground garden

The Sandcrawler | 2013
This seamless flow of greenery from the
Location: 1 Fusionopolis View outside to inside spaces, from uncovered to
Developer: Lucas Real Estate Singapore Pte Ltd
covered parts of the building at ground level
Architect: Andrew Bromberg of Aedas
Landscape Consultant: Adrian L Norman is facilitated by the covered communal ground
Main Contractor: Obayashi Corporation garden policy under LUSH, also known as C2G2.
Mechanical & Electrical Engineer: J Roger
Sky terraces
Preston A seamless open and covered ground garden
The sprawling garden carries through the
A green corridor was created through
ground plane of the building, elevating four the building to connect Nepal Hill to the
Set within the Fusionopolis cluster at one- meters from one end to the other. Enclosed by courtyard and one-north Park
north, the Sandcrawler building stands the wings of the building, the gardens were Covered communal
out as an icon resembling its cinematic lushly planted in a natural, overgrown manner, ground gardens
almost akin to a secret garden. The meandering (within sheltered
namesake, yet blends in harmoniously with spaces of the
the surrounding buildings and greenery. paths invited exploration, while scattered building)
benches invited people to sit and converse in
relative privacy. Continuous building
edge to help define
street walls along
The benefits of nature contact One-north Gateway Courtyard
The ground gardens within Sandcrawler and Fusionopolis gardens
View roads
contribute to a better working environment and
employee health, creating opportunities for Sculptural mounding was created within
the central courtyard to support planting
contact with nature.
and create terrain differences

Psychological researchers have studied the

brain and stress response after exposure to
greenery at the work place. Nature contact
restores stress fatigued minds to enhance Building is lifted 6 to 10m
off the ground to allow
coping abilities, and stimulate underutilised landscaping to flow under
portions of the brain to help concentration and
reduce stress 28.
Source: Andrew Bromber

Rows of large trees were planted to the

perimeter to create enclosure for the site
120 121

BEHIND THE SCENES

Fusionopolis Cluster
Urban design for
business parks
Sandcrawler
Tang Hsiao Ling leads the Urban Planning and
Architecture Division at JTC, where she guides
the design outcomes of business parks like One-
One-north park
is the main green
North, Jurong Innovation District and Punggol
spine through Digital District. We find out more about the
the district unique challenges she faces in their area of

Source: JTC
work.

Nepal Hill
Can you tell us when urban design and greenery
One-north business park
became an important part of JTC’s work?

Hsiao Ling: When JTC planned Jurong as the How does JTC use urban design and
first industrial township in the 60s and 70s, Has there been any feedback from your tenants
placemaking to shape identity for its research and businesses on the value greenery brings
greening was already a key planning strategy to and business campuses?
attract workers to work and live in the West. to their operations or general well-being?
Hsiao Ling: The urban design strategies and
Urban design became increasingly important Hsiao Ling: Companies have shared that their
guidelines unify the clusters as a collective
from the 2000s, when Singapore sought to workers enjoy spending their time amongst the
whole, integrating the spaces in the public
secure the competitive edge in the region as a lush greenery in the shaded courtyard spaces
realm within common areas and in private
key technopreneurial and knowledge-intensive and sky terraces within their developments.
developments. This ensures seamless
Roof planes of research hub. Inclusive urban work-centric Landscaped atrium spaces also serve as
connectivity to the transport and activity nodes,
developments developments such as One-north were created popular gathering spaces for lunch breaks and
creating “urban living rooms” as gathering points
aligned within
to attract international and local talents such as company events such as durian parties!
a cluster for workers through provision of fenceless and
innovators, technology entrepreneurs, business porous ground floor spaces, as well as green
consultants, media artists, and scientific Some workers have even taken the opportunity
pockets and spines that form natural breakout
researchers, creating a new typology of mixed- to turn their green buffers and rooftop terraces
spaces for the community.
Biopolis use environments and buildings where one into areas where they can have regular
Cluster could work, live, play and learn. communal gardening sessions and experiment
Complementing the hardware, placemaking and with growing fruits and vegetables which can
programming play a big part as the software, be enjoyed as part of their meals, while bonding
injecting vibrancy into the workspaces, with their colleagues.
encouraging interactions and chance encounters
to further collaborations and knowledge
N exchange within the knowledge districts. The longer version of this interview can be found at
this link.
 122 123

6
3.0 Sustainability How can developments become
This third part of the book looks at how more sustainable beyond using
urban design safeguards sustainability
outcomes beyond shaping greenery in
greenery?
development, from leveraging passive
design strategies to using technology to 3.1.1: Reduce energy 3.1.2: Use environmental
Chapter reduce energy consumption in buildings.
consumption and impact on modelling for more accurate
SUSTAINABILITY environment interventions

3.1
Greening Singapore’s buildings without real Shadow analysis studies
sustainability can be dismissed as “green Shadow analysis studies are widely used
washing”, by presenting the buildings as more to inform site planning, allowing designers
environmentally friendly than they are. It is to optimise building layout and massing
important to reduce energy consumption and to maximise shading of public spaces and
waste in buildings, to reduce their impact on circulation areas.
environment.
Typically, shadow conditions are simulated
While it is possible to lower energy consumption for the equinoxes and solstices to cover the
in buildings using state-of-the-art technology, full movement of the sun over the year, and
SUSTAINABILITY it is more sustainable to design buildings with simulated on an hourly basis to quantify the Shadow Analysis diagram of Orchard Road showing extent of shade at
passive design principles, to maximise the duration of shade in a year for a given location. different hours of the day of shade at different hours of the day
The buildings sector account for over one cooling effects of wind and sun shading so that
third of total energy consumption 29 and there is less need for active cooling systems in
14% of total carbon emissions in Singapore, the first place.
making them important to address in the Cooling Singapore

Source: Borzino N, Chng S,

Mughal MO, Schubert R.
transition towards a net zero emissions This chapter will look at three key strategies Cooling Singapore is a multi-disciplinary The study has created a roadmap for reducing
future 30. that help to reduce energy consumption in research study initiated in 2017 to develop heat through seven clusters of mitigation
buildings: solutions to address urban heat challenges in strategies, including urban geometry. This
Urban design looks at ways to reduce Singapore, involving university researchers and means that the form and massing of buildings
energy consumption through strategies like • Using passive design to reduce heat gain government agencies. can be used as a tool to keep the city cool, by
passive design, low energy construction and creating shade over public spaces, protecting
• Enhancing wind flow for cooling; and
leveraging on technology. Studies have shown that urban heat island (UHI) openings from direct sun and shaping wind flow
• Leveraging on technology and systems to effects, where built-up areas capture, store and through the neighbourhood, etc.
reduce energy use release heat back into the environment, has
resulted in higher temperatures of up to 7 deg C
in Singapore’s urban environment 31 especially at
night.
Capitagreen development is designed with extensive
Passive Design features like a wind scoop at the
top of the building, extensive planters that screen
window openings from direct sun and a double skin
façade that reduces solar heat gain to the building
124 125

How do we reduce heat gain in

buildings?

3.1.3: Adopt passive design

principles to minimise sun
exposure
Before the invention of air-conditioning, houses
and buildings in Singapore already used passive
design principles to block, screen and filter
direct sun to keep interior spaces cool. The
Greenmark Scheme, which was introduced by
BCA in 2005 to improve energy performance and
sustainability in local buildings, encourages such
passive design strategies for modern buildings.

Some strategies architects use to minimise

heat gain in building design include orientating
windows and openings away from the east-
west direction to avoid afternoon sun, installing
sun screening to block or filter direct sun
exposure, and using the right materials that
reduce heat transfer – such as coatings with
high reflectance index and windows with high
shading coefficients.

At the district level, urban designers have also

developed the following strategies to reduce
heat gain for buildings as a whole:

1. Plan for north south orientation in buildings. 2. Encourage balconies and verandas that 3. Shape building form and massing to provide 4. Require minimum shading standards for 5. Orientate streets and corridors according
This keeps building openings and views away shield internal spaces from direct sun shade for public spaces and circulation public spaces. The POPS (privately owned to the type of activities they support. Retail
from exposure to afternoon sun. Detailed exposure. areas to encourage more activity and public spaces) guidelines requires public streets may work better in a north-south
simulations are done at the masterplanning street life throughout the day. One strategy space areas and seating areas to be at least orientation as this maximises shading
stage to ensure that buildings can achieve is placing public spaces eastwards of 50% shaded throughout the day from adjacent buildings in the morning and
this orientation on site. tall buildings to provide shade from the evening when there is most retail activity.
afternoon sun
126 127

How do we leverage on wind to

cool down buildings?

3.1.4: Shape buildings to

maximise wind flow
through developments
Wind speeds in Singapore are generally not high,
averaging about 1-2.5m/s that only registers
as “light air” on the Beaufort scale 32. However,
there are urban design strategies that can
shape wind into comfortable breezes (4-5m/s
and above), enable wind flow through districts
and direct them towards desired areas in the
neighbourhood such as public spaces.

Some strategies urban designers use to manage

wind flow on a district level are:

1. Create wind corridors that channel wind through the district. 2. Provide spacing and porosity between buildings 3. Vary building heights to capture wind. Staggering 4. Select building forms and typologies that better 5. Prioritise planting of trees and greenery
They should be aligned with prevailing wind directions, which to allow wind to distribute through the site building heights allows for the creation of downwash facilitate wind flow. Breaking up large multi-storey where they can provide cooling effects.
are usually north-east and south due to monsoon patterns in or concentrate along desired corridors. As and canyon effects on wind flow, to direct wind to podiums allows wind to reach open spaces at street Parks and waterbodies can provide cooling
Singapore. Wind corridors can range in width from about 30m a general principle, buildings fronting the street level. Building heights and spacing work level more easily. Lining the edges of streets with effects to passing wind, hence wind
wide (or the width of a local street) to hundreds of metres at predominant wind direction should be spaced together to influence air flow, hence detailed tall buildings can also create wind canyon effects. corridors should be aligned with green and
a regional level. Where possible, align the street blocks / road out to ensure that developments further away wind simulations are required to test different The effect of different building forms is tested using blue surfaces in the district where possible.
network of the district with prevailing wind direction so that from are not blocked configurations to achieve the performance levels. wind simulations to understand their impact.
the streets double up as natural wind corridors
128 129

CONCEPTS EXPLAINED CONCEPTS EXPLAINED

When are shadow analysis When are wind simulation

studies needed? studies needed?
Planning stage If proposing public spaces under the As part of a move towards more evidence-based urban
Shadow analysis studies are often POPS guidelines (Privately-owned Public design, URA carries out detailed wind analysis studies in new
carried out by URA in the planning stages Spaces), architects will also have to development areas where the urban form can be shaped upfront
for new development areas, or in built conduct shadow analysis studies to for better wind flow and ventilation outcomes.
up areas where there are redevelopment ensure that at least 50% of the public
opportunities, to determine optimal space is shaded at the specified timings. To maximise achievable wind speeds within developments, URA
Shadow studies at Marina South building form that maximises shade in tests different configurations of building layout and orientation
the public realm. Submission requirements to determine optimum wind corridor alignments and site
Shadow studies at Marina One porosity requirements.
URA requires shadow studies for public
For example, public spaces may be spaces to demonstrate compliance with
sited to the east of buildings to enjoy the POPS guidelines. Shadow diagrams URA uses a number of computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
protection from the afternoon sun. for 9am, 12pm and 4pm need to be software to conduct wind simulations. These are supported by
Streets that are oriented north-south submitted to show that at least 50% of on-site wind data collection to serve as the baseline conditions
also tend to enjoy more sidewalk shade in the total public space area and 50% of the for the simulations.
Wind corridors at Lentor Hills
the morning and late afternoons, making public space seating is shaded.
them more conducive to street life. At the development design stage, developers and architects
These strategies are layered into the Typically, shadow studies are simulated may then conduct their own wind analysis studies to test their
urban pattern – to guide the placement of for Equinox (21 Mar / Sep) because it proposed building layouts. There is flexibility to counter-propose
roads, buildings and public spaces. is the midpoint between the maximum requirements set by URA, if backed by robust wind analysis
declination of the sun at winter or studies.
Development Design stage summer solstice, representing the most
When it reaches implementation, as “typical” sun condition. In Singapore, URA As each development in a new area gets built up, URA reviews
part of the development design stage, asks for simulation during the summer the overall simulation regularly to ensure that the safeguarded
individual developers may conduct solstice (21 Jun) as it is the longest day of wind corridors continue to function as planned. Tweaks may be
shadow analysis studies to determine the the year. made on the requirements for subsequent development sites.
effectiveness of building orientation and
shading devices, to meet targets under A case study on the application of wind analysis for Lentor Hills
Greenmark. Estate will be shared at the end of this chapter.

Wind analysis studies at Lentor Hills

130 131

What else can we do?

3.1.5: Improve energy
efficiency and leverage on
technology
Development level strategies
Presently, energy consumption in typical office
buildings in Singapore is mainly attributed to
cooling (60%), lighting (15%) and mechanical
ventilation (10%) 33. Efforts have focused on
Common Services Tunnel
addressing each of these systems to bring down
overall energy use in buildings. MRT Tunnel
Underground Pedestrian Link
Technologies that reduce unnecessary lighting
and cooling include Smart lighting systems Underground Expressway
With PDV, cool air is supplied into rooms at a lower level to displace warmer DCS system at Marina Bay
and Optimised Air-conditioning systems, which air which rises, using natural convection energy to circulate air and reduce
use sensors to track and activate the systems energy consumption
around actual human activity in the building. District level strategies
District cooling systems (DCS) can help reduce In mixed-use developments this reduces the
Other innovations that reduce the energy load overall energy consumption for cooling on a overall cooling capacity required as offices and
of cooling include Hybrid Cooling Systems district scale. Chilled water from a centralised apartments have different usage patterns. Super Low Energy Buildings
The BCA Green Mark for SLE Certification Framework
which tap on solar energy to reduce use of plant is circulated to multiple buildings using will certify buildings that consume 40 per cent less
compressors, and Passive Displacement a network of pipes. This allows reaping of Singapore has the world’s largest underground energy as SLE, while buildings that generate enough
Ventilation systems which use natural economies of scale by removing the need for district cooling system (DCS) at Marina Bay renewable energy to cover all their energy consumption
will be certified as Zero Energy Buildings.
convection instead of mechanical fans to individual cooling plants and sharing of cooling which started operations in 2006. New DCS are
deliver cool air. load between buildings. being developed at locations like Tengah and Find out more at this link.
Jurong Lake Gardens.
132 133

CASE STUDY URA took an iterative approach to determine the The results showed that with 30m wide wind As the parcels were progressively launched for
placement, alignment and width requirements corridors, predominant winds from the north sale, URA revisited the overall wind simulation
for the wind corridors, using computational fluid east filtered through into the southern most multiple times to incorporate updated
Lentor Hills – dynamics (CFD) simulations to test the impact of parcels of the area, and raised overall wind development layouts. This resulted in tweaks to
various configurations. speeds within the developments. Average wind the wind corridor requirements for subsequent
sustainability in a speeds along the wind corridors were elevated sale sites.

lush green estate First, using meteorological data from the

nearest weather station, URA determined the
to the level of a “gentle breeze”, which will bring
air and ventilation to most buildings across URA also provided flexibility for developers
predominant wind directions to be from the the district. to counterpropose the alignment of the wind
A lush garden district north-east and south for the district. Then it corridors if substantiated by robust wind
Located next to Teachers’ Housing Estate tested wind corridors of varying widths and The arrangement of the wind corridors also analysis studies. Advisory notes were included
near to Lower Peirce Reservoir Park, Lentor alignments to see which arrangement resulted ensures that the developers have sufficient in the tender conditions on the appropriate
Hills is planned to be a pedestrian-friendly in the most enhancement to average wind flexibility for development layout and tower methodology and parameters to assume for
neighbourhood set amidst lush greenery with speeds across all of the development parcels. placement to achieve the gross plot ratio, with independent wind analysis studies from the
good connectivity to public transport, being detailed simulations carried out for each site. developers.
served by the Lentor MRT station along the
Thomson-East Coast Line.

Existing greenery on the site has been retained

(including significant trees like a prominent
alstonia angustiloba) which will be developed
into a hillock park to serve the neighbourhood.
Developments are also required to meet 45% of
landscape replacement in the form of softscape
Artist Impression of Lentor Hills Estate
planting, with additional conditions to provide
sky terraces in every high-rise building and
externalise green buffers along the streets in
the estate.

Wind corridors for passive cooling

Beyond the protection and creation of lush
greenery for the area, URA introduced
passive design strategies in the form of wind
corridors in an effort to make the district more
sustainable. These are minimum 30m no-build
zones through the development parcels that are
aligned with the predominant wind directions.

Wind Analysis Study showing enhancement of wind speeds through Lentor Hills estate before (left) and after (right)
Existing Alstonia Tree to be retained Artist Impression of future Hillock Park creation of wind corridors
134 135

From garden city to city in nature

Modern urban lifestyles can lead to health issues like
chronic stress and lack of physical activity. Greenery,
in the form of parks, open spaces and skyrise
THE WAY FORWARD greenery, can help mitigate these effects for better
health and well-being of city-dwellers.

FROM GARDEN CITY The early push to make Singapore a Garden City meant
TO CITY IN NATURE that much of the urban fabric is planned with ample
parks and open spaces, while its modern road network
is lined with trees. The advent of LUSH in 2009 also led Environmental impact of skyrise greenery
to a proliferation of skyrise greenery in the form of sky WOHA worked with Dr Anuj Jain of bioSEA to
terraces, roof gardens, green walls, etc. assess the impact of Oasia Hotel Downtown
to the larger Tanjong Pagar neighbourhood
In line with Singapore’s vision to become a City in over a period of 6 months.
Nature, urban design and planning are taking a more
biophilic approach, blending nature into developments The study found that the vibrant skyrise
and strengthening ecological networks across the greenery within Oasia attracted 18 species
island. These measures have helped Singapore score of insects and birds, nearly 50% of the
highly on most rankings of the greenest and most species found in the neighbourhood. Oasia’s
liveable cities across the world today. greenery also released more than 48 tonnes
of oxygen per year and reduced heat energy
As urban warming in the city continues to outpace the by 242kW, more than the average annual
global average, how can Singapore cope with these energy consumption of a large office building
changes and become more resilient? in Singapore.

bioSEA concluded that Oasia’s greenery

performed at a level of 8-68% of a pristine
rainforest for different ecosystem services.
This suggests that when done well, skyrise
greenery can substitute some functions of
natural greenery, helping us grow into a “City
in Nature” 34.
136 137

Urban Heat Island and outdoor Urban design principles are applied in URA will continue to review the LUSH
thermal comfort these studies to continue to safeguard good programme to incorporate some of these ideas.
The Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect is of connectivity and greenery outcomes around URA foresees the future iterations of LUSH
particular concern for Singapore, given the coastal and flood protection infrastructure. moving beyond merely ensuring that greenery
extent of the island’s urbanisation. Researchers of a certain amount and quality is proposed, to
have warned that the thermal impact is as much The role of greenery in developments ensuring that it is implemented in a way that
as an additional 7 degrees celsius at night, As Singapore continues to grapple with the enables it to deliver multiple environmental
which would add considerable discomfort to the pressing challenges of climate change, greenery benefits while enhancing the city’s resilience to
city 35. in developments will become an increasingly climate challenges.
important tool for environmental sustainability.
Park creation at the right scale and conservation In addition to combating the urban heat island Shaping our future together
of major patches of greenery will help provide effect and other heat-related stresses arising Urban design remains a highly contextual and
cooling effects to the city. from climate change, greenery in the city also iterative process, made richer through the
improves air quality and contributes to carbon exchange of ideas between professionals and
Upcoming districts are being planned with these sequestration. the community.
principles in mind, with wind corridors planned
to optimise prevailing wind conditions and Aside from its environmental benefits, research URA’s efforts to make Singapore green and
maximise ventilation in areas such as Marina has also shown that people are mentally, liveable will only succeed with strong support
Bay and Lentor Hills, and optimal shading physically and socially healthier around from the private sector, to adopt sustainable
requirements for streets and public spaces. greenery. design strategies and development practices.
These will be supported by guidelines and
Rising sea levels The LUSH policy plays a key role in the policies from URA and partner agencies.
Current projections estimate sea level increase introduction of greenery to achieve these
at up to 4-5m in a worst case scenario (with benefits. To date, the programme has It is URA’s hope that this book has been able
storm surges) by 2100. As an island nation, contributed more than 250 hectares of greenery to articulate the rationale for different urban
Singapore is particularly vulnerable with 30% over the past decade, equivalent to about 400 design guidelines have been made clearer from
of our island currently less than 5m above sea football fields. the examples in this book, so that developers,
level 36. architects and designers will be able to apply
New directions for LUSH 4.0 them with their creativity and ingenuity, with a
Studies are underway to incorporate sea walls The LUSH programme will continue to evolve, shared vision to make Singapore a greener and
along future coast line areas to protect low lying taking into account the feedback from built more sustainable city.
areas. There are also plans to use mangroves environment professionals and members of
and corals to break the impact of waves in the public on how they envision Singapore to

Source: Discover Tanjong Pagar

locations such as Sungei Buloh and Pulau Ubin. become a greener and more sustainable city.
Some ideas that have been shared with URA
The minimum platform level of new include the introduction of ecologically-sensitive
developments has been raised from 3m to 4m development guidelines and ensuring that the
above mean sea level as a precaution against implementation and upkeep of greenery within
localised flooding in the event of extreme developments is done in a sustainable manner.
rainfall.
138 139

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

We would like to thank the following groups, organisations and Discover Tanjong Pagar Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Society (LISHA)
individuals who have contributed to this publication and for DP Architects Singapore Flyer Patrick Bingham-Hall
sharing your stories and insights with us:
DUO Singapore Singapore Land Authority Peter Bennetts
The Esplanade Co Singapore Symphony Orchestra Teo Zi Tong
Government Agencies
Freight Architects Skidmore, Owings & Merrill
Centre for Liveable Cities (CLC)
Grant Associates Singapore STX Landscape Architects Resources and references
Housing & Development Board (HDB)
Guftafson Porter + Bowman Takenaka Corporation Wikimedia images
JTC Corporation (JTC)
Hassell Studio TUMCREATE Ch 2.5 Green walls
National Parks Board (NParks)
Ingenhoven Architects W Architects Ocean Financial Building, taken by Smuconlaw
Public Utilities Board (PUB) https://commons.m.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Green_wall,_Ocean_Financial_
Keppel Corporation WOHA Architects
Singapore Tourism Board (STB) Centre,_Singapore_-_20150327.jpg
Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Society (LISHA)
Private / Non-profit organisations and institutions Look Architects Community organisations and individuals
Flora and Fauna Web images
ADDP Architects Lighting Planners Associates Darren Soh
Ch 1.4 Landscaped Waterways
Andrew Bromberg Architects MKPL Architects Fabian Ong
Arthur Ng
Archigardener National University of Singapore Finbarr Fallon Cerlin Ng
Orchard Turn Developments Jonathan Choe Chan Chun Leong
Architects Team 3
Chua Liat Seng Gary
Axis Architects Planners One Kampong Gelam K. Kopter Patricia Yap
Changi Airport Group (CAG) RSP Architects Lee Xinli Vicky Lim Yen Ngoh
Cambridge CARES Safdie Architects Michael Liew
Capitaland Group Serie Architects Hassell Studio
DCA Architects Singapore-ETH Centre Ingenhoven Architects
DHI Water & Environment Singapore Management University Keppel Corporation
140 141

ENDNOTES

Introduction to Green and Blue Chapter 1.2: Green and Blue Networks Chapter 1.4: Landscaped Waterways Chapter 2.1: Skyrise Greenery
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and Processing (CRISP), National University of Singapore. November 14. Accessed August 1, 2022. https://www.nparks.gov.sg/ (ABC) Waters Exhibition at the Asian Civilisations Museum Active. 2007. low carbon living." In Low Carbon Cities: Transforming Urban Systems,
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ENDNOTES RELEVANT LINKS

Chapter 3.1: Passive Design Intro Chapter 2

29. Building and Construction Authority. 2018. Super Low Energy Building: Urban Design Guidelines Landscaping for Urban Spaces & High-Rises Guidelines
SLE Technology Roadmap. Singapore: Building and Construction https://www.ura.gov.sg/Corporate/Guidelines/Urban-Design https://www.ura.gov.sg/Corporate/Guidelines/Circulars/dc17-06
Authority.
Chapter 1 Sky Terrace Guidelines
30. Building and Construction Authority. 2021. Singapore Green Building https://www.ura.gov.sg/-/media/User%20Defined/URA%20Online/media-
Privately-owned Public Spaces Guidelines
Masterplan: Public Engagement Report. Singapore: Building and room/2009/apr/pr09-19a3.pdf?la=en
https://www.ura.gov.sg/Corporate/Guidelines/Development-Control/gross-
Construction Authority.
floor-area/GFA/Privately-OwnedPublicSpacesPOPS
31. Winston T.L. Chow, Matthias Roth. 2006. "Temporal dynamics of the Green Plot Ratio Guidelines
urban heat island of Singapore." International Journal of Climatology Walking and Cycling Path Standards https://www.ura.gov.sg/-/media/Corporate/Guidelines/Development-
2243-2260. https://www.ura.gov.sg/Corporate/Guidelines/-/media/ control/Circulars/2017/Nov/dc17-06/dc17-06-Appendix-1.pdf
BD725DB201DB496A93569C8072DD9FD0.ashx
32. Meteorological Service Singapore . 2020. Climate of Singapore. Green Walls Guidelines
October 1. Accessed August 1, 2022. https://weather.gov.sg/ Park Connector Network https://www.ura.gov.sg/-/media/Corporate/Guidelines/Development-
climateclimate-of-singapore https://pcn.nparks.gov.sg/ control/Circulars/2017/Nov/dc17-06/dc17-06-Appendix-1.pdf
33. Building and Construction Authority, National Climate Change
Secretariat, National Research Foundation. 2014. Building energy Guidelines on Greenery Provision and Tree Conservation for Developments Covered Communal Ground Gardens Guidelines
efficiency R&D roadmap. Siingapore: Building and Construction https://www.nparks.gov.sg/partner-us/development-plan-submission/ https://www.ura.gov.sg/Corporate/Guidelines/Development-Control/gross-
Authority. guidelines-on-greenery-provision-and-tree-conservation-for- floor-area/GFA/CoveredCommunalGroundGardens
developments
Chapter 3
The way forward
Nature Ways Super Low Energy Program
34. bioSEA Pte. Ltd. 2019. OASIA Hotel Downtown. October 1. Accessed https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/nature-ways https://www1.bca.gov.sg/buildsg/sustainability/super-low-energy-
August 1, 2022. https://biosea.sg/projects/oasia-hotel-downtown programme
Singapore River Promenade Guidelines
35. Chow, Roth. July 2006. "Temporal dynamic of the urban heat island of
https://www.ura.gov.sg/Corporate/Guidelines/Urban-Design/Singapore-
Singapore." Journal of Climatology 26:2243-2260.
River
36. PUB Singapore's National Water Agency. 2022. Sea Level Rise.
October 13. Accessed Novermber 12, 2022. https://pub.gov.sg/Pages/
sealevelrise.aspx
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