Singapore Khoo-Teck-Puat Hospital : turning a public hospital into a site of healing, biodiversity and green space.
Completed 2010 / Design of the year Award: 2011
Client: Ministry of Health / Alexandra Health Pte Ltd
Architects: CPG Consultants Pte. Ltd.for Alexandra Health
Design Consultant and Medical Planner : RMJM Hillier
Landscape Consultant: Peridian Asia Pte Ltd
Green Consultant: Total Building Performance Team
Facade Consultant: Aurecon Singapore Pte Ltd
Project Manager: PM Link Pte Ltd
Mechanical and Electrical Engineer: CPG Consultants Pte Ltd
Civil and Structural Engineer: CPG Consultants Pte Ltd
Quantity Surveyor: CPG Consultants Pte Ltd
Interior Design Consultant: Bent Severin & Associates Pte Ltd
Main Contractor: Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co. Ltd
Overview
As visions of life dominated by automated AI technologies and robotics unfold, amplified by the threat of ecological disaster and nuclear annihilation, creativity can be seen as a crucial tool in the race for the survival of humanity, saving it from an obliteration of its own making, by solving housing, urbanisation, health and social problems with the intelligent use of sustainable design solutions and technological integration.
Approximately 75% of the Earth's land surface has now been significantly altered by human actions, such as deforestation, urbanisation, agriculture, mining and other forms of land use - 85% of wetland areas have been altered and 66% of ocean area is impacted by shipping, fisheries, oil rigs, military exercises, construction of wind farms and massive amounts of sewerage and plastic pollution.
The Construction Industry has a significant influence on the planet, contributing to approximately 23% of global carbon emissions from construction activities, such as on-site equipment and machinery and indirect emissions, associated with the production of construction materials like cement, steel and other building components.
In this Article the focus is on some of the impacts of the construction industry:
Resource Consumption
The construction industry is a major consumer of natural resources such as sand, gravel, timber and water. Extraction of these resources lead to habitat destruction, soil erosion and water depletion.
Waste Generation
Construction activities generate a substantial amount of waste, including demolition debris and unused construction materials. Improper disposal of waste leads to pollution and habitat degradation.
Deforestation and Habitat Loss
To make way for construction projects, natural habitats are often completely cleared, leading to deforestation and biodiversity loss.
Emissions and Air Pollution
Construction machinery, vehicles and equipment emit pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, particulate matter and volatile organic compounds, contributing to air pollution and adverse health effects.
Water Pollution
Construction sites are a source of sediment runoff and chemical pollutants that contaminate water bodies.
Urbanisation and Land Use
Construction of urban areas and infrastructure leads to increased impervious surfaces, reducing natural landscapes and increasing the risk of flooding and soil erosion.
Energy Consumption
The construction and operation of buildings and infrastructure require vast amounts of energy, used in construction processes, transportation of materials and ongoing operation contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
The Heat Island Effect
The heat island effect, also known as the urban heat island (UHI) effect, refers to the phenomenon where urban or built-up areas experience higher temperatures than the surrounding rural or natural areas. It is a result of human activities and the modification of land surfaces in cities and urbanised regions.
Several factors contribute to the heat island effect:
Urban Infrastructure
Buildings, roads, pavements and other structures in cities absorb and store heat during the day. At night, they release this stored heat, preventing the city from cooling down as much as surrounding rural areas.
Reduced Green Spaces
Urban areas often have fewer trees and vegetation compared to rural areas. Trees provide shade and cooling through a process called evapotranspiration, where water evaporates from leaves, reducing the ambient temperature.
Heat from Human Activities
Human activities in cities, such as transportation, industrial processes and air conditioning systems, release heat, contributing to elevated temperatures.
Albedo Effect
Urban surfaces like concrete and asphalt tend to have lower albedo (reflectivity), meaning they absorb more sunlight than natural surfaces with higher albedo, like forests and grasslands and have various environmental and public health impacts, including:
Increased Energy Consumption
Higher temperatures in urban areas lead to an increased demand for cooling energy, particularly for air conditioning, which places a strain on electricity grids.
Health Concerns
Heat islands pose health risks, particularly during heatwaves, as higher temperatures lead to heat-related illnesses and even death.
Impacts on Wildlife
The altered microclimate of urban areas affects local wildlife and ecosystems, forcing some species to adapt or migrate.
Architects, Urban Planners, Engineers and Landscape Designers can implement various strategies to mitigate the heat island effect:
- Increasing green spaces and urban vegetation to provide shade and promote evapotranspiration.
- Using cool or reflective materials for building surfaces and roads to reduce heat absorption.
- Promoting green roofs and green walls to improve building energy efficiency and reduce heat emissions.
- Implementing smart urban planning that considers factors like building orientation, density and ventilation to optimise natural cooling.
From the Industrial Age to the Ecological Age
The Impact, Influence and responsibility of Architects, Engineers, Urban Planners and Designers.
Aesthetic and Functional Influence
As trendsetters and influencers, Architects, Engineers and all creatives involved in the various design professions and the Construction Industry have a profound impact on environments and the social fabric of society through their design decisions, spatial planning and consideration of user needs. They shape environments and the social fabric of society by creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces, fostering social interaction, promoting sustainability, shaping cultural identity, revitalising communities, addressing social issues, influencing behavior and well-being, inspiring and educating the public. Their work has a profound impact on how people interact with and experience the built environment, contributing to the overall social, cultural and economic development of society. They consider factors such as spatial layout, circulation, lighting, acoustics and materials to ensure that buildings and spaces meet the needs of their users.
By designing well-planned and comfortable environments and incorporating biophilic design principles, they enhance the environment and quality of life. Biophilic design is an architectural approach that incorporates natural elements and patterns into the built environment. Studies have shown that exposure to nature, even indirectly through architecture that mimics natural features, can have a calming and restorative effect on the physical, mental and emotional well-being of humans.
Positive Developments
Increasing efforts are being implemented to incorporate sustainable practices in construction, such as green building techniques, the use of recycled materials and the adoption of energy-efficient technologies, the use of renewable energy sources and the implementation of circular economy principles to reduce waste and resource consumption. Green building certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) have become more common to encourage environmentally friendly construction practices.
Socio-Economic Influence
Addressing Social Issues
By considering social equity and inclusivity in their designs, Architects and Designers contribute to a more just and equal society through their work. They design affordable housing solutions, inclusive and accessible spaces for people with disabilities and public infrastructure that improve the lives of marginalised communities.
Fostering Social Interaction
The built environment plays a vital role in fostering social interaction and community engagement. Well- designed spaces encourage people to connect, interact and collaborate. The layout of public squares, parks and community centers are designed to facilitate social gatherings and cultural events.
Shaping Cultural Identity
Architects help shape the cultural identity of a place through their design choices when creating buildings and spaces, by considering the local vernacular style, context, history and cultural values that reflect and celebrate the culture. Design elements, materials and architectural styles evoke a sense of place and create a connection between people and their surroundings, preserving cultural heritage and promoting a sense of belonging.
Revitalising Communities
Through the transformation of neglected or underutilised areas into vibrant, functional spaces and repurposing existing structures, redesigning urban spaces, or developing new projects that bring economic and social benefits to communities, Architects and Designers revitalise neighborhoods, create jobs, attract investment, improve infrastructure and enhance community health.
Influencing Behavior and Well-being
The creation of environments that promote physical activity, access to nature and social interaction, contribute to healthier and happier communities and spaces that prioritise natural light, ventilation and acoustic comfort, enhance the well-being and productivity of occupants.
Architects and Designers play a crucial role in the prevention of socio-economic and ecological collapse by incorporating principles of sustainability, resilience, and social responsibility into their work.
Socially Responsible Design
By prioritising social equity and inclusivity in their projects, it is the responsibility of design professionals to create spaces that are accessible to all, including people with disabilities and to create affordable housing solutions through active engagement with local communities to ensure that their designs address the needs and aspirations of the people they serve.
Ecological Influence
Sustainable Design
Architects and Designers contribute to a healthier environment and a more sustainable society, by creating buildings and spaces that promote energy efficiency and renewable energy integration, water conservation, waste reduction and the use of sustainable materials, natural lighting, heating and ventilation and help to reduce resource depletion, mitigate climate change and protect ecosystems.
Resilient Design
Resilient buildings and infrastructure engineered to withstand natural disasters and the impact of climate change by the incorporation of measures such as flood-resistant design, earthquake-resistant structures and resilient building materials, contribute to the long-term stability, well-being and protection of communities.
Adaptive Reuse and Retrofitting
The promotion of adaptive reuse and retrofitting of existing structures instead of unnecessary demolition and new construction and the repurposing of buildings, lead to reduced energy consumption, waste and carbon emissions and help to conserve resources and preserve cultural heritage.
Regenerative Design
Regenerative design principles aim to create built environments that have a positive impact on the surrounding ecology and landscapes to restore ecosystems, promote biodiversity and enhance natural processes such as rainwater harvesting, urban agriculture and eco-friendly infrastructure, contributing to ecological balance and help mitigate the effects of ecological collapse.
Advocacy and Policy Influence
Architects and Designers can and should actively advocate for policies and regulations that promote sustainable and resilient design practices, by engagment with professional organisations, contributing to policy discussions and collaborating with policymakers to shape regulations that prioritise environmental protection and social well-being.
Inspiring and Educating
Innovative design solutions, iconic buildings, exhibitions and public installations serve as sources of inspiration and spark conversations about design, architecture and their impact on society. By promoting and raising awareness about the importance of good design, Architects and Designers contribute to a more design-conscious society.
By raising awareness and inspiring others to take action, It is the responsibility of the design community to stay updated with the latest research, technologies and best practices in sustainable design and share their knowledge with clients, colleagues and the wider community to prevent socio-economic and ecological collapse.
Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Approach
Architects and Designers collaborate with professionals from various disciplines such as Engineers, Urban Planners, Ecologists and Sociologists to develop integrated and holistic solutions and by working together, they address the complex challenges of socio-economic and ecological collapse and create synergistic strategies for sustainable and resilient design.
Health Influence
The connection between Archtecture and health is significant and multifaceted. The design of buildings, spaces, urban environments and interiors have a profound impact on the physical, mental and emotional well-being of individuals. Biophilic Design is an architectural approach that incorporates natural elements and patterns into the built environment and studies have shown that exposure to nature, even indirectly through architecture that mimics natural features, can have a calming and restorative effect on the mental and emotional well-being of humans.
Here are some key aspects of the connection between health and architecture:
Physical Health
The design of buildings and spaces directly influence physical health. Access to natural light, proper ventilation and appropriate temperature control are essential for creating a healthy indoor environment. Buildings that encourage physical activity, such as well-designed staircases and walkways promote fitness and overall well-being.
Mental Health
The architectural environment greatly influence mental health. Spaces that offer visual interest, natural elements and opportunities for privacy and social interaction positively impact mood and reduce stress. On the other hand, poorly designed spaces or environments with excessive noise, clutter, or lack of privacy lead to anxiety and mental strain.
Healthcare Facilities
In the design of healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and clinics, architecture plays a crucial role in patient outcomes. Proper layout, access to daylight, well-ventilated rooms and soothing environments enhance patient recovery, reduce stress and improve the overall healing process.
Community Health
The design of neighborhoods and cities has a great impact community health. Access to green spaces, recreational areas and walkable neighborhoods, promote physical activity and social interactions, leading to healthier and happier communities.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
The needs of all users are considered, including people with disabilities and different age groups. Creating spaces that are accessible and inclusive, ensures that everyone can participate fully in public life, improving overall societal health and well-being.
Sustainability
Sustainable buildings improve indoor air quality, reduce pollution and mitigate climate change, leading to better overall health for individuals and communities.
Singapore: An Example of Sustainable City-State
The Republic of Singapore is a remarkable example of a sustainable city-state and has made significant strides in incorporating greenery and sustainable practices into the urban environment and implementing innovative urban planning and design strategies that have transformed it into a lush and eco-friendly metropolis.
Gardens by the Bay
This iconic project is a perfect representation of Singapore's commitment to integrating green spaces with urban living. It comprises three waterfront gardens that house a diverse collection of flora and feature striking supertrees, vertical gardens that serve multiple functions such as rainwater harvesting and solar energy generation.
Urban Greenery
The urban planners of Singapore emphasise the inclusion of green spaces, parks and tree-lined streets, which beautify the city, improve air quality and provide recreational spaces for residents. The Khoo-Teck-Puat Hospital in Singapore incorporating Biophilic Design, is an outstanding example of the positive impact turning a 550 bed public hospital, serving the healthcare needs of 700 000 people, into a site of healing, biodiversity and green space.
Green Building Initiatives
Stringent building standards that encourage sustainable construction, energy-efficient designs and green technologies, such as solar panels and green roofs reduce the environmental impact.
Public Transportation
The well-connected, efficient public transportation systems reduce the reliance on private cars, curbing traffic congestion and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
Water Management
Due to its limited water resources, Singapore has implemented water recycling, desalination technologies and innovative stormwater management systems to harvest and reuse rainwater.
Waste Management
Their comprehensive waste management system includes recycling, waste-to-energy plants and efforts to reduce landfill waste. The city encourages residents to participate actively in recycling programs.
Sustainable Policies
The government has implemented various sustainable policies and initiatives, including a carbon tax, to incentivise businesses and individuals to reduce their carbon footprint.
Biodiversity Conservation
Despite its urban environment, Singapore has made efforts to protect and promote biodiversity. Nature reserves and wildlife corridors help preserve native flora and fauna.
Education and Awareness
Singapore actively educates its citizens about the importance of sustainability and environmental conservation. It encourages a culture of environmental responsibility from an early age.
Conclusion
Architects, Engineers, Urban Planners and Designers have a critical role to play as trend influencers in preventing socio-economic and ecological collapse. By promoting sustainable design, resilience, adaptive reuse, regenerative design, social responsibility, advocacy, education, and collaboration, they contribute to the creation of built environments that are environmentally responsible, socially equitable and resilient to future challenges and in creating spaces that promote physical activity, mental well-being and community cohesion, ultimately contributing to a healthier and happier population.
Futher Reading
Gardens by the Bay Singapore: https://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/
Khoo-Teck-Puat Hospital: https://pda.designsingapore.org/presidents-design-award/award-recipients/2011/khoo-teck-puat-hospital.html
Twenty Emerging Trends in Hotel Design:
https://www.hotelmanagement.net/design/20-emerging-trends-hotel-design?utm_medium=email&utm_source=nl&utm_campaign=HM-NL-Operations+%26+Technology&oly_enc_id=1138C0751801G9V