Design In Print 3.1 Green

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VOLUME 3NUMBER 1

2012SINGAPORE

GREEN ISSUETHE

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN CASE STUDIES 36 BTRDZERO ENERGY BUILDINGREPUBLIC POLYTECHNICSUTDNUS UTOWN

IN DETAIL

INDUSTRY

IN DEPTH

GREEN DNAGETTING IT RIGHT FROM THE START

DP ARCHITECTS RANKED

SEVENTH IN WA100

The latest happenings in DP

Monograph Highlights DPA’s Key Works

Directorial Appointments in DP Malaysia

Short takes on new & notable projects01 Seef Lusail02 I12 Katong03 Double Bay Residences04 Paya Lebar Square05 The Clementi Mall06 M3M Merlin07 Khaya & Angsana Residential Colleges08 Haihe Huading09 Xinzhong Guangchang10 School of Science and Technology11 Fulong Century Centre

Design Solutions

Green DNA

Getting it Right from the Start

Singapore Institute of Technology

at Singapore Polytechnic

Featured projects

36 BTrd

Zero Energy Building

Republic Polytechnic

Singapore University of Technology and Design

NUS UTown

Awards, events & news

DPA Ventures into Myanmar

From 2D Drafting to 3D Information Modelling

DP Architects Ranked Seventh in WA100

Urban Transformations Seminar

BCI Asia Top Ten Architects

Green City Planning Seminar

DP personalities

Interview with Goh Yong Ping & Lee Boon Woei

Celebration of past projects

Singapore Aviation Academy, 1992

Volume 3 Number 1, 2012, Singapore

DESIGN IN PRINT TEAM Additional contributors: Jackie Poh, Jaye Tan, Laura Smagin,

Mandy Too, Michael Wahjudi, Shruti Pilare

Letter from the Guest Editor

Dear Readers,

In 2005, BCA initiated the Green Mark scheme; that year, our projects National Library and Nanyang Polytechnic were awarded GM Platinum, its highest rating. As was the climate and sensibility of the times, a big part of sustainability design efforts was motivated by regulatory compliance. But as we progressed, the tangible benefits of going green became more apparent. A well-designed, environmentally sustainable building means savings for clients; green awards and recognition are good for business; and working for the greater good of the environment instills a sense of pride in our profession. Since then we have been pushing steadily towards making green thinking an integral part of our practice. Implementing sustainable design strategies right from the start as part of the project objectives, rather than as an added service, became a priority.

In 2009, an engineering company focused on energy-efficiency was established within the DP Group to better integrate with DP’s architectural services. Around the same time, our in-house Environmentally Sustainable Design unit (ESD) grew into a full-fledged department made up of architects, Green Mark professionals, building scientists and engineers. With the formation of DP Engineers (DPE), the creative and technical processes of architecture, sustainable design and engineering are assimilated and streamlined.

Joining this fraternity is landscape and arborist consultancy DP Green which opened its doors in July 2010. With environmental conservation and sustainability as its guiding principle, DP Green completes our portfolio of design capabilities.

Our green achievements include the completion of the first Zero Energy Building in South East Asia, winning the BCI Green Design and BCA Built Environment Leadership awards, and designing the first Green Mark Platinum park, River Safari. Beyond the pursuit of Green Mark, we have now moved ahead to be one of the first architecture firms in Singapore to offer a truly integrated sustainable design process.

Francis Lee, CEO, DP Architects

Cover photo: Daylighting performance study of a classroom

Chan Hui Min

Ed

itoria

l

Writ

ing

Nartano Lim

Vivian ChoyToh Bee Ping

Collin Anderson

Gra

phi

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Lek NoonchooLoh Yew Cheng

Fu Tingting

CONTENTS

A monograph covering DP Architects’ significant works since its founding in 1967 was published in January this year. The book, part of the well-known Master Architect Series, features chapters on the

urban transformation of regions within Singapore, including the Marina Bay area and Orchard Road, as well as chapters on foreign projects

in Asia and the Middle East, including The Dubai Mall – the world’s largest mall and one of the world’s most visited buildings. Major

works-in-progress are also highlighted. The monograph is the first of three books on the works of DP Architects to be published this year.

Mr Hoo Chuen Piew and Mr Yeoh Tok Jew have been appointed directors of DP Architects Sdn Bhd with effect from 1 January 2012. Hoo and Yeoh have acquired invaluable experience in the region and boast indelible track records in organisational management. Prior to this appointment, Hoo was heading key projects in DP’s Singapore office while Yeoh, functioning between Singapore and Malaysia, was overseeing operations in Johor Bahru. Their appointment marks a new phase in the firm’s development.

| The latest happenings in DP

DP 01

Seef Lusail is a mixed-use development, occupying a land area of 60ha, located at Lusail, Qatar. Set along a 2.3km waterfront promenade, Seef Lusail is planned as a round-the-clock playground that brings together retail malls, hotels, residences and recreational attractions. Design emphasis is placed on creating an environment that reflect and complement Qatar’s traditions and values. The design process takes into account numerous environmentally sustainable principles. The master plan is designed to integrate with key infrastructural features that enhance the sustainability of its buildings, such as district cooling, pneumatic waste collection and park-and-ride systems. A proposed climate-controlled pedestrian network connects the buildings to the LRT stations and the waterfront promenade. Rigorous environmental analysis will be carried out to ensure that thermal comfort in the pedestrian network can be achieved all year round with minimal energy consumption.

Situated at the junction of Joo Chiat and East Coast Roads, the design of I12 Katong references the locale’s Peranakan heritage. The former solid mass has been replaced with a modern glass façade along East Coast Road. The introduction of outdoor dining terraces along the Joo Chiat Road elevation continues the famous food belt and encourages interaction between the street and the interior. The Joo Chiat Road façade takes on the rhythm of existing Peranakan shophouses. The façade transits at the road junction into a transparent volume, highlighted with strips of abstract imprints of Peranakan tiles, before it meets the modern clean frontage along East Coast Road.

Seef LusailLusail, Qatar

I12 KatongSingapore

01

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| Short takes on new & notable projects

MONOGRAPH HIGHLIGHTS DPA’S

KEY WORKS

DIRECTORIAL APPOINTMENTS IN DP MALAYSIA

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Strategically located at Paya Lebar MRT Interchange, Paya Lebar Square is a 13-storey office and retail development. The retail spaces on the lower floors capitalise on the traffic from the public transportation network and the new pedestrian mall along the Eunos 8 boundary. Proposed outdoor-facing spaces and alfresco refreshment areas add to the street vibrancy. A central atrium with skylight provides visual connectivity between retail floors. A high volume trellis structure covering the second storey roof terrace signifies a grand entrance for the retail podium. The office block, separated from the retail podium by car parking spaces on the second and third storey, has a dark glass façade with horizontal aluminium sun-shading fins to create a clean and contemporary look.

Paya Lebar SquareSingapore

04

Double Bay Residences is located within walking distance to Simei MRT Station. It consists of 646 apartments in 14 blocks of 12 and 13 storeys with a mix of 1, 2, 3 and 4-bedroom and penthouse units. Six shop units beside the main entrance create a street-like vibrancy. The apartment blocks adopt two façade treatments to break the monotony of a large development. The blocks are arranged to form two main courtyards which accommodate the sprawling landscaping and facilities. The natural slope of the site inspired landscaping features like the cantilevered spa pools and water walls.

Located in Gurgaon, India, the development features ten inward-facing towers arranged along the site’s perimeter, making the lush landscaping the focal point of the condominium. The design of the apartment blocks is driven by the concept of terraced gardens. Each tower has a communal landscaped terrace overlooking the development’s garden-like setting, allowing residents to reconnect with nature in this bustling industrial city. Every living room is oriented to optimise the view of the landscape. Green viewing decks on top of each car drop-off provide private gathering space. The clubhouse’s geometrical design creates a sheltered area for amenities including the music room, hall area, game room, meditation room and mini theatre.

The design concept of Khaya and Angsana Residential Colleges is inspired by the traditional Southeast Asian house with deep roof overhangs that provide for cool verandah spaces. Architectural elements of ventilation blocks, louvred monsoon windows, framed glazing with vertical accents, a unifying baton railing and a deep canopy over the podium are kit-of-parts used to create a strong visual identity. Adapted from the traditional system of residential colleges in Oxford and Cambridge Universities, each college houses undergraduates, graduate tutors and faculty members in a live, learn and play setting. The project has been rated Green Mark GoldPlus.

| Short takes on new & notable projects

Double Bay ResidencesSingapore

M3M MerlinGurgaon, India

Khaya & Angsana Residential Colleges Singapore

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The Clementi Mall is part of a mixed-use development consisting of a retail podium, HDB residence blocks, a Town Council office and a bus interchange. An MRT station links to the third storey of the mall. The mall’s carcass and facade were designed and built by HDB while DP Architects planned the internal layout and articulated the spaces to complement the unique building profile. The interior design emphasises efficient circulation and visual connectivity, optimising commercial spaces with a distinctive experience on each level. The triple-volume elliptical atrium is a key element in the mall’s identity. The contemporary interior architectural language and the connectivity of voids enhance the mall’s vibrancy.

The Clementi MallSingapore05

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The Haihe Huading development in Tianjin commands a prominent location at the bend of Haihe river. The development comprises a retail podium with hotel and residential towers. The river-facing streetscape garden is given an eye-catching ‘retail barcode’ layout comprising low clipped hedges interspersed with lawns that graduate into a hardscape of stone to meet the colonnaded façade of the podium. The view to the shopfronts is unobstructed while the low hedges allow porosity and visual connectivity to the river side.

DP Green, an associate company of DP Architects, offers full landscape and arborist consultancy services. Addressing the needs for environmental conservation and sustainability, DP Green takes a fresh aesthetical and artisanal approach in creating works that fuse various design disciplines harmoniously. The company has recently been conferred a Skyrise Greenery award for myVillage at Serangoon Garden.

DP 03

Fulong Century Centre, with its distinctive chevron curtain-walling, is set to become an arresting 135m high landmark along the prime waterfront skyline of Xiamen. A Welcome Plaza raised on pilotis allows visual and physical continuity to the seafront. Linear bands of stone paving, interspersed with clipped hedges and solid stone blocks, accentuate this continuity with its interplay of elements. A central 16m high water cascade lends a dynamic expression to the entrance lobby. Reflective pools in the Waterfront Garden and floor-mounted strip lighting animate the seafront setting.

With an emphasis on applied learning, the School of Science and Technology brings diverse, educational themes to various outdoor courts between the teaching blocks. Students and visitors are greeted upon arrival by a ‘green’ media wall; beyond lies the SST Plaza, a ‘forested’ courtyard. Other courtyards hold the Bioswale Rain Garden, Eco-Aquatic Garden and Weed & Wildflower Garden. A grassed amphitheatre addresses the corner road junction and serves as a secondary entrance. A specialised rooftop horticultural garden is laid-out in polygonal planting beds for study and experimentation.

Set in Zhongshan, Guangdong Province, the historic birth place of Dr Sun Yat Sen, a 1km long waterfront promenade is planned as part of a new mixed office and retail development. Revitalising the Jijiang river, the promenade features cantilevered viewing decks, timber boardwalks, and retail kiosks amid pockets of greenery and conserved trees. A landing dock pavilion welcomes river-bound patrons. Central to this promenade and located between two retail malls, a dancing jet musical fountain sets the stage for a ferris wheel which offers a panoramic view of the river and the distant hills where Fufeng Pagoda, built in 1608, stands.

Haihe Huading Tianjin, China

Fulong Century CentreXiamen, China

School of Science and Technology Singapore

Xingzhong GuangchangZhongshan, China

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DP GREEN

Architecture design is moving from aesthetically-motivated iconic forms to performance-focused ones. With improved technology, where the performance of a building design can be tested and measured, environmental efficiency now drives the design of buildings.

Since DP Architects’ (DPA) founding in 1967, the firm has been guided by a deep concern for the built environment. This concern is now institutionalised in its practice. DP Architects’ objective is to make green design part of the firm’s DNA and take the green design process further than other industry leaders.

The DPA green design process is not about adding fancy green trimmings for green’s sake

or checking off an item list for green certification. Neither is it about harvesting renewable energy. It is about getting design fundamentals right. And doing so requires a pragmatic way of designing steered by an integrated, iterative process and supported by intelligent simulations, without which is just guesswork.

The firm’s Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) department comprises architects, environmental engineers and building scientists who work closely with the design architects, enabling them to develop an environmentally and socially responsive built environment that will help mitigate its carbon footprint, as well as overall energy and water demands.

The ESD team ensures that the development of the green building system goes hand in hand with the overall concept design of the building; it runs computer simulations and environmental analyses to assist architects in exploring eco-friendly building designs or assess existing buildings with the intention of lowering operation costs. While it is possible for the same role to be fulfilled by an external consultant team, there is the clear advantage of rapport and timeliness by

integrating the ESD team with the design team in the same. This integration is key to DPA’s green design process.

DPA’s green objective is supported by the formation of sister company DP Engineers (DPE). The ESD team takes on the role of design integrator in communicating the essence of the passive design features to benefit the active building engineering solutions. Working together in a holistic and synergetic approach, the ESD team and DPE enhance the sustainable design process and ensure that the most energy efficient mechanical and engineering solutions are integrated into its environmental designs.

In the words of prominent Singapore architect and co-founder of DP Architects William S W Lim, “The future is challenging… What is important now is responding to the climatic crisis – in energy, in recycling or better, upcycling, and of course creating a definition for the current ubiquitous buzzword for all things green and good: sustainability. Not just environmentally, but also equitable economically and socially.”

ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS IS A BASIC EXPECTATION IN THE ARCHITECTURE PROFESSION. DP ARCHITECTS TAKES IT FURTHER BY DERIVING A GREEN DESIGN PROCESS THAT IS UNIQUELY DPA

Team Members:

(from left)

Li Qiaoyan

Reza Motamedi Kia

Lee Boon Woei

Jaye Tan

Shruti Pilare

Michael Wahjudi

Chan Hui Min

The ESD team ensures that the development of the green building system goes hand in hand with the overall concept design of the building

GREEN DNA

| Design solutions

Consolidating the creative and implementation processes, DP Engineers works hand in hand with the ESD department to realise the most energy-efficient design

DP 05

1 ESD department and design architects identify the environmental constraints and strengths of a site so that passive and active design options could be explored. Using computer simulation, ESD department tests and verifies the performance of various design options.

2 ESD department shares and deliberates the findings from these studies with the architects. The perfect scheme on paper may not be ideal when applied to a specific site. Multiple reviews and workshops are conducted until all design conflicts are resolved and the best solutions under the circumstances are identified. This collective process is necessary to optimise the building performance, and an iterative process such as this is best achieved in-house.

3 ESD department and DPE take on M&E design to deliver active building systems that harmonise with the environment. The synergy between these building services helps to mitigate conflicting factors. Architects and engineers are able to justify their designs with the performance of the building.

DPE ESDProject Design Team

Iterative &

IntegrativeProcess

Green Building Design

Mechanical and electrical designs count for a big part of the score on a building’s green report card. The successful technical implementation of sustainable architecture designs is a process that requires close collaboration between building professionals; a successful collaboration in turn requires a deep understanding that is best evolved internally.

The driving force behind DPE’s M&E designs is energy-efficiency. A green sensibility lies at the heart of DPE’s innovative and pragmatic engineering design, setting the company apart from other building engineering consultancies.DPE and DPA, in particular its ESD department, have a close working relationship, bonded by mutual respect

and appreciation of the creative and engineering processes. The integrated environment ensures that sustainable design solutions are fully coordinated and methodically implemented.

Design reviews are conducted frequently with the architecture and sustainable design consultants so that designs and data are presented on a timely basis at various phases of work. Feedback is continuous and proposals are adopted promptly. Continual evaluations also ensure that recommendations from all consultants are coordinated and implemented.

The adoption of BIM (Building Information Modelling) also provides for smooth design integration and coordination where clashes are electronically detected, avoiding timely and costly site errors. The BIM process offers DPE

the opportunity to conduct complex engineering and energy analyses to validate design options, provide feedback on the energy implications of architectural design scenarios and achieve a high performance building that is economical to operate and beneficial to the well-being of its occupants.

DPE recognises that, only when effectively integrated with the architect’s design intent, can building engineering solutions be highly energy-efficient and, at the same time, enhance the functions it is meant to fulfil.

Building owners and developers are targeting beyond the basic Green Mark certification and pushing for environmentally friendly designs and technologies for a more sustainable built environment. Sharing the same intent and working closely with these stakeholders, DP Architects has been named by Building and Construction Authority as one of five leading architecture firms with the highest number of Green Mark Platinum and GoldPlus projects.

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39 40 33Cinnamon & Tembusu Residential Colleges, NUS UTown

The Maritime Experiential Museum, Resorts World Sentosa

Hard Rock Hotel, Resorts World Sentosa

National Library Building

Universal Studios Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa

Nanyang Polytechnic

CREATE facility ITE College West

Connexion (Farrer Park Mediplex)

NUHS Tower Block

Resorts World Sentosa

Elliot at the East Coast Residence@Evelyn OUE Bayfront

| Design solutions

DP 07

BCA Green Mark Platinum Award

Non-Residential Building

01 Singapore Institute of Technology (Republic Polytechnic Campus)

02 EduSports, NUS UTown

03 Carlton City Hotel (Tanjong Pagar)

04 Singapore University of Technology and Design

05 Universal Studios Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa

06 Connexion (Farrer Park Mediplex)

07 CREATE facility

08 Zero Energy Building @ BCA Academy

09 ITE College West

10 Republic Polytechnic

11 National Library Building

12 Nanyang Polytechnic

Residential Building

13 368 Thomson

14 H2O Residences

15 36 BTrd

Parks (New Category)

16 River Safari

BCA Green Mark GoldPlus Award


17 Singapore Sports Hub

18 Infinite Studios

19 Khaya & Angsana Residential Colleges, NUS UTown

20 Crockfords Tower (Maxims Residences), Resorts World Sentosa

21 Hotel Michael, Resorts World Sentosa

22 The Maritime Experiential Museum, Resorts World Sentosa

23 Festive Hotel, Resorts World Sentosa

24 Hard Rock Hotel, Resorts World Sentosa

25 NUHS Tower Block


26 Paterson Collection

27 Ken Bangsar (Malaysia)

District

28 National University of Singapore University Town

29 Resorts World Sentosa

BCA Green Mark Gold Award


30 Cinnamon & Tembusu Residential Colleges, NUS UTown

31 Singapore Institute of Management Extension Building

32 Tanglin Trust School

33 OUE Bayfront


34 St Thomas Walk Condominium

35 Waterfront Gold

36 Skyline Residences

37 The Equinox (China)

38 76 Shenton

39 Elliot at the East Coast

40 Residence@Evelyn

ENERGY MODELLING

The process measures the energy performance of passive design strategies before they are implemented so that architects and engineers can apply what is best for the building. Energy modelling enables the designers to evaluate the energy performance of different building services to obtain the best solution in terms of energy efficiency and return on investment.

Study: Different strategies (options 1 & 2) are proposed for the same site and analysed at the early design stage; the results are compared to determine which design will yield the optimum energy efficiency for the project. The building performance is also quantified to facilitate green rating assessment.

Result: Test results show concrete figures on energy consumption for each of the designs. With these figures, architects decide conclusively on the design with the best performance. The energy performance study thus constitutes one of the factors in the final shape and look of the building.

Option 1:Annual Carbon Emissions

Monthly Electricity Consumption Monthly Electricity Consumption

Option 2:Annual Carbon Emissions

AIR-FLOW MODELLING

Air-flow analysis shows how wind affects a building and its surroundings on a given site. It informs designers how to make the building more permeable to wind so that users do not experience the stuffiness caused by still air. It also brings cost-savings to building owners by reducing reliance on mechanical ventilation and air-conditioning.

After: The architects re-designed the building façade by adding a perforated screen. Tests were done at different levels of perforation to reduce the vortex effect. The final façade design features a mesh screen.

Before: In this case study, still air isn’t the problem. The building form ‘traps’ wind and creates a vortex when the wind is strong. The whirlwind effect can cause disturbances like flying of papers and slamming of doors.

| Design solutions

The ESD department uses computer simulation as a highly-developed green tool to predict and raise the green quotient of a building before construction begins. With simulation, the department ‘walks through’ possible green design strategies with the architects. The efficacy of these strategies is measured and the performance of a building quantified so that the best design is achieved for a project.

CalmWindy

Axonometric view showing vortex

Option 1 Option 2

GETTING IT RIGHT FROM THE START

Simulated Electricity (kWh)

kWh250.000

200.000

150.000

100.000

50.000

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec0

kWh250.000

200.000

150.000

100.000

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800

1000

Energy Use

Energy Generation Potential

Net CO2600

400

200

-400

-200

0

metric tons / year

800

1000

Energy Use

metric tons / year

Energy Generation Potential

Net CO2

600

400

200

-400

-200

0

Solar incidence calculation measures the movement of the sun across a site throughout the year to help designers make fundamental design decisions such as which direction to orientate the building, what kind of shape and form is appropriate, and where to locate specific building functions which might be affected by the sun.

SOLAR MODELLING

Solar radiation study analyses how much heat is gained from the sun. Depending on the size and shape of the building, as well as the nature of its sun-exposed area, the amount of heat gained can vary largely. This study helps designers to decide how best to design their building envelope to ensure owners need not spend excessively on air-conditioning later on.

Before: A proposed tower design is studied and analysis results show that the building shell receives and absorbs too much heat for users to be comfortable.

After: The shape of the building was changed to cast shadow and deflect heat. A different material was proposed for the façade. A heavily-insulated material is used on the side where heat gain is most intense. Another test is performed showing that heat gain is reduced considerably.

Daylighting and glare study shows how natural light is transmitted through openings in a building. It helps designers decide the opacity of certain walls, as well as the placement and sizes of windows so that the building will have pleasant ambient lighting.

DimBright

CoolHot

Before: A closer study of a classroom shows that light is concentrated near the windows and not enough light penetrates into the room for those sitting near the inside wall.

Before: The skylight design with transparent glazing causes too much glare.

After: The designer introduces light shelves to counter this problem. Light shelves bounce light deeper into the classroom, providing a better naturally-lit environment and reducing the use of artificial lighting and the cost of energy usage.

After: The design architect juxtaposes transparent glass with aluminium panels, thereby reducing glare and creating an attractive pattern.

DP 09

AT SINGAPORE POLYTECHNIC

WIND ANALYSIS

The SIT building is oriented to harness the prevailing winds from the northeast, southeast and south. This allows for the generous provision of naturally ventilated study areas. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) studies ensure thermal comfort. The central atrium is oriented such that its openings face the prevailing wind directions. The size of the atrium is determined by air-flow and daylighting analyses for natural ventilation and daylighting considerations.

| Design solutions

Taking cues from the environment, the distributed campus of the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) at Singapore Polytechnic and the polytechnic’s new sports hall were designed to perform efficiently and responsibly. Computer simulations were carried out at the concept design stage to determine the best passive design strategies for the site and during review sessions to improve and test the effectiveness of these strategies. The project is expected to receive BCA’s Green Mark Platinum rating.

SINGAPORE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Cross section showing central atrium

Daylighting study of

atrium

N

S

W E

High wind frequency

Low wind frequency

YEAR: 2016 | AREA: 24,100 SQM | SINGAPORE

SHADOW ANALYSIS

Shading effects of the buildings enable outdoor activities to be carried out in the Central Plaza at desired times of the day.

DAYLIGHTING ANALYSIS

Rooms which require daylight for productivity are designed with appropriate façade openings and room depth to achieve an ideal natural brightness. The clerestories of the Sports Hall take advantage of daylight along the perimeter zones of the sports hall. The use of daylight helps to reduce lighting energy consumption.

SUNPATH ANALYSIS

The understanding of the sun’s path over the development enabled the designer to orientate the classrooms to avoid direct sun radiation. East and West facades are zoned for non air-conditioned areas such as corridors, staircases and toilets. A linear building form allows for an optimal thermal performance.

GLARE CONTROL

Glare control analysis ensures that the façade design reduces glare while bringing in an optimal amount of daylight. Sun-shading devices like deep overhangs, recesses and performance glazing are implemented.

Left: Roof plan of

Singapore Institute of

Technology (Singapore

Polytechnic campus)

Dim

Bright

DP 11

| Featured projects

Named after its address 36 Boon Teck Road, the project was an exceptional opportunity to develop a typology for a sustainable landed house in the tropics. The homeowners – green advocates who have since opened the house for industry and school visits – made this possible. The challenge was to show that contemporary green living with modern conveniences, good sanitation and creature comforts is easier to achieve than most people think.

The look of the house – the openness and the timber-and-steel aesthetics – was shaped by passive design principles and the use of recycled and recyclable materials. The living, dining and bed rooms were designed for maximum cross ventilation and daylighting so that occupants can enjoy comfortable breeze and a good amount of natural light throughout the day. The choice of steel and timber was a direct result of choosing materials that are recycled or recyclable. Steel was chosen for the superstructure such as columns, beams and the metal composite flooring for its reusability and ease of construction. The timber floor was assembled from offcuts rejected for their varied wood grains. Even the furniture was made from discarded trees felled from other developments.

Indoor air-conditioning in the tropics is, to many, a necessity that requires energy to power. It is almost impossible to expect Singaporeans to not have an air-conditioning unit in their home regardless of how passively-designed the house is. To push for a self-sustaining residence, solar panels for air-conditioning were installed and double up as a skylight roof. Solar thermal collectors to power a DC hot water heater were also installed. With these measures, the client enjoys yearly savings of approximately $7,500 in energy and water usage, and carbon emission is reduced by an estimated five tonnes per year.

THE GREEN HOUSE EFFECT

Completed in March 2011, 36BTrd was the first landed house in Singapore to be rated Green Mark Platinum

CASE STUDIES IN GREEN DESIGN

Landscaping

Trees and vertical

climbers shade the

building envelope.

Added greenery lowers

ambient temperature.

The roof was designed

to naturally irrigate

rainwater to planter

areas.

DP Architects’ track record for environmentally sustainable design

spans developments of varying scales and scopes. Design in Print picks five projects that exhibit DPA’s green DNA

in their design – a private house, a zero energy building, two schools and a

248,000sqm district – and looks at their key sustainable design strategies.

36BTRD

Renewable Resources & Energy

Efficiency Systems

Hybrid DC air-conditioning harnesses

solar energy through photovoltaic panels.

Solar thermal collectors power a DC hot

water heater.

A solar charging unit was installed

for electric bicycles. Passers-by are

welcome to charge small electronics and

experience for themselves the potential of

solar energy.

All artificial lights are energy-efficient LEDs.

Passive Design

Building planning and fenestration design

encourage natural ventilation and cross ventilation.

Internal walls are mainly replaced by full-height

sliding panels to promote airflow and prevent water

penetration during rainy seasons.

The upper floor and balcony act as overhangs to

reduce interior heat gain.

The central stairwell functions like a traditional air

well – warm air escapes through the solar-panelled

skylight roof, distributing more cool air and daylight

throughout the elongated terrace house.

Sustainable Construction

The steel framework and lightweight metal

composite floor that make up the superstructure

are fully recyclable and reduced the use of

concrete and cement. Only recycled concrete

aggregates and green cement were used.

Reclaimed timber was used for flooring and felled

trees were recycled as furniture such as the large

dining table and vanity tops.

External finishes with high solar reflectance index

lower the urban heat island effect.

YEAR: 2010 | AREA: 280 SQM | SINGAPORE

DP 13

ZEROENERGY

BUILDING

| Featured projects

resources. The project produces all of its energy needs by means of solar power.

Passive design moderates the building’s solar heat gain and natural ventilation through green walls, a green roof, shading devices, low-emissivity glass, solar film coatings and composite wall panels. Meanwhile, mirror ducts and a system of light shelves, pipes and tubes carry natural daylight deep into the building’s spaces, and an exhaust system channels hot air from each level through the building’s walls and roof to be dispelled by an exhaust chimney.

A Building Management System functions as an active feedback mechanism, monitoring real-time continuous data streams to maintain user comfort and minimise power usage. Photovoltaic panels generate 100% clean renewable energy; excess power is distributed to the BCA Academy campus or into the city grid.

The Zero Energy Building (ZEB) was conceived as an experiment to explore future energy use strategies in tropical climates and develop green education programmes. An existing three-storey building at the BCA Academy was converted to an energy self-sufficient school that achieves net zero energy consumption through passive design supplemented by active systems.

ZEB opened its doors in October 2009. One year on, the building achieved its target of net zero energy consumption. The monthly surplus energy – fiscally equivalent to the electricity bill for 52 five-room HDB flats (Sustainable Architecture Issue One, 2011) – is distributed to the rest of the academy.

Passive systems were first implemented to reduce the building’s power consumption. These were then supplemented by intelligent active systems that require minimal dependence on natural

AT BCA ACADEMY

Solar-Assisted Stack

Ventilation

The system uses heated air to

induce ventilation in the school

hall and classrooms. Heat

builds up in the ducts below the

metal surface and, due to the

buoyancy effect, the air will rise

and flow out of the chimney. This

creates a negative pressure in

the classrooms, inducing cooler

air from outside to enter.

Shading System

Various shading devices

minimise solar heat gain without

compromising daylighting

and natural ventilation. Green

innovations such as light shelves

and solar panels integrated with

the sun-shading devices institute

multi-function green building

technology.

Ventilation

1. Displacement Ventilation: Air is supplied

through diffusers on the raised floor. The cooler

new air spreads over the floor uniformly due

to gravity and the warmer air rises towards the

ceiling, resulting in a continuous displacement of

air in the room.

2. Personalised Ventilation: An individual cool fresh

air supply duct at each work station improves

the air quality for the occupant. The surrounding

ambient temperature can then be set slightly

higher to reduce the air-conditioning load.

One year after its opening, Zero Energy Building at BCA academy achieved its target of net zero energy consumption

Photos courtesy of Building and Construction Authority

DP 15


Light Pipes

A vertical pipe in the

roof invites natural

sunlight into the interior

space. Light pipes

have less surface area

and hence are more

efficient than skylights

as less energy escapes

from the interior.

Mirror Ducts

Mirror ducts made of highly reflective

material channel daylight through

horizontal reflective ducts in the false

ceiling which then exits through ceiling

apertures above the user, allowing

considerable energy saving.

Light Shelves

Light shelves reflect natural

daylight deep into the interior

to reduce the use of artificial

lighting. A ceiling material as

reflective as the light shelves

enhances efficiency.

Green Roof & Green Walls

The green roof lowers the

temperature from direct

radiation heat gain. Green

walls reduce heat transfer

from the building envelope

into the interior. Temperature

sensors monitor both surface

and ambient temperature.

Photovoltaic Technology

1. Grid-tied solar panel systems: Surplus

power generated by grid-tied systems is

distributed to the rest of BCA Academy

before any excess is supplied back to the

grid. If insufficient power is produced, the

grid will provide for the building.

2. Standalone solar panels: These panels

were installed and integrated into building

features such as sunshade, covered

walkways and railings. They provide power

directly to specific functions in ZEB such

as the visitor centre solar-charging kiosk.

| Featured projects

Water Efficiency & Cycle

The campus uses

NEWater in its high-

efficiency cooling tower.

The use of NEWater,

due to its lower mineral

content, allows more

efficient recycling of

condenser water. A

differential pressure

system for the water

supply enables the split

pumping systems to

operate more efficiently.

Site Ecology

Existing site contours were

preserved to maintain the

integrity of the topography.

The landscape design

blends with the existing

surrounding greenery.

Public spaces were

planned around natural

elements. The Lawn

effectively replaces the

greenery displaced by the

campus’ footprint.

Sustainable Materials &

Construction

Environmentally friendly paints do not

contribute to ozone layer depletion.

Recycled components were used in

building materials such as recycled

nylon in carpet tiles, demolition debris

in road kerbs and hardcore, and tyres

in playground flooring. Prefabricated

building materials using recycled

products were also used in many parts

of the campus including the roof of the

Sports Hall and the external façades of

the pools at the Lawn.

Daylight & Air Quality

Daylighting studies were carried out

to optimise the use of natural light

for a more conducive environment

and minimise electric lighting for

energy savings. A series of sunken

courtyards provide natural lighting

to the Agora spaces. Natural

ventilation studies were conducted

to ensure a pleasant environment

for occupants. An air purging

system in the building ventilation

system improves indoor air quality.

REPUBLICPOLYTECHNICCAMPUS IN THE PARK

greenery displaced by the campus’ footprint to camouflage the bulk of the campus, while acting as a gently-inclined roof over the Agora.

The plan orientation follows a north-south and east-west axis, allowing the school to take advantage of daylight and thermal efficiency as well as the shade and scenery afforded by the parkland on its east and west. Situated to minimise cutting into the site, other sustainable features include the use of high ceilings and full-height glass panel windows that allow daylight to flood the indoor spaces, reducing lighting requirements in the day. Shading devices unique to each façade also redirect light deep into the internal volume while reducing direct glare. The extensive landscaping, water features and covered walkways also help to create an inviting green campus. A series of sunken courtyards, lawns and green plazas along the main circulation routes provide visual and spatial relief within the compound.

The campus is also among the first few projects in the region to use a thermal energy storage system. Other key green features include multiple ventilation modes for the sports hall, the use of photovoltaic solar energy panels for general lighting and power, and a pneumatic waste conveyance system, an uncommon feature in Singapore.

The Republic Polytechnic campus is located on a gently sloping terrain and surrounded by a regional park and dense forest. Driven by sustainable design principles, the building plan was sensitive to the natural contours of the environment, hence the concept of a ‘campus in the park’. The architecture maintains the site’s original green footprint and sloping topography while responding to the school’s educational agenda of interactive learning.

The Agora and the Lawn – the former in apt reference to the ancient Greek marketplace where goods and ideas were freely exchanged – form one of the campus’ key design features, effectively extending the physical learning space beyond the conventional classroom. The Agora takes shape among a collection of gathering spaces: micro-climatic pockets of manicured courtyards and ground-level terraces responsive to the changes in the terrain. With the high ceilings, natural lighting and a view of the greenery and water elements in the landscaped courts, the design of the Agora provides a favourable environment for academic discourse. The Lawn replaces the

Driven by sustainable design principles, the architecture and planning of the campus has responded to the school’s educational agenda


Bio-Climatic Response

A combination of perforated aluminium sunshades,

ceramic frit glazing and precast concrete panels

on east-west façades reduces solar radiation while

retaining views. Shading devices on the Administration

Hall façade reduce glare and direct daylight deeper into

the interior. To minimise heat transfer to the Agora and

urban heat island effect, the Lawn above was turfed

and trees were planted. Water features, coupled with

landscaping, lower the ambient temperature.

Energy Efficiency

A thermal energy storage system for air-conditioning

enables chillers to operate more efficiently at night

and stores the chilled water for day use. A pneumatic

waste conveyance system facilitates energy-efficient

waste management. The Sports Hall has controls

for multiple ventilation modes, allowing for an easy

switch from air-conditioning to mechanical ventilation

to natural ventilation. Other energy-saving features

include energy-efficient lifts and escalators, solar

panels to partially provide lighting and power, and

motion detectors for lighting control in toilets.

These systems are coordinated with the Building

Management System which monitors utility usage.

Left: Aerial night view of

Republic Polytechnic

DP 17

In collaboration with Maki and Associates, Japan.

The development of an environmentally sustainable, pedagogically generating and economically viable campus is the central tenet of the design approach for SUTD. The strategic orientation of the buildings and the use of façade materials with integrated landscape create an ideal academic environment for users within the campus. The buildings’ orientation minimises east-west solar exposure and

harnesses northeast and southeast prevailing winds for effective natural ventilation. The blocks were planned with considerations for inter-block shading and ventilation using courtyards and other activity spaces. Generous naturally ventilated and landscaped outdoor areas reduce the use of air-conditioning.

On an economic level, the logistical and analytical studies and proposals from both the architectural and M&E consultants helped define maintenance costs and the life-cycle of the project. On an ecological level, the design adapts low energy and water strategies, reduction of waste production and other

| Featured projects

SUTDSINGAPORE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN

Sustainable design principles lie at the heart of the master plan and building design of Singapore’s fourth university

innovative engineering solutions for carbon emission reduction.

A holistic approach towards sustainable design was adopted, from the masterplan concept to the building design. While designing to achieve a delightful outdoor and indoor spatial experience in our tropical climate, the passive building design and energy-efficient technologies ensure that the building is at least 30.84% more energy-efficient than the typical energy performance stipulated by BCA for an institutional building.

In collaboration with UNStudio, The Netherlands

YEAR: 2014 | AREA: 100,000 SQM (PHASE 1) | SINGAPORE

DP 19

Energy-Efficient Passive Building

The campus building was passively designed

to maximise the number of naturally ventilated

areas, reducing dependence on air-conditioning.

The proportion of non air-conditioned spaces

is approximately 50%. To ensure that thermal

comfort is achieved, various design optimisation

was incorporated after analysis studies.

Provision of energy-efficient air-conditioning

plant design and practical sensors and controls

ensure that the air-conditioning system is

optimally operated and maintained to its

potential energy efficiency throughout the

building’s lifespan.

Air-conditioned or mechanically ventilated occupied spaces (blue)

Energy modelling simulation

Environmentally Responsible Materials

Non-hazardous and non-toxic materials were

chosen for good indoor air quality and a

healthy study environment. Green and recycled

construction materials reduce negative impact

on natural resources.

Low Urban Heat Island Effect

Landscape design, with low water consuming

native plant species, extends from external

areas into the building fabric through pockets of

planters along corridors and in the sky gardens,

green terraces and roofs, thus reducing the

urban heat island effect.

Naturally ventilated common areas (green)

Building Orientation for Reduced Solar Heat

Gain and Wind Harvesting

The first principles of passive building design

helped shape and plan the building geometry

and spaces where building orientation,

inter-block shading as well as shading by

corridors would keep the space cooling energy

requirements low. The well-shaded and well-lit

courtyards are connected to campus-wide

circulation spaces through ‘wind corridors’

that direct prevailing winds into courtyards

while providing rain shelters and rain screens

at circulation routes to ensure accessibility and

encourage walkability throughout the campus.

Solar Heat Gain vs. Daylighting

Solar analysis and daylighting simulation tools

were employed to achieve an ideal balance

between daylighting qualities and heat gain

through effective shading devices and careful

selection of glass, which also accounts for noise

insulation from the nearby Changi Airport. Rain

protection at circulation routes was planned with

rain screens as part of the holistic environmental

control design.

NUS UNIVERSITY TOWN

| Featured projects

Tree Conservation

The layout and design of the buildings were undertaken with the express intent of preserving the

matured and significant trees. These trees provide shade for pedestrians and a mature canopy for

wildlife, while enhancing the natural aesthetics of the environment. The trees along the site’s periphery

are also preserved to act as a buffer from the surrounding roads and development.

Low Carbon Campus

Carbon sequestration computation was

performed with the aim of maintaining carbon

neutrality before construction and after

completion of campus. This exercise helped to

determine the number and type of trees to be

planted to replace the trees felled.

Buildings oriented on the north-south axis

reduce direct solar heat gain and encourage

air flow porosity for natural ventilation into

buildings, thereby reducing dependence on air-

conditioning.

Shaded outdoor interactive and circulation

spaces with highly reflective hardscape materials

and green roofs lower urban heat island effect.

Dedicated bicycle lanes, and sheltered and

shaded interconnected footpaths reduce

automobile dependence. Efficient vehicular ring

road and minimised parking footprint further

reduces carbon emission. Shuttle buses powered

by compressed natural gas, a green substitute

for fuel, are used as transportation within UTown.

External lighting strategies and lamp selection are

energy-efficient and reduce light pollution.

Energy and water monitoring systems track

usage and review targets.

A SUSTAINABLE DISTRICT FOR LIVING AND LEARNING

Site-wide sustainable design strategies were implemented to achieve a carbon-neutral campus, preserve and encourage the ecologically diverse habitat, and provide a sustainable pedagogical environmentThe National University of Singapore (NUS) University Town (UTown) is a modern international class campus planned along a green corridor. The project’s design redirects vehicular roads to the site perimeter and transforms the land into a network of walkways that respond to the existing topography, hydrology and vegetation. Building location and massing adapts to the lush landscape. Academic, recreational and social anchors are strung along the length of the green, drawing users to specific destinations; these non-residential programmes also serve as a buffer to filter noises from the surrounding highway. Structures are connected by numerous variously-scaled pockets of open greenery that also serve as collection points for passive and active interaction; these lawns are overlaid by a network of circulation paths.

The residential colleges are sited on the northern end of the campus and planned on a north-south orientation to avoid direct solar heat gain and designed as naturally

conditioned to embrace the outdoors. The development also hosts a Graduate Residence, an Education Resource Centre, a number of research centres including the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology and the National Research Foundation’s Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), and an EduSports complex which combines education, sports and performing arts spaces.

UTown has recently been conferred Building and Construction Authority’s Green Mark Champion 2012 award. The development also received the inaugural Green Mark District award with the second highest rating of GoldPlus. The buildings within the district undertaken by DP Architects have all received BCA’s green stamp of approval – EduSports and CREATE (with Perkins +Will, USA) were awarded Platinum, Khaya and Angsana Residential Colleges received GoldPlus rating, while Cinnamon and Tembusu Residential Colleges were rated Gold.

Master plan designed in collaboration with Skidmore, Owings and Merrill LLP, USA


Ecologically Biodiverse Habitat

Detailed biodiversity analysis was conducted

and the master plan was designed to preserve

the natural topography, hydrology, and

vegetation of the site. Landscape strategies

for ecological migration encourage the growth

of natural habitat for flora and fauna within the

campus. Native plant species were selected

for biodiversity opportunities.

FUTURE DEVELOPMENT

KHAYA & ANGSANARESIDENTIAL COLLEGES

EDUSPORT

CREATE

TOWNGREEN

GRADUATERESIDENCE

DISTRICT COOLING PLANT

CINNAMON & TEMBUSURESIDENTIAL COLLEGES

EDUCATION RESOURCE CENTRE

Other Green FeaturesAll buildings in UTown are rated Green Mark Gold, GoldPlus or Platinum.

NEWater is provided for general washing, irrigation and gardening, and cooling towers. A District Cooling Plant was planned at the southern end of the site to keep the generated heat and noise away from habitable areas. DCP cooling towers are cladded with green roofs and walls. Trees and shrubs reduce the impact of exhaust heat emanating from the cooling towers.

Special collection bins are provided for organic waste and hazardous waste such as batteries. Horticultural waste is collected and composted.

During construction, hardcore waste and milled waste were reused as road subgrade and subbase. Excavated earth served as backfill material.

Mechanical and electrical pipe trench around the perimeter minimises excavation requirements and provides flexibility for future changes and expansions, hence reducing future construction waste and disruption to vehicular road.

DP 21

Stormwater Management

Green roofs and an ecopond serve aesthetic purposes while functioning as stormwater management

features. Rain water is first filtered through green roofs to remove pollutants before being channelled

for use in plant-watering and water features, or slowly released into the river and reservoir. The

ecopond serves as a cleansing sedimentation pond and wetland detention pond. Bioswales lead

stormwater to sedimentation ponds along roads, sidewalks, walkways and lawn areas. A rain water

collection tank at the CREATE facility conserves water for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation.

Water filtered through green roofs

Portion of water for watering plants

Remaining water for water feature

Slotted Kerb

Filter layerTransition layerDrainage layer

Geotextile

Perforated subsoil pipes

Overflow point

Storm flow

Non-perforated pipe connecting to roadside drain

Weephole

Carriageway

| Awards, events & news

DP Architects made its first foray into

Myanmar in the middle of last year. The

firm was appointed the design architect

of Ruby Hall National Guest House, a

convention and exhibition centre in Nay

Pyi Taw, capital of Myanmar and the third

largest city after Yangon and Mandalay. The

project – designated as the venue for the

ASEAN Summit in 2014 where Myanmar

will chair the regional bloc for the first

time – will help to meet the emerging city’s

growing demand for business and trading

facilities generated by economic expansion.

The recent liberalisation of Myanmar’s

economy and the installation of a new

civilian government are expected to

bring on a sharp increase in foreign

investments. Besides the convention centre

development, DP Architects is also at the

inception stage of a city centre master

planning project and has been approached

for at least three hotel proposals.

Director Chin Thoe Chong, who is leading

the National Guest House project, sees initial

opportunities in infrastructure, master planning

and hospitality developments. These are

areas in which DP Architects, having played

a role in Singapore’s urban landscape, has

acquired valuable capabilities. “Our practice

is varied in terms of the range of services

and scale of projects. Our experiences can

add value to a country that is coming out of

isolation. This translates to developments

which require expertise in design, planning and

implementation, for example the redevelopment

of the railway system,” said Chin.

“Many parallels can be drawn between

Singapore and Yangon. Both are tropical

cities of similar size and climate. Both have

a population of roughly five million and a

shared legacy of colonial history. The building

of Singapore and the urban development

lessons learned, good and bad, can be

shared,” he added.

While confident of Myanmar’s potential, DP

Architects is cautious of diving in with both

feet. The democratisation and economic

transformation of a nation is a long process

and uncertainties abound at this early stage.

“We have taken the first few baby steps. While

we would like to build a strong presence

there, we are adopting a wait-and-see

approach in servicing enquiries,” said Chin.

“At the same time, we are observing the

political, social and economic development

while working on a sound business plan so

that when the time comes for us to take the

dive, we can be strategic.”

Chin reckons it will be another quarter before

the firm pushes forward. The firm hopes

to progress from front end design work to

project implementation and may need a more

permanent presence in the longer term.

Appointed Architect of National Guest House

DP Architects Ventures into Myanmar

Clockwise from left:

Aerial perspective of

National Guest House,

main entrance hall and

map of Myanmar

Singapore

Myanmar

India

China

DP 23

Twelve months ago, DP Architects’ BIM (Building Information Modelling) adoption began in earnest. As an industry leader, DPA is focused on steering Singapore as it moves into BIM. To make this a reality, initiatives for staff training and recruitment of key BIM personnel were the immediate goals. Jumping forward to today, DPA has recruited some of the best international BIM implementers in Singapore who have the knowledge in both the application and processes needed to make BIM a reality.

Currently, DPA is successfully utilising not only the Revit software, but the BIM process. The firm has projects at early concept massing, mass modelling, and projects producing tender documentation that are 100% BIM. DPA has recently undertaken a multi-use development that will be one of the first buildings in Singapore to be designed and built using the BIM process by all contractors and consultants. This same development will also be the first BIM facilities managed building in Singapore. As lead consultant, DPA has been driving the collaboration teams and providing the client with the desired process.

DPA’s vision for the future is that all projects in 2012 be moved into the Revit platform; by 2014, all active projects are running in Revit and most are utilising BIM functionality. Within the firm, several groups have been early adopters of Revit and the BIM process. These include the Environmentally Sustainable Design department and the Documentation and Specification department. To advance the BIM adoption process, a support system has been put in place to help all Revit users and BIM modellers adjust to the new work flow and resolve issues quickly. Guiding the Singapore office are three BIM Managers spearheading the implementation plan in each of the firm’s three studios. The three are in turn supported by fourteen BIM Coordinators who assist all project teams using Revit/BIM.

By ensuring all levels of the organisation are on-board, combined with the resources and in-house professional expertise, DPA has been able to make the transition from 2D drafting and design into BIM a smooth and transparent journey.

From 2D Drafting to 3D Digital Information Modelling

DP Architects named

BCI Asia Top Ten Architects

Malaysian Institute of Planners Green CityPlanning Seminar

DP Architects has been ranked the world’s seventh largest architecture practice in the World Architecture 100 survey. Moving up from number 13 in the 2011 ranking, DP Architects is the only Southeast Asian firm in the top ten. The ranking is compiled according to the firms’ total strength, separating registered architects from creative staff, and net fee income for the previous financial year.

The URA Academy-organised seminar, held over two sessions on 16 and 30 March 2012, featured overseas master planning and urban design works by local firms. Focusing on design strategies and technical issues, the seminar showcases Singapore’s knowledge in planning and development. Speakers from six leading consultancies shared their professional experiences in China, India, Russia, the Middle East, Africa and South America. Associate Director Ms Chan Hui Min was the speaker for DP Architects and her presentation centred on the firm’s projects in the Middle East.

For seven consecutive years since 2006, DP Architects has been conferred the prestigious annual BCI Asia Top Ten Architect Awards. The award honours the most commercially significant architects in Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. The 2012 award ceremony for Singapore’s Top Ten was held on 4 May 2012.

Associate Director Ms Chan Hui Min was one of five invited speakers at the Green City Planning 2012 seminar organised by the Malaysian Institute of Planners Northern Branch. Ms Chan presented case studies in sustainable design and planning. The seminar was held in Penang on 25 February 2012.

DP Architects Ranked

Seventh in World Architecture 100

Urban Transformations Seminar At URA Academy

Revit model of a hotel-retail development (competition)

| DP personalities

BW: I started out as a mechanical engineer

and moved into green design in 2006 when

I was at Surbana International Consultants. I

saw sustainable design as a logical and natural

component of building design and took the

initiative to acquire the knowledge and skills. I

became a LEED Accredited Professional in 2007.

I joined DP Architects last year.

Tell us about the synergetic benefits of your collaboration.

YP: The role of DPE is essentially to bridge M&E

and C&S engineering with architecture design.

DPE is an ESD-driven engineering consultancy.

In fact, before DPE was formed, the ESD unit

approached me to become a part of the team

focusing on energy modelling. A big part of

sustainable design is M&E implementation. The

two are like partners in a marriage.

BW: It’s about continuity of design, carrying on

from passive to active design. Within the ESD

team, there are architects and engineers who

speak the languages of both disciplines. At the

conceptual stage, we use simulation tools to

develop passive design features with architects.

These analytical data serve as critical design

boundary conditions for DPE engineers to

design the most efficient system. This integrated

process facilitates the building to perform at

design conditions.

YP: Having this integration within the

company makes it more effective than hiring

an outside M&E firm. M&E plays a big role in

Green Mark (BCA’s benchmark scheme for

environmental design and performance). M&E

engineers implement the architects’ designs at

construction stage and having the two services

within the same firm closes the gap between

design and implementation.

BW: Also, this integration complements the

objectives behind BCA’s push for BIM (Building

Information Modelling). The BIM process raises

the level of collaboration among the different

disciplines.

When did you join DP?

YP: I joined DP Consultants in 2008. Before that

I was with Resorts World Sentosa. At the end of

2009, CEO Francis Lee approached me and Tan

Yew Chai, now director (C&S) of DPE, to set up

an engineering company under the DP Group.

That was how DP Engineers was formed.

“A big part of sustainable design is M&E implementation. The two are like partners in a marriage. ” - Yong Ping

An interview with

IN PERSON celebrates the firm’s diversity by profiling members of the DP family. The interview is conducted as a casual conversation between individuals.

Interview by Toh Bee Ping

Goh Yong Ping, director of DP Engineers (DPE), and Lee Boon Woei, head of DP Architects’ Environmentally Sustainable Design Department (ESD), talk to Design in Print about the integration of sustainable and M&E designs and making ‘green’ one of DP’s fundamental design tenets.

YONG PING

BOON WOEI

YP: Green savings is a real incentive for developers. Actually,

sustainable design can even make money. There is a Belgian company

who approaches developers or landowners and offers to design and

build properties for them at no charge. The developers or landowners

in turn pay the Belgian firm with savings they gain from the sustainable

measures. Simply put, the firm profits directly from sustainable design.

Do you think sustainably-designed buildings can change users’ behaviour?

BW: Yes. Working in a Green Mark Platinum building can heighten the

users’ awareness of, say, the consumption of energy and water. This

awareness will gradually bring about a change in behaviour.

YP: Take for instance the multi-storey carpark. Previously they were

outfitted with concrete roofs, but now you see more carparks with

green roofs. Not only is it more attractive, the greenery renders the

environment more comfortable as it reduces the amount of heat

radiated to the lots below. This raises awareness that something simple

like landscaping can create a different experience.

Tell us something about yourself that few people know about.

YP: Up till a couple of years ago, I had a quirk where instead of saying

‘Thank you’ or ‘Goodbye’ I would say ‘Love you’. I would say this to

everyone, not just family and friends. I stopped because someone

started saying it. He apparently caught the habit from me!

BW: Every week, during the weekend, I would ‘disappear’ for a few

hours. I do it to get away from people, from everything. For those few

hours, no one will know where I am.

DP 25

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resultant consequences including any loss or damage arising from reliance on information in Design in Print. Any opinions in Design in Print are solely those of the named authors of the article in which they appear. Unless named as author, DP Architects, Editorial Panel and other Contributors do not endorse any such

views and disclaim all liability from their publication. Copyright © DP Architects Pte Ltd

Printed by Also Dominie Pte Ltd L023/11/2011

MICA (P) 008/10/2011

Published by DP Architects Pte Ltd6 Raffles Boulevard, #04-100 Marina Square,

Singapore 039594 T: +65 6338 3988 F: +65 6337 9989

E: [email protected] W: www.dpa.com.sg

Photo Contributors: Loh Yew Cheng & Rory Daniel. All photos are credited to the mentioned photographers unless otherwise stated.

What are the misconceptions about sustainable design?

BW: The common misconceptions are higher

costs, slower speed of construction and greater

inconvenience due to more tests and installations.

The truth is, a well-designed building does not

cost more money or time to go green.

YP: When I was working with Squire Mech

in 1996, a client wanted to implement green

measures in every aspect of the project, right

down to the interior design. This was my big

introduction to sustainable design. At that time,

it did not seem economical with the higher cost

involved. But it is now recognised that green

savings made over the lifespan of a building

exceed the initial costs.

BW: Yes! Going green saves more. With

integrated design, the ESD unit conducts

lifecycle cost analysis and examines the

productivity of measures at initial stages to

determine the best applications for a project.

With improved technology, we can estimate

a building’s energy requirements and predict

energy consumption before it is built. The key

is to optimise building performance and not to

install the latest bells and whistles.

“When a building is designed well, it does not cost more money or time to go green. The key is to optimise building performance and not to install the latest bells and whistles.” - Boon Woei

1992

The design of the academy adopts the classic terra-cotta roofed colonial bungalow style of

architecture sensitive to the tropical climate. The planning acknowledges the site’s natural

environment and exploits the existing parkland setting and natural water features, creating

a conducive environment well-suited to an educational establishment. The landscaped

central court provides the primary focus within the building, serving as a visual relief from the

classrooms. From both the outside and within the building, the academy feels deceptively

modest in scale, nestling comfortably in its immediate neighbourhood.

Singapore Aviation Academy

Design In Print 3.1 Green

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