This proposal is a demonstration in architectural form of one of the key visions for Punggol: the close integration of community and landscape. Our design is about the successive framing of community space with garden elements. The community plaza at the heart of the scheme is framed by a series of lush garden terraces sloping towards the waterway. This in turn is framed by a porous perimeter of platforms holding a variety of community functions and flora.
The gardens will play more than just an aesthetic role in the community, they will also be a horticultural project, bringing residents together to enjoy them, nourishing community bonds. The paved terraces interspersed between the gardens are animated by various water features and activities. Food courts, cafes and shops spill out onto the terraces where family activities also take place. Ramps connect these gardens and terraces providing picturesque and generous circulation routes up through the building.
Overlooking the communal gardens on the platforms are rooms and outdoor areas for dining, education centres, shops and polyclinic consultations. On the roof there is a large meadow garden with viewing platforms where the residents can enjoy the open view of the waterway and beyond. The adjacent exercise area further encourages activities on the roof from early morning till late in the evening.
The architecture is characterised by a sense of lightness and openness allowing daylight and breeze to permeate the building. The generous north-south and east-west thoroughfares closely connect the proposal to the surrounding neighbourhood and naturally divide the two main programs – the Polyclinic and the Neighbourhood centre. The thoroughfare leads directly to the large sheltered plaza creating a vibrant heart for the community. The community plaza is at the water edge with views open to the waterway creating an ideal setting for public events or a bazaar.
The project, developed by Singapore’s Housing & Development Board (HDB), with Ministry of Health (MOH) as the joint stake holder, will provide the main public amenities for HDB’s residents in Punggol. The 27,400 sqm project, dubbed Oasis Terrace and currently under construction, is a new generation of integrated development that brings together communal amenities and services in land scarce Singapore, which includes communal gardens, play spaces, gyms, retail spaces, dining, learning spaces and a 9,400 sqm healthcare facilities.
