#KLAF2016_GARIS_THE ARC_COMMUNITY CENTER AS CATALYST DEVELOPMENT FOR NEW TOWNSHIP

 

In the context of modern, tropical, diverse, developing Asian cities - representing Garis Architects’ evolving works in the underlying agenda to push for change from the working level and from the lowest unit intervention - The Arc _ Rimbayu sets the precedent for a community-based township in the following ways:

 

•    A flexible and adaptable multi-program structure that functions as a catalyst for a new township - stage 1: gallery & office; and stage 2: community centre.

•    A demarcation on the landscape in the act of place-making by establishing an identity for the community and township - an antithesis to a visual icon or landmark for the sake of a symbol.

•    Functionally provides shelter and serves as the collective public domain for various community amenities - bazaar, street, square, park, sports centre, shops, prayer rooms, meeting spaces, learning places, community farm, recycling centre, etc.

•    An urban connector between residential enclaves and commercial hub - vehicle-free pedestrian/ cyclist promenade and canal to reduce reliance on motor vehicle

•    A typology and business model for privately initiated community hub and centre for community-based projects

 

 As a typology and community-centric solution intending for residents to take up ownership and identity, the project aims to achieve through the following aspects in its design:

•    improve connectivity - designed as a major linkage - at pedestrian level to reduce reliance on motor vehicle

•    replace, increase and improve existing landscape and hydrology for a balanced ecosystem and to promote biodiversity

•    make parkland and the public or semi-public realm more inclusive for the community

•    incorporate in design greenery - vertical and horizontal - to improve insulation, cooling and air quality

•    turn stormwater drainage and collection system into positive, compelling and interactive design in place-making by incorporating it into the architecture and landscaping at conception

•    use sustainable design and ecosystem as keys to engage the community and to serve as showcase for social/community living, informal and interactive educational programs, urban farming, etc

•    derive typology or model that is easy to build, replicate and adapt for different location, usage, context and able to evolve over time

 

All above Description by: Ar Tang Hsiao Seak

Design Architects: Garis Architects S/B

(Ar Tang Hsiao Seak / Ar Ngu Ngie Woon)