PIXELS OF HISTORY AND COMMUNITY
Collaborators
Land Design One
Duration
July 2024
Role
Concept Design
Tools
Google Workspace
Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator
Rhino 7 3D
D5
The Brief
Practising designers and students in the field of architecture and landscape design are invited to submit a concept design encompassing both upper and lower plaza areas of the Town Centre.
The submitted concepts shall incorporate community’s feedback garnered earlier by HDB, retain the nostalgic essence of the Town Centre, while injecting fresh ideas that can encourage a sense of relaxation and play that bring the communities of all demographics and abilities together. The top winning design will be adapted for implementation by HDB. The winning participant shall help to maintain the original design intent, as much as possible, by providing advice during the final design proposal check-in session(s).
Concept Write Up
Bukit Merah Town Centre's design, inspired by the proverb "a picture speaks a thousand words," integrates the area's rich historical narratives and cultural legacy through the concept of "pixels." Each pixel captures different facets of Bukit Merah's identity, harmoniously blending to create a community tapestry.**
The design honors Bukit Merah's industrial past, including its brickworks and iconic dragon playgrounds, and features a colour palette that combines traditional beauty with modern elements, evoking the earthy red tones of ancient brickwork and kampong homes on stilts.
Central to the town centre's design are thematic zones, including art, education, flora, play, leisure, and fitness, which enhance each plaza's unique story.
-
The Upper Plaza commemorates the brave boy who used banana stems to fend off swordfish, integrating historical elements with modern amenities and inclusive playscapes.
-
The Connecting Staircase, symbolizing creativity and resilience, features terraced steps with lush greenery, strategically placed resting spots, and a children's play area themed around the swordfish tale.
-
The Lower Plaza, designed for large-scale events and gatherings, includes modular seating and open spaces, fostering community engagement and social bonding.
-
Informative panels throughout the plaza provide insights into Bukit Merah's history, enriching visitors' cultural experiences and instilling community pride. This comprehensive approach transforms the town centre into a dynamic hub that honours Bukit Merah's cultural heritage while meeting the diverse needs of residents and visitors.
