Location: Singapore, Singapore.

Architect: TA.LE ARCHITECTS.

The Nordic European Centre (NEC) in Singapore is an industrial building that needs to be re-branded to meet the growing demand for co-working spaces. The building’s U-shape layout and old linkway skirting the perimeter of the plaza left it underutilized and unappealing. The goal was to transform the plaza into an urban garden, with a new linkway directly connecting the drop off to the main lobby. The super-tree pavilions planned within the plaza serve as activity nodes equipped with power points for collaborative working or even shelter from the weather. To address the glare from the western sun at the façade, new sun-shading screens comprised of triangulated perforated aluminum panels, inspired by the client’s corporate logo, were installed. A fresh coat of paint was given to the existing façade panels too. For the lobby design, the new reception counter is relocated to the side, freeing up the central zone for different usage, such as waiting lounge on typical days, and event space for exhibitions during special occasions. Overhead projectors and speakers are integrated into the ceiling to facilitate these events. Collaborative working clusters, located in the open lobby, are for tenants’ usage. From meeting rooms to semi-enclosed meeting pods to open concept working space, they cater to different creative needs. To strengthen connectivity between floors, new staircase is added. A new fitness gym coupled with End-of-Trip facilities e.g. shower and lockers are added to look after the well-being of the working class too. The redesign of the NEC aims to give it a forward-looking, exciting new design that fosters collaboration and community bonding. The new design seeks to provide more space for social events and interaction. The building’s new design will create an environment that fosters collaboration and looks after the well-being of the working class.

Photo credit: Rendy Aryanto.