20.10.20
Cultivating iconic designs in one of the world’s greenest cities
With the buildings and construction sector accounting for a sizeable proportion of global energy-related carbon emissions, City Developments Limited (CDL) is determined to lead the transition to a low-carbon future as a pioneering force in sustainability.
As a key developer in a city renowned as a living laboratory for pioneers of sustainable solutions, CDL is continually pushing the green envelope in building design.
Singapore’s vision is not just to be a garden city, but a “city in a garden”. In line with that ethos, all of CDL’s new residential developments devote more than 40 per cent of their area to landscaping and communal facilities.
Incorporating innovative designs, many of these have already become iconic landmarks in a city that has transformed itself in the space of only 50 years.
With limited land available in Singapore, greenery lost on the ground through development is being replaced with greenery on rooftops, podium levels of residential towers and even building facades.
Here are just a few examples of the way that CDL is helping to reshape the city skyline in clever, sustainable ways.
South Beach
The distinctive glass shingles of CDL’s South Beach Residences in the heart of downtown Singapore are far more than just an architectural statement.
SOUTH BEACH RESIDENCES – SINGAPORE
While there is no mistaking their iconic form, this unique structure creates a pattern to diffuse the sun’s heat and glare, while the towers are specially shaped to channel wind and increase airflow in the lower levels.
South Beach epitomises luxury living at its finest, with 190 apartments located above a five-star hotel and offering spectacular views across the CBD and the entertainment quarter of Marina Bay. It has been honoured with two Green Mark Platinum Awards and has also been recognised in the prestigious FIABCI Singapore Awards, topping the Sustainable Development category.
Because energy consumption is a large contributor to a building’s operating expenses, increasing use of solar energy has been a priority for CDL.
Solar panels at South Beach span about 1,800 square metres, with the development acknowledged d for its energy efficient design and features. Its microclimatic canopy covered with PV panels (pictured above), is a seamless blend of form and function.
Clean and green
COCO PALMS – SINGAPORE
CDL’s Amber Park, Coco Palms and Tree House developments are ushering in a new era of extensive lush landscaping and greenery.
More than 77 per cent of the site accommodating the 24-storey Tree House condominium project has been dedicated to green space. Featuring the world’s largest vertical gardens, it also incorporates clever heat-reducing windows.
Designed as a showcase of sustainability, CDL’s stunning Coco Palms development meanwhile takes its architectural inspiration from some of the world’s most exclusive resorts in locations such as the Maldives, the Caribbean and Fiji.
With 54 per cent of the site featuring landscaping and green features, it’s interspersed with gardens and plazas to connect residents with the outdoors. Its centrepiece Grand Lagoon features man made islands and a coastal cove.
The project’s innovative Wind Sculpture and Solar Gardens generate electricity to power solar umbrella LED lights, while extensive planters with sun-shading ledges and tinted glass help to keep the apartments cool.
AMBER PARK – SINGAPORE
Launched in 2019, Amber Park has been designed with sustainability in mind. With 65 per cent of the site dedicated to exclusive facilities and landscaping, it features The Stratosphere with a 600-metre rooftop jogging track connecting three 21-storey towers.
The towers have been positioned for natural ventilation, while sun shadings and performance glazing minimise heat.
In another CDL innovation, residents of its Lush Acres condominium in Singapore can try their hand at growing fresh vegetables in a custom-made hydroponic farm using hygienic technology in a conducive, cool environment.
The Agri-Cube Hydroponic Farm has created a new dimension in community gardening as well as smart use of space for residents to connect.
Temperate climate crops such as Italian parsley, peppermint and sweet basil are particularly suitable crops for the farm.