We developed a proposal for a Biomedical research facility in One North, Singapore that explores future workplaces in the tropical context. The site is located at the intersection of the Buona Vista node and the Rail Corridor project.

The façade design responds to the tropical climate and laboratory functionality by using a two-layered envelope composed of a building enclosure and hanging planters. The enclosure is designed to fit the labs with a parapet wall and a vision glass panel for natural light penetration. Above the ceiling, fresh air ventilation louvers provide direct intake from the outdoor space.

The double layer of planters project shadows onto the building to reduce heat gain and use “evaporative cooling” to lower temperatures through evapotranspiration. Communal areas are included to foster peer exchange and offer informal working and meeting spaces in direct relation to the outdoors.