The past year has supercharged our conversations on sustainable development. The pandemic held the mirror up to the negative impact of rapid urbanisation on people and the planet. Mental health, social inequality, overconsumption, food security, disaster preparedness and above all, global warming still remain pertinent issues that need to be addressed.

With this issue of Cubes themed Making An Impact, it’s only fitting then that we pause, take stock and peer into what’s ahead. Some of the threads of investigations in this issue include:

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How do we mitigate societal global challenges in urbanism and the built environment?

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What are the best strategies for circular economy and net zero building design in Asia?

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Is it possible for the built environment to support innovation while ensuring
community engagement and environmental sustainability?

We speak to forward-thinking individuals like Tina Qiu of PLP Architecture, and Yann Follain and Jonathan Poh of WY-TO Group, who find resolve in these matters and are leading the way in building a resilient future.

This issue also unearths wonderful examples of projects across Asia-Pacific, which present sustainable blueprints for future generations. These include the immersive and future-proof retail space that is Joyoung Experience Centre and Wood Street house which responds sensitively to site and context.

Also representing the region’s best are the INDE.Awards 2022 Official Winners. The impressive quality and ingenuity of this year’s entries are palpable, making the task of judging both a privilege and a challenge. I hope you enjoy the new issue.

Get your copy at major bookstores and newsstands in Singapore today!