On the night of 21 August 2023, the Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA) honoured 19 projects that represent the pinnacle of architectural excellence at the SIA Architectural Design Awards 2023. The ceremony spotlighted eight illustrious Design Awards, accompanied by 13 prestigious Merit Awards across six distinct categories. Notably, the apex of recognition was reached by two exceptional projects, as they were bestowed with the distinguished Design of The Year award. 

Ar. Melvin Tan, the President of the SIA, conveyed his heartfelt gratitude to all participants and extended warm congratulations to the victorious architects. Tan emphasised, “Over the years, SIA Architectural Design Awards have garnered remarkable support, and this year has been no exception. The quality of the winning works has been outstanding and displays the increasing diversity of talent and creative specialisations of our Singapore architects.”

Here are seven outstanding projects from the SIA Architectural Design Awards 2023 that eloquently embody the art of placemaking, showcasing heightened sensitivity to societal dynamics, while ardently upholding a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.

1. Delta Sport Centre | Red Bean Architects

Originally built in the ‘70s, the dynamic, adaptive reuse of Delta Sports Centre enhances its connectivity to the surrounding neighbourhoods, adapting it to present social and physical conditions. By intricately preserving current structures and making thoughtful modifications, the project embraces sustainability, historical value, and inclusivity, setting a model for rejuvenating older locations in urban development. The project won Design of The Year and two Design Awards in the Commercial Projects and Special Categories (alterations & additions).

2. Gallop Extension at the Singapore Botanic Gardens | Kay Ngee Tan Architects 

The Gallop Extension adeptly balanced conservation efforts with modernisation, crafting an attractive, functional public area melding nature, architecture, heritage, and preservation. The project is lauded for its meticulous historical research, site integration, and respect for conserved structures. Each design addition was tactful, augmenting existing elements with care, a strategy both pleasing and eco-friendly, effectively reducing carbon impact. The project won the Design of The Year and a Design Award in the Special Categories (public placemaking).

3. MAKE House | Park + Associates

Designed to embody a playful spirit, the family home alludes to a Play-Doh factory where volumes, spaces and spiral staircases extrude from the main volume. The architectural concept aims to forge vibrant, animated living spaces that exude a spirited and whimsical ambiance, fostering a dynamic sense of movement and lightheartedness. The project won a Design Award in the Residential Projects category.

4. Nanyang Technological University Academic Building South | RSP Architects Planners & Engineers and Toyo Ito & Associates, Architects

Stretching about 220 meters in length, the six-story Mass Engineered Timber (MET) structure boasts a streamlined modular timber frame system. Leveraging the eco-friendly nature of MET, the building champions environmental sustainability. Its design seeks to craft a globally eminent, substantial timber edifice that sparks human senses and cultivates a vibrant atmosphere for learning. The project won a Design Award in the Institutional Projects category.

5. Punggol Soka Centre | Formwerkz Architects

Envisioned as an Open Citadel, this religious establishment takes on a fort-like appearance, punctuated by courtyards that connect its structure with nature. These thoughtfully designed spaces create a welcoming sanctuary, inviting everyone to engage in friendly conversations and discourse. By weaving nature into the interior through these courtyards, the building fosters an atmosphere of openness, comfort, and community interaction. The project won a Design Award in the Institutional Projects category.

6. Of Bricks and Breath | IX Architects

Embracing nature as its core principle, the Surakarta-based factory in Indonesia has reimagined the factory typology by utilising locally sourced bricks and passive design techniques. The incorporation of creatively arranged brick walls enhances aesthetics and texture. Green design principles harness natural light and wind, fostering a sustainable and pleasant workspace. The project won a Design Award in the Industrial, Transport & Infrastructure Projects category.

7. Le Corbusier: A Travelling Exhibition | RT+Q Architects

The travelling exhibition features physical models of houses designed by modernist architecture, Le Corbusier. To address the challenges of a mobile exhibition, collapsible pedestals were constructed from sustainable, sturdy, lightweight materials for easy transport and assembly. This adaptable design caters to diverse spatial needs across global venues.

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