Today’s architects are not only asked to consider the needs of their users, they must remain sensible to context, while considering their impact on our environment. Particularly in Singapore, where land is scarce and resources are limited. Strategic planning is paramount. Nonetheless, these have not impeded architectural standards in Singapore. If anything, they have pushed our built environment to greater heights.

These achievements are recognised by the Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA), organisers of the SIA Architectural Design Awards, which honours “excellence in architecture and the built environment” among SIA members.

This year, a total of 29 recipients were honoured in the 16th SIA Architectural Design Awards. Out of these, there were 13 ‘Design Awards’, 14 ‘Honourable Mentions’, One ‘Best Project Constructed under $2 Million’, and One ‘Building Of The Year’.

Formwerkz Architects’ Open House was named “Building of the Year”. It was commended for its sensible and innovative use of space within a narrow, row-house site. The jury noted that well thought-out details, such as a lofty pool space on the second floor to create a sense of the outdoors within, as well as the clever use of materials make the house a delightful place to live in. Notably too, was the fact that all this was achieved within a modest budget.

The Goodlife! Makan project by DP Architects was awarded “Best Project Constructed under $2 Million”. Not only did the project give new life to an empty space, Goodlife! Makan is successful in engaging the silver generation, drawing them out of their homes and into a place that is both refreshing and welcoming.

Within the ‘Institutional Projects’ category, the upgrading of the old Nanyang Primary School by LT&T AVID Architects received a Design Award for its shift away from the conventional configuration of local schools, opening doors to new ideas for educational buildings.

Within the same category, the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum by W Architects received an Honourable Mention for its eye-catching and memorable sculptural form, which brings two neighbouring buildings into a dialogue. “The choice of placing the object on a prominent plinth created the expectation that the main entrance is on that plinth level, rather than one level below,” cites the jury.

The Philips APAC Center took home a Design Award for the Interior category and an Honourable Mention in the Industrial category. Designed by LAUD Architects, the project is a clean, industrial and dynamic building with an open atrium that is accessible from all other spaces, encouraging collaboration between co-workers.

The entries were judged on their originality and innovation; sensitivity to context; sustainability; response to climate, users’ needs and elegance of construction and detail. This year’s jury included Siew Man Kok of MKPL Architects and Rocco Yim of Rocco Design Architects.

Click here for the full list of award winners.