Woods Bagot has been registered in Singapore since February 2013.  The new studio will be led by Neil Salton, a Principal of Woods Bagot, who has lived in Singapore since 2008 and delivered a number of workplace projects regionally.  Working closely with Tan Kok Hiang, founder and director of Forum Architects, Salton will build the 50-strong practice to meet existing and future client need in the region.

Woods Bagot and Forum Architects have, over a period of 15 years, developed a professional and collaborative relationship, based on a similar approach to design, and an emphasis on excellence in the same sectors: workplace; education and science, health and lifestyle.  Most notably the two firms worked together on the East Coast Park master plan.

“Singapore is a crucial market for us for two reasons,” said Neil Salton, Principal at Woods Bagot.  “Many corporates are attracted to the potential cost savings of using Singapore as a location for their regional headquarters, as well as the opportunity to transform their working environments.  Our landmark project for one of Singapore’s largest employers – to be unveiled towards the end of 2013 – is indicative of these trends.   Second, we see Singapore as a key hub for our work throughout South East Asia.   We are currently involved in seven high-rise projects in Jakarta – including the Telkom Landmark Tower, the new headquarters for Indonesia’s largest telecommunications company. We will continue to support these projects from the Singapore studio.”

Ross Donaldson, Group Managing Director, Woods Bagot, said: “Our clients have been increasingly looking for us to build a presence in Singapore and this joint venture allows us to fast-track our strategy in that market.  Kok Hiang has a fantastic reputation and we have had the privilege of working alongside the Forum team on a number of projects.  I have no doubt he and Neil will maintain this status as best-in-class in the local market while linking with Woods Bagot’s Global Studio.

“Over recent years, our One Global Studio strategy has delivered the best of our thinking and expertise to multi-national clients wherever they are in the world, resulting in strong financial growth.  Globally we currently have over 200 projects, worth AUS 21 billion, under design and construction.”

Forum Director, Tan Kok Hiang said: “The collaboration provides Forum with access to international expertise and project intelligence in particular in the areas of health, transport and Activity Based Working consultancy. Combining Forum’s local and regional experience with Woods Bagot’s global knowledge and insight will enrich our approach to responsive contextual design. Woods Bagot + Forum will run alongside Forum Architects, coming together to complement specific client and project requirements.  Forum Architects will remain an independent practice.”

“Woods Bagot + Forum will run alongside Forum Architects, coming together to complement specific client and project requirements.”

Mark Mitcheson-Low, Executive Chairman of Woods Bagot in Australia, said: “We have been active in Singapore for a number of years.  Formalising our relationship with Forum Architects will create a strong regional hub for Woods Bagot and enhance the collaboration between Australia and Asia.  The Singapore team will be supported by the huge talent pool we have across the world.”

Woods Bagot
woodsbagot.com

Forum Architects
forum-architects.com