by ArchitectureWeek

A mixed-use development in a historic Chinatown, an austere, yet serene, house in a Singapore suburb, two radically different clubhouses, a high-density primary school, and the surprising combination of a Western business college with a historic Chinese homestead: these are just a handful of the exemplary projects honored in this year's Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA) Design Awards.

The variety of entries in this awards program testifies to a significant trend in Singapore's design culture: gradual diversification. After a prolonged gestation period dominated by large-scale speculative commercial developments and state-dominated enterprises, the jury sees in the variety of entries "encouraging signs of more experimentation and, hopefully, more discerning patronage of designs which attempt to make a real difference."

Held once every three years, the SIA awards program recognizes outstanding design and innovative architecture in 25 categories. Winners were chosen for their success in transcending the basic requirements of the program and addressing issues of cultural, environmental, historical, technical, or other significance.

Many successful entrants were relatively small developments, operating on tight budgets. Commitment to design excellence in the face of these constraints often led to inventive solutions. The success of these projects, according to the jury, "sends a strong and positive signal to small, young practices" about the importance of their contribution to the built environment.

SCDA Architects, a winner in the SIA awards program, designed a simple, expressive house for a client who wanted "a place of serenity." Photo: Peter Mealin SCDA Architects designed a central, multistory void to separate the living spaces for the two owners. Photo: Peter Mealin   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.