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The Pinnacle at Duxton is the tallest public housing project by HDB (Housing & Development Board) to date. It comprises of seven 50-storey blocks linked by communal sky parks at 26th storey and roof level. The Pinnacle at Duxton was a winning scheme by ARC Studio Architecture + Urbanism and RSP Architects Planners & Engineers for a two-stage international design competition organised by URA (the Urban Redevelopment Authority, http://www.ura.gov.sg) in the year 2001 & 2002. The jury panel included, among others, Prof. Fumihiko Maki from Japan. Read more about the design concept of the Pinnacle at Duxton at http://www.ura.gov.sg/competition/results.html and http://www.arcstudio.com.sg. Other matters aside, the attempt of the organiser to realise the winning scheme is really appreciative.
Under the CD Shelter Act 1997, developers and homeowners are required to incorporate Household Shelter (HS) in the developments. The overall surface of HS including its floor, walls and ceiling has to be strengthened RC structure with extra thickness. Walls need to be set back in from the building exterior following the requirement specified in the guideline by SCDF (Singapore Civil Defence Force, www.scdf.gov.sg). The entrance to the HS must be installed with SCDF-approved light protective steel door. Residents are allowed to use the HS for other functions such as pantry, store, wine cellar, for example, but, however, the temporary fixtures installed inside the HS must be easily removable within 48 hours in case of emergency. No permanent installation that required hacking or drilling on the floor, walls or ceiling is allowed.
Pearlbank Apartments, one of a handful of unique masterpieces of modern architecture in Singapore and once the tallest apartment block in Southeast Asia, has been featured extensively in newspapers, magazines and websites since last year. It has been under threats going for en bloc sales as a result of the fast-growing economy and booming real estate market. Since the start of the incident, there have been organizations (including the Singapore Institute of Architects) and many individuals who love the building standing up to express their views and trying to stop the en bloc process. The spearhead of the individuals is Ed Poole of Poole Associates (a well-known interior design firm; http://www.poole-associates.com) who lives and works in the building. I had a chance to meet up briefly with Ed Poole in the Maldives during my work trip there and had a feeling that the guy is full of passion and energy and won’t give up until he gets what he wants. His home/office penthouse unit was featured in Wallpaper* UK and Condé Nast Traveler as an attempt to conserve the Pearlbank. Recently, I looked out of my window and saw the building had started a new paint job. This looks like a good sign. Read more about this cool building at http://www.pearlbankapartments.com.
