INTEGRATED WATER SPORTS CENTRE BY THE QUAYS

Abstract

Rapid urbanization in modern cities propels the issue of urban abandonment. These urban voids were created by leftover unstructured pieces of dead spaces that are no-man’s land or by chance when they are underutilized. Thus the thesis will explore the potential of architecture as a mediator that reclaims the void of urbanity.

Having the urban issues in mind, the objective of this thesis is to enhance the site connectivity and challenge the conventional planning proposal of the Kallang Promenade made by the Singapore Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) with an Integrated Water Sports Centre.

The architecture of the Integrated Water Sports Centre was inspired from the traditional “kelong” (Malay word for offshore platform) which distinct features are its long jetties radiating towards the waterfront that aims to facilitate different water sports. The intention of the design was to create a permeable public space within the site for both the sports enthusiast and the general public. The report will be focusing on the paradox of the current plans of the Kallang Promenade site by URA based on the site's current culture and the current urban voids existing at the site. Subsequently the second part would be focused on the proposed redevelopment of the urban voids on the site together with the future plans of the Kallang Promenade to create a diversified waterfront arena to host different water sporting events and activities for both participants and spectators.

Interrelationship of the surrounding environments, interior and exterior, city and landscape, man and nature are woven into the site plan to provide a cohesive link of practicality, economical and aesthetic aspect to the proposed waterfront arena.