THE NEW URBAN SOFTSCAPE : URBAN PARK AS WATER INFRASTRUCTURE

Abstract

In this thesis, the operative potentials of landscape will be examined. The project investigates the opportunity of an urban park to be integrated with transportation, entertainment, communal, and storm-water management facilities, blending in as part of the urban fabric, performing as a whole. Joining two urban pocket parks in Singapore’s downtown core, a continuous landform is created to link three disparate parcels of land. The park transforms its performative function from being part of a market to a bridge and finally as part of an underground MRT station across the site. The project shall demonstrate how recycling rainwater can be of benefit to the city. The idea is that the rainwater should be used where it falls. The park is designed to harness both the hydrologic cycle and aesthetic qualities of water, celebrating the role of water in our urban landscapes and allow users to experience the qualities of water through touch, sight and sound. The collection and conveyance of water would be part of the formal making of the landforms and structures. The ground and the structure either sheds off or collects water, allowing the flow of water to be expressed. The rainwater harvesting system will be tied with a series of recreational facilities along the park, recycling the harvested and cleansed rainwater for public enjoyment.