PUBLIC CENTRIC INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

Institutions are the means by which societies are organised. Their quality and character are manifestations of societal values. Their corresponding architecture is an expression of these values. The colonial rulers introduced new institutional typologies of prisons, courts and parliaments into Singapore. These building expressed the capacity of the state to organize as well as dominate the society. As the nation becomes a more developed, the number of public institutions, ministries and statutory boards increases. However, these public buildings are mostly not open to the public due to security and strategic reasons. They are designed for the public servants and not the public – administration centric and not public centric. Public institutions which are built on public land with public resources, have the civic responsibility to be more accessible and engaged by the public. This thesis explores how public buildings can be reimagined as Civic Anchors by investigating the different types of public interfaces, mixed-use programs and public spaces. A public centric institution should be a place that helps to engage the public, strengthen social identity, as well as offer opportunities for community bonding.