MANGROVE SANCTUARY SPA

Abstract

This thesis stems from the masterplan of the design of an Eco-town for Punggol West. The masterplan is made up of 3 main components of ecological sustainability design, that is Eco-logy, Eco-nomics and Eco (oikos). In my thesis, the main concern is ecology, which is defined by the relationship of the different elements. The first step to restore the ecology of the site is to protect and conserve the existing small patch of mangroves, where most of it was replaced with concrete promenade during land reclamation. A green & blue plan which consists of mangrove reserves, linear green belt, and wetlands is conceived. The provision of leisure activities along the water edge and green belt is divided into 3 zones: the marine park, residential park and the bio park. The inter-tidal mangrove swamp is chosen as the site for the health & fitness centre. The facility will act as an urban getaway, a sanctuary for residents to rejuvenate their mind, body and soul. There will be an integration of users back into nature in 2 aspects: nature as a therapeutic setting for healing and as a spontaneous setting for recreation. The main facilities include swimming pools, spa treatment rooms, gymnasium, retail, and accommodations. Circulation route into the centre provide interest to visitors and allow them to get close to mangroves. The thesis also aims to investigate designing this building within the mangroves without threatening the mangroves' survival. It will be a construction that is non-intrusive to mangroves with minimal land clearing.