The CDL (City Development Land) Headquarters in Singapore created a competition to redesign their existing façade in an effort to attain high international sustainability standards. The winning proposal by London and Madrid based Daniel Statham Architects incorporates a banded façade that creates innovative spaces and responds to environmental factors.
Further project description and more images after the break.
The existing site is located in the growing business district of Singapore. Daniel Statham Architects utilized the set back site conditions of the existing 24 storey CDL building to create a new spatial environment. Such set backs allow the façade to extend outward and these new voids provide a spatial opportunity for large balconies that can be used as corporate space for meetings or entertainment purposes.
The large bands that wrap the existing building also serve as a screening layer. The layers reduce the intense solar gain traditionally found in Singapore and the screening becomes an integrated part of the banded façade. When internal views are necessary, the horizontal bands open to create a cavity which acts as a cooling buffer. Since the interior façade is protected by the screening, full height glazing can be used to diffuse natural daylight through the building’s internal spaces and provide spectacular panoramic views of Singapore.
By experimenting with the placement of internal views and openings in the screen, the exterior aesthetic was developed based on creating a dialogue between solid and void. The natural sunlight and ventilation found in the sky gardens help instill a different feel for a corporate building.
Statham Architects’ intents were considered in terms of the construction sequence that would need to occur during a two year period. The logical method was to remove and replace the existing façade, and then restore from the roof downwards. This process ensures that there will be constant revenue for leasing during the refurbishment.
Statham’s design creates a multifunctional skin that redefines the identity of the CDL Headquarters, responds to environmental needs and creates an innovative use of space.
As seen on Dezeen.
