Multigenerational community created beneath terraced rooftop park
SINGAPORE: A unique multigenerational community has been created beneath a terraced rooftop park, garden and forest.
In Singapore, WOHA has completed ‘Kampung Admiralty’, an integrated mixed-use development that unites a wealth of public facilities beneath one roof. ‘The traditional approach is for each government agency to carve out their own plot of land, resulting in several standalone buildings,’ explain the architects. ‘This one-stop integrated complex, on the other hand, maximizes land use, and is a prototype for meeting the needs of Singapore’s ageing population.’
As the site is tight, with a height limit of just 45 meters (148 ft), WOHA devised a diverse vertical village comprised of three ‘strata’. Conceived as a ‘club sandwich’, the lower level accommodates a community plaza, with a medical center housed above. The uppermost storey features a community park with living accommodation for senior citizens. ‘The close proximity to healthcare, social, commercial and other amenities support inter-generational bonding and promote active ageing in place,’ the design team explains.
Designed as a community living room, the ground floor plaza is capable of hosting a variety of events and programming. This outdoor space is shaded and sheltered by the storey above, meaning that activities can take place regardless of the weather or climatic conditions. On the second level, the medical center is filled with natural daylight thanks to the central courtyard. Meanwhile, perimeter windows also ensure that senior patients — who are able to remain on site — feel connected to nature and to other people.
The intimately scaled rooftop park allows residents to come together to exercise, chat, or tend community farms. Complementary programs such as childcare and an active aging hub (including senior care) are located side by side, bringing together citizens of different ages. A total of 104 apartments are provided in two 11-storey blocks for elderly singles or couples. Strategically positioned at shared entrances, ‘buddy benches’ encourage seniors to come out of their homes and interact with their neighbors.
