Singapore’s urban landscape is constantly evolving, with buildings and developments popping up across the city. To encourage sustainable and innovative development practices, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has implemented several incentive schemes for building developers. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at three popular incentive schemes and their potential benefits.

1. Central Business District (CBDI) Incentive Scheme

The CBDI Incentive Scheme aims to encourage the development of high-quality and sustainable buildings within the Central Business District (CBD). This scheme offers developers additional Gross Floor Area (GFA) if they meet certain criteria, such as achieving a minimum Green Mark certification rating or incorporating sustainable features into their development. The additional GFA awarded is known as Bonus GFA and can be used to increase the floor area of the building or to provide additional amenities for occupants.

What is required to apply for the Central Business District (CBDI) Incentive Scheme?

To apply for the Central Business District (CBDI) Incentive Scheme, developers need to submit a written application to the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). The application should include details of the proposed development, including its location, the intended land use, and the expected floor area.

Developers must also provide a detailed breakdown of the expected costs of the development, including construction costs, financing costs, and land costs. In addition, developers must provide information on the expected financial returns from the development, including projected rental income and sales revenue.

The application should also include a detailed explanation of how the proposed development will contribute to the overall growth and development of the Central Business District (CBD). This may include information on how the development will create new jobs, improve transport links, or enhance the overall attractiveness of the area.

Finally, developers must pay a non-refundable application fee, which is currently set at SGD $5,000. Once the application has been submitted, the URA will review it and make a decision on whether or not to grant the incentive. If the application is successful, the developer will be notified in writing and will need to comply with any conditions or requirements set out by the URA.

What are the potential benefits developers can receive from the Central Business District (CBDI) Incentive Scheme?

Increased allowable Gross Floor Area (GFA): The CBDI Scheme allows developers to increase the maximum GFA allowable for their development by up to 25%, subject to certain conditions. This can provide developers with more leeway to design and build larger and more complex developments in the Central Business District.

Reduction in Development Charge (DC): Developers who are successful in their application for the CBDI Scheme may also be eligible for a reduction in DC payable. The amount of reduction is calculated based on the increase in GFA allowed under the scheme.

Greater flexibility in land use: The CBDI Scheme also provides greater flexibility in land use. Developers may apply for a change of use for their development without having to pay DC for the change, subject to certain conditions.

Overall, the CBDI Scheme provides a range of benefits to developers who are looking to develop properties in the Central Business District, including increased GFA, reduced DC, and greater flexibility in land use.

2. Green Mark Scheme

The Green Mark Scheme is an incentive program that rewards developers for building environmentally friendly and sustainable developments. Under this scheme, developers are encouraged to incorporate energy-efficient features, such as solar panels, and reduce water consumption through the use of rainwater harvesting systems. The Green Mark Scheme is divided into four categories – Certified, Gold, GoldPLUS, and Platinum – with increasing levels of sustainability required to achieve higher certification ratings. The Green Mark Scheme is administered by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA).

How can developers apply for the Green Mark Scheme?
To apply for the Green Mark Scheme, developers must achieve a Green Mark certification rating of at least Certified and submit an application to the BCA.

What are the potential benefits developers can receive from the Green Mark Scheme?
Developers who achieve a higher certification rating under the Green Mark Scheme can benefit from lower operating costs due to the incorporation of energy-efficient features. Additionally, the Green Mark Scheme may provide tax incentives and rebates on development charges.

3. Strategic Development Incentive (SDI) Scheme

The Strategic Development Incentive (SDI) Scheme is a planning incentive scheme offered by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) in Singapore. The SDI Scheme aims to encourage the development of strategic sites within the city that can contribute to the long-term economic and social development of Singapore.

Under the SDI Scheme, developers can apply for incentives that will allow them to carry out developments that might not have been otherwise feasible. This includes allowing for greater building heights, larger allowable gross floor area (GFA), or greater flexibility in land use.

The SDI Scheme is open to strategic sites within the city, which are identified by the URA. These sites may be located in the Central Business District, or in other areas of the city that are considered to be of strategic importance.

Overall, the SDI Scheme provides an opportunity for developers to undertake large-scale, strategic developments that can help to shape the future of Singapore’s built environment.

How can developers apply for the Strategic Development Incentive (SDI) Scheme?
Developers who are interested in applying for the Strategic Development Incentive (SDI) Scheme can do so by submitting an application to the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA).

The application process involves several stages, including a pre-application consultation with the URA to discuss the proposed development and to obtain feedback on the proposal. Developers are required to provide a detailed development proposal, including plans, drawings and other supporting documents, along with their application.

The URA will evaluate the application based on several criteria, including the strategic importance of the site, the quality of the proposed development, and the overall impact of the development on the surrounding area. The URA may also seek input from other government agencies, such as the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) and the Singapore Land Authority (SLA), as part of the evaluation process.

If the application is approved, the developer will be granted the relevant planning incentives under the SDI Scheme. These incentives may include an increase in gross floor area (GFA) beyond the baseline GFA for the site, or a reduction in the Development Charge payable for the development.

Overall, the application process for the SDI Scheme can be complex, and developers are advised to seek professional advice to help them navigate the process and ensure that their application is as strong as possible.

What are the potential benefits developers can receive from the Strategic Development Incentive (SDI) Scheme?
The Strategic Development Incentive (SDI) Scheme offers a range of benefits to developers, which are designed to encourage the development of strategic sites in Singapore.

One of the key benefits of the SDI Scheme is the increase in gross floor area (GFA) that developers can receive for their development. This increase in GFA can be significant, and can allow developers to build more floor space on a given site than would otherwise be allowed under normal planning rules. The exact amount of bonus GFA that can be granted under the SDI Scheme will depend on various factors, including the location of the site, its size, and its strategic importance.

In addition to the increase in GFA, the SDI Scheme may also offer a reduction in the Development Charge payable for the development. The Development Charge is a fee that developers must pay to the government for the right to build on a particular site. The amount of the Development Charge is calculated based on a variety of factors, including the plot ratio and the land value of the site. By reducing the Development Charge payable, the SDI Scheme can help to make development more financially viable for developers.

Overall, the potential monetary benefits of the SDI Scheme can be significant, and can provide a strong incentive for developers to undertake strategic developments in Singapore.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, incentive schemes do play an important role in encouraging sustainable and innovative development practices in Singapore. The Central Business District (CBDI) Incentive Scheme, Green Mark Scheme, and the Strategic Development Incentive (SDI) Scheme are just a few examples of the many schemes available to developers. By taking advantage of these schemes, Singapore developers can not only improve the sustainability of their developments but also increase the value and attractiveness of their properties in the long run.

As a property owner or architect in Singapore, it is important to understand the planning permission process and its relationship to development and building works. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on planning permission in Singapore and how this is related to a building and development project in Singapore.

What is Planning Permission in Singapore?

Planning permission is a statutory requirement that property owners must obtain before starting any development or building works. The permission is granted by the relevant authorities in Singapore, such as the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) or the Building and Construction Authority (BCA). It regulates the use of land and buildings to ensure that development is carried out in a sustainable and responsible manner.

Checking the Approved Use of Your Commercial Property

Before applying for planning permission, it is important to check the approved use of your property. This information can be obtained from the URA’s website. You can also visit the URA’s Customer Service Centre to obtain this information. Knowing the approved use of your property is important, as any proposed changes to the use of the property may require planning permission. This will involve the engagement of a qualified Architect in Singapore.

Checking the Status of Your URA Planning Permission

If you have submitted a development application to the URA, you can check the status of your planning permission online through the URA’s e-Status system. This system allows you to track the progress of your application and find out if any additional information or documents are required.

Grant of Written Permission from URA

If your proposed development or building works require planning permission, you will need to apply for a Grant of Written Permission (WP) from the URA. This written permission allows you to carry out the proposed works within the constraints set out in the Planning Act 1998. The WP is valid for two years from the date of issue.

When Do You Require Planning Permission?

In general, planning permission is required for any development or building works that involve a change of use, addition or alteration to a building, or a new building on a piece of land. Some examples of when planning permission may be required include:

– Changing the use of a property (e.g. from residential to commercial)

– Adding or altering a building (e.g. building an extension or changing the roof structure)

– Constructing a new building on a piece of land

– Demolishing a building

– Carrying out works on a building that is located in a conservation area

Written Permission Fee for Change of Use

If you require planning permission for a change of use, you will need to pay a submission fee to the URA. The amount of the fee will depend on the type and size of the property, as well as the proposed use. The URA’s website provides a fee calculator that can help you determine the amount of the fee.

Relationship between Planning Permission and Building and Development Works

Planning permission is an important aspect of building and development works in Singapore. Without planning permission, it is illegal to carry out any works that involve a change of use, addition or alteration to a building, or a new building on a piece of land. Therefore, it is important to obtain the necessary planning permission before starting any works.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planning permission is a legal requirement for property owners and architects in Singapore. It regulates the use of land and buildings to ensure that development is carried out in a sustainable and responsible manner. As a property owner or architect, it is important to understand the planning permission process and its requirements to avoid any legal issues.

At ADX Architects, we work closely with our clients to ensure that their development applications are submitted correctly and that all necessary planning permissions are obtained. By following the guidelines and regulations set out by the Singapore authorities, we can create a safe and sustainable built environment for all.

Rebuilding your Singapore bungalow house?

This guide will be an invaluable resource for anyone who is planning to rebuild their Singapore bungalow house.

We will help you to understand important considerations like budget, project planning, site preparation, design and build as well as inspection, handover and beyond.

From securing permits to reviving the rich heritage of your Singapore bungalow house, we hope this guide serves you well!

Project Planning

Project planning is a process that is crucial to the success of any project. It helps to ensure that the project will be completed on time and within budget. Project planning can be done in one of two ways: top-down or bottom-up. The first way, top-down, is where you decide on the goal and then work out how to achieve it. The other way, bottom-up, is where you decide on what needs to happen and then work out how to achieve it.

A good piece of advice is to sit down with a qualified Singapore architect and ask how their professional services can help you in planning, design, budgeting, visualization, tendering, management, coordination, quality control, handover and post-handover issues.

Structural and Interior Design Planning

The design process is an important phase in the construction of your Singapore bungalow. It includes the design of the building’s interior and exterior and could include various sections of the property like a yard, open area, parking lot or swimming pool.

With the help of a Singapore architect, you will get a design that takes into account environmental factors such as climate and location, technical factors like the choice of materials and the use of natural lighting and airflow. A good architect will also accommodate budget concerns to control the overall costs for the construction of the house.

There is a saying that 95% of mistakes are attributed to poor or inadequate planning.

Construction design mistakes can be costly to remedy once cast in brick and stone.

Be wise and allow your professional Singapore architect to design your Singapore bungalow house that meets your current and future needs.

Your Singapore architect will use modern tools like 3D models and renderings to assist you in visualizing how his/her design plan can meet and exceed your needs and expectations.

Site Preparation and Site Survey

Site preparation is a process of preparing the ground for construction. The first step in site preparation is demolition. Demolition is the removal of existing buildings, infrastructure, and other unwanted structures from the site. Hacking is the removal of building materials and even vegetation like trees from the site.

Site survey is a process of analyzing and documenting existing conditions on the site such as soil type, topography, utilities within or near the property lines and in some cases environmental hazards.

As part of site survey, soil investigation is carried out. The final report determines its composition and what kind of structural support is required to support the house. It also determines what type of foundation is used.

Your appointed builder should prepare all of the above with the appointment and management of the appropriate sub-contractors and specialists.

Singapore Bungalow Construction

The construction of your Singapore bungalow is typically done in phases by a main contractor and this has to be well-coordinated. A qualified architect will be key to managing your bungalow project from start to finish.

The foundation for Singapore bungalow construction is typically made up of concrete, which is then reinforced with steel rebars. The beams are then erected on top of the foundation and the roofing and structure are built from there. After the structure is done, the architectural works will commence. These works include brick works, aluminum doors and windows installation and internal works including installation of floor tiles, sanitary wares and fittings and mechanical and electrical systems and ceiling works.

At this architectural works stage, it is crucial the process, sequence and timing is scheduled properly by the main contractor. Otherwise, there will be serious delays in completion. This is responsibility of the main contractor.

Inspection, Handover and beyond

The process of inspecting and handing over a new house is a crucial part of the building process. It is important to make sure that the property meets all of the requirements and has been built to a high standard.

The architect will check the main contractor’s works and ensure all works are done and ready for authority inspections.

After handover, the defects liability period kicks in. The Defects Liability Period is the period of time where the main contractor will be responsible to replace and fix any construction defects in a building, appliance or fixture. Do note that defects may not be obvious to you as the owner, and an architect can be consulted. Once the defects is identified, the main contractor has to rectify it. Usually the defects liability period is for 12 months after handover.

Conclusion

Building or rebuilding your Singapore bungalow house is no mean feat. There could be technical issues that arise during this project. Given the complexity of this subject, we would advise seeking the advice from experienced bungalow professionals like ADX Architects to better guide you and become your trusted advisor.

Introduction

If you are looking for a modern house for you and your family, you might be wondering about your options for renovation or reconstruction. There are many benefits to rebuilding a new home rather than renovating the old one, but it may not be suitable for everyone.

If you’re looking to renovate your property in Singapore, it’s essential to know what constitutes an addition and alteration versus reconstruction. This article will explore the differences and when they would be appropriate so that you can make a more informed decision.

Understanding the different rebuilding options for your home

Many ways are available when it comes to rebuilding or reconstructing your home. Here, we take a look at the three main types of rebuilding and their respective pros and cons:

Rebuild: This is the most common type of rebuilding and involves tearing down and rebuilding the house. So this means everything is demolished. This also means rebuilding is the costliest mode of construction because the entire old house is demolished and new one is built. This applies if the existing house is too old to be livable.

Reconstruction: This option is typically cheaper than rebuild but may not be as comprehensive. Basically, the existing concrete structure of the floor slab and columns have to be retained. There can be changes to the walls, extension to various areas, addition of a new attic level or changes to the roof.

Addition and Alteration: This is the least major type of rebuilding and involves minor changes to the existing house. It involves adding or altering certain areas without completely replacing it. This option is usually cheaper than reconstruction or rebuilding but may not offer as much options or flexibility.

What do you need to consider when making this decision?

Rebuilding or reconstructing a property can be expensive and time-consuming, so deciding what’s best for your property and situation is essential. Consider the following things when deciding which option is best for your property:

• What are your current and future needs for the house?
• How much cost can you afford?
• What is the timeline for the completion of the project?
• What kind of damage or defects is the house suffering from?
• Do you want to rebuild or reconstruct the same site or sell it and move the project location?
• Do you want to change the look of the house because it is getting old and dated?
• Will the new construction look good?

What are the benefits of Rebuilding and Reconstructing?

There are many benefits of rebuilding and reconstructing an old Singapore property. Here are a few:

• It can improve the livability of your home and it will suit your current or new requirements for the house. This could be a new addition to the home, such as children; or it can be elderly parents moving in.
• It can improve the power and energy efficiency of the house. This includes building with better materials, good orientation, or simply installing solar panels for energy generation for the long term. In some houses, there are modern technology and intelligent systems that can also improve how the lights or aircon is controlled.
• It can also increase its resale value because it will look more appealing to potential buyers.
• Finally, the reconstruction process can be very cost-effective, especially if you have an existing house. You may rather rebuild or reconstruct than buy a new house at today’s prices.

Planning and Budgeting for Renovations

Renovating your home is a big decision – one that can have a significant impact on your lifestyle. Before starting any renovation project, it’s crucial to clearly understand what you want and how much you’re willing to spend. Here are some tips for budgeting for renovations:

1. Get organized

Ensure you have all the information you need before starting your renovation – from estimates to floor plans. This will help reduce confusion and speed up the process.

2. Understand your needs

When considering how much to spend, be specific about what you want to change or improve. This will help you pinpoint what upgrades are necessary and which are luxury enhancements that you can live without.

3. Choose the right contractor

There’s no shame in using a contractor who offers affordable rates and quality artistry. Many homeowners prefer this approach because they know their bills will stay controlled.

4. Save money on materials

Renovating your home can be cost effective if you plan and use economical and durable materials. Good material does not mean expensive. Likewise, using sustainabile or recycled materials does not mean it has to be costly. Check with your architect for the latest materials and technology that can save you money in the long run.

Finding a Qualified Contractor

When making any major renovation or reconstruction project on your property in Singapore, you’ll need to find a qualified contractor or builder..

• Make sure the contractor is qualified and registered with the Building Construction Authority of Singapore.
• Ask for references from previous clients.
• Make a clear definition of the scope of work before signing on the dotted line.

Always get a written contract specifying all the project details, including estimated costs and completion dates. Check quality assurance measures, such as daily check-ins by the contractor, to make sure everything is proceeding as planned.

How Much Time is Required for Rebuilding versus Reconstruction versus Addition and Alterations?

When it comes to rebuilding or reconstructing your Singapore property, you may wonder how much time is required. Here are different options from the perspective of a Singapore property owner:

Rebuilding: This takes the longest period and it is good if you are not in a rush to complete the rebuilding of the house. Depending on the size of the house, this can take up to 2 years.

Reconstruction: This work can vary depending on the requirements. In some cases, reconstruction can be similar to a new rebuilt house. That is probably because the reconstruction is very major and involves replacing a lot of the house except the structure. Generally, reconstruction will take between 1 to 2 years.

Addition and Alterations: A&A work as it is commonly known means making minor changes to an existing building excluding the existing structure. Before the COVID pandemic, A&A work used to take a much shorter period of time. Most people expect it to be done in 4-6 months’ time. However, in today’s situation, such work may take 6-10 months depending on the extent of the work.

Conclusion

When it comes to rebuilding or adding to your Singapore property, there are a few different options open to you. ADX Architects is here to help you make an informed and well-organized decision when making alterations or additions to your property in Singapore. Thank you for reading!

Singapore is committed to developing a sustainable city and is already known as the ‘City in a Garden.’ The Building and Construction Authority or BCA have created a master plan to accelerate Singapore’s aim to become a global leader in green buildings. This master plan includes incentives for smaller individuals and players to encourage greater adoption for energy efficiency and green initiatives.

Why Use of Incentives in Fostering Green Buildings Crucial?

The affordability of green construction is a significant challenge for a number of developers and building owners. Government incentives help drive green construction by making them more affordable. Incentives for green buildings are in the form of tax reduction, rebate systems, subsidies, low-cost loans, concession, cash incentives and more. Such incentives also encourage private sectors to join the development of green buildings by increasing demands and reducing their building costs. These incentives help reduce investment risks for developers and improve investment priority.

Incentive Schemes by Singaporean Government for Green Building Owners

The Singapore government has introduced many incentive schemes to encourage architects and developers to invest in green buildings. Some of them include –

• Building Retrofit Energy Efficiency Financing or BREEF Scheme

According to this scheme, the participating financial institution pays the building owners the cost of the energy retrofits using an energy performance contract. It usually covers the cost of the equipment, their installation and the professional fees. The maximum loan limit is $4 million of 90% of the total cost, whichever is lower.

• Green Buildings Innovation Cluster or GBIC & Building Energy Efficient Demonstrations or GBIC Demo Scheme

This scheme offers green building developers and owners who use new energy-saving innovations that are not widely used in their existing or upcoming buildings. The funding covers up to 70% of the total cost or $3 million per project, whichever is lower.

• Skyrise Greenery Incentive Scheme or SGIS

The SGIS scheme allows building owners to create more greenery and a lush environment through intensive landscaping on the building. It covers 50% of the installation costs of rooftop and vertical greenery up to a certain limit.

• Built Environment Accelerate to Market Programme or BEAMP

The BEAMP scheme was a collaboration of JTC, BCA and Enterprise Singapore to attract investors and companies to find innovative processes to help solve their real estate industry challenges. The programme grants up to 70% of the project cost for local SMEs and about 50% for all non-SMEs.

• Landscaping for Urban Spaces and High Rise or LUSH

This program sponsored by URA encourages developers and building owners to provide designated communal green spaces at the ground and upper levels of the buildings like roof gardens or sky terraces. URA can also decide to grant additional exemptions for some selected spaces.

Conclusion

Building efficiency is crucial to Singapore’s sustainable growth and helps it achieve its 2030 Green Plan. While some developers can self-finance green building plans and enjoy savings right away, others need government incentives to help them move towards adopting more energy efficiency programs for their buildings. Singapore government can play a key role in motivating more green buildings but also promote post-construction monitoring that those buildings are locking the energy savings in the long term. If you are looking to go green and looking for ways to potentially save on building costs, get in touch with us at ADX Architects.

When searching for homes in Singapore, it could pay for you to look for energy-efficient homes. Newer homes in Singapore built after 2009 are designed to use 20% less energy than those built before 2009. It was when the federal government’s energy efficiency rating program came into existence. While energy-efficient homes might not sound as exciting, architects today are designing homes that are not only equipped with the latest technology but also improve health and reduce energy bills.

What Makes an Energy Efficient Singapore Home Different?

Energy-efficient homes in Singapore are quite interesting. For many people, the use of aesthetic elements is of high interest, such as the architecture, the interiors, and the smaller details that work together to give a sense of place. Then, there are others for whom the energy means more. Energy homes, for them, are a collection of different energy systems where light, heat, and even sound is used as fuel and electricity. All the different systems are interrelated and play a distinct role in the overall home’s energy efficiency.

Some of the top benefits of energy-efficient homes include –

• Lower utility bills
• Cheaper home insurance
• Better air quality
• Comfortable living environment
• Lower environmental impact
• Designed for enhanced control
• Better resale value

Conventional Solutions – Energy Efficiency through Design

If you have been living in Singapore for a few years, you’ll probably notice that homebuyers had certain criteria when it came to houses. Before all the modern technology came into existence, builders in Singapore emphasized certain conventional solutions to make homes more energy-efficient. Some of them include –

• Natural Cross Ventilation – Singapore homes used natural ventilation techniques to minimize excessive load on their energy consumption. These required more time and expenses during the initial building design process.
• Orientation for House – For Singapore’s weather, north-south facing homes are the most ideal as they do not get direct sun throughout the day and keep the house cool, and are breezier.
• Use of Specific Materials – Architects picked specific products to be used for insulation in building envelopes, such as extruded polystyrene for roofs and the use of double-glazing windows and doors.
• Encourage Air Flow – Compared to aircon, fans are more energy-efficient and also less costly to operate. Thus, Singaporean homes had fans to minimize the use of aircon whenever necessary.
• Use of Natural Lighting – A greater emphasis is put on reducing artificial lighting by taking advantage of natural lighting whenever possible. Architects used natural light as a design element and glazing windows to maximize radiosity.
• Use of Skylight or Airwell – Skylights are not just an aesthetic addition; they also allow natural light and much-needed ventilation.
• Energy Saving Appliances – The use of energy-efficient appliances often has a higher upfront cost but require less energy over their lifespan.

Modern Solutions – Energy Renewability through Technology

In Singapore, there is a greater need for the reduction of energy use is important. Since it is a small country with limited space and resources, it is impossible to rely on solar energy alone. Instead, technology plays an important role in helping Singaporean homes to reduce their energy consumption. Here are some of the energy-saving technologies that have found their way into Singapore green home designs –

• Motion-Sensor Lights – These lights automatically turn on lights when they detect motion and turn off a while later. They eliminate energy consumption by ensuring that the lights are not accidentally left on.
• Auto-Irrigation Plants – Auto-irrigation plants give each plant the right amount of water at a set time. This helps minimize water consumption and can be used for potted plants, flower beds, and more.
• Solar Panels – Singapore is only going to get hotter, and using solar panels that convert sunlight into electricity is a smart move for energy-efficient homes.
• Energy Monitoring Systems – Intelligent systems are connected to your electrical panel or the meter to monitor the energy use of the house. They form a communication platform for homeowners, devices, appliances, and even the utility company.
• Façade BIPVs Panels – Solar panels are blended beautifully with home architecture, offering an energy-efficient solution without the need to compromise on the looks.
• Solar Powered Aircon Systems – Since air conditioners use more and more energy, solar-powered aircon systems offer great value to homeowners. They not only speed up the cooling process but also use less energy.

Passive Home Design – The Key to Meeting 2030 Green Building Targets for Singapore

As a tropical country, Singapore relies heavily on passive designs to solve its energy problem while meeting its 2030 green building targets. All of the different energy systems offer great opportunities for Singapore architects to combine them in new and interesting ways. From tighter building envelope that reduces the need for space cooling to smart lighting upgrades that reduce heat from lighting fixtures and energy monitoring systems, technology has made a big impact on home designs in Singapore. These green homes are not just less expensive to run but are also more comfortable to live in.

It might sound prestigious but being a Singapore architect is not always a walk in a park.
We spoke to Casey Chua to find out more about this profession.

Q1. How did you first discover that there was a profession known as an architect and what made you consider it as a professional career?

I was always interested in art as a child. I entered many competitions as an inspiring young artist. In high school, I was in the Art Elective Program (AEP). The program exposed me to various disciplines in art, including sketching, painting, ceramics and design. Design was the subject that I was most inclined to – leading me eventually to pursue architecture in university.

During the course of my university education, I realized that architecture require a good balance of aesthetics and function. I enjoyed the fact that architecture was catered for the people – an important and practical role in society. This was probably what made me decide to pursue architecture as a career.

Q2. What are some differences between studying architecture and actually practicing architecture?

The main difference would be studying architecture was putting ideas on paper, and practicing architecture was putting these ideas to reality! In university, we could dream up buildings and create virtual structures. Our ideas could be very creative and experimental. When I started working, it was a big eye-opener and learning curve because the practical and functional aspects of architecture had to be given the priority.

Some practical considerations include:
How would the site conditions affect our architecture? These conditions would include the orientation, context and terrain of the site.
What is the intended occupant or user of our building?
What is the budget of the Client and how would it affect the design aspects of the building?
How would the building be built to allow it to be completed on schedule?

I realized that practicing architecture in the real world involved site conditions, client requirements, cost considerations and practical needs of the occupant. These important factors were definitely more realistic as we practiced architecture than when we were studying architecture.

Q3. What’s the best and worst part of being a professional architect?

The best part would be the power to create buildings that would be used by the people. These buildings are built structures that are permanent in nature. Therefore, there is a responsibility as a professional architect to design a building that would be well-suited and purposefully-designed for the intended user.

The worse part will have to be the long hours involved in our profession as an architect. The nature of the work is such that design is always evolving and developing and it required a certain of experience and skill to arrive at a good solution for a project.

Q4. What are some differences between a good architect and an excellent architect?

I believe the key difference between a good architect and an excellent one is how the architect creates the built environment to suit the intended user. Because the purpose of architecture is for our community- an architect will always have to think about the intended use of the building that he or she creates.
At ADX Architects, our mission is to create architecture for the people. At the same time, we also believe design can be a catalyst for change.
As a practicing architect for more than 15 years, I believe that excellent architecture can create a change in the way we live, work and play – a change that would be practical, purposeful and progressive.

Q5. Lives of individuals, organisations and communities can be shaped by your work as an Architect. How do you use this great power for the greater good?

I have mentioned the purpose of architecture was to cater for the community. It is important that an architect reflects on this responsibility. During the COVID pandemic, it seems architects have been placed in the spotlight – as agents of sustainability and climate change. Obviously, this is because architects, together with urban designers and town planners, have a huge hand in developing the cities we live in.

As an architect, we have great power and responsibility in how the buildings are designed. This in turn can contribute to the environment at large. In Singapore, we are nudged towards creating green buildings. These will have a broader impact on the environment. There are various strategies for this – including using design strategies, sustainable products, solar panels, and energy efficient building practices and technology.

Excelling in the art and science of materializing a client’s vision, the architect is one of the key professionals involved in the process of envisioning, planning, and eventually actualizing a project. An architect has a role to play from the initial design of plans and façade, to the final completion of the building, and maybe even beyond.

Contemporary architecture is characterized by a multidisciplinary approach where the architects work closely with other professionals, like professional engineers, interior designers, landscape architects, and even lighting experts, to create the ultimate experience in an innovative, sustainable, functional, and aesthetically appealing solutions.

For a business or an individual wanting to create something valuable, something that will set you or your business apart from the competition, you need to make a decision on choosing an architect who can be involved in every aspect of your project. However, that decision should never be guided by cost alone.

Yes, the cost of an architect’s services is one of the primary considerations in the hiring process, but what is more important is the value he can bring to your project through his design. A good architect is not about the cost but about the value his work brings to your project.

Enlisted are six major aspects to consider while hiring your architect:

1. Design Expertise and Track Record

Experience is one of the key considerations in selecting and hiring any professional, more importantly, an architect. So charge a good architect with the experience and track record to match. Evaluate the portfolios of different candidates, shortlist a few and ask them some preliminary questions to assess their capabilities and suitability. It is note-worthy that most good architects value their expertise so they will not be giving any “free” design proposal without an official engagement. Even though most architects have experience in design, a good architect will also accommodate your requests for a specific style of architecture that you like and would work with you on the same.

2. Architect’s Role in a House Project

The architect plays a vital role in taking your project from the initial conceptualization to the completion. As a client, it is also important that you know about the exact role that the architects play. Your architect must work with various experts like contractors, plumber, electrician, bathroom and kitchen specialists, and other responsible parties involved in the project to ensure the project progress runs smoothly. He creates a construction strategy that makes the building process easier.

3. Selection and Specification of Materials

One of the key aspects of any construction project is selecting and specifying the right type of material. Materials used in a building project are affected by many factors and need expert advice. Before you can select the right materials, you need an architect’s advice. A good architect will guide you towards the best kinds of materials that’s well suited for your project and that you can use without giving second thoughts. Often material selection costs a lot of time and money; therefore, if the architect is familiar with the area and budget, they can help you make the right decisions for a perfect building.

4. Compliance to Necessary Authority Regulations

Architects are licensed to create buildings and have the correct qualifications, and are able to deal with necessary authority regulations. It is very important to work with a competent and qualified Singapore architect, as such is part of the architect’s responsibility to ensure proper building construction is carried out. Having years of experience and insight to the technical knowledge required to design a building is a very important value-added service from qualified architects.
They develop the building’s design and construction plans thoroughly and ensure that they correspond to applicable building codes, according to the building type. They are also aware of environment and site impact which will affect orientation of rooms, cross-ventilation and natural lighting benefits. So when looking for an architect for your home, check if they are licensed and registered for this profession.

5. Project Administration – Control Contractor’s Time and Cost

Focusing on project administration is another basic responsibility of an architect. In this capacity, they control the time and cost of the project and have complete authority over the assigned project. Modern architecture is changing very fast, and managing a better time to completion of the project is an important job for the architect. Apart from contracts stated in the schedule of work, the architect does the major supervision work related to the contract and keeps a tighter control over a project’s activities, cost, and time.

6. Professional Ethic and Conduct:
The most impressive architects are the one’s with outstanding ethics. They are willing to work with your requirements and help you achieve the project plans within the time and available budget. During the project, you can expect to be treated with courtesy, integrity and professionalism. So, select an architect based on their professional conduct and ethical behavior. They should possess the ability to work professionally and ethically with clients, contractors, and consultants, creating an atmosphere that is conducive for both parties.

There are countless differences between a good and a bad architect; therefore, to hire one, go through proper research, ask some questions, and look for the right answers. Also, remember the most important guideline while hiring a Singapore architect is to look at the architect’s track record while hiring them.