Singapore's tropical equatorial context has made Placemaking unique in the public spaces. *URA Singapore defines a well-designed public space to encourage people to come together, interact and foster connections to the area.
At WY-TO, we believe that there are 4 components that can contribute toward inspiring people to linger longer in common spaces. These are: Orgware, Hardware, Software and Heartware. When integrated and shaped by both Top-down policies and Bottom-up actions, such placemaking initiatives do more than enhance our experiences; they also deepen our sense of place, belonging and empathy. In time, even sprouting organic placemaking.
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At the top of the ecosystem – Orgware. Outlined as a manifestation of forms that can include strategic plans, place management regulations, organisation frameworks and policies. A relevant example of such is the Conceptual Masterplan for Paya Lebar Air Base.
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In the masterplan, we, alongside a group of collaborators, innovated the planning approach with a decentralised framework. The shift in perspective enables holistic scalable strategies that are agile and resilient to evolving trends.
Hardware considers the physical environment. This can include the planted greenery, fittings and fixtures, structures and buildings, street furniture, etc. – tangible elements that people interact with.
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Software are programmatic efforts integral to enable meaningful People-Place or People-People interactions. Beyond attracting crowds, these space activations encourage diverse convergences. Whether spurred by ground-up communities or guided by decision-makers, the purpose is to stimulate social cohesion.
With time, the authenticity and variety of engagements can highlight a place’s distinctiveness and vibrancy. Thereby supporting the emergence of Heartware. This is when people feel comfortable inhabiting public areas. For some, it means finding delight in spending quiet time outside. For others, it could be initiating their freeform placemaking initiative like dance rehearsals or playing chess with another like-minded individual.
A well-designed public space empowers the land-scarce Singapore to provide more for her people. Also home to a melting pot of cultures and racial groups, Placemaking becomes an important conduit for the little red dot to be a conducive place for All.
