The 36-story Ardmore Residence in Singapore designed by Dutch firm UNStudio heralds a "new breed" of residential skyscraper for the region. Employing an innovative inter-locking system of construction, the building features a distinctive, organically-inspired facade and a design concept focused on the natural landscape of the Garden City of Singapore.
The system of inter-locking panels was developed specifically for the Ardmore project by Web Structures, a company with a focus on fusion engineering (the practice of reconciling design sensitivity and cost consciousness). The approach enabled the architects to create the cantilevered shear walls that are staggered across the height of the tower, and which are crucial to the textured appearance.
Though the structural significance of such a system is not immediately apparent, the undulating shapes and the dramatically recessed sections, which give the impression of a clutch of four narrow verticals rather than a single building, is striking indeed. In addition to having aesthetic appeal, the folding and wrapping exterior weaves balconies and bay windows into a single line and allows for rounded, column-free corners. The highly textured pattern and layering of surfaces also results in greater transparency and increased natural light in the apartments themselves.
Focus on the views and landscape is key to the overall concept of the Ardmore Residence. To improve connectedness to the site and to ensure that all of the 58 apartments enjoy a clear view, the residential units start on the 8th floor. Bay windows in each apartment allow for expansive views across the city. Four huge columns support the building for seven stories beneath, with open space between them on the ground. This means that landscaping, and pedestrians, can pass beneath the building, rather than having to circumvent it, and allows for views through to the gardens and swimming pools.
Source: Gizmag
