Kengo Kuma & Associates, in collaboration with K2LD Architects, was recently unveiled as the winner of the international design competition for the Founders' Memorial.
Launched in January 2019, the design competition received 193 submissions from both local and overseas firms, and out of these, five were shortlisted by the Jury Panel.
The design by Kengo Kuma & Associates and K2LD Architects was unanimously selected as the winner. Their design, an organic dome-like structure that rises from the landscape in undulating layers, blends in beautifully with its natural surroundings and the Marina Bay skyline.
"The design features multiple paths carved out of the architecture and landscape, representing Singapore's multiculturalism," shares Mr. Ko Shiou Hee, the project architect. "These paths merge together in the centre of the memorial, celebrating the shared values and ideals that we stand for as a nation."
The Jury Panel lauded the creativity of the design and its thorough address of the design brief, as well as its distinctive architectural and landscaping characteristics. Practicality was also a large contributing factor: it had to be economically feasible and financially sustainable, and easily maintained.
"The winning design is sensitive and functional, and embodies the spirit and values of Singapore's founding team of leaders," says Mr. Lee Tzu Yang, Chairman of the Founders' Memorial Committee. "It is a unique design, incorporating landscape and architecture, that brings visitors on a journey of discovery. "
Some of the technical and functional criteria that had to be met included good accessibility and integration with Bay East Garden, connectivity to transportation, and adaptability for different activities and programmes.
“Our design concept for the Founders’ Memorial originates from the idea of a path – a journey tracing the legacy of Singapore’s founding leaders. It simultaneously honours the past, and inspires the present and future." shares Mr. Kengo Kuma, the design lead of the winning team. The design was created to be a "living memorial" that would be owned by and passed down to each new generation of Singaporeans.
Kengo Kuma & Associates and K2LD Architects will be commissioned to develop the design, together with the National Heritage Board and Gardens by the Bay. Construction is expected to commence in 2022, and the Memorial to be completed by 2027.