Ng Sze Oun crafts thriving natural ecosystems within built environments

Leading figures in Singapore’s built environment have made significant strides in transforming the country into a city in nature, as demonstrated by the quality of project submissions for the EdgeProp Excellence Awards 2024, says Ng Sze Oun, a director of greenscape studio Compound Collaborative and a judge on this year’s panel. “Overall, this year’s submissions reflect a positive shift in attitudes toward nature,” says Ng. He adds: “Previously, the trend in luxury design was to have clean and neat manicured topiaries. Now, it’s not just merely planting beautiful plants, but also having gardens that lead into the wild and planting more biodiverse mixtures to encourage more fauna and good insects to balance the ecosystem.” Read also: Desmond Sim: How projects stand out with thoughtful designs Advertisement Advertisement Ng notes that making people accept nature in built environments beyond aesthetics can be difficult. “Some people say they like nature, but what they mean is they like nature-designed pods with beautiful leaf textures. But when ants, bees or caterpillars come, they will pick up and kill them.” He adds that integrating nature with our built environment necessitates questioning where the natural elements go when we undertake construction. Ng lent his landscape architecture and design expertise to evaluate a range of residential, commercial, hospitality, and industrial projects submitted for consideration at this year’s awards. His background as a landscape architect certainly helped when it came to judging the Landscape Excellence awards. “As a landscape architect, I look for how nature can blend within the built environment, which is more than just a cladding of greens. It means creating natural environments that allow ecosystems to thrive,” he says. Ng describes his experience as a first-time judge as “refreshing”. “As a consultant, I’m used to focusing on individual projects,” Ng says. “But as a judge, I have to consider all the projects as a whole. It’s also a new and refreshing experience that allows me to see how Singapore’s property development is evolving.” Three developments that stood out to him were: The Reserve Residences, Lentor Mansion and Parc Komo. The 732-unit The Reserve Residences is a mixed-use integrated development comprising eight residential blocks on top of the Bukit V mall. It was designed by the Singapore-based WOHA Architects, an architectural firm known for its biophilic-centric designs. “WOHA connected The Reserve Residences’ design with the nearby Bukit Timah Hill and Nature Reserve and the Rifle Range Nature Park really well, making the building’s landscaping part of the surrounding environment,” Ng notes. This allows natural ecosystems to flourish within the built environment. Advertisement Advertisement Another element that Ng observes is good spatial design in landscaping. “Beyond functionality, landscapes and gardens serve as spaces that can connect us to our surroundings. A well-designed space can evoke memories, spark imagination, and create a sense of intimacy that allows individuals to feel grounded and connected with their environment.” Ng cites Parc Komo as an example. The mixed-use development in Changi was designed by Park + Associates, with SALAD (Salad Dressing) as the landscape architect. “The architectural layout created well-proportioned interior spaces and courtyards,” he says. The landscaping at Parc Komo enhances both aesthetic appeal and privacy for residents. Most importantly for Ng, the bio-ponds and lush greenery will foster a thriving ecosystem.