Tropical Plaza For A Pedestrian Culture

Dhoby Ghaut-Bras Basah

Dominance of vehicular traffic, particularly in fast-paced cities, has become prevalent over the years and Singapore is no exception. Hence pedestrians become subservient to motorised vehicles, resulting in spatial fragmentation that compromises the accessibility of public spaces for pedestrian activity. The thesis seeks to explore an alternative approach to designing public spaces for a more vibrant and pedestrian friendly urban environment, suited for the tropical conditions and site characteristics – The Tropical Plaza.

Thethesisproposalpushesthenotionofacentraltropicalurbannode,equipped with public facilities to catalyse various urban events and festivals while still accommodating the circulation of motorised vehicles. Located in central Dhoby Ghaut-Bras Basah precinct, the site was chosen for its high vehicular and pedestrian traffic and proximity to major cultural institutions, each with its own series of cultural events that occur throughout the year.