Samowh Smart Hub

Client's Vision
The project was conceived for a private competition in which different firms were invited to submit proposals for the new headquarters of Samwoh, the leading asphalt company in Singapore. Together with AC Consortium, we won the competition for this new technological hub. The company has an impressive track record of sustainable solutions and, being at the forefront of innovation, was looking to implement their vision for their new home, hosting offices, labs and the asphalt plant.

Concept Statement
The design approach emerged from studying the inherent tensions between corporate and industrial programs. The administrative block's organization responds to two primary environmental challenges: proximity to the asphalt plant operations with their associated noise and strong odors, and the harsh east-west sun orientation. These constraints led to a solution where office spaces are oriented north-south, either overlooking an internal courtyard or capturing views toward the Johor Strait to the north and the main entrance to the south. This arrangement effectively shields the air-conditioned spaces from both the industrial operations and solar heat gain.
The arrival sequence was carefully considered, with the main entrance elevated to the second level via a landscaped ramp. This key design move serves multiple functions: it creates a distinctive approach to the building, integrates green spaces into the arrival experience, and efficiently utilizes the space below for parking. The ramp's garden setting provides a transitional space between the industrial context and corporate environment.

Samwoh Smart Hub is Singapore’s first positive energy industrial building under BCA’s Super Low Energy program. The building is constructed using locally sourced recycled materials, and any excess electricity generated is returned to the national grid.