Ivy Koh shares experience working on conservation and heritage projects at RAIA event

Our Director Ivy Koh was invited to present her work on the Temasek Shophouse, to the International Chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects in Singapore. 'Boarding Pass' brought together distinguished architects from Singapore and Australia, with an emphasis on heritage projects and their architectural challenges they present in both countries.

Ivy discussed the steps taken by the team to ensure that the Temasek Shophouse maintained functional relevance despite its conservation status. She delved into the conservation measures implemented to retain the building’s original Neoclassical architectural style, while reshaping interior spaces to support social functions in co-working areas and communal event spaces. Ivy also highlighted the introduction of sustainable features like hybrid and evaporative cooling systems, aligning with the project's commitment to environmental stewardship.

'Boarding Pass' provided an intimate setting for Ivy and fellow architects to discuss how historic architecture sites can be repurposed to serve modern needs, while preserving their cultural significance. The evening also featured veteran architect Robert Morris-Nunn, who presented a heritage project that he had worked on in his native Australia. Together, both presentations underscored the universal value of heritage conservation, and reminded attendees that there is significance to revitalising historical spaces.

Temasek Shophouse is executed under Surbana Jurong Consultants Pte Ltd (SJCPL). The SJ architecture studio, within the Surbana Jurong Group, is now working together with SAA.

Photo credit: Melvin Tan