The GEAR is designed as Kajimaʼs Asian regional headquarters, and seamlessly integrates three functions: office, research and development (R&D), and open innovation. Here, the Kajima Technical Research Institute Singapore (KaTRIS) runs its laboratories for leading construction technologies like robotics, and fosters open innovations in collaboration with external entities, governmental institutions, universities, and startups. The GEAR is designed to evolve as a 'smart wellness building' that envisions the future of the environment, city, and living. It is a live laboratory for validating development results and collecting feedback.

Located in Singapore's Changi Business Park, the GEAR conforms to urban design guidelines and height constraints posed by its proximity to Changi Airport. Each floor plan is divided into three equal span zones of 13.5m. K/SHAFT, a vertical light court that penetrates throughout the floors allowing abundant natural light, is set in the middle zone with a gradual spiralling staircase. Office and laboratory spaces are strategically located on the north and south zones, with a thorough skeleton-and-infill concept that incorporates balconies and exposed structural frames along the entire perimeter. This allows a flexible deployment of space and accommodates future changes in usage and occupancy.

Sky gardens feature on the north side facing a park. They are framed in deep grids that block direct sunlight, while visually embracing the greenery. K/PARK, a double volume semi-outdoor working space, is on its fifth and sixth storey. This green-filled environment also acts as an experimental space for biophilic design. By employing elements of nature and computer simulations to optimise the interior environment, the building achieves aesthetic and functional excellence while standing as an icon for sustainability.

The GEAR received the Singapore Building and Construction Authority's (BCA) Green Mark Platinum SLE (Super Low Energy) and the first WELL Certification v2 Platinum for the newly built structure in Singapore. The GEAR is not just a structure, but an ever-evolving eco-system.

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