A new S$4 million public space has been unveiled at Dhoby Ghaut.
It is a space for everyone and provides a quiet corner for those wishing to seek respite from the bustle of the city.
Dhoby Ghaut Green, just outside the Dhoby Ghaut MRT station, is the latest addition to the 28 parks in the city.
To minimise its impact on surrounding developments, it features a submerged cocoon-shaped amphitheatre that seats 250 people.
A shaded gravel area allows arts and community groups to stage performances, while an open-turfed field caters to outdoor sports activities. There is also a cafe which provides alfresco dining.
The concept for the 20,510 square metre site was firmed up after dialogues with stakeholders and users.
Fun Siew Leng, group director, Urban Planning & Design, Urban Redevelopment Authority, said: “We were every open to what this space can be when we first embarked on the project, hence we organised a few dialogue sessions with the stakeholders – such as the schools in this area, as well as people like NAC (National Arts Council) and PA (People’s Association).
“For example, NAC suggested why not have a small performance area, hence today you see an outdoor amphitheatre. PA suggested that a paved area would be useful for the line dancers.”
Architect Chan Soo Khian was commissioned in early 2007 to design Dhoby Ghuat Green after winning the Inaugural President’s Design Award in 2006.
He said: “The whole concept behind that was to come up with a porous design that would capture the changing light of the day from morning to dusk. And also for the structure to act as a beacon for the evening as it is well located in a very central urban area.”
Amenities in the park are available for rent for private functions from the National Parks Board.
Source : Channel NewsAsia – 24 Oct 2009