Retrofitting to Nordic European Centre, Singapore

Nordic European Centre (NEC) is an industrial building that sits in the heart of the International Business Park in Singapore. Completed in the 90s, it is now looking tired, and with the growing demand from entrepreneur for new co-working space, the need to re-brand is crucial. We are tasked to redesign the façade and common area, giving NEC a forward looking, exciting new design that fosters collaboration and community bonding. The building’s U-shape layout and old linkway skirting the perimeter of the plaza left it underutilized and unappealing. Our goal was to transform the plaza into an urban garden, with a new linkway directly connects the drop off to the main lobby. Most noteworthy are the super-tree pavilions planned within the plaza, which serve as activity nodes equipped with power points for collaborative working or even shelter from the weather. To address the glare from the western sun at the façade, new sun-shading screens comprised of triangulated perforated aluminum panels, inspired by the client’s corporate logo, were installed. A fresh coat of paint was given to the existing façade panels too. For the lobby design, we seek to provide more space for social events and interaction. The new reception counter is relocated to the side, freeing up the central zone for different usage, such as waiting lounge on typical days, and event space for exhibitions during special occasions. Overhead projectors and speakers are integrated into the ceiling to facilitate these events. Collaborative working clusters, located in the open lobby, are for tenants’ usage. From meeting rooms to semi-enclosed meeting pods to open concept working space, they cater to different creative needs. To strengthen connectivity between floors, new staircase is added. Beside creating an environment that foster collaboration, we looked after the well-being of the working class too. A new fitness gym coupled with End-of-Trip facilities e.g. shower and lockers are added.