ACSA/AISC Steel Competition: Border Crossing Spring '14

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Border Crossing Station Between Singapore and Malaysia

C O N C E P T:

Beginning with rigorous site and culture analysis, our design aims to serve as a summation of the environmental and cultural conditions found on the site. Our goal is to create an architectural expression that preserves as much of the existing natural areas as possible. Linking into the transcontinental ASENA Railway, this border crossing provides a sustainable transportation alternative between the two countries as compared to the other two existing border crossings.

M A J O R C O N C E R N C O N S I D E R E D: W A T E R

Through our analysis we were able to understand a conflict between Malaysia and Singapore over Singapore's water supply. Currently importing water from Malaysia, the current treatise is due to expire and Singapore is rapidly developing various ways in order to reach self-sufficiency. Therefore, the architecture we propose is part of a sustainable site strategy which is focused on water collection to aid in the Singapore’s water independence. Gray water and storm water runoff is collected and processed on site to alleviate any pressures created by the new constructions as well as providing an opportunity to provide for the community.

T R A F F I C:

The design takes advantage of the potential traffic, at 20,000 per day, that will travel through the building as an opportunity for education. It provides a platform for education on cultural and government issues as well as sustainability. This station will serve people via train, bike, and walking.

S T R U C T U R E:

As a response to the vernacular architecture of the region, the building uses traditional cross ventilation strategies which incorporate varying stilt heights and deep roof overhangs to protect the user from the daily heavy rainfall. These tactics are emphasized with the steel structure as its used throughout the building in the armatures, high tension wires, trusses and beams. The use of steel in this fashion creates a strong but ductile structure capable of withstanding the varying environmental conditions found throughout the site. The use of treated steel structure also gives the opportunity for the building to withstand the abrasive environmental conditions which allows for a longer life cycle than traditional building materials.

SHIFT: Border Crossing Station between Singapore and Malaysia Final Presentation

T E N S I O N through F O R M
The architectural form expresses itself through an understanding of the tensions created through a relationship with nature and the bordering countries. Thus the tensions are counteracted within the building, as the different strains erect the structure.

F L O W through P R O G R A M
The arrangements of spaces are intended to create unrestricted movement through public spaces which reflects the shared culture between the countries. Therefore the fluid movement helps alleviate stress due to the large quantity of people traveling each day.

I N F O R M E D by the V E R N A C U L A R
The geometries are informed by the traditional vernacular architecture of the region while the steel structure and the modern materials are used for a contemporary interpretation. The building is elevated due to the land’s tendency to flood and to help ventilate all sides of the building. In addition, overhanging roofs provide shade and protection from the surrounding environmental conditions.