Architecture
Concept
Seah Chee Huang
CEO, DP Architects
Inspired by the ‘Little Red Dot’, the genesis of the design is a physical manifestation of this term of endearment, into a larger-than-life experiential sphere, nestled in a dream-like cloudscape. A Dream Sphere, enveloped by thousands of Dream Discs made of recycled material, represents the collective aspiration, where we invite the global community on a multi-sensorial journey to imagine a wondrous world of endless possibilities, powered by dreams and the determination to positively shape the lives of people and the planet. Through distinctive design and experiences of the Singapore Pavilion, we hope visitors will be inspired by how shared values, purpose, bold imaginations, and concerted actions can propel us to co-create a better, more sustainable, and loveable future for all.
Inspired by the Little Red Dot... the Dream Sphere represents the collective aspiration... to co-create a better, more sustainable and loveable future for all.
Architectural Features
The Singapore Pavilion consists of several architectural features such as the Dream Sphere, Dream Discs, Dream Scape and Dream Clouds.
Forming its façade is the Dream Sphere comprising thousands of Dream Discs, each symbolically containing an individual dream. The Dream Discs take inspiration from the Japanese cultural practice of writing wishes or prayers on wooden plaques known as ema (絵馬).
Embodying the concept of participation and co-creation, the Dream Discs collectively form a powerful image of Singapore’s aspirations and hopes for a brighter future. They also extend an open invitation to the wider, global community, encouraging people from around the world to share in these aspirations and contribute their own dreams.
The Dream Sphere materialises amongst a Dream Scape that includes the Dream Clouds and diverse, urban, lush landscape, inspired by Singapore’s ‘City in Nature’ vision. The landscape features multi-layers of plant species, creating a space that is rich in flora and reflecting the seamless integration of nature with our built environment.
Did You Know?
The Dream Sphere is made of about 17,000 recycled aluminium discs. The overlapping design takes inspiration from the well-known seigaiha (青海波) wave motif, familiar to both Japanese and international audiences.
The Singapore Pavilion is a 3-storey structure comprising a sphere and an annex building with a GFA of approximately 1,700m² and stands at 17m at its highest point.
Dream Forest
The Dream Forest is an immersive, forested space located on the top floor of the Dream Sphere where plants envelop the space and form a lush backdrop.
Inspired by a planting strategy which looks to ecological enhancement, restoration and connectivity, the Singapore Pavilion adopts a tiered planting structure that mimics the natural structure of a forest. The Dream Forest also features plants native to both Singapore and Japan, as well as a curated collection of vibrant orchid blooms.
