The Enabling Village is an adaptive reuse of an existing nondescript building complex that has been tranformed into a tropical oasis by WOHA Architects. The campus houses SG Enable, a disability services & support organisation in Singapore. The existing buildings were kept fairly simple, with a focus on creating barrier-free, accessible connections between the buildings and crafting engaging and lushly landscaped public spaces between the existing buildings.
One of the highlights is a timber amphitheatre which negotiates a steep level change on the site with a fully wheelchair accessible ramp through the events space.
Lattice screens are were utilised strategically to screen off services and provide shade for new windows. The language of the overlapping rods forming the screens also helps to unite the campus with a unique identity.
The space between the existing buildings have been filled with lush landscaping. Rainwater is sustainably collected into a natural biopond with fish and water plants which can be enjoyed from a timber pavilion.
Underneath the amphitheatre, a series of cut concrete pipes are used to create places for casual interaction.
The sustainable building utilises recycled materials in a variety of ways. Used shipping containers were repurposed to form meeting pavilions and hangout spaces, and upcycled painted oil drums are used as planters.
Images by Jonathan Choe
