Singapore, as a densely populated island state, faces the challenge of balancing urban development with ecological sustainability. The Rail Corridor: Choa Chu Kang Integrated Housing Development was a competition entry for the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), proposing a vision where nature and the built environment evolve together. This approach enables ecological restoration to occur alongside strategic urban growth.
Originally a railway line linking Singapore to the Malay Peninsula, the Rail Corridor is reimagined as a 24-kilometre green corridor celebrating the nation’s biodiversity. The nearby Pang Sua Canal is transformed into a natural floodplain, replacing its rigid concrete structure with a more integrated, ecological design. This adaptation frees space for a 50-metre-wide linear forest, enhancing the Rail Corridor’s function as a green artery that strengthens the bond between urban communities and nature.
The development features modular blocks, allowing for high-density living while maintaining environmental quality. The project illustrates how human-made structures and natural ecosystems can coexist harmoniously, fostering a more enriched and sustainable living experience.
Founded in March 1995, MKPL Architects Pte Ltd emphasizes clear architectural forms and livable spaces. The firm draws inspiration from vernacular and regional culture, using them as a foundation for innovative and contextually relevant design solutions.
