Connexion at Farrer Park - Successfully Integrating a Medical Centre, a Tertiary Hospital and a Delu
Dr Maurice Choo, Consultant Cardiologist and Physician, Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
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Once swampland in the early nineteenth century, Farrer Park was the site of Singapore’s first airplane landing, first horse race course, first centennial celebrations, and first sports stadium. In modern Singapore, Farrer Park receded into obscurity as developments moved to the new city centre. The development of Connexion at Farrer Park will spark the rejuvenation of this historic locale.
Connexion is the first building complex in Singapore to integrate a specialist medical centre, a tertiary hospital and a deluxe hotel. The complex rises above Farrer Park Station, a key station in the underground rail network. Adding to the building’s complexity, it also has a ground level shopping area, a 500-seat convention hall and a planned facility for graduate medical education.
The design of this architectural mosaic has been guided primarily by the desire to create the best experience for people coming to, moving through, staying in and working at the various spaces. Unlike mere juxtaposition, the elements are interwoven for optimal connectivity yet recognizing the need to be separate in structure and function.
Centered in a park, it is apt that Connexion has been imbued with many features of green design. The best experience for people today should be created in a sustainable way, and not at the expense of the environment and future societies.
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