Henning Larsen, a renowned global architecture firm deeply influenced by Nordic heritage, has inaugurated its Asia-Pacific headquarters in Singapore. Situated in a historic building at the heart of Singapore, this design hub will serve as a base for Henning Larsen to extend its acclaimed architectural, landscape, and urbanism services throughout the APAC region.
To coincide with the ULI Asia-Pacific Summit, an event highlighting the region's dedication to constructing an ideal built environment, the company warmly welcomed professionals from the industry to its newly established studio on Amoy St in Chinatown on May 29. Distinguished experts from various disciplines gathered for a panel discussion, exploring ways Singapore's built environment can be transformed to decarbonize and foster a sustainable and inclusive community.
Henning Larsen took a significant stride in expanding its presence in the Asia-Pacific by merging with Ramboll Studio Dreiseitl, a landscape architecture firm. This integration demonstrates the firm's commitment to harmonizing nature and urban development, an essential progression for global practice.
"As we expand globally, we have sharpened our Asia Pacific strategy. Singapore and the wider region have such a dedication to context-driven regenerative architecture, landscape, and urbanism, which has opened up extraordinary possibilities for pioneering design approaches. Singapore, in particular, is at the forefront of the changing dialogue around sustainable design, and we are excited to be amongst the transformative discourse on design drivers such as carbon, communities, and context.
Design processes are unique for each project, one that resonates with the aspirations of each community and client we work with. Being present in Singapore allows us to deepen our understanding of the regional cultures, preferences, and aspirations, enabling us to tailor our designs to the specific needs of our clients. We know that promoting the preservation of heritage and driving transformation is a double challenge that requires innovative thinking and a deep appreciation for our locality. Through personal connections, we are looking forward to laying the foundations for enduring partnerships, where collaboration and collective vision drive the transformation of the built environment. Together, we embark on a remarkable journey to reshape our surroundings, blending heritage and innovation in Singapore and the Asia Pacific."
Jacob Kurek, Global Design Director at Henning Larsen
Henning Larsen has consistently emphasized the equilibrium between the built environment and nature in their endeavors throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Notable examples include the French International School in Hong Kong, a dynamic educational facility situated within a lush green sanctuary amid the bustling city, as well as the Cockle Bay Park waterfront transformation project in central Sydney, which represents the most significant expansion of public space in the area in a century.
Adding to their portfolio of transformative projects, Henning Larsen was recently announced as a member of the winning consortium tasked with revitalizing the Canberra Theatre Centre. This ambitious endeavor aims to create a vibrant, inclusive space capable of hosting various events, serving as a cornerstone for establishing an internationally acclaimed arts precinct in Australia's capital.
Within Singapore, the esteemed portfolio of Henning Larsen encompasses notable projects such as Jurong Lake Garden and, the Bishan Ang Mo Kio Park & Kallang River, exemplifying the team's shared values and vision.
The team's dedication to sustainable design was recently recognized with the prestigious Singapore Good Design (SG Mark) award in the Sustainable Design category for their work on Rifle Range Nature Park. Positioned close to the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, one of Singapore's few remaining primary forests, the park is a crucial guardian of the island's rainforest ecosystems, which face threats from development and human activities.
The park's design incorporates various elements to ensure long-term sustainability and flourishing. These include the creation of habitats, water-sensitive urban design practices, safeguarding local fauna, and conservation of heritage elements. By integrating these considerations, Henning Larsen's Rifle Range Nature Park design embodies a holistic approach to preserving the natural environment while harmonizing with the surrounding urban landscape.
"This is an exciting and historic moment for our firm in Singapore. We now have newly expanded the capabilities of our global design network of landscape architects, urban designers, and architecture experts, alongside new data, resources, and knowledge which advances our offer to our clients across the region."
Leonard Ng, Country Market Director, Henning Larsen, Asia Pacific
Henning Larsen is dedicated to fostering dialogue and establishing networks in Singapore and the surrounding region. To honor this commitment, the firm will regularly host discussions on crucial topics impacting the built environment. These gatherings facilitate meaningful conversations and create platforms for sharing knowledge, ideas, and insights among professionals and stakeholders. By promoting open dialogue, Henning Larsen seeks to contribute to improving the built environment in Singapore and beyond.
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