Singapore-based WOHA’s “Fragments of an Urban Future” will be on display at the 2016 Venice Biennale, addressing some of the critical issues that megacities face today -- “unprecedented urbanization, accelerating climate change and the need for preservation of tropical biodiversity.” Part of the Global Art Affairs Foundation’s collateral exhibition, “TIME SPACE EXISTENCE,” WOHA’s contribution will be housed in the Palazzo Bembo.
The multimedia exhibition features three of WOHA’s most innovative projects, all of which use vertical eco-systems to take advantage of the challenges facing tropical cities. Sited in Singapore – an exemplar of the hyper-dense, Asian tropical city – these buildings feature “porous façades, airy pathways, and communal gardens” hinting at an “utopian urban future” that is already taking shape.
Among these projects are PARKROYAL on Pickering, SkyVille @ Dawson, and the Oasia Downtown Hotel. Each features a unique, topographical architecture that blurs architecture and landscape. Ranging from hotels to social housing, each project’s use of living systems creates a more vibrant and sustainable life for both the occupants and the city.
The architects will also present a publication featuring their work: “Garden City Mega City” alongside Patrick Bingham-Hall, the author and publisher of the book. The book features photographs, diagrams and infographics to present WOHA’s case for re-imagining the 21st century city.
The opening reception for the exhibit and release of the book will take place at the Palazzo Bembo on May 27th at 4pm.
