SUTD Library Pavilion, the Singapore University of Technology and Design had a pavilion designed by City Form Lab known as SUTD. Located behind the Library the topology of the temporary Dover campus has a great slop. The structure adapts to this constraint creating an activity fueled outdoor space that flows with the contours of the site. With the level of noise coming from the Ayer Raja Expressway, the structure reduced this greatly acting as a natural acoustic barrier.
Courtesy of City Form Lab
From day to night the activity within the pavilion changes considerably. During the day it’s offered as a place to shade, allowing the air to freely flow, creating a relaxed environment where individuals can work and socialize. At night it becomes more of an informal gathering with evening lectures and community events. Apart from these functions, it also acts as a bridge from halls of residence to the classroom, with the introduction of work-desks, portable bookshelves and wireless Internet.
Courtesy of City Form Lab
The pavilion uses a catenary structure similar to the curved shape created when hanging chains hang under there own weight. Using this as a basis, it aided the creation of an efficient double curvature form. The advantage in such a form is that is reduces the need for columns, beams and vertical walls.
Courtesy of City Form Lab
As extravagant as the pavilion is, its not designed as a long-term structure. As the campus is temporary it is built with the intent that within two years of construction, it will be dismantled and recycled.
Project info:
Architects: City Form Lab
Country: Singapore
Area: 300 m²
Year: 2013
Photographs: Raul Kalvo, Courtesy of City Form Lab
Anastasia Andreieva is an accomplished Architectural Projects Editor at Arch2O, bringing a unique blend of linguistic expertise and design enthusiasm to the team. Born and raised in Ukraine, she holds a Master’s degree in Languages from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. Her deep passion for architecture and visual storytelling led her to transition from translation and editorial roles into the world of design media. With a keen eye for conceptual clarity and narrative structure, Anastasia curates and presents global architectural projects with precision and flair. She is particularly drawn to parametric and digital design, cultural context, and emerging voices in architecture. When I’m not analyzing the latest architectural trends, you’ll probably find me searching for hidden gems in cityscapes or appreciating the beauty of well-crafted spaces. After all, great design—like great connections—can be found in the most unexpected places. Speaking of connections, because architecture isn’t the only thing that brings people together.