singapore founders' memorial shortlist includes kengo kuma

in january 2019, singapore invited architects to submit design proposals for a new memorial dedicated to the country’s founders and the values that helped shape the nation. as part of the international competition, close to 200 designs were submitted for the structure, which is to be constructed at the bay east garden. now, after much deliberation, the jury has selected a total of five proposals by firms such as kengo kuma and associates and DP architects. each of the selected schemes can be explored in the words of their designers below, while public feedback is currently being sought on the founders’ memorial website.

design A — 8DGE + RSP architects

the founders’ memorial is designed as a circle rising above a landscaped podium. the podium is an open space where visitors will be channeled into the center. this is called the ‘origin’: a symbolic common space for everyone, regardless of race, language or religion. rising above is the circle, representing harmony and inclusiveness.

the circle tilts towards the sky, as if singapore’s aspirations have taken flight, against all odds. the journey culminates in the viewing gallery, where a panoramic view of singapore’s skyline awaits, upon which we reflect on our past and embrace the future. the founders’ memorial is a beacon that guides singapore into the future. — 8DGE + RSP architects

design B — cox architecture + architects61

the singapore flag is the inspiration for the site, which is marked by five pathways — representing the five stars and the abstracted crescent moon — the memorial. each pathway is a physical celebration of the ideals that each star of the flag represents — democracy, peace, progress, justice and equality.

the social history, trials, tribulations and victories of the singaporean people act as the inspiration for the internal makeup of the memorial. it is a place of internal and collective reflection whereby the act of procession through the building is a journey to understanding the rich and complex history of the nation. — cox architecture + architects61

design C — DP architects

the memorial is a quiet yet powerful tribute to our founding fathers and their selfless giving to nation building. shaped like a cradle, its curved form is inspired by the hands of our founding fathers — hands that have worked tirelessly, placing nation above self, to nurture a young nation into the independent republic it is today.

its form, cupped in a gesture of giving, nestles the iconic singapore skyline in its cusp. it expresses our founders’ commitment and aspirations; where our present successes and future of our nation are possible through the core values we have inherited from our founders. — DP architects

design D — johnson pilton walker + RDC architects

we have crafted a memorial design that rises out of the earth to evoke the crescent moon of the national flag; symbolizing a young, rising nation. it looks to the future. to honor the past, the arrival experience celebrates the diversity of singapore’s people, who gathered together from all corners of the world to the central plaza, united by shared founding values.

this is the epicenter of the experience, engraved in many languages. set on the water, amidst lush gardens, and with panoramic skyline views, this is a timeless civic place accessible for all and allowing growth into the future. — johnson pilton walker + RDC architects

design E — kengo kuma & associates + K2LD architects

the founders’ memorial draws from monuments of the past and the context of the present to create a space for the future. the concept originates from a path; a journey retracing the legacy of the founders. multiple paths shape the architecture and landscape, inviting visitors to reflect, learn, and share while contemplating the dynamic skyline or the lush gardens.

all paths lead to the memorial amphitheater where visitors gather for milestone events. as a living memorial, the proposal extends the legacy of the garden city into the future for generations to come. the founders’ memorial, a new kind of monument. — kengo kuma & associates + K2LD architects