Mediacorp Campus in Singapore / Maki and Associates + DP Architects

Curated by Fernanda Castro

Architects: DP Architects, Maki and Associates
Area: 118400 m²
Photographs:Marc Tey, Future Stage Creations, BaiJiWen, DP Architects, Gary Kamemoto, Maki and Associates
Manufacturers: Kvadrat, Optima, Poltrona Frau, Shaw, Taiko, Tarkett, YKK AP
ESD Consultant: AECOM
Traffic Consultant: CPG Consultants Pte Ltd
Project Manager: Jurong Consultants Pte Ltd
Contractor: Kajima Tiong Seng Joint Venture
Lighting Consultant: Lighting Planners Associates
Mechanical & Electrical Engineer: Parsons Brinckerhoff
Quantity Surveyor: Rider Levett Bucknall

Text description provided by the architects. The design for MediaCorp is the winning scheme of an invited international competition in 2011. Nested within Zaha Hadid’s masterplan, the building is shaped by the critical junction of Ayer Rajah and Stars Avenue on a long triangular site. It is designed as a gateway to Mediapolis.

The formal design strategies represent a new paradigm for a broadcasting center where the Media Centre is not only an efficient and functional working environment, but also a publicly-oriented facility welcoming visitors from around the world. It is aimed at attracting and inspiring visitors by showcasing the unique operations of the broadcasting center. A distinct ascending tour route is designed into the facility allowing visitors to learn and observe the fascinating work that unfolds within MediaCorp. It is also aimed at engaging the adjacent parkland to create synergies where the Centre and Park provide various attractions related to media for the public to enjoy. In this way, the complex will not only function as a base for broadcasting entertainment but the complex itself becomes an entertainment grounds where enriched experiences and creative culture energize Mediapolis as a whole.

The formal design solution provides a unique form and place to each of the three primary programs: The 1,549 seats Theatre, the Broadcast Centre and MediaCorp’s Corporate Offices. The three building forms in unison, create a gateway, a “view corridor” acting as both a pedestrian spine as well as public plaza with a grand stairway with 50 steps commemorating Singapore’s 50th Anniversary at the time of opening. At the top of the stairway is a “viewing plateau” that links the park and traversing spine with major public amenities such as cafes, restaurants, and gift shops. Visitors and passer-by can enjoy panoramic views from the viewing plateau over the park and Mediapolis beyond.