Innovative Singapore Hospital Uses Customized ALPOLIC Panels
| Project: | Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Alexandra Health |
|---|---|
| Location: | Singapore |
| Architect: | RMJM |
| Exterior Panel Manufacturer: | Mitsubishi Plastics Inc. Composites Division: ALPOLIC International |
| Products: | ALPOLIC Custom Metallic |
| Completion: | 2010 |
The original “Alexandra Hospital” facility was built in the late 1930s and was said to be among the most innovative hospitals in Southeast Asia until the 1970s. Time took its toll on the facility and it was scheduled to be replaced nearly a decade ago. Unfortunately, the remodel project fell through and wasn’t picked up again until 2006 by international architecture firm, RMJM. The firm was responsible for returning the facility to its former glory.
In honor of the Khoo Teck Puat family’s generous donation to the hospital, the facility changed its name from the “Alexandra Hospital” to the “Khoo Tech Puat Hospital, Alexandra Health.” Overlooking the Yishun Pond, the facility covers over eight acres in the northern part of Singapore. The architects’ design takes advantage of the natural landscape surrounding the hospital, referring to their design as “the Hospital in a Garden.” The pond creates a serene environment for patients, visitors and staff.
Using energy efficient technology, the building is able to significantly reduce the high utility costs associated with large healthcare facilities. Innovative “fin” technology allows the buildings walls to channel northeast winds inward to enhance the facility’s airflow. In addition, the hospital also uses sunshading technology as an alternative means of reducing energy costs. Lastly, rooftop solar panels are used to power the hospital’s internal ventilation system.
The use of composite materials as an external cladding solution continues to increase as it becomes internationally recognized as a quality building material. This particular project utilizes nearly 54,000 square feet of Custom Metallic aluminum composite material. The modern aesthetic of ALPOLIC’s composite panels, coupled with its incredible color customization options, allowed for the creation of a distinct and modern healthcare facility. The customized panels complement the natural beauty of the Yishun Pond as well as the hospital gardens that were planted in between the upper floors of patient towers.
images © RMJM
information © RMJM and ChannelNewsAsia
