Architect Lionel Leo, the CEO of TA.LE Architects, believes that designing a new building from scratch is a straightforward task. However, the surprise lies in his preference for renovating existing buildings rather than constructing new ones. Through projects such as the Hong Leong Building and City Square Mall, Leo highlights the importance of preserving buildings as part of sustainability and cultural memory.
Leo states, "It's not easy to do this, as it requires about 20% more effort and cost. To understand what exists, you need to have a clear idea of the old building and how to integrate new elements without them appearing out of place."
Event Details
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, demolition and reconstruction were the prevailing trends among developers in Singapore. However, a new generation of real estate companies has begun to recognize the importance of sustainability in the construction industry. Leo remarks, "We have been educated enough to understand that we must stop harming the environment. Renovation and preservation of buildings are part of this broader trend."
Statistics indicate that buildings currently account for 39% of global carbon emissions related to energy. Of this, 11% is attributed to construction and the production of building materials, while the remaining emissions come from operational activities. Leo explains that choosing renovation over demolition can reduce embodied carbon by up to 75%.
Background & Context
Historically, buildings in Singapore were designed to last over 60 years, yet many have been demolished in much less time. The driving force behind this was economic, with little regard for environmental impacts. However, with increasing environmental awareness, architects like Leo have started to rethink how to approach old buildings.
During his studies at Delft University of Technology, Leo realized that the Dutch tended to preserve old buildings rather than demolish them. Upon returning to Singapore, he founded TA.LE Architects with his wife, focusing on the renovation of buildings instead of new constructions.
Impact & Consequences
Leo's projects illustrate how the renovation process can be more than just an enhancement of spaces. They revive the memories and cultural stories that buildings carry. For instance, the Hong Leong Building, which holds significant emotional value, was renovated as the owners were not willing to erase its memories.
At City Square Mall, Leo and his team worked to enhance the mall's reputation as Singapore's first environmentally friendly shopping center. The panels in the elevators utilized recycled materials such as food sticks and plastic bottles, reflecting their commitment to sustainability.
Regional Significance
Singapore's experience in building renovation is particularly significant for Arab countries, where many cities face similar challenges in preserving architectural heritage. The lessons learned from Leo's projects can inspire Arab architects to explore new ways to maintain their cultural identity through buildings.
Ultimately, the work being done by Leo serves as a model for how to handle old buildings, combining sustainability and cultural memory within a single framework.