Introduction

SINGAPORE – The skyline of Singapore boasts an impressive marvel: the Pinnacle@Duxton, standing tall with its seven 50-storey blocks reaching a height of 163 meters, merely 2 meters shy of the iconic Singapore Flyer. This architectural gem is not just an urban dwelling; it’s a symbol of innovation, elegance, and sustainable living in the heart of the city.

Khoo Peng Beng and Pinnacle@Duxton

Designed by the esteemed Khoo Peng Beng, founder of ARC Studio Architecture + Urbanism, the Pinnacle@Duxton was crafted to ensure that every unit maximizes exposure to fresh air and natural light, thanks to the strategic alignment of its curved blocks and interconnected sky bridges. This design choice was a deliberate effort to foster a sense of openness and community, an ethos Mr. Khoo aims to bring to his new role at the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD).

New Role at SUTD

Beginning January 1, Mr. Khoo will take on the role of Professor of Practice and head the architecture and sustainable design pillar at SUTD. This transition marks a significant move as he blends his industry expertise with academia. 'This might be the first time in Singapore’s history that someone with an extensive practice background is moving into a key academic position,' he noted during a recent interview.

Continued Involvement with ARC Studio

While continuing to be involved with ARC Studio, Mr. Khoo will transition to a supervisory role to allow for more focus on teaching and mentorship. His illustrious career spans over three decades, with an impressive portfolio of projects both locally and internationally, but none capture his passion quite like the Pinnacle@Duxton, which received the prestigious President's Design Award in 2010.

Emphasis on Psychological Impact of Design

Beyond the aesthetic appeal of the Pinnacle@Duxton, Mr. Khoo emphasizes the psychological and emotional impact that architectural design can have on individuals. He firmly believes in providing homeowners with choices in their living spaces, as diversity in design fosters a sense of ownership and pride. 'When people can say, 'I live here, and I’m proud of it,' it creates a profound sense of belonging,' he explained.

Influences and Industry Connections

As he embarks on this new academic journey, Mr. Khoo reminisced about the influences that shaped his career, such as I.M. Pei, famed for the Louvre Pyramid, and Robert Stern, known for his residential skyscrapers in Manhattan. With these experiences, he plans to connect his students with industry professionals, enriching their educational experience and broadening their perspectives.

SUTD's Vision and Goals

SUTD’s deputy president Tai Lee Siang lauded Khoo as a unique asset, merging industry prowess with academic vigor. His mission extends beyond teaching design; he aspires to cultivate environments that enhance human experiences. 'In Singapore, our designs often focus on efficiency and economic viability. However, we cannot overlook the deeper human needs—the desire for freedom, joy, and connection.'

Challenging Students' Perspectives

To challenge students, Mr. Khoo will encourage them to explore their emotional responses to urban environments, asking questions about their experiences in public spaces. This analytical approach will help them recognize how architecture can evoke feelings of safety, community, or even fear.

Addressing Global Challenges

In light of current global challenges, such as rapid urbanization, climate change, and the rise of artificial intelligence, Mr. Khoo believes that SUTD provides an excellent platform for budding architects to innovate for a better future. 'We're not just training students to be builders; we're cultivating thought leaders who will challenge norms and experiment with ideas,' he stated passionately.

Khoo's Vision of Architecture

His vision of architecture transcends the conventional; it is an art form—one that involves manipulating space and time, allowing for the dreams of today to become the realities of tomorrow. 'Architects are the alchemists of our modern world,' he concluded, 'We transform the ordinary into the extraordinary to serve humanity.'

Conclusion

With Khoo Peng Beng at the helm, SUTD is set to inspire the next generation of architects to design spaces that not only function effectively but also elevate the human experience, making the world a better place, one building at a time.