Moulmein Rise Residential Building

Singapore, Singapore

Most high-rises in the tropics do not exploit the fact that the climate is gentler higher up. This 28-storey apartment block does, redeploying several climatic strategies used in vernacular construction. Cross-ventilation is achieved by the plan, with two apartments per floor. Projecting ledges and perforated metal cladding provide shade and conceal air-conditioning. A 'monsoon window' - a bay window incorporating a sliding aluminium shelf - allows breezes in without rain. The building provides 48 apartments, 2 penthouses, a lap-swimming pool and parking. Its diverse curtain wall mixes planters, bay and casement windows, screens and sliding doors.

Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture