Greening Cultural Heritage: A Journey through the National Gallery Singapore’s Sustainable Transformation
By: Elsie PierronNovember 2023The discourse surrounding the future of architecture revolves around a crucial aspect: the imperative to convert conventional or inefficient designs into energy-efficient and sustainable structures that cater to the long-term well-being of our planet. It is not only essential to ensure adherence to these principles in new architectural projects but also vital to incorporate sustainability measures within existing buildings. This approach allows architects, engineers, and global leaders to safeguard society’s natural beauty and cultural heritage while taking necessary strides toward a more promising future. An embodiment of this ethos is found in Singapore’s National Gallery—a testament to Singapore’s unwavering commitment to environmental preservation1. By renovating two historically significant edifices, this project exemplifies how harmoniously integrating architectural ingenuity with engineering techniques has resulted in substantial reductions in carbon emissions and an overall enhancement of its ecological sustainability.2 The transformation serves as an exemplary case study showcasing how innovative design practices applied during heritage conservation efforts can yield profound positive impacts on our environment and be an example for future projects.3
This theme is recognized in the United Nations through their Sustainable Development Plan, precisely Goal 7 and Goal 11. Goal 11 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Plan, SDG 11, focuses on creating sustainable and inclusive cities and communities. It aims to ensure that urban areas are well-planned, resilient, and safe while promoting access to essential services, green spaces, and affordable housing. SDG 11 underscores the importance of addressing urbanization challenges, such as congestion, pollution, and inadequate infrastructure, in a way that fosters social cohesion and economic opportunities.4 Goal 7, on the other hand, targets affordable and clean energy, emphasizing the need to transition to more sustainable energy sources and improving energy efficiency. It promotes universal access to reliable, affordable, and modern energy services, vital for reducing carbon emissions and driving economic growth.5 Additionally, Goal 13 (SDG 13) focuses on climate action. It calls for urgent and effective measures to combat climate change and its impacts6. Combining these three goals creates a holistic approach to building a more sustainable and equitable future, with thriving urban areas, clean, accessible energy, and climate action at the forefront of global development efforts. Singapore addresses SDGs 11, 7, and 13 by implementing meticulous urban planning, providing affordable housing through the Housing and Development Board, and investing in efficient public transportation.7 The country also promotes renewable energy sources and energy efficiency measures, with incentives for solar power adoption and strict efficiency standards. Singapore’s commitment to sustainable and well-organized urban development, as well as a clean and energy-efficient future, is evident in its proactive approach to these UN goals, contributing to a more sustainable and climate-resilient world. 8
The City-State also has its own goals with the Singapore Green Plan 2030: a national sustainability movement seeking to achieve zero emissions by 2050. As of 2023, Singapore’s most effective approaches to this plan have been its adoption of green transportation using electric vehicles and public transport and its strong development of renewable energy sources.9 These energy sources power most of the buildings in Singapore and align with the global shift towards a low-carbon energy future.10
The National Gallery Singapore is a monument of historical and cultural significance and a symbol of Singapore’s commitment to the UNSDP and Green Plan. Housed in two iconic colonial-era buildings, the former Supreme Court and City Hall, the Gallery’s location carries a rich historical legacy, as it was the site of numerous pivotal moments in Singapore’s history, including the declaration of Singapore’s independence in 196511. Preserving these historical structures presented significant challenges, from structural decay to integrating modern museum facilities while retaining the buildings’ architectural integrity. The conservation efforts at the National Gallery Singapore highlight the importance of innovative and protective solutions in historical preservation and heritage conservation.12 The Gallery’s successful transformation into a world-class museum in 2015 highlights the importance of adaptive reuse, sensitive restoration, and the fusion of contemporary technology and aesthetics with the preservation of cultural heritage. It serves as a model for the delicate balance between protecting the past and embracing the future in historical preservation endeavors.13
The National Gallery Singapore stands as a compelling case study situated in the heart of Singapore with deep historical and cultural significance. Its transformation from historic colonial-era buildings to a modern, sustainable art institution reflects Singapore’s commitment to preserving heritage while embracing the future. The Gallery’s success in reducing its carbon footprint accentuates its sustainability achievements, earning prestigious certifications like Green Mark Platinum and LEED Gold.14 Beyond its environmental impact, the National Gallery holds profound emotional and cultural significance for the people of Singapore, symbolizing the nation’s rich history and identity, fostering an enduring sense of pride, and serving as a cultural beacon that bridges the past with the present.15
The transformation of the National Gallery Singapore represents a harmonious blend of architectural and engineering techniques, demonstrating the art of preservation design. One of the critical architectural alterations was the integration of the two colonial-era buildings.16 This process involved carefully restoring and preserving the historical facades and interior elements while seamlessly connecting them with contemporary additions. The construction of the stunning glass and steel roof, the “veil,” was a remarkable architectural feat, as it not only provided a modern exhibition space but also created a juxtaposition of old and new, allowing visitors to appreciate the historic buildings from a unique vantage point.17 Engineering innovations that played a critical role in the transformation process include advanced climate control systems installed to maintain the ideal conditions for preserving the artwork, considering temperature, humidity, and lighting control. Seismic retrofitting was essential to ensure the structural stability and resilience of the historical buildings, particularly in the earthquake-prone region18. Energy-efficient solutions, including state-of-the-art HVAC systems and LED lighting, were integrated to reduce the Gallery’s environmental footprint while maintaining the conservation of artworks and historic materials.19 The significance of combining architectural and engineering disciplines with preservation design allows for the effective remodeling of the Gallery while preserving its historical and cultural value.20 The collaboration between architects and engineers is essential in ensuring that structural integrity, environmental sustainability, and aesthetic appeal coexist harmoniously. By seamlessly fusing modern functionalities with heritage preservation, the National Gallery Singapore stands as a testament to the successful integration of two fields, demonstrating that the past and the future can exist in unison, preserving cultural treasures for future generations and aligning with the UNSDP.21
To create a design as successful as the Gallery has become, it is imperative to understand the Gallery’s carbon footprint and study the efforts made to reduce it. A building’s carbon footprint is profoundly relevant as it signifies the total greenhouse gas emissions associated with its energy consumption and operations. Reducing this footprint is crucial in mitigating climate change and minimizing the building’s environmental impact.22 The National Gallery Singapore employs various systems to control and reduce its carbon footprint. One of the key strategies is using energy-efficient technologies, such as LED lighting systems and motion sensors. These technologies help significantly reduce electricity consumption, contributing to a lower carbon footprint. The Gallery invests in state-of-the-art HVAC systems and building insulation to enhance energy efficiency and leverages renewable energy sources, like solar panels, to generate clean electricity, thus reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.23 These solar panels are an example of a specific technology used in carbon footprint reduction, as they convert sunlight into electricity, reducing the building’s greenhouse gas emissions and overall carbon footprint. Moreover, the National Gallery Singapore employs a building management system that monitors and optimizes energy usage, making real-time adjustments to lighting, temperature, and ventilation to minimize waste.24 By implementing these features, the Gallery exemplifies how technological advancements can lead to substantial reductions in carbon emissions and serve as a model for other institutions aiming to shrink their building’s carbon footprint.25
The site’s commitment to enhanced sustainability is also exemplified by integrating green spaces, rooftop gardens, vertical green walls, and rainwater harvesting systems, all contributing to natural cooling, air purification, and resource conservation. Incorporating energy-efficient lighting, low-emission glass, and an efficient building envelope further reduces energy consumption and carbon emissions, translating into cost savings and environmental benefits.26 Notably, the Gallery’s attainment of Green Mark Platinum and LEED Gold certifications is concrete evidence of its sustainability success. In connection to Singapore’s climate resolutions and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, the Gallery’s sustainable practices align with the country’s commitments to reducing emissions and creating environmentally responsible cities, as outlined in Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and Goal 13 (Climate Action). This practice not only stresses the Gallery’s local impact but also its contribution to global environmental and developmental goals.27
Another way The National Gallery Singapore serves as a powerful testament to the value of adaptive reuse is in preserving cultural heritage. In a world where many historical structures face neglect or demolition due to evolving societal needs, this project stands as a beacon of hope, showcasing how adaptive reuse can not only revive heritage buildings but also defend their historical significance.28 For instance, the meticulous restoration of the Gallery’s iconic dome, a process involving extensive research and craftsmanship, offers a compelling example for other heritage sites seeking to restore and showcase their architectural marvels. The innovative design of a link bridge that seamlessly connects the former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings while preserving their historical features can inspire similar connections in other projects, ensuring architectural continuity.29 Additionally, the Gallery’s use of specialized glass with low solar heat gain to protect artwork while permitting natural light inside can set a precedent for preserving art collections within heritage spaces.30 Plus, The National Gallery Singapore has extensive community engagement initiatives, including art workshops, guided tours, and community events, providing a valuable model for heritage sites looking to involve their local communities and promote cultural enrichment actively. The “Gallery Insider” program, where passionate volunteers share their knowledge and love for art with visitors, can motivate other institutions to develop similar volunteer-driven engagement strategies.31
Furthermore, the Gallery’s commitment to integrating contemporary art within a historical context encourages other cultural institutions to explore the synergy between the past and the present. This approach can be seen in collaborations between heritage sites and contemporary artists to create site-specific installations that interact with historical space. Such juxtaposition, as exemplified by the integration of historical courtrooms with contemporary galleries within the same building, inspires other heritage sites to consider diverse functions that respect the original character of the space while infusing a contemporary twist.32 The National Gallery Singapore’s dedication to a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together experts from various fields such as architecture, conservation, and contemporary art curation, promotes the importance of holistic heritage preservation.33 It paves the way for future projects to prioritize interdisciplinary collaborations, ensuring a well-rounded conservation approach. It positions them not just as repositories of the past but as dynamic cultural hubs.34 This paradigm shift could prompt other institutions to reconsider their roles and transform heritage sites into vibrant centers of cultural exchange, bridging history with contemporary creativity.35
The interdisciplinary success of climate-first renovations and heritage preservation occurred when architecture, engineering, and sustainability intersect harmoniously. This unique project underscores the critical role of interdisciplinary collaboration in preservation efforts. The successful transformation of the former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings into a world-class art gallery exemplifies the synergy between these disciplines, demonstrating how they can collectively contribute to fending and revitalizing historical structures while introducing modern functionalities.36 In this collaborative endeavor, architects, engineers, and sustainability experts played pivotal roles. Architects were entrusted with preserving the historical and architectural integrity of the two iconic buildings while adapting them to accommodate contemporary art exhibitions. This task required a profound understanding of the structure’s historical significance and the ability to balance that with the demands of modern functionality.
On the other hand, engineers worked to reinforce the buildings, ensuring structural stability, safety, and the seamless integration of modern utilities without compromising the structures’ historical charm. Meanwhile, sustainability experts championed eco-friendly practices, implementing features like rainwater harvesting and energy-efficient systems.37 These environmentally responsible approaches showcased the growing importance of sustainable practices in heritage preservation, ultimately setting a high standard for the intersection of heritage conservation and environmental responsibility.
In conclusion, the National Gallery Singapore’s sustainable transformation is a remarkable example of how architectural and engineering ingenuity can be seamlessly integrated with heritage conservation efforts to reduce carbon emissions and enhance ecological sustainability substantially. Singapore’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals and the Singapore Green Plan 2030 further highlights the country’s proactive approach toward building a more sustainable and climate-resilient world.38 The conservation efforts at the National Gallery Singapore showcase the importance of innovative and protective solutions in historical preservation and heritage conservation, serving as a model for the delicate balance between safeguarding the past and embracing the future. Overall, the National Gallery Singapore’s sustainable transformation is an inspiring example of how heritage conservation can be aligned with ecological sustainability, creating a more promising future for our planet.
All Images from:
National Gallery Singapore. “Building History & Heritage.” Accessed October 17, 2023. https://www.nationalgallery.sg/about/building/history.
Bibliography
Archello. “National Gallery Singapore | CPG Consultants Pte Ltd.” Accessed October 17, 2023. https://archello.com/project/national-gallery-singapore.
“Climate Regulation and Litigation in Singapore.” International Financial Law Review, July 31, 2023, N.PAG-N.PAG. http://0-search.ebscohost.com.library.scad.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ofm&AN=169329540&site=ehost-live&scope=site.
David Dodman, Jane Bicknell, and David Satterthwaite. Adapting Cities to Climate Change : Understanding and Addressing the Development Challenges. Earthscan Climate. London: Routledge, 2009. http://0-search.ebscohost.com.library.scad.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=nlebk&AN=273615&site=ehost-live&scope=site.
Garris, Leah B. “Four Ways to Shrink Your Building’s Carbon Footprint.” Buildings 101, no. 8 (August 2007): 34–38. http://0-search.ebscohost.com.library.scad.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ofm&AN=510670007&site=ehost-live&scope=site.
“Goal 7 | Department of Economic and Social Affairs.” Accessed November 4, 2023. https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal7.
“Goal 11 | Department of Economic and Social Affairs.” Accessed November 4, 2023. https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal11.
“Goal 13 | Department of Economic and Social Affairs.” Accessed November 7, 2023. https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal13.
Henderson, Joan C. “Planning for Success: Singapore, the Model City-State?” Journal of International Affairs 65, no. 2 (Spring/Summer ///Spring/Summer2012 2012): 69–83. http://0-search.ebscohost.com.library.scad.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ofm&AN=74560607&site=ehost-live&scope=site.
Ivy, Robert. “Design Sells: Editorial.” Architectural Record 197, no. 9 (September 2009): 21–21. http://0-search.ebscohost.com.library.scad.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ofm&AN=504323020&site=ehost-live&scope=site.
Mills, Eleanor. “International Opening : National Gallery Singapore.” Museums Journal 116, no. 2 (2016): 34–35. https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-journals/international-opening-national-gallery-singapore/docview/1796670117/se-2?accountid=13730.
National Gallery Singapore. “Building History & Heritage.” Accessed October 17, 2023. https://www.nationalgallery.sg/about/building/history.
National Gallery Singapore. “Building Spaces - Images.” Accessed October 17, 2023. https://www.nationalgallery.sg/about/news/press-room/image-gallery/building-spaces.
Parsi, Novid. “The Art of Preservation.” PM Network 30, no. 8 (8/1/2016 2016): 50–55. http://0-search.ebscohost.com.library.scad.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ofm&AN=117310663&site=ehost-live&scope=site.
Seno, Alexandra A. “Singapore Sling.” Architectural Record 204, no. 2 (February 2016): 97–104. http://0-search.ebscohost.com.library.scad.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ofm&AN=112741634&site=ehost-live&scope=site.
Widrich, Mechtild. “The Naked Museum: Art, Urbanism, and Global Positioning in Singapore.” Art Journal 75, no. 2 (2016): 46–65. https://www.jstor.org/stable/43967752.
