4th International Conference on Rain Water Cistern Systems
Manila , Philipines - August, 1989

Section K: Alternative Designs Of Rain Water Cisterns

Paper K.1

The City Of Rain: The Architecture Of Rainwater Collection In Singapore

Kevin Lim Chiow Teck
National University of Singapore

Abstract

In Singapore where land area is limited, there is a need for more effective water conservation techniques and unconventional approaches to rainwater harvesting. This paper outlines the potential of rainwater collection in built-up areas through architectural design; involving a rethinking of conventional practises in site planning, building forms and building details. The instrument for- these explorations was a proposed "City of Rain", conceived in June 1988, sited at Marina South. In this city, collected rainwater became an alternative water supplywhich was proposed to be used to supplement the utilitarian needs of the city and in the creation of new amenities for the community. The aesthetic effects evolved from rainwater collection, the new amenities and other possibilities could foster a unique urban character in Singapore.

PDF of full document available to members (17pp, 360kb)