The Design & Architecture of the IRs - are they really that different?

By Donn Richard
May 2008
Singapore

The two IRs differ significantly with regards to design and architecture.

MBS IR has been designed by the world renowned, Boston-based architect Moshe Safdie. Mr. Safdie’s vision is an integration of the building complex with the Waterfront Promenade and the Gardens by the Bay.

This is accomplished by conjoining the roofs of the three hotel towers to form a panoramic “skypark?or “sky garden,?thereby offering 360-degree views of the city and the sea as well as the lush gardens, swimming pools, jogging paths, spas and restaurants.

The front of the building has been nicely designed to coordinate with the attractions of the waterfront. The rear of the building’s design has taken into account the green gardens at Marina South, and will incorporate a footbridge to channel visitors all the way to the gardens by the Bay.

In contrast, IR RWS has been designed by acclaimed architect and product designer Michael Graves of Michael Graves & Associates, working along with the Singaporean architecture firm DP Architects. Here, the design reflects an iconic and tropical family mega-resort delivering a cool and dry visitor experience.

Resorts World at Sentosa is basically a collection of resorts within a resort, incorporating an integrated dome-and-block design. In addition, by creative use of landscaping, choice of materials (such as wood and stone), as well as the extensive use of water, the IR will reflect a tropical island resort feel.

All this while keeping the essential idea of a theme park for family filled fun. Not an easy task when you have six hotels in six different zones-each with their own unique theme. Come nighttime, the architectural features of all hotels will be highlighted through state-of-the-art lighting! The architecture is such that it guarantees visitors a village-like festive ambience.

RWS hired none other than world renowned architect Mr. Henry Steed to design the resort's tropical landscape.

In conclusion, IR MBS is one large complex whereas IR RWS will consist of several smaller buildings surrounded by lush tropical gardens and theme parks. So, are they really that different? Let’s just say that visitors are going to be spoiled for choice.