Singapore, 6 Sept 2023 – In a demonstration of cross-border collaboration and architectural prowess, a joint effort between Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and Temasek Polytechnic, Singapore, emerged triumphant at the prestigious International Building Design Competition 2023 (IBDC 2023). Under the team’s name “Mitochondria”, this collaborative initiative stood out and was awarded the Special Mention Award.

The prize ceremony, which took place on September 6 2023, at Marina Bay Sands Expo in Singapore, witnesses the convergence of creative minds and inventive design concepts. “Narratives for a Resilient Future”, the theme of IBDC 2023, provided the ideal environment for demonstrating architectural innovation aimed at promoting a sustainable and adaptive future. The annual architecture design competition organized by Ngee Ann Polytechnic and the Institute of Technical Education, in collaboration with esteemed institutions such as Nanyang Technology University (NTU), National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore Institute of Technology (SiT), Singapore University of Technology and Design, Nanyang Polytechnic, Republic Polytechnic, Singapore Polytechnic, and Temasek Polytechnic, the IBDC 2023 showcased cutting-edge designs. Additionally,  this prestigious event was generously supported by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Singapore. The IBDC 2023 served as a catalyst for architecture students worldwide to envision a sustainable, adaptable, and resilient future.

Key to their presentation was the groundbreaking notion of “CO-OP: Food Powerhouse”, a venture that harmoniously integrates engineering, design, research simulation, and documentation. The aim of the collaboration was to solve an imminent problem, namely food security, with a specific focus on the issues encountered by Singapore’s agricultural industry.

Team Mitochondria’s “CO-OP: Food Powerhouse” design stands as a testament to their commitment to this cause. The conceptual prototype envisions strategically placing food Powerhouses within communities, making optimal use of existing parks and integrating marketplaces into their design. By doing so, the team strives to create a symbiotic relationship between the Powerhouse and the community, encouraging active involvement and education on food production processes.

Furthermore, sustainability is prioritized in all of their projects. They developed a model that is considerate of the environment by utilizing passive design, modular building techniques, and daylight analysis. They propose a tower structure that combines hydroponic and conventional agricultural modules to maximize growing conditions (including space and humidity).

The Arrow Lift system, which is used for transporting fruits and vegetables, is another example of the company’s inventive approach to minimizing its impact on the natural world. Their aim for a sustainable and efficient distribution network is reflected in this transportation system, which makes use of both conventional ground transit and drone delivery.

The seamless incorporation of technology is one of the most remarkable parts of the team’s approach. They have expedited the design, building, and maintenance processes by utilizing Building Information Modelling (BIM). This not only saves time but also ensures precision and efficiency, which is consistent with the project’s overall sustainability concept. Furthermore, Team Mitochondria’s “COP-OP: Food Powerhouse” shows a comprehensive strategy to creating a sustainable and resilient future. Their effort is about empowering communities and promoting a better awareness of our food sources, not only food security. They have provided a model that offers a look into a future where collaboration and sustainability drive progress by linking varied knowledge and harnessing emerging technologies.

In embracing this spirit of collaboration, the joint initiatives will not only reshape the landscape of architectural innovation but also contribute to a world that thrives on sustainable practices and meaningful connections.  The recognition bestowed upon Team Mitochondria sets a standard for the architectural community, encouraging innovative solutions that contribute to a better world.

Special Mention Prize : Team Mitochondria

• Minhal Kazim Bin Rusli ( Temasek Polytechnic, Singapore)
• Ahmad Adi Zafri Bin Zanlal (Temasek Polytechnic, Singapore)
• Lacsina Gerrome Vincent Pascua (Temasek Polytechnic, Singapore)
• Wong Kia Yi Jasmine (Temasek Polytechnic, Singapore)
• Chow Zhen Nam (Universiti Teknologi Malaysia)
• Man Jun Ming (Universiti Teknologi Malaysia)
• Ng Leng Chuan (Universiti Teknologi Malaysia)
• Supervisors: Ar Wong Teck Yong from Temasek Polytechnic (TP) Singapore & Ts. Dr. Leng Pau Chung (UTM)

Youtube link : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ykfl5dVGBtk&ab_channel=ChowJackie&fbclid=IwAR0p6vpeOo0hqlihD6yb2iKlaQRJOlaHIHJajIZhrpHCe-3RveX9QolX6TM

Official Website:  https://ibdcenquiries.wixsite.com/ibdc2023/results?fbclid=IwAR2rYD-5SWH-Zs5SS8xxzUic9S4wuks0VhWlT1nkOGhr-0e-gW3yIBq8BT4

Article prepared and narrated by :

Chow Zhen Nam, Man Jun Ming, Ng Leng Chuan, Dr Leng Pau Chung, AP Ar Dr Lim Yaik Wah, Dr Nor Izura Tukiman, Dr Muhammad Ezzad Abu Bakar