The Evolution of Sustainable Hotel Design: The Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay by FDAT Architects

In the heart of Singapore stands a testament to the future of sustainable architecture and design: the Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay. Crafted by the visionary FDAT Architects and unveiled in 2021, this project redefines the essence of green urban living within the hospitality sector. Spanning 9,400 square meters, the hotel is a bold endeavor to integrate nature into the urban fabric, showcasing how design and sustainability can coalesce to create spaces that are both beautiful and beneficial to the environment.

The Philosophy of Sustainability

At the core of the Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay is a philosophy that challenges conventional building practices. The renovation of this 21-story atrium complex into a "Garden-in-a-Hotel" is a striking example of sustainable hotel design, avoiding the tremendous waste typically associated with demolishing high-rises. By repurposing the existing structure, the project sidesteps the emission of 51,300 tons of carbon dioxide, highlighting the environmental impact of thoughtful architectural intervention.

A Symphony of Green Spaces

Upon entering the hotel, guests are greeted by an impressive three-story tall green wall, setting the tone for an immersive experience. The integration of 180-degree ascending planters and lightweight screens transforms the atrium into a vertical garden, inviting nature to take center stage. The introduction of garden pavilions, whimsically referred to as Bird’s Nests, serves as focal points within this lush landscape. These structures, inspired by the hotel's historical connection to songbirds, embody the fusion of organic forms and modern design techniques, showcasing the potential of parametric design in creating self-supporting and visually captivating spaces.

Dining Amongst the Greenery

The hotel’s dining areas further embrace the garden concept, with private dining rooms conceptualized as Greenhouses. These glass enclosures extend into the atrium, blending the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces. The Atrium ballroom, with its vaulted ceilings and full-height acoustic doors, epitomizes the project's commitment to integrating nature into every facet of the design. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the spaces but also leverages the benefits of indoor greenery, such as improved air quality and a connection to the natural world.

Material Choices Reflecting Nature

The selection of materials and finishes within the Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay reinforces the garden concept. Moss-inspired carpets and the extensive use of natural finishes create an environment that mirrors the forest floor, further blurring the lines between the built and natural environments. The incorporation of 15,000 sqft of trees and shrubs not only beautifies the space but also contributes to the building's environmental performance, showcasing the role of plants in creating healthier indoor environments.

The Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay stands as a beacon of sustainable hotel design, demonstrating the profound impact of integrating nature into architectural practice. Through its innovative reuse of existing structures, incorporation of green spaces, and thoughtful material selection, FDAT Architects have crafted a space that not only redefines luxury hospitality but also sets a new standard for sustainable design in urban environments. As we look towards the future, the Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay serves as a powerful reminder of the possibilities that arise when architecture harmonizes with nature, offering a blueprint for the next generation of sustainable urban developments.

All photographs are work of Daniel Koh & Darren Soh