ARCHITECTURE SINGAPORE

Archifest 2009-Coltswald Close

2010-08-08T22:26:00.001+08:00

An interesting house which we visited towards the end of the tour was the Coltswald Close house designed by Annex A.

The architect Mark Wee, was present at the venue itself to explain the work too.

It was a house that was occupied for many years by a family.

They had wanted to refurbish the house as they had a growing family.

The design brief was to design a modern home, but still retaining its old school charm.

The final product was a house that fused the old with the new, in a very unique manner.

I liked it for its old school flavour and its many memories of the past that was retained in the architecture and details.

Archifest 2009-RT&Q

2009-12-16T20:20:00.059+08:00

Rene Tan of RT&Q showed us to his house as part of the Archifest 2009 Safari tour.

The house has been published in numerous Singapore Architecture magazines.

Nestled in a delightful suburb of Watten Estate, the terrace house is unassuming in its external treatment.

Rene managed to fit a long swimming pool into the plot of land.

This pool effectively serves to give the impression of the terrace as separated from its neighbbour.

The pool, while possibly too narrow to swim in, acts as an effective buffer from the neighbour.

It also works well as a water feature at the living room!

The following pictures show the pool as well as the toilet that is cleverly hidden behind.

The wc is elevated on a marble slab. Water surrounds the wc.

There are definitely many moments of interest in the house. Here are some of them that caught my eye - enjoy...

Archifest 2009-Lien Collectives: Terre Clubhouse

2009-12-14T15:41:00.012+08:00

The clubhouse was actually the original house situated on the plot. Terre was engaged to restore and remodel the house to a clubhouse that is to be shared for all tenants of the 5 other houses once it is leased to their respective tenants.

The house retains its heritage by keeping certain key elements.
For instance, from the facade, the timber windows and the tiled roof remains intact and well-restored.

At the front entrance, the original chinese door frame was kept with an additional timber door built on the opening side.

A fern and pebble garden greets us upon entering, with a grand memorial plaque in the centre. It mentions the history of the house and their owners. A flight of stairs leads us to the 2nd storey upon entering at the front entrance.

The overall character of the house is very reminiscent of its chinese heritage. With the new elements, the architect seem to have made careful choices too. The selections all relate very well this heritage theme. Check out the long bath!

The design of the clubhouse was certainly a done in good measure and served as a focal point for the houses on the site. It was a reminder of its past and designed in a way that totally blended well with its green surrounds.

There were many gathering spaces, large dining areas, sitting areas and even a basement bar counter facing the greenery beyond.

Archifest 2009 - Lien Collectives: Tierra

2009-12-09T12:16:00.006+08:00

The next house was by landscape architecture firm, Tierra. Of course, Tierra is known for their landscaping work both for high end residential as well as for nice houses in the Singapore architecture scene.

Designed by the principal, Franklin, the house sits on top of the slope. It cuts an interesting silouette with its composition of a cluster of pitched roof boxes.

Nestled amidst the tall leafy trees, the houses made for a very subtle statement. We liked the way it was bunched together to give it an almost organic composition, quite in reflection to its surrounds.

I liked the interior as much as the exterior, with its timber framed windows that effectively frame our views to the outside.

Most of the spaces seem to have a window placed strategically. It was effective especially with all the white walls - the windows drew one immediately to it. The windows were mostly large enough for the greenery and sunlight to enter and illuminate the room.

The greenery was almost visible everywherre from within. Here's some views from the staircase landing catching more glimpses of the leaves outdoors...

Archifest 2009-Lien Collectives: Ministry of Design

2009-12-07T15:25:00.005+08:00

In one of the bigger plots at the site, Ministry of Design (MOD) engaged the site in a very understated fashion, quite unlike the usual style of the young Singaporean firm. The design of the house was intended to relate to the elongated context of the site. It was conceived to be a continous space. It's most obvious when seen from the roof top view. Here's a computer-generated image that best shows this view...

The house is flanked on the side with a narrow pool that takes the shape of the house. At the elevation view, one can see a few layers - from the water edge, the timber walkway to the walls of the house and the flat roof that followed the shape of the house.

The palette for the interior was very much clean and simple - white washed walls with white marble and mosaics for the bathroom. The floor is expressed as a seemless expression by way of timber strips that line the spaces from entry through to the corridors and to the individual bedrooms.

Archifest 2009-Lien Collectives: K2LD

2009-12-04T14:04:00.001+08:00

K2LD was engaged to conceptualise the entire site, and also to work on the design for 1 of the plots. As far as Singapore architecture goes, this firm has garnered recognition for their excellent design projects, ranging from houses to apartments.

In the design of the house, the main statement was surely the huge oval shaped space in the centre of the pool.

A bridge leads to this The space was a shaped with glass panels and vertical timber members. Everyone seemed to wonder what the space was for...

I guess it was enough that it made an impact. While the space seem to be submerged in the pool, a view from the other elevations reveals that it really was standing on steel stilts.

I must say the overall language seemed almost 'ordinary' in comparison to the other show cases on the site. I'm sure the students and young designers in the crowd of visitors may agree with me here.

Nonetheless, there were many nice details that were fashioned in timber - part of the recurring theme for the house. From the front door to the staircase and the walkways and corridors, the materials and combination of them, made for interesting study in detailing.

For instance, at the front door, we see large panels clear fixed glass in exposed steel mullions. The door is in timber and gives a sense of contrast. The walls are a combination of textured plaster with fair-faced concrete.

As you walk into the house, from the front entrance to the main spaces of the house a staircase leads you to the living spaces and bedrooms. A large skylight greets us as we emerge from the stairs. The articulation of timber ceiling and skylight certainly lend warmth into the space.

The exceptionl detailing also continues with the doors for storerooms and bedrooms...

Archifest 2009-Lien Collectives: Metropolitan Office Experimental

2009-12-01T17:07:00.001+08:00

In this next house designed by Metropolitan Office Experimental, we take a look at another very edgy and as the firm calls themselves, experimental creation at the Lien Collectives site.

In the planning of this house, it was the architect's idea to have 2 boxes inserted into each other. A wooden box and a lightweight one with a swimming pool. The expression is bold and daring. The interior, in a twist of creativity, is however very playful and kitch.

We entered via the side of the building, into the master bedroom/suite. The concept of a long bath was simply a sunken 'hole' in floor! Beyond that was the master bathroom and the basin.

The living room certainly opened up in a refreshing way - with the splayed lights in the ceiling and the lightweight concrete columns almost disappearing into the whilte space beyond. The living space also faces the long infinity edge pool which served to open the space even further.

At the end of the space is a super clean kitchen - all white and stainless steel that seemed to discourage the owner from ever cooking in it... A curious looking tree stands amid the kitchen, crowned with a skylight that was built to serve it only. Such an interesting sight...

There rest of the house had some details that was worth catching, but I reckon the primary impression for me for this house was the spaces within.

Archifest 2009-Lien Collectives-Site Plan

2009-12-01T16:17:00.004+08:00

The Lien Collectives site plan. There are 6 houses in total. The overall planning was done by K2LD, who apparently was asked to do all the houses but declined. Instead, they suggested that 5 young architects/firms be given a chance to do a house on the plot (with K2LD doing one of the houses). This would yield fresh and interesting results, since there will be a variety of styles. The result was indeed interesting - with each house having a distinct style and character. The site used to be house for a single dwelling. This same house has since been retained as a clubhouse - to be shared with all the occupants of the 5 houses. It was the intent of the owner to lease the houses to anyone who wanted a unique experience. The clubhouse would be a common area where the tenants of the house can use for parties, gatherings etc.

Archifest 2009-Lien Collectives: Zarch Collaboratives

2009-11-30T17:29:00.011+08:00

Recently, SIA organised the Archifest 2009 that rang out with a bang. The festivities included talks by notable architects both from Singapore and the world - including the likes of UN Studio. The Architrours also proved very popular, with many tours fully booked.

I managed to get into one of the tours that showcased some very nice work by local Singaporean architects. Staged as Architour, the tours were organised site visits to different locales around Singapore- showcasing reccent completed works.

In the first of this series of articles I am showing are the Lien Collectives- a series of 5 houses designed by fresh, young local firms. This one is by Zarch Collaboratives who did one of the houses.

The design of the house is one of the most visually iconic in my opinion.

The facade is volumentric and zany, with alot of funky features-exposed timber, fair-faced concrete, steel sculpture floating above a pebbel pool and even a playful metallic cube in the outdoors...

The flavour of the house was definitely very experimental. I liked the way the various materials are used. Certainly one of the most interesting houses on this site....

Needless to say, all the students and visitors went crazy with the shutters. There was indeed much to see in the house. I just wished I brought a better camera to capture all the details!

Indeed, there were many interesting details that caught my eye - from the staircase to the toilets and windows, there was something for everyone. The details, materials and placement of various elements were definitely different and varied. In my opinion, the look seemed edgy and experimental.

The evolution of the spaces seemed to be in terms of 'boxes' of spaces, with a lot of corridors and walkways that were naturally ventilated. There is also alot of glass and metal elements used to let light in and blur the inside and outside. This gave the whole house a open feel, similar to a outdoors play house...

Accompanied with many fascinating features and niches, the house was definitely one that made many want to stay longer to explore further. Unfortunately we had to move on quickly to cover the other houses...

One North Residences

2009-11-23T17:05:00.019+08:00

Recently we went to check out the completed One North Residences. Nestled in the lush surrounds of Buona Vista near the up-and-coming Fusionopolis and Biopolis complex, the apartments seemed like a great in this locale. For those who are unfamiliar with the Fusionopolis and Biolpolis, here are some websites to check out:

1. http://www.fusionopolis.a-star.edu.sg/
2. http://www.one-north.sg/hubs_fusionopolis.aspx
3. http://www.one-north.sg/hubs_biopolis.aspx

The overall masterplanning of the area was originally conceived by famous Iranian architect Zaha Hadid - http://www.planetarchitecture.com/titles/hadid_folder/hadid_w7.html

And with it came many interesting parameters and guidelines for its development. For one, the buildings are supposed to be seamless and 'borderless', allowing easy flow of people, ideas etc. The apartments were also percieved along similiar ideals. Of course, we all know Singaporeans prefer their privacy. In the end, the apartments was well-planned, with wall-less boundaries and only secured at lift lobbies and certain locations leading to the main landscape area.

The landscape areas seem to reflect the sensibility of Zaha Hadid too... with the edgy water features, slanted planters and pointed pool. The overall feel was a pretty much like a dynamic living environment. I liked the deck chairs that seem to weave out of the timber deck...

A sky gym is perched within a glass box in between the sky terrace. Considering the lack of space at the landscape area, this seemed like a great idea. (There is a swimming pool, function room and some water features with some 402 units.)

The development has several retail/commercial units for public rental at the first storey.The main block apartments is connected to another block with the loft units via a sky bridge. The sky bridge was probably the best place to catch a good view of the overall lush greenery and park too.

There is a smattering of artistic around the architecture which can be seen from the hanging sculptures at the airwell and water features, to the interesting dipping 'well's at the roof terrace... There are also cute play areas that appear as tunnel like nodules poking out of the landscape. The child in me actually wanted to go through the tunnel to check it out for myself..!

Timber and Architecture

2009-11-13T16:02:00.002+08:00

Timber has always been a favoured material for its warmness and texture. It has been extensively used not only in interiors but also as external cladding.

Many architects and designers as well as owners alike love the material for its unique character. This is the prime reason why it is used in expressions ranging from tropical and zen simplicity to modernist articulations and variations. In Singapore architecture, there is also a lot of interest in its applications.

Let's look at 2 popular types of timber used as external cladding in Singapore architecture - balua and chengai. The characteristics of each vary but essentially balau is more rugged while chengai is more delicate.

Typically the properties of balau timber vs chengai timber are:

Balau Timber

1. Harder (than chengai timber) - Therefore less cracks when exposed under sun.

2. Less 'pin-holes' - The walnut like grooves typical of natural timber

3. Darker colour

4. Cost - Typical cost is $73/ ft2

Chennai Timber
1. Softer, but more stable - There are more cracks when exposed to sun.
2. More 'pin-holes'
3. Lighter in colour

4. Cost - Typical cost is $76/ ft2

For balau timber, it can also be used in longer lengths, such as 12 to 14 feet for a typical 20-30mm thick by 70mm width length of timber. For chengai timber, the lengths should be shorter such as 6-8 feet for a typical 20-30mm by 70mm width length of timber. This is to reduce the chance of warping, which can occur more readily under our tropical sun.

The presence of 'pin-holes' gives timber its natural look and feel. It also allows the timber to 'breathe' so to speak. However, due to weathering, there will be yellow/white sap that is produced over time.

The sap causes chemical reactions with the paint or motar of external walls and causes weathering effects to the timber, making it look dull and old.

Some suppliers will advise that the timber (whether it is balau or chegnai) should be left in the sun to 'weather' first before installation.

Unfortunately this does not completely eliminate the problem. Hence, to further protect it, after it is cut and dried in the sun, the timber is coated with a sealant (eg: Hickson coating) that helps to seal the surface. It also gives the timber a more 'varnished' yet natural woody look. The colour variations of the timber strips are maintained to a certain degree.

It is advised that chengai timber be used for external cladding as it is lighter and possibly more stable. There is less likelihood of warpage and the weathering effects are less severe. Balau timber, even with its hardness can crack over prolonged exposure to the weather. The cracks usually appear within the timber.

At the end of the day, the timber is a natural material. The sealant may tarnish over time, and the sap from within the timber may again surface through the pin-holes. So to maintain best quality the sealant may have to renewed every year or so.

Hence, based on the properties, chengai timber is used more often in external cladding, while balau is used for timber trellis, or timber decking to outdoor areas. At the end of the day, of course price matters. The cheaper alternative of balau may be used externally if large quantities is required for external cladding too.

An effective alternative is to use reconstituted timber. Suppliers today have a huge variety of it, and it comes in various colours and texture. It is commonly used for landscape decking, especially for condominiums as it is durable and maintains consistency over time. Recently it has been used at Sentosa for the decking. At the marine club One Degree 15, it has been even been used as wall cladding.

1 Robin Road

2009-11-09T12:02:00.000+08:00

Perched at the edge of Robin Road, along Bukit Timah Road, is the statuesque 1 Robin Road apartments.There are 14 units in total, all offering fantastic views to the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and beyond.

Each unit occupies one floor with private lobbies offering the ultimate exclusivity. Upon entering the unit, the owner is greeted with the magnificent view (best seen in the high-rise unit) as the lift lobby door is a grand full height glass sliding door.

We managed to check out the penthouse and were immediately taken in by the breathtaking view from the balcony. Even from within, the double-volume height of the living and dining spaces were simply awesome.

The view from the staircase landing was great too. Full height glass that reached a double volume height added much light into the space.

Opened with little interest initially, the units were all fully sold after the building was completed and achieved TOP. Guess the biggest selling point had to be the view.

We particularly liked the details of the staircase that showcased how an elegant staircase could be achieved. The design was a open riser staircase with a continous metal stringer that linked the two flights of stairs.

The threads are also anchored on one side to the wall, so there is only one continous stringer on the open side of the stairs.

Timber is used as the material to clad the threads, similar to the timber floor for the corridors and the bedrooms. This effectively connects the stairs with the bedrooms, and makes it a seemless match.

Stainless steel handrail is built onto the glass balustrade in a but detailed to make everything look as light-weight as possible.

All the materials and detailing seek to enhance the continuity and lightness of the two flights of stairs.

The kitchen is also exquiste with its modern treatment of stainless steel, white workbench and Miele appliances including a coffee machine to boot.

135 Cecil Street

2009-11-09T10:37:00.000+08:00

Lately, there have been many office buildings being unveiled in the downtown area of Shenton Way. Chanced upon a new building along Cecil Street which had a distinctive facade and certainly made many stop and notice.

The architects are local firm Eco-ID that has garnered several awards for various houses and residential apartments. (http://www.ecoid.com/).

They have also made headlines with the Hamilton at Scotts Road by Hayden Properties.

The continous glass facade is articulated by means of a varying pattern of horizontal fins. We like the design of the building for its bold yet artistic expression and quality that has successfully distinguished itself from its 'older' neighbours along the office strip of Cecil Street.

Sinsov Building @ 55 Market Street

2009-11-06T17:22:00.001+08:00

Sandwhiched between other tall and slender buildings in downtown CBD of Singappre is the Sinsov Building, named after the Singapore Soviet Shipping Co Pte Ltd. Its location is just opposite the popular Golden Shoe complex.

With only 1 main facade facing Market Street , the architects have created a distinctive look that does not remind of a typical office building.

The office skyscraper typology of a continous glass curtain wall has been superseded with fine perforated metal screening. This is juxtaposed in a rhythmic fashion to give an interesting treatment to the otherwise simple office treatment. The screening has very fine perforations that almost conjures the feeling of a light-weight 'veil' or 'fabric'.

The palette of materials and colours is also refreshing. On the side wall, a similar arrangement of windows also prevails with deep recesses almost in echo of the depth and shadow that the building is trying to depict at the front facade.

Certainly worth checking it out for those who work in the vicinity. The Geek cafe that was stationed at the 1st storey has moved out to give way to a swanky Japanese restaurant too......

Luxe @ 6 Handy Road

2009-11-04T11:56:00.000+08:00

A funky new addition to the trendy downtown area of Dohby Gaut has taken shape with a new offering from SCDA. ( http://www.scdaarchitects.com/)

This is situated alongside the already bustling stretch of Handy Road from Plaza Singapura to The Cathay cinema.

I managed to get a couple of glimpes of the building just before it completes construction. The finishing of the building is sleek, with its glazing treatment. The glazing is a laminated glass spotting a dramatic foliage-like pattern almost in reflection to the trendy stretch of Hand Road.

Consisting of a single block of apartments in a tight site, the building is about 12 stories, and is located right in front to the pedestrain walkway. Clearly targeted for the arty crowd, the building has a fun scultpure as a welcome gesture.

A swimming pool is included in the tight site that sits at the front of the facade but behind the glass facade. One can glimpse a swimming pool popping out on the side.

The resulting product is a delightful addition to Handy Road, resonant tot the shopping and entertainment vibe of the area.

Bishopsgate

2009-11-03T16:31:00.001+08:00

This house sits in the lush settings amidst a tranquail area of Bishopsgate.
CSYA seems to have continued their winning formula from the award-winning condominium at 88 Robertson Quay - Robertson Blue.

The condominium Robertson Blue was the winner in the Residential Category at the SIA Architectural Design Awards in 2006.

In the articulation of the Bishopsgate bungalow, fair-faced concrete is used in the same way as the main external finish. I imagine the clients for this house must be very cool people to fancy something as edgy and funky as raw concrete for its look. As far as Singapore architecture goes, the fair faced concrete look for the external surface does not seem to gain popularity, perhaps due to reasons of workmanship and the tropical climate.

Fashioned with pitched roofs to create a stately, almost traditional looking house, the use of concrete adds an interesting twist to the clean paint and plaster so often associated with the house of this nature.

The house was completed in 2008, and certainly looks like yet another winner from CSYA.

The Boulevard Residences (BLVD)

2008-02-12T11:57:00.001+08:00

Standing tall at 36 stories, this luxurious development is situated at Cuscaden walk - a premium location in downtown Singapore.
Directly opposite Wheelock Place and Four Seasons hotel, this condomium has a striking presence.

The facade is designed based on a unitised curtain wall with tinted lamindated heat strengthened external vertical glass. The full curtain wall glass offers panaromic views across the city skyline. On one side is the stairway that is tastefully done with perforated metal, based on 2 tones and intensity of perforation.

I particularly like the interplay of materials and the modern language that is expressed on the facacde. The facade is developed together with the architect and renowed engineering firm Arup Engineering.
The development consists of 2 towers linked by a skybridge with a stunning cantilevered pool at the 3rd floors and sky gardens at the 13th and 24th floor. The orientation of the building is strategically located to be in a north-south orientation.

With average unit sizes at about 2000 ft2, the units are fairly luxurious - consisting of 3+1 and 4+1 units. The spaces are generous with cross ventilation through-out. In my opinion, this truly is a piece of art, with its efficient space planning and sophisticated modern facade. One of my favourite residential developments in the country ...

Berima Bungalows

2008-02-04T17:06:00.001+08:00

Walking along Berrima Road a pair of semi-detached houses caught my eye in its composition and modern language.

The palette is clean and uncomplicated, with white washed walls and slit glass windows. A large timber and steel canopy acts as shelter for carpark. The mix of materials - timber, white plastered walls, and glass was also proportionately done.

I like the way the design sits nicely in its surroundings waiting to be noticed, and doesn't shout with anything too loud.

The highlight of the house has got to be the roof top swimming pool encasesd in glass, that is slightly visible from the front facade. Well, at least it definitely is the highlight for the owner!

Designed cleverly as an infinity edge pool, it

There were some other interesting houses along the way as well...

And further along a familiar house that was designed by award-winning firm WOHA.

The Trumps

2008-01-24T15:00:00.000+08:00

Architect: W Architects

ID: W Architects

Located in the east of town, Kembangan, we have another sleek high-rise residential from W Architects. Articulated with clean lines and details, the building stands out as a designer apartment in its own right...

An early contribution under the guidance of chief design architect and director of the firm Mok Wei Wei, the building is striking with its series of aluminium fins and clean glass facade, i.e without the bay windows that is so typical of local residential developments.

I like how the building is expressed, with its mullion design clearly accentuating its height. The divisions are regular with one large window and 2 smailler ones for instance, and lining up all the way from ground to highest floor. The horizontal fins compliment and complete the clean glass facade.

The details are executed well, right down to the handrails and the landscape elements. Definitely having a look if you around the area. A modern development from the same firm that designed Paterson Edge and Aris (also called the Rebirth of Paterson Edge!), which brought them instant fame and recognition.

Sentosa Bungalows

2007-12-28T14:51:00.000+08:00

Sentosa Bungalows - SCDA

Off the island of Singapore is a piece of offshore paradise that's become an extremely expensive and exlcusive piece of real estate - Sentosa.

All the houses there have been commissioned to be designed by some of the most well-known architects in Singapore.

So, before all these houses complete construction and the rich kids move into 'em, I figured it would be nice to capture some of their more memorable designs. SCDA made a significant contribution in this respect...

A similar offering from SCDA was found at yet another house.

But the first to arrive from yet the same firm, is this one that's nestled within tall green surroundgs. Managed to a glimpse but the sea facing side reveals a huge expanse of open out door space totally inviting for anyone. Now I wanna get invited to a party here...

Barker Road Bungalows

2007-12-12T12:05:00.000+08:00

A series of bungalows designed by K2LD.

The composition is pure clean lines articulated with a palette of coloured glass and timber and black powder-coated alumnium.

Pretty funky job guys.

Teneriffe

2007-12-11T16:49:00.000+08:00

Developer:

Architect: Woha and MKPL
Interior Designer: Woha
Landscape Architect: Salad Dressing
Contractor:

Nestled within the green surrounds off 6th Avenue, Bukit Timah, the development stems as one of the larger condominum projects within this part of town.

Comprising of blocks of 4+attic units, the development comprises of units at every floor. The ground floor units relate to the terrace idea with its own car park space in the basement.

Designed by reputable architects, the concept of the development is linear and modern. The materials used are aluminium trellises and louvres with plenty of glass.

The units are arranged alongside each other and are compactly situated. However, screening provides for both privacy and shade. The landscaping has an interesting mix of trees that adds variety to the enbtire ambience of the development.

As a whole, the development is well designed within a tight confines of the site. The full basement parking is provided with ample light and ventilation. Yet the voids on the landscaped ground floor is concealed from vision. The swimming pool and clubhouse is located at the centre and utilises the basement for the function room and toilets.

Well-worth having a sneak peak if you get the chance...

Tanglin Residences

2007-11-16T17:22:00.000+08:00

Developer: Capitaland Pte Ltd

Architect: W Architects Pte Ltd
Interior Design: W Architects Pte Ltd
Landscape Design: Tierra

Contractor: Shimizu

One of my favourite small developments. Its architecture is a good composition of geometry that makes for a modern and elegant residential development.

The overall development comprises of 5 storey residential blocks arranged in a linear fashion around the perimeter of the site.

Facade is articulated by means of square boxes that frame the full height glass windows and blade walls with aluminium louvres.

Of interest is the use of travetino as the cladding material on the protruded square boxes that frame the glass windows and balconies.

At the ground floor, units can access the outdoor landscape area directly via a raised decked PES. The surrounding greenery is lush and gives privacy and separates the public walkway.

The units have a courtyard within the living/dining space that is brightly and airy. It provides for ample light and ventilation. In addition, the ground floor units have a spill-out space that they can enjoy as an extension to their dining areas.

The landscaping is crisp and modern. The lap pool is flanked by a well-detailed granite wall in varying finishes. Overall detailing of the development makes the feel and ambience of the project one of style, quality and luxury.

Perhaps the only disappointment is the provision of planting and design of the central area is slightly bare and lack of interest. The pool while modern, seem be cold and lack niches of interest that invite residents to linger and enjoy the surrounds.