The Marina Bay Sands complex in Singapore: A modern marvel of structure and technology

Abstract

The paper presents architectural and structural analysis of the Marina Bay Sands complex in Singapore, which consists of a hotel, an exhibition and convention centre with shopping centers, two theatres and Art-Science museum. The Moshe Safdie Architects architectural studio created an unusual complex that shows Singapore as a center of innovation, culture and entertainment. This complex fits perfectly into the architecture of Singapore, which is full of ecological solutions and surrounded by vegetation that is dominated by orchids (the national flower of Singapore). Hotel Marina Bay Sands is the main building of the complex. The hotel complex consists of three 55-storey towers and is situated on the axes of two streets. The spectacular design, which is now the island's hallmark, required many complicated structural solutions that can be considered as a modern marvel of structure and technology. The design of the hotel building, the co-contractor of which was Arup Company, due to its geometry and location on the reclaimed land of Marina Bay was recognized as the most difficult architectural task in the world. The important aim in the design of the whole complex was to ensure perfect sound and thermal insulation inside the buildings while using natural elements. In the Art-Science Museum, as well as in the two theatres, a façade cladding system consisting of blocks of mineral wool was used, which significantly increases the evacuation time in the event of a fire. The complex, which is characterized by high strength buildings, good acoustics and high fire safety, was created thanks to multi-sector cooperation. Marina Bay Sands complex have played important role in development of technological and structural solutions for such type of structures.