Steel in Bloom

Nestled within Singapore Changi Airport’s newest and most innovative terminal – T4, Steel in Bloom is a unique indoor garden that visualises the synergy between nature and technology. Like the fusion with nature that Changi Airport celebrates, the living garden is coherent with the identity and architectural sensibility within Terminal 4. 

The goal was to deliver a multi-sensory touch point offering visitors a quiet respite amidst the hustle and bustle of the busy passenger terminal. Creating a thought-provoking hybrid display, Steel in Bloom is a novel experiential garden and a key rest stop for visitors when they enter the terminal.

to inspire

Steel in Bloom was themed around the idea of synergy between organic forms and mechanical elements. The centrepiece integrates living horticultural elements while the technology aspect speaks to the innovative nature of Terminal 4. The garden layout was also inspired by the fluidity of topographical lines, visually complementing Terminal 4’s ‘petal’ concept architecture as a whole.

to engage

The understructure comprises expansive tree-like branches which provide structural rigidity and strength. Layered with walls of lace-like steel, botanical motifs are exquisitely detailed and rendered in a contemporary papercut style. The second layer of the structure is more dimensional and inlaid with printed lighting, a high-tech, ultra-thin (1mm) and lightweight lighting system integrated into the forms of flower blossoms and butterflies. 

The third and final layer of the structure is designed to be interchangeable, with a moveable support and interlocking edges, allowing live air plants to be integrated into the structure as part of seasonal decorations. stalled together with a light show that takes full advantage of the sculpture’s intricate form.

to activate

Besides providing a key rest point for visitors among T4 retail shops, the garden embodies a remarkably accurate impression of Singapore as a world-class City in a Garden, introducing Singapore as a country with abundant lush greenery while remaining as a bustling metropolitan city. The main structure represents the symbiosis and interweaving of human artisanship and living plants, reminding us of the interdependence between Man and Nature.

Multiple prototypes, including 3D printed versions and full-scale mockups, were created to achieve the final buildable sculpture. The curved convex transparent terrarium covers were particularly challenging to fabricate, with extensive trials using materials like glass and high-density acrylic required to make a viable shape and achieve the correct look.

A zone for travellers to project their imagination and excitement while exploring the world and beholding the site of an engaging and visually-arresting landmark.