SDE 4 National University of Singapore (NUS)

Beacon of Sustainable Design and Innovation

Rising amongst the vibrant campus of National University of Singapore (NUS), SDE 4 stands as a groundbreaking testament to architectural ingenuity and environmental responsibility. Completed in 2019, SDE 4 functions as a living laboratory to promote research collaboration with public agencies and industry partners. It embodies a revolutionary vision for learning, fostering collaboration and creativity while pushing the boundaries of sustainable design.

SDE 4 has garnered a constellation of prestigious accolades, including the "Best Public Use Project with Public Funding" at the 2019 Blueprint Awards and the "Winner of Institutional Architecture Category" at the 2020 The Architecture Master Prize. These recognitions stand as a testament to SDE 4's transformative influence on the learning landscape.

A Symphony of Boxes

Ditching the conventional, monolithic facade, SDE 4 emerges as a playful assemblage of stacked boxes, each housing a distinct program. This intentional juxtaposition reflects the building's dynamic nature, an open platform for interdisciplinary exchange and intellectual exploration. Gone are the days of closed-off, energy-guzzling structures; SDE 4 breathes with every step you take, its airy interstitial spaces inviting serendipitous encounters and visual connections across disciplines.

SDE 4 is a remarkable demonstration of how architecture is designed to thrive in the local climate. The building incorporates a large overhanging roof and double facades on the East and West, shielding SDE 4 from the scorching tropical sun and providing a cooler interior for the research residents. On the other hand, SDE 4 harnesses the power of the sun with over 1200 solar photovoltaic panels gracing its rooftop, achieving net-zero energy consumption. This commitment to sustainability extends beyond the solar panels, woven into the very fabric of the building. From high-performance glazing to natural ventilation systems, every element is meticulously crafted to minimize energy demand and maximize thermal comfort.

Roofing Revolution, Responsibly

Capping off this architectural masterpiece is a LYSAGHT® KLIP-LOK® 406 roofing system crafted from COLORBOND® ULTRA Steel, in the elegant shade of Ore Grey. This robust steel profile serves as the perfect canvas for the building's solar ambitions, offering a solid and durable platform for its 1200 photovoltaic panels. The raised ribs allow for secure clamping of panel mounts without puncturing the roof, and the low minimum pitch of 2 degrees ensures optimal performance for maximum energy generation. COLORBOND® ULTRA Steel's AZ200 Aluminium/Zinc coated substrate ensures superior corrosion resistance, safeguarding the building's integrity even in challenging environmental conditions.

Beyond Durability, Sustainability Reigns

More than just bricks and mortar, SDE 4 is a living embodiment of architectural brilliance and environmental consciousness. From its playful box-stacking design to its climate-responsive features and innovative roofing system, it paves the way for a future where learning thrives in harmony with nature.