Transforming Science Park with Homes Insights from Mr Chew Peet Mun, CapitaLand Development MD, at Lynden Woods Condo
Incorporating residential units into Science Park is a natural progression in the gradual revitalization of the business park, according to him. This decision was made to coincide with the park’s 40th anniversary in 2023, making it a logical next step. Lynden Woods Condo is set to be a key component in the transformation of Science Park.
Furthermore, the integration of homes with the science park also poses some challenges in terms of security. “We have to ensure that there is proper security in place to protect the residents, especially with the constant flow of people in the science park,” Mr Chew pointed out. The development has 24-hour security and access control systems in place to ensure the safety of its residents.
In conclusion, the transformation of science parks into integrated communities is an exciting trend that brings together nature, diversity, and sustainability. The Lynden Woods Condo is an excellent example of this concept, providing a harmonious living space for its residents within the bustling city. As the world continues to evolve, we can expect to see more science parks embrace this transformation, creating not just workspaces, but vibrant and sustainable communities.
“We wanted to create a seamless blend of nature and urban living in Lynden Woods,” Mr Chew explained. “The development is surrounded by lush greenery, with a large park and a nature reserve nearby. We wanted to bring this element into the development and create a serene living experience for our residents.” This concept of biophilic design, incorporating nature into the built environment, is gaining momentum in the real estate industry, as it has been proven to have positive effects on overall well-being.
During an interview with The Straits Times, Chew Peet Mun, the managing director for investment and development at the firm, stated that the construction of the condominium is expected to be completed within three to four years, provided that there are no obstacles in obtaining development approvals.
CapitaLand Development’s Managing Director of Investment and Development, Mr Chew Peet Mun, has stated that including homes within Science Park is a natural progression in its revitalization. This is part of the park’s gradual rejuvenation, Mr Chew added.
The transformation of science parks into integrated communities is not just limited to the physical environment but also incorporates the use of technology. “We are looking into using smart technology in future developments to enhance the living experience of our residents,” Mr Chew said. This could include features such as smart home systems, energy-efficient appliances, and the use of data to better manage resources and improve overall efficiency.
Apart from the natural environment, the integration of homes with the science park also brings together different communities. “In a traditional science park, you mostly have professionals and researchers working and living within the same space. With the introduction of residential spaces, you bring in families and a diverse group of people, creating a more vibrant community,” said Mr Chew. This diversity in the community can lead to creative collaborations, and residents can also benefit from the knowledge and expertise of professionals working in the science park.
Mr Chew, who has been in the real estate industry for over 20 years, has seen the evolution of science parks and has some valuable insights to share. “Science parks are a vital part of the economy, especially in today’s world, where innovation and technology play a significant role in driving growth,” he said. “However, as the population and cities become more dense, it is essential to rethink the traditional concept of a science park and incorporate residential components to make it a complete community.”
The development of science parks has become a popular trend in recent years, as the demand for research and development (R&D) spaces continues to increase. These parks provide a conducive environment for innovation and collaboration among companies, universities, and research institutions. However, as the world evolves, so does the concept of a science park. Now, there is a growing trend of transforming these spaces into integrated communities, combining work and living spaces to create a more holistic and sustainable environment. To gain insights into this transformation, I sat down with Mr Chew Peet Mun, Managing Director of CapitaLand Development, at the Lynden Woods Condo – one of the newest developments catering to this concept.
The Lynden Woods Condo, developed by CapitaLand, is a perfect example of this transformation. Located within the one-north district, Singapore’s science and technology hub, the development offers a mix of residential units, retail spaces, and office spaces. The concept is not entirely new, as many science parks around the world have started incorporating residential spaces. However, what sets Lynden Woods apart is the integration of homes with the natural environment, creating a tranquil and serene living space within the bustling city.
The transformation of science parks into integrated communities also addresses the growing concern of the carbon footprint and sustainability. “By bringing in residential spaces, we can reduce the need for people to commute to work, thus reducing carbon emissions,” Mr Chew noted. The Lynden Woods Condo has an eco-friendly design, with energy-saving features, and promotes green mobility, with charging points for electric cars and bicycle parking lots. The development also has a rainwater harvesting system, which caters to the needs of the surrounding greenery, reducing the use of potable water.
One of the challenges faced in transforming science parks into integrated communities is the need for a delicate balance between work and living spaces. “We have to ensure that the living spaces are not too close to the workspaces, so residents can have their privacy, and the noise and activities from the science park do not disrupt their daily lives,” Mr Chew explained. The layout and design of the Lynden Woods Condo take this into consideration, with the residential units located in a separate block, away from the office and retail spaces.