What is 4D Singapore? The Singapore Exchange and World Wide Web (SWAW) have recently come up with a new term to encapsulate the latest innovation in Singapore's innovation-fueled economy; the "4D" Singaporean Pool. Singaporean pools, a combination of waterslides, architecture, and themed attractions, are a unique blend of art and technology. The winning concept was originally developed by a team from the Design Institute of Singapore (DIIS), who studied the economics and psychology of people in corporate environments.
In Singapore, the word "pool" conjures up visions of a lazy pool beside the pond in front of the hotel or a shady lane by the beach. While this may be the case for some, it is not always the case. Most importantly, a pool in any location in Singapore should be an environment that promotes healthy activity, be it water sports, games, or simply relaxing by the fire. This goes for both indoor and outdoor pools. A good pool environment should provide a space in which members can engage in physical and mental activities as well as socializing.
The Design Institute of Singapore however, believes that its Singaporean version of the environment should be more than just a pool. More to the point, it should be a "smart pool", a pool that utilizes its surroundings and the technology that is available to it in order to create a stimulating experience that challenges conventional assumptions about pool design. For one, such a tool should be able to respond to its surroundings. It should be able to change its configuration based on the current weather and environmental conditions and thus, accommodate different types of activities.
This calls for various types of pool equipment such as lighting systems, water pumps, skimmers, and filters. More significantly, it also calls for the integration of such technology as part of its design. One example is the use of LED lights to enhance the general atmosphere inside the pool - a factor that helps to make the pool more enjoyable to swim in.
Of course, one cannot talk enough about the role of innovation and development when it comes to such a project. Innovative thinking and new technologies must always find a way into the design and layout of any project - especially one as important as the one mentioned here. It is no different with what is called for in Singapore. And innovation and development in the field of architecture and other fields are needed more than ever.
However, innovation does not just stop at the technological front. It also involves strategic thinking and business acumen. A good business plan will therefore take this into account and give careful attention to the environment in which the building will be constructed. After all, Singapore's success so far is a good testimony to Singapore's capacity to become creative and develop new ideas even in something as important as an urban park.
