Tips & Resources
Tips & Resources

Local Flair

One of the biggest draws of an overseas university is the chance to live the romantic dream – studying in a big hall out of a Harry Potter film, or hallways and classes resembling those described in modern literature.

But that experience isn't limited to universities in other countries! There are plenty of architectural curios in our local institutions as well, so take a (second) look and feast your eyes.
The Hive, NTU

The Hive, Nanyang Technological University Photo was taken by Supanut Arunoprayote, featured on Wikipedia Commons

Opened in 2015, Learning Hub South – The Hive was designed by famous British designer Thomas Heatherwick and demonstrates innovative design and the university's commitment to sustainability. Called “the dim sum baskets” for its resemblance to the steamers used for that ubiquitous Chinese dish, the Hive is not only striking – it employs a variety of energy-saving, “green” technologies to reduce its carbon footprint.



School of Art, Design and Media, NTU

School of Art, Design and Media, NTU Photo from Wikipedia Commons

The Hive is not only piece of stunning architecture in NTU. Another iconic campus building is the School of Art, Design and Media (ADM) Building, with its recognisable twining green roofs. The three verdant roofs enclose a single plaza for a unique, eye-catching and eco-friendly design. Sometimes, you can spot students having a walk up the roof, or even eating lunch on one of the lawns!



The School of Design & Environment 4, NUS

The School of Design & Environment 4, National University of Singapore Photo from NUS

Though it might look like any other campus building, the School of Design & Environment 4 (SDE4) prides itself on being the first new-build, net-zero-energy building in Singapore. Serie Architects and Multiply Architects worked together to create this design school featuring breezy open-air learning spaces. The building emphasises connection with the outdoors through connected platforms and boxes that open up to the wider environment.



McNally Campus, LASALLE

McNally Campus, LASALLE College of the Arts Photo by William on Flickr

LASALLE College of the Arts has a campus that reflects its aesthetic – powerful, ponderous and full of character. The iconic McNally campus is a landmark of the Rochor area, and proud to be part of Singapore's Urban Redevelopment Authority zoning of an Arts, Culture, Learning and Entertainment hub. The inside is as eclectic as the outside, with art exhibition and gallery spaces, set production workshops, computer labs, classrooms and studios.



SMU Campus Green, SMU

SMU Campus Green, Singapore Management University Photo was taken by Hong Huazheng, featured on Wikipedia Commons

Aware of its place as one of the few universities within a city, SMU made a concerted effort to revive the “Bras Basah spirit” through SMU Campus Green. This included a centralised CCA space, a fitness centre, an outdoor jogging track, and a new amphitheatre that serves as a focal point of student and community-engagement activities. It's a sight for sore eyes as well, boasting two sculptures – “97.5° Arc x 8” by artist Bernar Venet (pictured) and “Sitting on History” by Bill Woodrow.



Duke-NUS Medical School, Khoo Teck Puat Building

Duke-NUS Medical School, Khoo Teck Puat Building Photo by Koh Sze Kiat

Ever since 2009, the welcoming archway of Duke-NUS Medical School has been accepting students into its hallowed doors. With its signature reddish façade, the building gives us a vibe both comfortable and solemn. This suits its position as Singapore's only US-style graduate entry medical school, where students learn from both Duke University in North Carolina and our local NUS.