DPA Associate Jonathan Christian Chin wins the URA REDAS SPARK Challenge 2021 with his installation, Park Yourself

When asked what was the inspiration behind Park Yourself, Jonathan Christian Chin shared, “The genesis of the concept really began with the question of: How can we design an installation in a public space to bring people together in a pandemic situation while maintaining social distancing?” The final design, conceived in collaboration with Jonathan’s wife, Pearlyn Chang, was envisioned as a vibrant playground that generates activity through interactive play. Its bright and boldly coloured frames beckons passers-by to stop and interact with it while presenting a perfectly quirky Instagram-friendly place and opportunity for shared moments.

The design proposal was crafted in response to the theme of the 2021 URA-REDAS SPARK Challenge, ‘Enlivening Public Spaces’. Jointly launched by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and the Real Estate Developers’ Association of Singapore (REDAS), the challenge’s objective in this 3^rd Edition was to create well-loved public spaces that provide opportunities for bonding and interaction. Participants with shortlisted ideas would be given the opportunity to produce prototypes that would be installed on the subject sites.

The installation’s playful scheme of People “Parking Lots” sought to engage passers-by in various play and rest positions. This is thoughtfully articulated through the clever combination of Instagram-able quality and white board features; both work in synergy to effectively draw-in passers-by and encourage creative self-expression. The design proposal placed the couple among the top five finalists in the 2021 URA REDAS Spark Challenge and the prototype was first installed at Paya Lebar Quarter until 30^th April 2022.

By activating a social media presence, Park Yourself served as a tool for marketing the heart of Paya Lebar. Already a public art sculpture in itself with its colourful frames, Park Yourself was also an emblem associated with the vibrant Paya Lebar district. The creative way in which the design scheme responded to the theme and elevated the potential of public spaces to bridge and increase social interactions and cohesion, saw Jonathan and Pearlyn take home the title of overall winner out of the five chosen finalist projects. A favourite among both the young and old, Park Yourself also won in the “Popular Choice” category; a further testament to its design excellence, sensitivity and accessibility.

The award ceremony was held at the central atrium in Marina Square on Friday, 29^th April with Second Minister for National Development and Manpower, Ms Indranee Rajah, as the Guest of Honour. Park Yourself is fully installed at the Marina Square Outdoor Terrace next to Pororo Park.

Follow @park.yourself on Instagram.