As one drives along Dunearn Road towards the site, lush foliage frames a verdant passage leading to a stunning entrance: a rhythmic steel pavilion draped with hanging creepers that are bathed golden during sunset. Welcome to Temasek Club; a sanctuary for Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) regulars, Full-time National Service and National Service officers to relax within the natural surrounds.

Designed by DP Architects (DPA), its architectural scheme was constantly mindful of the establishment’s military context and was careful to imbue the design with nuances of formality and grandiosity. This was addressed right from the outset of the clubhouse. Reinterpreting the main entrance courtyard as a military parade square, it features a line of columns anchoring the façades of the facing blocks.

Throughout, their design intention bore in mind the existing tree clusters within the site. This they demonstrated by nestling 11 guesthouse villas within them. Perched on an elevated deck to protect the trees and the terrain, the immersive experience within the villas of being surrounded by the lush landscape is truly breath-taking. Composed using a palette of natural materials, the guesthouses offer an exclusive retreat among the greenery from the typically dense urban environment of Singapore.

How architecture and interior design march as one

Enlisted to help realise the interior aesthetics of the clubhouse, we worked closely with the architecture team and took great care to draw nature into the interiors, creating lush spaces that are intimately connected with its verdant surrounds. Full height glazing at the restaurant and guesthouses proffer expansive views of the landscape beyond. The material palette mixes warm copper tones with neutral dusky greys to complement the greenery. The interior design also complements the architectural intent holistically. This is most evident in the way its gold colour accents throughout the space is reminiscent of the Temasek Club emblem.

Through the thoughtful design of the architecture, interior and landscaping, we achieved the difficult task of providing an idyllic retreat without spoiling its natural backdrop with the Temasek Club. Instead, the club completes the landscape by being a perfect complement from which to enjoy it.