Flood resilience
The barrage protects Singapore’s urban core by regulating stormwater, using gates and pumps to manage excess flows during heavy rain and high tides.
Markets
A 600-acre reservoir to control flooding
We worked with Singapore’s Public Utilities Board to create a solution for the 100 inches of rain the city receives annually. The solution was a 350-meter-long low-level dam, known as a barrage. Depending on tide levels, the gates either release excess marina flow or utilize the pumping station – capable of pumping up to 280 cubic meters per second. The barrage and pumping station also constantly provide stable water levels in a new 240-hectare freshwater reservoir within downtown Singapore.
Increased water supply
The project creates a 240-hectare freshwater reservoir, increasing Singapore’s water supply by collecting rainwater from the city.
Public recreations
The design incorporates a botanical park, visitor center, public rooftop, scenic views and recreational facilities—transforming infrastructure into a daily-use destination.
Sustainable design
It features a 70-kW solar system—the largest of its kind in Singapore—on a green roof that supplies renewable energy, demonstrating advanced integration of architecture and the environment.
The Marina Barrage is not just an impressive technical achievement. During its design, our team prioritized striking a careful balance between form and function. The two-story visitor center is located in a botanical park setting and includes many recreational features that are open to the public, including a circular glass theater and turf grass rooftops on the pumping station, visitor center and power station. Visitors can walk from the park, around the facility and up two ramps to take in cityscape views from the roof and across the barrage. It showcases Singapore’s significant environmental accomplishments, offering films, exhibits and even refreshments.
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