NUS HIGH SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE

Narratives

SETTING A NEW PARADIGM

Capitalising on topography:A mid-level planning strategy

The design creatively takes advantage of the sloping terrain using a mid-level strategy. The main entrance is located on the third storey, thereby reducing the scale of the six-storey building, making it appear only four storeys from Clementi Avenue 1. Large communal facilities such as the library and canteen are tucked under one end of the track and field, freeing up valuable ground space for other facilities within a very tight site.

The Concourse is the main circulation thoroughfare and it is the organising element from which three learning clusters branch out. It defines the edge of the academic blocks facing the track and field and hostel, and serves as the social hub of the school where students and teachers can congregate.

In line with the mid-level strategy, all science laboratories are clustered and strung along the concourse on the third storey, same level as the entrance. This creates a datum within the campus and reinforces the importance of science within the curriculum.

Transmitting knowledge: School as a three-dimensional learning tool

The design philosophy envisions the building components of the school taking on the role of teaching tools. This concept explores the innovative use of elements abstracted from scientific and mathematical concepts, which are then integrated into the total built form.

Many concepts were explored in the design of the school. Ideas include extracting the dynamic form of a double helix from the structure of DNA, and interpreting it into the form of an abstracted ‘nano tube stairway’ at the entry lobby. The main entrance ‘Periodic Façade’ was designed as an abstract version of the periodic table, with different parts of the elevation relating to different groups of elements. The “Pi Wall” defines the edge of the main concourse facing the track and field. It is derived from the mathematical concept of Pi, and consists of a mosaic of rectangular perforated aluminium panels that are translated into the decimal digits of Pi through a number-coded colour system.

The Eco-Learning Trail allows students to learn about natural habitats and natural processes. It meanders its way through the courtyards in-between teaching blocks, along the main concourse. The aquatic and eco systems, flora and fauna provide students with real life examples, enriching their total learning experience.

Fostering community: School as a social hub

The masterplan aims to create a student-focused campus that is inter-connected and conducive for student interaction. Designed as an open campus, clear zoning between Academia, Living and Sports ensures proper passive security and safety. The school and hostel are distinct yet connected. The canteen and library are co-located to form a social arena. The landscaped courtyards of the eco-learning trail soften in-between spaces and encourage spillover activities.

Supporting learning: flexibility

Flexibility is integrated into the design of high school in order to support learning and accommodate changing pedagogies. The Concourse is designed as an open-concept, flexible space that can accommodate a variety of uses ranging from exhibition gallery, study corners, learning pods, science fairs and mathematics Olympiads. Classroom blocks are arranged in clusters to facilitate organisation by grade levels, department or multi-disciplinary. Individual classrooms are also designed to allow different layout configurations to accommodate different modes of learning.

Educator Narrative