dk@dkoutsource.com
Workplaces in Singapore are evolving beyond traditional office setups. They are now being created as places of cultural connection, encouraging people from all walks of life to collaborate on new ideas while supporting their overall wellbeing. The Discovery Den, located within Sentosa, is a clear example of this transformation.
Having once been a decommissioned kitchen, the site has been redeveloped into a vibrant workplace hub. The thing that makes the Discovery Den unique is its employee‑driven design process. Through creative design workshops, staff from the Sentosa Development Corporation were able to contribute directly to the vision of the new hub. With this participatory approach, it was ensured that the final design was not only functional, but also responsive to the needs of the employees themselves, inclusive of everyone who visits the Den.
In recognition of transforming a former kitchen into a sustainable, employee‑centric workplace rooted in heritage and wellbeing, Aspacio Design Associates received the Singapore Good Design Award (SG Mark) in the Spatial Design category. This accolade celebrates their creativity and vision, setting a new benchmark for sustainable workplace design in Singapore.
Design Concept and Spatial Experience
In order to create a calming environment, biophilic principles, natural light, and greenery were integrated into its design. Repurposed kayaks and luge equipment are thoughtfully incorporated into the interiors, reflecting Sentosa’s coastal heritage and recreational identity. With various heritage artworks displayed on the walls, the space also gives the vibe of Singapore’s local culture which then gives employees a sense of place and belonging.
Additionally, a hybrid cooling system was introduced to balance comfort with sustainability, reducing energy consumption while maintaining a pleasant environment. This thoughtful design reflects a broader commitment to eco‑conscious design and adaptive reuse.
Functionality and Flexibility
The Discovery Den was created as a multi-purpose space designed to meet the diverse and evolving needs of the workplace. Easily accommodating large meetings and town halls, the space has been built to hold informal gatherings and cultural events. Not only does it have a space for these gatherings, but there are quiet zones for focused work and collaborative areas for team-based projects. This adaptability positions the Discovery Den as a central destination for both productivity and community building, providing employees with an environment that evolves alongside the way they work.
Picture from https://sgmark.org
Sustainability and Wellbeing
Like many construction projects today, sustainability was a core consideration throughout the planning and building processes. Existing materials were thoughtfully repurposed to minimise waste and demonstrated the principles of circular design. The use of natural elements and flexible spatial arrangements helps support creativity, comfort, and the overall wellbeing of those using the hub.
By encouraging interaction, collaboration, and social connection, the Discovery Den supports a stronger workplace culture, bringing more productivity. More than just a functional workspace, it is an environment designed to nurture both people and the planet.
Development and Coordination
Like many innovative projects, the Discovery Den required close coordination between designers, engineers, and the client. Serving as the consultant quantity surveyors, our consultant QS team at DK worked alongside Aspacio Design Associates and Sentosa Development Corporation to navigate these technical and financial requirements.
The participatory workshops meant that the design intent had to be continuously aligned with technical feasibility and budget considerations. Adjustments were evaluated not only from a design perspective but also in terms of sustainability and long‑term adaptability.
Accessibility and Long‑Term Flexibility
Ensuring that the hub remains welcoming and usable for all employees, the redevelopment was guided by Singapore’s accessibility and inclusive design standards. Energy‑efficient systems, repurposed materials, and low‑maintenance solutions were integrated throughout. The hub was also designed to accommodate future changes in workplace culture and technology. Flexible furniture systems and modular layouts allow areas to be reconfigured with minimal structural intervention, ensuring adaptability over time.
A New Chapter for Sentosa
The Discovery Den is a testament to the successful partnership between Aspacio Design Associates and Sentosa Development Corporation. Through a participatory design process that actively involved employees, the project introduces a forward‑thinking model of workplace innovation that is collaborative, sustainable, and deeply rooted in Sentosa’s identity.
More than an office, the Discovery Den represents a new chapter of a workplace design in Singapore. demonstrating how adaptive reuse, sustainability, and employee engagement can converge to create a workplace that is both inspiring and future‑ready. It stands as a cultural and environmental expression of Sentosa’s unique character and long‑term vision.
