The century-old St James Power station in Singapore, is the site of many engineering firsts. It’s legacy of innovation continues today as Dyson has reinvented this historic national monument, into its new global HQ. People and ideas are now the engines that will power future growth in a space designed to support Dyson’s culture of innovation. 

A destination for people & innovation
At its heart is a dramatic four-story space, the former Turbine Hall, now offers people a comfortable agile work destination. Inspired by the quadrangles of academic campuses, this space serves as a circulation hub, connecting all departments. An inner sanctum embracing nature, and a community space for people to meet, share and socialise. 

Within and surrounding the hall break-out areas for collaboration, quieter spaces for focus, and an amphitheater for shared experiences encourage communication, experimentation, and constant learning. 

Functionality first
This project is driven by a campus-like masterplan that provides a spatial framework within the existing heritage architecture. Strategically planned, the design addresses different needs from a broad range of teams, like R&D to operations. The result is a rational layout that is sensitive to the historic fabric whilst providing a functional arrangement of engineered new additions.

Human and environmental sustainability
Being people centered, Dyson’s HQ is a wholly sustainable campus. Non-toxic materials, circadian lighting and integrated biophilia all support Wellness at work. Strategic acoustics enhance focus and work settings are planned to access limited outdoor views. Sit-stand desks and fully adjustable furniture offer comfort, versatility and accessibility. A range of amenities support physical and emotional wellbeing. 

With a Green mark platinum credit, smart building tech, energy reduction strategies and resource stewardship, this project goes a long way to achieving carbon net-zero. As a defunct building sensitively repurposed it offers a rare exemplar in the region of architectural reuse and urban sustainability. 

Inspiration through design
The many challenges of an old industrial building have been addressed by creative responses, like the History walk and the private dining in a redundant chimney stack. 

Material use offers distinctiveness, context and meaning. Concrete floors and black metal speak of the past, while technical materials like polycarbonate, metal mesh and mirrored cladding announce the new programming. The latter providing a sense of purpose and architectural identity within the campus.

 Referencing the buildings and Dyson’s heritage with the form of turbines and with the silhouette of a drill bit, is the striking metal staircase. This engineered installation provides the most inspiring design moment. On entering the Turbine Hall, employees are reminded of the importance of function and beauty and the buildings new revitalized purpose; generating design and engineering innovation.

Video: https://www.dyson.com.sg/newsroom/dyson-spaces