The Founders’ Memorial is conceived as an embodiment of the founding values of Singapore and an expression of the shared legacy and common inheritance of its people. The memorial will convey an understanding of the nation’s foundation and history and offer a positive and inclusive vision of the future.
The design seeks to convey a sense of joy and optimism, with the crucible form representing the unity of the Singaporean people based upon the four founding cultures. At the top, 30m above ground level, a circular viewing gallery 80m in diameter offers panoramic views of the city’s skyline. The principal building accommodation is positioned at ground and lower ground and envelops the base of the crucible.
A spiralling ramp invites the visitor on a sequential journey, with six external galleries integrated into the route. The galleries provide opportunities to reflect upon Singapore’s founding values, with each representing one of the six layers of ‘Total Defence’ protecting and harnessing the nation state: military, civil, economic, social, psychological and digital.
The built form will be integrated into the landscape, providing sculpture gardens within a gently terraced landform. The design creates a place of celebration and reflection that provides for both the individual and the collective.
