Nanyang Technological University

Projects 2024

Urban Vein

Outstanding Social Critique Winner

Bao Hanyu, Kee Kaixuan, Joshua Dato On

The Urban Vein is a fictional landmark planned as a sustainable footbridge across Singapore, illustrating an ideal ecosophical state. The footbridge not only replaces significant parts of the old city center but also creates another biophilic paradox. This paradox echoes the current green bioeconomy ethos, which often prioritizes human-centricity while turning green initiatives into covert hyper-capitalist ventures. The project critiques the commodification of sustainable efforts and current adaptation of the biophilic design paradigm while appealing to biodesign’s potential to dismantle superficial human interventions, hoping to initiate reflection and action in places devoid of it. 

Phage Nasus

Lim Hui Qi, Martin Antonia Renee, Ye Si Qi

Phage Nasus focuses on the use of bacteriophage nasal spray to combat the rising antibiotic resistance crisis. The project’s primary aim is to introduce bacteriophage as a potential future treatment for Singaporeans who may be skeptical about using a living organism for medical purposes. The project also addresses improper application of common nasal spray bottles, leading to ineffective application and wastage of medicine. The project aims to raise awareness about the growing antibiotic resistance crisis and promote the responsible use of antibiotics.

Ecozen

Wu Yusheng, Heng Teng Shuen, Liu Jiahang

Ecozen is a garden showcasing bio-concrete living walls, harmoniously blending native greenery into Singapore's Housing & Development Board (HDB) areas. Ecozen aims to transform unused green spaces within HDB estates to improve comfort in Singapore's hot weather and elevate overall quality of life. The project’s mission is to cultivate a stronger bond between the community and native plants, enriching the local environment and fostering a sense of connection within the neighborhood with Ecozen.

Veronica Ranner is an artist, designer, and educator based in Singapore and Munich. Her research and practice specialise in emerging (bio)technologies, biodesign, biofabrication, systems design, and experimental, transdisciplinary approaches across design, science, society, and ecology. Veronica Ranner is an Assistant Professor at the School of Art, Design and Media at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU ADM), where she teaches and researches transversal approaches to product and interaction design. She also directs the Polyphonic Futures Lab at NTU ADM, focusing on bio-digital imaginaries and collective futures, as well as their socio-technical implications in a more-than-human world.