Design Asia Editor
St James Power Station, a historic landmark in Singapore, has undergone a remarkable transformation that showcases the perfect blend of heritage and innovation. Built in 1927 as a coal-fired electric power station, it has been restored and refurbished by W Architects in collaboration with Studio Lapis. Today, it stands as the global headquarters for Dyson, a multinational tech company known for its cutting-edge technology and design.
The restoration of St James Power Station was not limited to turning it into just another office space. Dyson recognized its significance as a national monument and decided to embrace the building’s monumental status. The resulting design, in collaboration with M Moser Associates, caters to the needs of approximately 650 employees and incorporates various work settings.
One of the design highlights of the space is the central atrium, which acts as the heart of the building. It serves as a campus quadrangle, seamlessly blending new interventions such as helical stairs and an auditorium with the historical fabric of the power station. The design approach for the office was driven by the desire to work with the building’s heritage, rather than against it. Every aspect, from zoning the spaces to selecting finishes and furniture, was carefully chosen to complement the existing structure and revitalize the power station.
Dyson’s global headquarters required special considerations in conceptualizing the design. The focus was on creating a sense of identity and community within the space, ensuring that both employees and visitors feel connected to the Dyson culture and shared goals. The History Walk, a prominent feature of the office, commemorates Dyson’s history and heritage, while the Dyson Technology Showcase celebrates the company’s latest technological achievements. Additionally, the office includes an auditorium and café to bring the Dyson community together in a shared space.
Flexibility was a key factor in ensuring that the office remains future-ready. The design prioritized agility and adaptability, allowing for easy modifications to accommodate different activities and changing needs. Moveable partitions and furniture arrangements enable employees to alter physical layouts according to their immediate requirements.
In addition to the office space, St James Power Station now offers a heritage trail accessible to the public. Mapletree Investments, the landlord, took the initiative to design this trail to celebrate the building’s roots and maintain a connection with the community. The trail features eight points of interest, including original artifacts displayed both outdoors and in an indoor gallery. The intention is to tell the story of the power station’s history in a thematic and engaging manner, inviting visitors to bond with the architecture.
The transformation of St James Power Station represents a forward-thinking approach to heritage preservation. While honoring the building’s past, the heritage trail and Dyson’s occupancy breathe new life into the space, allowing it to evolve with the 21st century. As part of Singapore’s Greater Southern Waterfront, St James Power Station stands as a symbol of progress and a catalyst for future growth and innovation.
Through the restoration and innovative design of St James Power Station, Dyson and the collaborative teams have successfully transformed a historic landmark into a vibrant and dynamic workspace that embraces the spirit of heritage and innovation.
