Recall the Collective Memories of Kampong Gelam

“Collective Memories of Kampong Gelam” unfolds as a quiet, contemplative passage designed by Super Fuse Collective for Archifest 2023, hosted by the Singapore Institute of Architects. The installation explores how architecture can preserve cultural identity while guiding visitors through a sensorial experience of space, memory, and movement.

Recall the Collective Memories of Kampong Gelam as you journey through this open-ended space.

Designed by Super Fuse Collective, this installation invites visitors to pause between past and future — an interstitial moment where conservation, renewal, and the living heritage of Kampong Gelam meet.

Crafted with Accoya timber and Calvary Composite decking, the structure reflects our commitment to craftsmanship and to showcasing the full potential of our materials in thoughtful placemaking and long-term public installations. Accoya, a modified Radiata Pine, is available in long, continuous profiles of up to 4.8 metres, with custom lengths reaching 7 metres upon request. This allows us to build tall, seamless structures without visible joints, giving the installation its clean, uninterrupted silhouette.

To honour the cultural heritage of Kampong Gelam, we CNC-milled a series of historically inspired motifs directly into the timber panels. These intricate patterns introduce a delicate, handcrafted quality to the space, transforming the passageway into a refined, immersive installation that bridges tradition and contemporary design.

Proudly installed by Calvary Carpentry for Archifest, as part of the AF Installations programme supported by URA’s Lively Places Fund.