Image (TA.LE studio interior)

SG Mark 2026

City in Nature - Changi Airport Terminal 1 Transit East

As one of the world’s most celebrated airports, Changi Airport is not only a vital international gateway but also a powerful symbol of Singapore’s identity as a “City in Nature.”

Status

Completed 2025

Location

Tanjong Pagar, Singapore

Type

Commercial

Recognition

SG Mark 2026

A new chapter for Changi Airport Terminal 1’s transit area

Rooted in biophilic design, the project brings nature indoors to enhance passenger wellbeing, ease travel stress, and improve spatial flow. Inspired by the tree—one of Singapore’s most enduring symbols—the design translates its organic forms into soaring columns, canopy-like structures, and the branch-inspired ceiling of the Canopy Dining zone.

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Beyond aesthetics, these elements create a calming and immersive environment, transforming a busy transit space into a moment of serenity and connection to nature. Through the integration of function and storytelling, the design reflects Singapore’s identity as a Garden City, even within the heart of a bustling airport.

Image (Tay Yanling, TA.LE Architects Founding Partner)

The Principle of Biophilic Design at TA.LE

Biophilic design is central to our approach, connecting people with nature to enhance well-being, reduce stress, and create more meaningful spaces. As cities grow denser, integrating nature into the built environment is essential to creating healthier, more resilient and liveable futures.

In Singapore, this philosophy naturally reflects the Garden City vision. Changi Terminal 1 brings it to life through tree-like columns, branch-inspired ceilings, and nature-inspired materials that introduce the calm and rhythm of nature into a busy transit environment.

More than an aesthetic approach, the design creates moments of stillness, clarity and connection—transforming the journey through the airport into a more calming and human experience.

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Gallery

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Image (TA.LE studio interior)

SG Mark 2026

City in Nature - Changi Airport Terminal 1 Transit East

As one of the world’s most celebrated airports, Changi Airport is not only a vital international gateway but also a powerful symbol of Singapore’s identity as a “City in Nature.”

Status

Completed 2025

Location

Tanjong Pagar, Singapore

Type

Commercial

Recognition

SG Mark 2026

Atrium Transformation - Inspired by Nature, Designed for Community

At the heart of the Asset Enhancement Initiative is the transformation of the mall’s central atrium into a vibrant social destination. Drawing inspiration from lily pads floating across a pond, a series of organically shaped dining pods are introduced to create intimate gathering spaces within the expansive volume of the atrium.

The Principle of Biophilic Design at TA.LE

Biophilic design is central to our approach, connecting people with nature to enhance well-being, reduce stress, and create more meaningful spaces. As cities grow denser, integrating nature into the built environment is essential to creating healthier, more resilient and liveable futures.

In Singapore, this philosophy naturally reflects the Garden City vision. Changi Terminal 1 brings it to life through tree-like columns, branch-inspired ceilings, and nature-inspired materials that introduce the calm and rhythm of nature into a busy transit environment.

More than an aesthetic approach, the design creates moments of stillness, clarity and connection—transforming the journey through the airport into a more calming and human experience.

​

Gallery

RELATED PROJECTS

CAG T1 Transit East

Architecture | Commercial | 2026

Eurokars Headquarters Singapore

Interior

No. 81 Joo Chiat Road Shop-House

Architecture | Commercial | 2017