Supertrees

The Supertrees are a fusion of nature, art and technology and, as such, are emblematic of the masterplan approach.  They are at one level spectacular vertical gardens and landmark features, at another they are the environmental engines for the Cooled Conservatories incorporating devices for water harvesting and storage, air intake, cooling and exhaust, photovoltaic arrays and solar collectors.

There are a total of 18 Supertrees ranging from 25 to 50 metres in height.  12 are situated in the Supertree Grove while the remaining 6 are placed in clusters of three near the Arrival Square and Dragonfly Lake.

Each Supertree is comprised of 4 major parts created in collaboration with structural engineers Atelier One.  At the core is a reinforced concrete column which provides the inner vertical structure.  Around the core a steel frame forms the trunk which flows outward to form a canopy shaped like an inverted umbrella.  During construction the canopies were assembled at ground level and then hoisted via a hydraulic jack system.  The final element is the attachment of planting panels, either within the steel skin or directly onto the concrete core.   These panels are then planted in-situ to create the living skin for each Supertree.

During the day the Supertree canopies provide shade and shelter.  At night the Supertrees come alive with lighting and projected media that activate the city skyline.  The Supertree Grove includes a 128 metre long aerial walkway, 22 metres above ground level.  The 50 metre Supertree has a treetop bar offering a panoramic view of the Gardens and surrounding Marina Bay area.

Given the relatively short time span to create a garden from reclaimed land, the Supertrees provide an immediate scale and dimension to the Gardens while marrying the form and function of mature trees.  They also create height to balance the current and future tall developments in the Marina Bay area.