Once a cemetery, now a cherished woodland, Bidadari Park stands as a powerful testament to how thoughtful landscape design, architectural sensitivity and innovative engineering can converge to honour heritage while nurturing ecological vitality. Amid urbanization, the challenge lies in balancing development with the preservation of Bidadari’s natural and historical heritage, ensuring it remains a thriving, sustainable sanctuary for future generations.
Located at the heart of the new Bidadari public housing estate, the 13-hectare park is envisioned as an accessible, resident-centric heritage destination. To enhance its appeal, the park integrates place- making and active mobility strategies that support a growing young community and promotes active living.
Supporting over 193 wildlife species, Bidadari Park is a beacon for biodiversity conservation in an urban area. Key wildlife refuges are preserved within the original woodlands: 84% of mature trees
were retained, and over 170 species of native plants added. Green corridors and buffer zones enhance ecological connectivity, supporting larger ecosystems and biodiversity, underscoring Bidadari’s significance.
Strategic land sculpting integrated water-sensitive urban design across the lake, managing flood tendencies by storing water and creating aquatic habitats that support wildlife. These nature-based solutions integrate environmental conservation with infrastructure ecological, recreational, and educational benefits while promoting sustainability and climate resilience.
The 1.8-hectare Alkaff Lake is multifunctional drainage infrastructure, capturing and cleansing over 90% of stormwater, crucial for sustainable water management. Sensitive sculpting around the existing rain tree creates an iconic Rain Tree Island lake that temporarily holds up to 40,000 cubic meters of stormwater during heavy rain and offers a recreational space on dry days. The difference in landscape levels and need for a retention pond resulted in distinctive features like Alkaff Lake, Ficus streams and cascades for public enjoyment.
Ephemeral and permanent marshlands with varying water depths support diverse flora and fauna, contributing to a resilient ecosystem. On-site materials are salvaged and repurposed, e.g. excavated clay used as a natural pond liners. Felled trees, snags and boulders are used as habitat features for various species. Observation decks, sheds, and pavilions offer rest and wildlife observation spaces, reminiscent of the site’s birdwatching experience. Improved access and enhanced woodlands make Bidadari a birdwatching haven where stewardship and citizen science converge.
A land bridge links Bidadari Park to the hillock, planted with curated species and flanked with greenery, enhancing access and serving as a habitat corridor for birds and butterflies. The transformation of Upper Aljunied Road into Sang Nila Utama Boulevard connects the community to Bidadari’s history. Storyboards showcase its heritage, highlighting stories that shaped their neighbourhood.
Inspired by Bidadari’s woodlands and birdlife, Adventure Playwoods offers creative play amid nature, engaging visitors of all ages and promoting interaction with natural elements and environmental stewardship.
With focus on environmental stewardship, resource conservation, and enhancing urban quality of life, Bidadari Park stands as a model for future sustainable integrated developments where nature, heritage, and community thrive together.
Client: Housing & Development Board (HDB), National Heritage Board (NHB), National Parks Board (NParks), National Water Agency PUB
Lead Consultant in Multidisciplinary Team: CPG Consultants
Landscape Architecture: Henning Larsen
Architecture: CPG Consultants
Civil & Structural Engineering: CPG Consultants
Environmental Engineering and ABC Waters Professional Engineer: CPG Consultants
Water Sensitive Urban Design: Ramboll Waters and Henning Larsen
Main Contractor: Expand-Landscape Engineering Joint Venture
Mechanical & Electrical Engineering: CPG Consultants and BECA
Project Management: CPG Consultants
Quantity Surveyor: AECOM
Signage and Wayfinding: CPG Consultants and Henning Larsen
Site Supervisory Team: Construction Professional
Photo credits: Finbarr Fallon
