AI for Architecture | Architecture | Interior | Revit | Space design

Nature-Based Solutions in Landscape Architecture: Bishan–Ang Mo Kio Park, Singapore

Introduction: Why Nature-Based Solutions Matter

Cities today face climate change, urban flooding, and biodiversity loss. Traditional “grey infrastructure”—concrete drains, pipes, and flood canals—may solve one problem but often create others, from heat islands to ecological decline.

This is where Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) step in. NBS use ecosystems—wetlands, rain gardens, bioswales, green roofs—not only to manage water but to enhance biodiversity, improve human health, and strengthen urban resilience.

A landmark example is Bishan–Ang Mo Kio Park in Singapore—a project that transformed a lifeless concrete canal into a vibrant, living river system that benefits both people and nature.

The Challenge: Grey Infrastructure in a Growing City

The Kallang River, once a straight, 2.7 km concrete canal, was designed only to drain stormwater quickly. While functional, it had major limitations:

Cut off people from nature and water.
Offered no ecological value.
Costly to maintain over time.
Could not adapt to the increasing rainfall intensity from climate change.

Singapore, a dense urban nation with limited land, needed a smarter way to manage water without sacrificing green spaces.

The Bold Solution: A River Reborn

Instead of expanding the canal, Singapore’s PUB (National Water Agency) and NParks (National Parks Board) partnered with Ramboll Studio Dreiseitl to reimagine the river as a living system.

Key Design Strategies:

1. River Naturalization

The concrete channel was replaced with a 3.2 km meandering river.

Riverbanks were reshaped into gentle slopes, allowing water to rise naturally during storms.

2. Soil Bioengineering

Over 10 different eco-engineering techniques were tested to stabilize banks with plants instead of concrete.
Native vegetation prevents erosion while creating habitats for birds and insects.

3. Cleansing Biotope

Specially designed wetlands filter stormwater through aquatic plants.

Improves water quality naturally and supports recreational water features.

4. Dynamic Floodplain

During dry weather: narrow streams where families picnic and play.

During heavy rain: river swells up to 100m wide, safely carrying stormwater.

5. Community-Centric Design

Features like “Recycle Hill” (built from old canal concrete) educate visitors about sustainability.

Stepping stones, boardwalks, and river terraces encourage interaction with water.

The Impact: More Than Just a Park

Flood Resilience

Increased river capacity by ~40%

Protects surrounding neighborhoods from urban flooding

Biodiversity Boost

30% increase in species richness
Home to otters, 66 wildflower species, 59 bird species, and 22 dragonfly species

Community Benefits

~6 million visitors annually
Park transformed into a wellness, recreation, and learning hub

Economic Value

15% cheaper than rebuilding the canal
Increased property values and reduced maintenance costs

Lessons for Architects and Planners

1. Work with Nature, Not Against It

Mimicking natural systems is often more cost-effective and resilient.

2. Design for Multi-Functionality

One system can manage floods, improve biodiversity, and create public amenities.

3. Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration

Success required water engineers, landscape architects, ecologists, and urban planners working together.

4. Community Engagement Matters

When people feel connected to natural systems, they become better stewards of their cities.

Global Relevance

Bishan–Ang Mo Kio Park is now a global benchmark in NBS. Cities facing urban flooding, such as Jakarta, Mumbai, New Orleans, and Bangkok, are looking at similar solutions.

As climate risks grow, NBS will be central to the future of sustainable cities. They are not just “green trends”—they are core infrastructure that protects, heals, and inspires.
The Ripple Effect: Benefits & Outcomes

Conclusion

The transformation of Bishan–Ang Mo Kio Park is proof that when architects and planners embrace nature as infrastructure, the results are powerful: