Mr Alvin Oh
Deputy Director (Smart Urban Solutions Integration Office)
Building & Research Institute
Housing & Development Board (HDB)
DATE AND TIME
2 July 2024, Tuesday | 2.00pm – 3.00pm
As the largest developer in Singapore, the Housing & Development Board (HDB) has built close to 1.1 million flats since its inception in 1960, housing 80% of the nation’s population in public housing projects. Throughout its history, HDB has consistently leveraged research and technology to deliver affordable and high-quality housing where vibrant communities can thrive. As Singapore matures as a nation, it faces emerging challenges including climate change, ageing infrastructure, limited manpower and shifts in societal dynamics. In response, HDB is committed to advancing its research initiatives and implementing cost-effective technological solutions, alongside re-engineering work processes to drive the next wave of transformation for Singapore’s built environment sector. This presentation will share on HDB’s latest research endeavours and highlights its strategy for digitalisation and innovation across all stages of the building development cycle, spanning from planning and design to construction and maintenance.
About the Speaker
Alvin currently leads a dedicated team focused on driving sustainability and enhancing community living in HDB towns and estates. With a background in architecture and urban development, he excels in leveraging smart town applications and innovative product design to improve residents’ daily lives while incorporating technology to support the ageing population living in HDB towns. Alvin was also involved in strategic research initiatives, as evidenced by his instrumental role in establishing the Cities of Tomorrow (CoT) R&D Programme in partnership with MND and securing funding for HDB’s research efforts. Prior to this role, Alvin made significant contributions to Singapore’s urban landscape through the design development and implementation of Punggol Town Square & Punggol Discovery Cube Visitor Centre and was the design architect for Northshore Plaza 2, HDB’s first seafront neighbourhood centre. Before joining HDB in 2013, Alvin was with the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) of Singapore as well as with WOHA Architects. Some notable works includes the Punggol Waterfront Promenade, Toh Guan Road Electrical Substation Building, and the design and tender documentation for a tropical high-rise condominium at Ardmore Park. He is a recipient of the URA Scholarship and the UNSW Golden Jubilee Scholarship. Alvin graduated from the University of New South Wales in Sydney with Bachelor of Architecture (First Class Honours) in 2007.