13/03/2024

Shopping Malls and Amusement Parks in South East Asia: Architectural Revolution with ETFE Roofs

In the vibrant cities of South East Asia, shopping malls and amusement parks are not just places to shop or have fun! They serve as hubs of social interaction and entertainment.

Especially countries like Singapore and the Philippines are actively seeking modern architectural solutions. However, the region’s tropical climate poses challenges, with scorching sun and sudden rain showers often deterring visitors. Addressing these concerns calls for innovative solutions in design and architecture.


One solution is the incorporation of ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene) roofs.

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Benefits of ETFE Roofs for Countries like Singapore or the Philippines

  • Natural Light Transmission: ETFE allows ample natural light to penetrate, creating a bright and airy atmosphere within the enclosed space. This reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day, thereby cutting down on energy consumption and costs.
  • UV Protection: ETFE roofs can be engineered to filter harmful UV rays, providing protection for visitors from sunburn and reducing the risk of skin damage. This feature is particularly crucial in tropical climates where prolonged exposure to sunlight is common.
  • Durability: ETFE is known for its exceptional durability and resilience. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, strong winds, and even hailstorms. All while ensuring long-term structural integrity and minimal maintenance requirements.
  • Lightweight and Versatile: Compared to traditional building materials like glass, ETFE is significantly lighter. Therefore, the use of ETFE foils reduce the overall load on the structure. Its versatility allows for creative and unconventional architectural designs, enabling architects to explore innovative shapes and forms.
  • Thermal Insulation: ETFE roofs can be designed with thermal insulation properties, helping to regulate indoor temperatures. This contributes to energy efficiency and enhances visitor comfort throughout the year.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: The translucent nature of ETFE creates a visually stunning effect, especially when illuminated at night. It lends a modern and futuristic aesthetic to shopping malls and amusement parks, enhancing their appeal as tourist destinations and landmarks. Singapore is actively leading the way with destinations like the Sports Hub or the Ten Square Car Vending Machine.

Resorts World Singapore, covered by a lightweight ETFE roof. Revolutionizing Shopping Malls and Amusement Parks in South East Asia with ETFE Roofs
Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore, covered by a lightweight ETFE roof.

Incorporating ETFE in South East Asian Designs:

  • Climate Considerations: Architects and designers need to take into account the specific climatic conditions of each location when incorporating ETFE roofs. Factors such as rainfall intensity, temperature variations, and wind patterns should influence the design process to maximize the benefits of ETFE.

  • Integration with Green Spaces: ETFE roofs can be seamlessly integrated with green spaces such as gardens or atriums, creating a harmonious blend of nature and modern architecture. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes sustainability and environmental awareness. One special example is the Early Years Learning Facility in Singapore.

ETFE foils offer a huge range of design options, the photo shows another roof at the Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore. Revolutionizing Shopping Malls and Amusement Parks in South East Asia with ETFE Roofs
ETFE foils offer a huge range of design options. The photo shows another roof at the Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore.

Parqal, a multi-use destination in the Philippines, attracts visitors all year round.

Incorporating ETFE roofs in the design of shopping malls and amusement parks in South East Asia represents a paradigm shift toward sustainable, resilient, and aesthetically pleasing architecture.

By harnessing the benefits of ETFE, developers and architects can create immersive and comfortable spaces that withstand the challenges of the tropical climate while enhancing the overall visitor experience. As these innovative designs continue to gain momentum, South East Asia’s urban landscape is ready for a transformative evolution, redefining the concept of modern leisure and entertainment destinations.

It doesn’t matter if you are located in the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia or Vietnam – you should give us a call to discuss your project! Contact our team of experts, located in Singapore.

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