AkzoNobel Launches Flagship Human Cities Project in Singapore

AkzoNobel is helping to repaint one of Singapore’s most historically significant buildings. The renovation of Burkill Hall – which will return the building to its original identity as an Anglo-Malayan plantation-style house – is the first flagship Human Cities project to be announced as part of the commitment the company made to the 100 Resilient Cities program.

Situated in the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Burkill Hall is believed to be South East Asia’s last surviving example of an Anglo-Malayan plantation-style house. AkzoNobel will supply a full range of wall, wood and metal coatings for the project, which also includes the repainting of the nearby historic Bandstand.

“We are honored to be involved in a project which has such cultural and historical significance,” said Jeremy Rowe, Managing Director of AkzoNobel Decorative Paints for South East and South Asia.

“Our Human Cities initiative is all about making meaningful contributions that re-energize urban areas, safeguard heritage and help cities become more inspiring and vibrant. The work we’re doing in Singapore Botanic Gardens is a great example of what we’re trying to achieve and is the first of several flagship projects linked to our 100 Resilient Cities commitment that we’ll be launching around the world.”

Estimates suggest that by 2050, around 70 percent of people will live in cities. This will put big demands on urban areas and Human Cities is designed to help meet this challenge. It will enable AkzoNobel to use its key strengths and expertise to energize, inspire and sustain communities for generations to come.

Built in 1868 and thought to be the last building of its kind, Burkill Hall offers valuable insight into the development of residential architecture in Singapore. Given conservation status in 2008, it housed the superintendents and directors of the Botanic Gardens for nearly 100 years.

Professor Leo Tan, Chairman of the Garden City Fund, states: “With AkzoNobel’s partnership, the community will now be better able to appreciate the Gardens’ cultural heritage.”