IWG, the world’s leading provider of hybrid work solutions, today announced the appointment of Elizabeth Laws Fuller as Country Head for Singapore and Regional Director of Growth for APAC West. This appointment comes as IWG eyes further acceleration of its capital light growth strategy in the region, fuelled by the rising demand for flexible workspaces and increasing adoption of hybrid working solutions.
Based in Singapore, Elizabeth will oversee the expansion of the business in Singapore and build on the success of IWG’s 25 locations across four leading workspace brands – Regus, Spaces, Signature and No.18. As Regional Director of Growth for APAC West, she will spearhead growth in the region including Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia and South Korea, through strategic franchising and partnerships. Under Elizabeth’s leadership, IWG is set to launch over 1,000 new centres across Asia Pacific in the next three years, encompassing a diverse portfolio of CBD and decentralised locations to meet the growing demand for flexible workspaces in both gateway and emerging cities.
Elizabeth brings a wealth of experience from over 20 years in real estate, finance, and strategic consulting in Asia Pacific, Europe, and the United States. Notably, she has been a real estate investment and strategy advisor for businesses of all sizes – MNCs, SMEs, and startups – across the technology, hospitality, and workspace sectors, including working with CBRE as an investment consultant. Previously, Elizabeth was Head of Growth, Southeast Asia, and Head of Sales Transactions Services, Pacific, at WeWork, looking after Singapore, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Korea, and Australia.
“I am thrilled to join IWG at this pivotal time, as the rise in hybrid working solutions presents a wealth of opportunities in Singapore and across Asia Pacific as businesses of all sizes permanently embrace the model. My role will focus on harnessing these emerging trends to unlock new business avenues and expand IWG’s reach in the region through strategic partnerships,” commented Elizabeth Laws Fuller. “I look forward to continuing and accelerating the growth of the IWG network in Asia Pacific and driving success for our partners through IWG’s robust platform and expertise, delivering profitable, flexible workspaces that yield significant revenue opportunities for them.”
In 2023, IWG significantly expanded its global footprint by adding 867 new locations with 95% of these locations in the partnership model, while also enhancing its presence in the Asia Pacific region with 163 new centres – a testament to the accelerated demand of hybrid working in the region and beyond.
The 29th edition of Guangzhou International Lighting Exhibition (GILE) and 21st edition of Guangzhou Electrical Building Technology (GEBT) will be held concurrently from 9 – 12 June 2024 in areas A and B at the China Import and Export Fair Complex. The shows will expand to occupy over 230,000 sqm and cover 23 exhibition halls. Human-centric spatial design and city planning will become a core focus to deeply connect people with art, technology and business. Innovations in interior design and advances in LED technology will provide exciting opportunities for the industry. Under the concept of “Light – The Power of Infinity”, GILE 2024 will continue to provide participants a platform for broadening their horizons and gaining inspiration, developing new techniques, technologies and applications with the quality of light and digitalisation in mind.
As the world moves from traditional manufacturing to a new era where advances in technology, reliance on the internet and new lifestyle trends all play a major role in the economy, the lighting industry has emerged as one of the leading adopters of innovation. In the future, the use of light will be more efficient and the full-spectrum of light will be widely applied. Meanwhile, driven by China’s dual carbon policy, product design and manufacturing are moving towards low energy consumption. Virtual reality technology will also be applied to large-scale light shows, while smart lighting and home appliances will have more applications, with luminaires becoming integrated with household furniture and decorations. Human-centric lighting will therefore become an important trend of the lighting industry’s future development.
On the industry’s development and the fair’s theme, Ms Lucia Wong, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd said: “Stepping into the age of ‘data technology’, AIoT technology has made significant breakthroughs, becoming more streamlined, sophisticated and wide ranging in its applications. New consumption patterns are shaping lifestyle trends while personal health and environmental impacts are also affecting individual purchasing decisions and behaviour. The lighting industry is developing from standalone LED products to an interconnected system, from display stores to immersive experience stores, and from traditional sales to a unified marketing strategy integrating all sales channels. There are infinite possibilities for the lighting industry right now, so that’s why the show is building on the previous theme of ‘Light +’, with the concept of ‘Infinity’ to encourage industry players to bring about improved spatial experience, better quality of life and a zero-carbon future.”
The Power of Infinity: Evolution of Light + In the era of “Light +”, the lighting industry will develop to encompass more and more new applications. “Infinity” therefore aptly represents the future roadmap of the industry, helping to inject cities with lighting that improves people’s living and working conditions and provides entertainment for residents and tourists alike.
The infinite applications of light include AIoT, optical communication, big data, healthcare, cosmetics, lifestyle, low carbon and new energy solutions, aquaculture, new media arts, extended reality and much more. To better represent the wide range of new applications for lighting, the show will present eight concepts, each corresponding to a letter in the word “Infinity”:
I: Intelligent solutions for new challenges The lighting industry has long been at the forefront of the research and design of smart technology, especially in AIoT. Looking forward, smart lighting is poised to evolve further through making use of self-learning algorithms based on individual user habits. These advances in technology add additional value to products, turning them from simple light fixtures into smart products that manage and regulate our environments.
N: Net-zero future In response to the “dual carbon” goals of carbon peak and carbon neutrality by 2030 and 2060 respectively outlined by the Chinese government, sustainable lighting presents more value to the industry. In recent years, alongside the rapid development of LED technology, minimising energy consumption and emissions has become one of the key objectives of the industry. LEDs, smart technology and new energy have together contributed to achieving these goals across a variety of fields.
Highly efficient lighting products that make use of both green and smart technology are set to become predominant. These can then be applied towards many applications including the arts, tourism, cities, buildings, roads, car parks and other areas. The combination of advanced energy storage solutions with net-zero carbon smart lighting systems will increase the adoption of renewable energy in cities. Building streetlamps that also function as EV charging piles to cater for roadside charging has potential to further this trend.
Smart lighting technology also has a role in agriculture and horticulture, helping to improve crop quality and yields, and the efficient use of resources such as water can reduce energy consumption. This leads to lower emissions and water consumption.
F: Five senses experience By integrating sound, light, shadow, AI, VR, new visual media and haptic technology with the tourism industry, immersive experiences for tourists can be created using all of the five senses. This represents a significant upgrade to lighting technology serving the tourism industry.
I: Individualism and customisation As personalisation continues to permeate all aspects of daily life, people’s physical and emotional needs will become the main focus of indoor lighting. At present, mainless lighting and smart home lighting can adapt to individualised needs and apply to different lighting scenarios.
N: New business models The “Light +” era has also given rise to new business models, transitioning from the sale of standalone lighting products to delivering a comprehensive lighting service. The twin pillars of this model are design and after-sales service. With a clear service target, the industry needs to design lighting applications using smart and human-centric technology to gain increased customer recognition and demand, and replace existing services in the market.
I: Industry 4.0 leads the intelligent manufacturing future Industry 4.0 combines the development of automation and informatisation, utilising advanced technologies such as cloud factories, AI, IoT and big data to improve production efficiency. Industrial lighting is evolving to support these integrated systems, incorporating smart and energy saving lighting technologies to ensure safe and healthy working environments in factory settings.
T: Technological innovation Over the last century, the lighting industry has developed rapidly, evolving from the simplicity of artificial light to the use of advanced technologies including IoT, optical communication and big data analysis and from incandescent bulbs to LEDs and interconnected lighting systems. Throughout this process, industry players have continuously improved the quality of light, aligning their technologies with the needs of the time. Stepping into the era of “Light +”, the role of LEDs has transitioned from a replacement for traditional light sources to an integral role in human-centric lighting, which takes into account people’s physiological and psychological needs. Combining smart technologies with lighting can also improve the interaction between light, spaces, and people, offering increased adaptability to the needs and preferences of individuals.
Y: Yielding infinite possibilities The future is full of uncertainties, with infinite possibilities and room for imagination. As an industry that is continually on the rise, lighting continues to inspire industry players to strive for innovation despite the ever-changing circumstances.
Ms Lucia Wong continued: “Every industry player strives to improve people’s quality of life. In the ‘Light +’ era, the integration of lighting with other technologies will provide users with more comprehensive targeted services. GILE, together with the industry players, will continue to move towards the infinite possibilities of light.”
The next editions of Guangzhou International Lighting Exhibition and Guangzhou Electrical Building Technology will be held from 9 – 12 June 2024. Both shows are part of Messe Frankfurt’s Light + Building Technology fairs headed by the biennial Light + Building event. The next edition will be held from 3 – 8 March 2024 in Frankfurt, Germany.
Messe Frankfurt organises several trade fairs for the light and building technology sectors in Asia, including Shanghai Intelligent Building Technology, Shanghai Smart Home Technology and Parking China. The company’s lighting and building technology trade fairs also cover the markets in Argentina, India, Thailand and the UAE.
LG Electronics is set to unveil its innovative cloud solution platform, LG Business Cloud, at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2024. The convenient, new platform allows business customers to browse and subscribe to LG digital signage cloud solutions and manage them all remotely. LG Business Cloud is compatible with multiple LG digital signage lineups including Micro LED displays, commercial TVs, Transparent OLED Signage and LED displays1.
LG Business Cloud enables customers to establish a commercial cloud solution for their LG digital signage with a straightforward, one-time sign-up process. Along with eliminating the need to browse several different pages, submit inquiries and engage with sales representatives, the new platform offers educational videos (from beginner to expert level) catering to diverse business needs and explaining how to get the most out of LG’s specialised cloud offerings. Additionally, the structure of LG Business Cloud enhances user convenience, allowing for customer inquiries to be addressed directly on the website.
The platform includes the LG SuperSign Cloud digital signage content management solution (CMS) and LG Pro:Centric Cloud, the company’s hotel TV-focused CMS. These solutions give users the flexibility to customise content (e.g., welcome messages, facility information, and promotions) displayed on their LG digital signage and to set up display
schedules. Also on LG Business Cloud is the LG ConnectedCare remote management solution, which actively monitors the performance/ condition of LG signage and promptly sends email notifications if unexpected events are detected. Additionally, LG ConnectedCare lets users remotely adjust various signage settings, such as screen brightness and volume.
The versatile Business Cloud platform enables users to explore all of LG’s cloud solutions and experience them firsthand by taking advantage of the trial licenses on offer. Once customers have selected the LG cloud solution they wish to subscribe to, they can configure the duration of the relevant license agreement and easily activate the license post-purchase. What’s more, LG Business Cloud places no restrictions on the number of devices that customers can use to access it; empowering businesses of all sizes, from small enterprises to corporate giants, to manage their signage displays more efficiently.
Furthermore, LG Business Cloud boasts a user-friendly interface that makes it accessible to users of all levels. Users can monitor the status of connected LG digital signage in real time, and enjoy the efficiency of effortless remote control. Customers can take advantage of remote-control functions such as on/off and reboot, as well as a dashboard feature that enables them to easily check signage operating status.
In addition, the partner solutions offered through LG Business Cloud also include media art applications that grant users access to a variety of dynamic artwork, and service applications that deliver real-time weather, flight and local tourism information.
A valuable tool for retail, corporate, and public sector clients, LG Business Cloud is a one-stop solution for comparing, subscribing to, and managing LG digital signage cloud solutions. It consolidates an array of related services and functionalities to elevate the overall customer experience, and will eventually encompass additional product categories to deliver even greater value and convenience.
At CES 2024, LG CEO William Cho highlighted the B2B business as LG’s new growth engine, noting that the company will expand its product portfolio to include even more innovative, customer-driven solutions. Following last year’s successful launch of the home solutions business, which combines subscription services with smart home appliances, LG plansto use the same model (seamlessly integrated services and hardware) to grow its B2B solutions business.
“LG Business Cloud is a dedicated platform that simplifies the management of LG digital signage cloud solutions for businesses of all sizes,” said Paik Ki-Mun, senior vice president and head of the Information Display business unit of LG Business Solutions Company. “LG is a total solutions provider, offering innovative commercial signage displays and convenient, time-saving management software that enhance the customer experience.”
LG Business Cloud will be on show at ISE 2024 in Hall 3 (Stand 3K 100) of Fira Barcelona’s Gran Via conference centre from 30 January to 2 February 2024 and is scheduled to launch in the first quarter of this year. The ability to purchase solutions from within LG Business Cloud will be available initially in North America before expanding to other markets around the globe, including South Korea and Europe.
1 Applicable to digital signage products equipped with LG webOS version 6.0 or above.
Crowne Plaza Changi Airport proudly announces the successful completion of its S$22 million asset enhancement, breathing new life into the iconic hotel and reaffirming its status as the World’s Best Airport Hotel for the eighth consecutive year.
Completed in January 2024, the asset enhancement initiative (AEI) includes the addition of 12 new guest rooms, comprising 10 Premier Rooms and two Suites, designed for families and long-stay guests. Strategically located on the same level as the hotel’s tropical resort outdoor pool which offers a stunning view of the iconic Changi Airport control tower, three of the new rooms will have direct pool access which is highly sought-after. The hotel’s refreshed design enhances the appeal for both business and leisure travellers, unveiling new and noteworthy features such as Allora, an all-day dining destination delivering an authentic Italian culinary experience, an additional function room with state-of-the-art meeting facilities, a chic Club Lounge and a revitalised Fitness Centre.
Inspired by the serene charm of Changi Beach, the design concept for the AEI by Park + Associates is meticulously crafted to bring a tranquil oceanic atmosphere to the space. Drawing inspiration from the rhythmic patterns of the waves, the newly refurbished rooms and meeting spaces feature carefully chosen design elements. The furniture, crafted from a mix of natural wood finishes, brings a sense of warmth and cosiness to the room, complemented by a carefully curated colour palette that blends beachy tones with ocean shades. The addition of curves to the walls mirrors the natural flow of the waves, contributing to the overall aesthetic appeal. Light grey sofas and vibrant navy blue and yellow accents create a contemporary and inviting atmosphere, while the sky-blue headboard serves as a statement piece, aligning with the modern and refreshing theme. This thoughtful design not only enhances the visual appeal of the hotel but also fosters a meaningful connection between hotel guests and the calming elements of nature.
“We embrace the evolving trend of blended travel. In anticipation of a notable increase in corporate and leisure travellers in 2024 and beyond, the AEI aims to cater to the needs of the modern business traveller, whose concept of business travel extends beyond work to encompass a blend of work and life. As the world’s leading airport hotel, it’s vital that we continue to adapt and elevate the guest experience. We look forward to maintaining our best-in class position and welcoming guests from around the world,” said Bruno Cristol, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Changi Airport and Area General Manager, IHG Hotels & Resorts in Singapore.
Key Features of the Transformation: Additional Premier Rooms and Suites: The 12 new guest rooms, elevating the room inventory to 575, introduce a distinctive touch to the accommodation options. Among these, three rooms, featuring highly sought-after direct pool access, provide a delightful stay experience for both families and long-stay guests. The suites are outfitted with carefully chosen amenities, featuring a walk-in wardrobe, spacious living and dining areas, a convenient kitchenette with an induction stove and a stylish bathroom. The bathroom is generously sized, complete with a bathtub, a separate standing shower, and a vanity area, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable experience for guests.
Revamped All-Day Dining Restaurant – Allora: Now conveniently relocated to Level 1 for enhanced accessibility, the new Italian restaurant – Allora, helmed by the talented Executive Chef Stefano Sanna, seamlessly combines the urban energy of Milan with the coastal charm of Southern Italy. Bringing the sophistication of northern Italian cities and the refreshing ambience of the southern Italian coastline to Singapore, the restaurant seamlessly combines both sides of Italy to bring a new and enhanced experience for locals and travellers alike. Allora’s interior effortlessly marries Milan’s industrial urban vibes with the breezy coastal charm of Southern Italy. The Northern section draws inspiration from Tuscany’s enchanting hills and ancient medieval cities, featuring a central metallic mosaic pizza oven and industrial Milanese elements that together create a dynamic and captivating atmosphere. Outdoor spaces, adorned with striped parasols, transform into a Southern Italian seaside promenade, offering a relaxed escape. Allora features a chic dining room, a vibrant lobby lounge and bar, and a charming alfresco terrace, drawing inspiration from the distinctive characteristics of both Northern and Southern Italy.
Allora currently serves refreshing contemporary Italian cuisine and is slated to become the only Italian restaurant offering weekend brunch buffets in the Changi Airport area from the second quarter of 2024. The lavish buffet will feature handcrafted pizzas, artisanal pastas, a diverse array of antipasti, as well as a thoughtfully curated collection of fine wines, spirits and unique cocktails. From an inviting dining room to a stylish lobby lounge and bar and a relaxing alfresco terrace, Allora accommodates varied preferences, fostering a communal atmosphere. With a seating capacity of 264, it is poised to be the go-to destination in the East, promising an authentic and delightful Italian dining experience.
New and Versatile Meeting Spaces: The former all-day dining space has transformed into a 352-square metre multi-function room named ‘Camellia’ inspired by the elegant flower. This versatile venue, equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology, is ideal for a range of events including corporate meetings, social gatherings and intimate weddings. This addition complements the hotel’s current ballroom and meeting rooms, expanding its capacity for hosting various meetings and events.
Inspired by the rainforest and named after local trees such as Chengal, Alstonia, Garcinia, Hopea, Kempas, and Meranti, the present ballroom and meeting rooms exude a natural charm. These meeting spaces, featuring ceilings reminiscent of a lush tree canopy, provide a tranquil atmosphere. The nature-inspired design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the spaces but also infuses them with a refreshing and inspiring ambiance – perfect for both meetings and social events.
Club Lounge and Fitness Centre Transformation: The former bar space has been transformed into a cosy and contemporary Club Lounge. Modernised meeting spaces within are adorned with an array of art pieces and tasteful decorations, creating an inviting and sophisticated ambiance.
Simultaneously, the fitness centre has undergone a revamp, now equipped with the latest equipment to meet the wellness needs of both business and leisure travellers.
This AEI significantly elevates the guest experience at Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, reinforcing its position as the World’s Best Airport Hotel and ensuring a rejuvenating and dynamic stay for all valued guests.
For more information and reservation details, visit crowneplaza.com/changiairport.
The pressure to meet global climate targets has never been greater and with buildings accounting for 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions, there is an urgent need to advance sustainable building technology to help enterprises meet net zero goals while accommodating for continued growth. “The Smart Building of the Future,” a new paper from Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI) outlines how smart buildings equipped with advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, IoT, cloud and cybersecurity will help enterprises create a future where our buildings integrate with human and environmental ecosystems. Smart buildings offer a harmonized environment that prioritizes both well-being and sustainability, using technology to adapt and unlock potential, support productivity and drive peak performance of building occupants.
“Never has it been more important for organizations to consider advanced and efficient ways to reduce their carbon footprint – especially in the buildings industry, which is the single largest source of our planet’s greenhouse gas emissions,” said Johnson Controls Chief Technology Officer Vijay Sankaran. “The smart building of the future offers new and more effective ways to help companies meet critical climate goals, reduce costs, enhance daily operations to achieve business growth and improve personalized experiences. When a building ‘comes alive’ with smart technology, all stakeholders benefit from the integrated approach that ultimately creates a healthier, safer and more productive environment.”
Several factors are converging to accelerate the development and adoption of advanced building systems technology. As building owners work to respond to challenges such as rising energy costs and changes in occupancy patterns, among others, sophisticated IoT devices and the implementation of data analytics and AI have become more important than ever.
The report also offers building managers key insights into the major technology enablers of advanced smart buildings, including:
Ubiquitous connectivity through cloud-based services on the edge breaks down barriers between siloed and integrated devices, enabling the flow of real-time information that business leaders can analyze for insights and continuous improvement.
AI-enabled autonomous smart buildings will be at the core of the next generation of smart buildings, driving efficiencies, enhancing the user experience and enabling advancements in sustainability. AI at the edge reduces privacy, compliance and cyber concerns by allowing data to be securely processed and stored within the building operator’s network.
Digital twins enable a continuous feedback loop between the physical and the virtual by facilitating the integration of AI, IoT and cloud technologies to generate strategic recommendations for improving building performance and user experience.
As many of the technical foundations required to turn buildings into smart buildings already exist, organizations should take additional action to prepare for and improve their future building operations. This includes developing a strategy that includes user experience, partnering with IT and cybersecurity teams, establishing partnerships with external consultants, investing in education and training, and running pilot projects.
This report builds on recently announced survey results from Johnson Controls and Forrester Consulting that show widespread acceptance of sustainability as a business priority and a firm recognition that partners are essential to realizing 2030 sustainability commitments. The survey found building operators believe smart buildings are important in helping organizations accelerate sustainability initiatives and that adding or upgrading building automation and digital technologies to optimize energy use are among the most impactful sustainability investment areas. The survey also found that most leaders seek partners, like Johnson Controls, who can provide a digital platform across sites and use cases, which Johnson Controls provides.
As a one-stop-shop for creating smart buildings, Johnson Controls has developed a three-step process to transform buildings into strategic assets – design, digitalize, deploy. The journey starts when we design and roadmap solutions that achieve efficiency, sustainability, decarbonization, resiliency and energy transition in accordance with our customer’s goals. Next, we digitalize to make buildings smarter through solutions like our OpenBlue Enterprise Manager – Net Zero Advisor, connecting infrastructure, distributed generation and the grid so we can access data that is critical to making informed decisions to solve for cost and carbon. We then deploy our solutions through a one-source, turnkey delivery model that leverages best-in-class efficiency, electrification and renewables solutions. Operations, service and maintenance underpin our “as-a-service” offerings to maintain peak operating conditions, protect customer’s investment and achieve the lowest lifecycle costs.
The cornerstone of this smart building strategy is Johnson Controls OpenBlue, an industry-leading ecosystem of connected technologies, digital solutions and services. OpenBlue reads the live activity of a building and continuously adapts to optimize performance. Combining data from across the building’s systems and using advanced digital tools like AI, we can provide insights that save more energy and emissions than possible with isolated systems. OpenBlue is recognized in the building industry as a `powerful enabler of measurable outcomes and earlier this week, Johnson Controls was named a leader in energy management software by Verdantix in its Green Quadrant: Energy Management Software report.
PlanRadar’s latest report reveals findings: PlanRadar, a leading construction management software company, has released its latest industry report, titled ‘Quantifying success: Digitization and software in construction’. The study sheds light on the transformative role of technology in the construction landscape, with a specific focus on quantity surveyors, site teams, and project management professionals in Singapore and the ASEAN region.
The survey compiled insights from over 300 industry respondents across ANZ, ASEAN, Middle East and United States and was conducted in December 2023. 43% of the respondents surveyed were from the ASEAN region, with approximately 64% of ASEAN respondents from Singapore.
Key findings and insights from the report:
Strategic software investments: The report reveals a significant commitment to digital transformation, with an overwhelming 83% of survey respondents in ASEAN, including Singapore, making substantial investments in project management software over the past three years. Notably, Artificial Intelligence emerged as the second most significant category for these investments, indicating a growing interest in AI-powered solutions to streamline quantity surveying processes.
Time and cost savings: Digital adoption is not merely a trend but a practical solution, as indicated by 56% of respondents recognising that investing in new software leads to valuable time savings. Additionally, 54% believe it results in cost savings, emphasising the efficiency gains and cost management capabilities offered by digital tools.
Challenges in implementation: While the benefits of software adoption are clear, the report acknowledges challenges, with 60% of survey respondents citing the potential cost of implementing new software as the most significant barrier. This underscores the need for cost-effective solutions and comprehensive training and support during the transition to digital systems.
Future software investments: Looking ahead, 59% of Singaporean survey respondents plan to allocate more investments towards quantity surveying software in the next three years, indicating a continued commitment to digital transformation. Project management software and software for field data collection also garnered significant interest.
Strategic investment intensity: Among those planning to invest more in software, 39% intend to increase their software investments by 11% to 30%, while 28% aim for an even more significant investment increase, exceeding 30%.
Empowering the construction industry through innovation
Vitaly Berezka, Head of Sales, Central Asia, MENA and APAC, PlanRadar, commented, “Singapore and ASEAN’s construction narrative is rewriting itself through the lens of digital innovation. Construction stakeholders, project managers and site teams are not just facing or adapting to pressure – they’re leveraging technology as a powerful ally, a catalyst for increased productivity, reduced errors, and the timely, on-budget delivery of projects in an industry where every advantage counts.”
Berezka added, “As Singapore and ASEAN’s construction industry embraces digitalization, the shift from pen and paper to technology-driven solutions is a strategic imperative. This report underscores how innovation isn’t just a choice; it’s a necessity for construction professionals aiming not just to keep up but to lead in 2024.”
“The interest in AI is reflective of Singapore always being at the forefront of technology, signifying the potential for the advancement of digitalisation in construction to take on the next level. We are looking forward to discovering how AI will transform the industry, bringing about benefits like improved decision-making, reducing timelines and enhanced collaboration. This transformation has ripple effects throughout the entire construction sector, leading to smarter, more sustainable projects,” added Vitaly.
With a 25-year career in the Software industry, Lakshita has extensive experience in the field of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), design and development of
generic communication modules, and possesses a detailed understanding of integration mechanisms, controls, and protocols.
He is a highly skilled technical professional with proficiency in programming in C, C++, Visual Basic, Object-oriented design and development of enterprise solutions, Project
Management, Software design, development, Quality Control and Quality Assurance.
A few of his past and present projects include the design and development of a generic communication module for a vendor in the USA specialising in fire protection systems,
managing deployment of a central control station for multiple building sites in Korea, implementation of integrated SCADA and facility management solutions for commercial
buildings in Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Vietnam, and managing the deployment of a facility management solution for a smart precinct in Sydney, Australia.
He is passionate about the use of technology and AI infrastructure for smart building and smart facilities management to improve building performance, reliability, resilience,
occupant productivity and health and wellbeing.
After a successful 20+ year career within the Eutech group, Lakshita is, since April 2023, Eutech Cybernetics CEO.
In our exclusive interview with Lakshita Wijerathne, CEO of Eutech Cybernetic, we unravel the dynamic intersection of sustainability, technology, and real estate. Wijerathne, the driving force behind the transformative iviva platform, shares insights on navigating the urgent need for carbon reduction in the real estate sector. Join us as we explore how innovative technologies are reshaping buildings, reducing operational costs, and aligning the industry with global climate goals. This interview promises a concise yet illuminating glimpse into the strategies and innovations driving a sustainable future for the built environment.
1. In the context of the real estate sector’s commitment to reducing emissions, how does iviva contribute to the transformation of existing buildings to meet net-zero targets by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050?
Buildings generate 39% of energy-related carbon emissions worldwide; 28% from the energy needed for operations, and the remaining 11% from their materials and construction, according to the International Code Council. When the high carbon emissions of new construction is viewed against the backdrop of the global imperative to combat climate change, demolishing old buildings and erecting new ones is not more sustainable.
Approximately 80% of today’s buildings are anticipated to remain in use in 2050. To enhance efficiency and meet net-zero objectives, there is a pressing need to transform these buildings into smart ones. According to a recent report, the smart building market is projected to grow more than fivefold from USD 103.91 billion in 2022 to USD 538.45 billion by 2030. The most effective approach to environmentally retrofitting older buildings involves implementing a cost-effective technological upgrade, outfitting them with smart devices.
The iviva platform empowers building owners, operators, and occupants to retrofit their buildings and workspaces cost effectively through a combination of information technology, operational technology, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. For one, the utilisation of digital twin technologies allows for the simulation and prediction of building upgrades without interrupting real-time operations, allowing continued revenue and preventing costly errors in the implementation of upgrades.
Technologies that enable energy savings through smart cooling, ventilation, and lighting are only half the battle. Building users also have to make a conscious effort to use these smart systems to reduce their individual and organisational carbon footprints. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are used to provide all building stakeholders with insights into their energy usage, as well as the means to lessen it.
The same technology is also available to building owners and operators to enable intelligent predictive maintenance. Systems like air conditioning and lighting operate at peak efficiency for longer periods while reducing the number of maintenance activities.
2. Upgrading existing buildings for operational efficiency is a key focus. Could you share specific success stories where iviva has made a significant impact on reducing carbon footprints and operational costs simultaneously?
The Paya Lebar Quarter (PLQ), a Green Mark Platinum-rated mixed development by LendLease, uses its iviva-powered Open Building System Integration (OBSI) platform to connect all of the systems and equipment within its retail mall, three commercial towers, and three residential blocks.
Aside from integrating all of the development’s smart systems, the OBSI has a digital twin that allows building operators to conduct predictive maintenance. Instead of having routine maintenance activities which cost more and may come at times when it is not yet necessary, maintenance teams at PLQ only have to work on systems when necessary. This ensures the latter remains at peak energy efficiency while reducing operational costs.
3. As the commercial real estate market experiences structural changes, how do you see these shifts influencing decisions on constructing new buildings versus upgrading existing assets? What role does sustainability play in these decisions?
The global pledge by top CEOs, including those from the real estate sector, aims to reduce building-related emissions by 50% by 2030. How can the built environment sector balance the urgency of meeting these targets with the practicalities of the industry and the longevity of existing structures?
Sustainability has emerged as a critical consideration in business decisions, reflecting a broader trend towards environmental consciousness. This is especially true in Singapore where carbon emissions, though a minor fraction globally, are exceptionally high (about twice the global average at 12 tonnes annually) when viewed on a per capita basis.
While energy-efficient technologies have led to reductions in carbon emissions, the real estate sector also needs to reduce what is called “embodied carbon” or those that arise from the manufacturing, transportation, installation, maintenance, and disposal of building materials. This makes the replacement of existing buildings with new, more energy-efficient ones a non-option.
4. From an economic standpoint, how can sustainability initiatives, particularly those involving upgrades to existing buildings, be framed to attract investors and asset owners, considering the challenging landscape of valuations and rents in the current hybrid work environment?
While sustainability initiatives are often seen as a cost, they can also be framed as an opportunity to take advantage of growing demand from tenants for sustainable and energy-efficient buildings, as well as government policies that reward green real estate developments. Simultaneously, the same technologies that enable the cost-effective implementation of smart, energy-efficient systems can also be leveraged to improve operational efficiency and lower operational costs for building owners and operators.
One source of savings for building owners and operators is the reduction of energy consumption. The upfront costs of installing energy-efficient systems are more than offset by the long-term savings generated from them. Another source of savings is the reduction in scheduled maintenance activities through the implementation of intelligent preventive maintenance.
By cutting back on costs while improving their developments’ user experience, building owners and operators can improve the yields and valuations of their properties.
5. In the realm of greenwashing and mandatory sustainability reporting, how can the real estate sector genuinely differentiate itself by adopting technologies that not only meet compliance standards but go above and beyond in creating sustainable and efficient spaces?
Equipping buildings with smart technologies is only the first step in creating sustainable and efficient spaces. Building owners and operators need to concretely measure the impact these technologies have on their developments’ energy usage, carbon emissions, and other metrics of sustainability. Not only is this important for ensuring compliance with government regulations, but it also enables enterprises to maximise the impact of their sustainability initiatives.
Thus, the installation of smart systems should be complemented with a technology platform that integrates the latter under one pane. By having better data capture, consolidation, analytics, and visualisation, decision-makers can streamline their facilities management processes towards meeting their developments’ sustainability targets.
Data visualisation serves as the optimal management tool for people who manage buildings. It is important for the various stakeholders including the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Finance Officer, facility managers, and sales or marketing professionals, to possess the ability to customise and analyse specific data pertinent to their respective roles without incurring additional expenses. This quick and cost-effective dashboard customisation enables them to conveniently access the required data respectively.
6. Collaboration is key in addressing climate challenges. How can stakeholders in the built environment sector work together to amplify the impact of sustainability initiatives, and how does iviva facilitate such collaborative efforts?
To amplify the impact of sustainability initiatives, stakeholders such as owners, operators, tenants, and users must collaborate effectively. A crucial element in improving collaborative efforts is providing all stakeholders with the platform, tools, and know-how to participate.
iviva’s platform is designed with a low-code/no-code approach, enabling all individuals, from company leaders to facility management staff, to engage with it. Through this inclusive model, everyone has access to the data necessary for informed decision-making.
Moreover, iviva’s platform fosters a culture of sustainable behaviour among building users. The platform visually presents individual usage and its impact on energy consumption and carbon emissions. This visualisation enables users to understand the connection between their actions and environmental consequences. By making this connection transparent, iviva encourages building users to adopt sustainable practices.
The technologies needed by building owners and operators to achieve sustainability goals are readily available. But to put them together in a way that also enhances operational efficiency, reduces costs, and improves the bottom line requires the seamless integration of these individual technologies. The best way to achieve the seamless integration described above is through an open platform that can effortlessly connect with any smart building system while remaining accessible to those with minimal to no experience with coding.
The cost to fit-out workplaces in Asia Pacific continues to rise, mirroring ongoing inflationary pressures, higher commodity prices and increased construction costs. According to global real estate consultant JLL’s (NYSE:JLL) Asia Pacific Fit-Out Cost Guide 2023/2024, the average cost to fit-out workplaces across the Asia Pacific region increased 0.5% year
on-year with the average fit-out cost per sqm rising to US$1,161, up from US$1,159 last year.
After losing its spot to Sydney in last year’s guide, Tokyo has regained its place as the most expensive city in Asia Pacific for office fit-outs at US$2,071 per sqm. Inflationary pressure is having an impact on project pipelines, but despite a 20% rise in construction prices at a local currency level, confidence remains in the market as the flight to quality in workplaces remains a theme in Tokyo.
Australian markets follow Tokyo as the next most expensive including Sydney (US$1,929), Canberra (US$1,926), Adelaide (US$1,897) and Melbourne (US$1,868). These markets continued to show increases in construction prices, but previous high levels of inflation have tailed off in line with projections.
Whilst overall construction prices at a regional level have shifted by 0.5% year-on-year in US dollar terms, at a local currency level, most markets have reported increases. The exceptions are markets in China and Vietnam, which saw largely static construction prices in response to weakened client confidence driving increased competition for work in these locations. Since abandoning the “zero Covid” strategy, China has not experienced the sharp growth in pent up demand that was prevalent in other markets post pandemic.
Martin Hinge, Executive Managing Director, Project Development Services, JLL Asia Pacific, says, “Inflation in Asia Pacific markets is returning to normal levels as widely projected, but certain supply chain challenges remain for mechanical, engineering and plumbing, information technology and audio-visual items. Going forward, we foresee factors like commodity process, energy costs, and
wage increases will continue to impact pricing and lead to delays for some fit-outs and unpredictability of select items into Asia Pacific. We have also seen significant exchange rate volatility over the last 12 months, in some cases eroding tender price increases in local currencies.”
On the supply chain front, two-thirds of JLL’s Asia Pacific market leaders are citing constraints in mechanical and electrical (M&E), IT, audio visual (AV) and security trades. This is expected to continue improving over the coming 12 months as supply chains continue to adapt and, in some markets, demand softens.
Hinge adds, “Nonetheless, our clients continue to remain bullish. In most markets, sentiment remains strong and despite the continuing impact of price inflation, our teams report robust pipelines due to a renewed focus by clients to attract staff back to the office, improve productivity and well-being, and meet net zero carbon (NZC) commitments.”
As the flight to quality trend continues there is a need to balance return to office mandates with the need to design and maintain hybrid, human-centric workspaces. Considerations include spaces that attract and retain talent, meet ESG aspirations, and provide environments that meet employees demands and the variety of work activities undertaken throughout the working day.
Sustainability remains front of mind
Leasing office space in sustainable buildings is becoming non-negotiable for occupiers committed to ESG. Among other factors, sustainable fit-outs are gaining prominence as an initiative to decarbonise workplaces. In a survey of 240 commercial real estate leaders across Asia Pacific, one-in-two cite sustainable fit-outs as a priority to be actioned within the next three years. This confirms that sustainability is now a key driver in the way occupiers acquire, fit-out, and manage their assets.
While ESG commitments are a key driver of sustainable fit-outs, cost savings over the long term can offset upfront capital expenditure (CAPEX) costs. Sustainable materials or pieces of equipment may be more expensive upfront but those with better energy ratings or longer lifespans will save businesses money in the long run.
Responding to inflationary pressures that projects are facing, one-third of JLL market leaders in Asia Pacific report that pursuing a sustainable design is dependent on the overall project cost and 56% confirmed that reduced CAPEX on initiatives was being considered as a means to work within budgets, the bulk of which was in Australia and Southeast Asian markets.
Pylons on the western banks of the Batang Lupar River to the southeast of Kuching. Photo Copyright: Doka
Conceptualised to enhance logistical connectivity for Malaysia’s agricultural communities, Doka Malaysia’s stayed-cable bridge in northern Borneo will provide valuable access for farmers and traders while supporting the country’s food security program.
Located on the northeastern side of Borneo, Malaysia’s largest region of Sarawak, renowned for its biodiversity, karst and national parks, is in transformation. As part of the government’s initiatives to improve productivity and strengthen supply chains, it is actively pursuing the industrialisation of its agricultural sector, thereby supporting farmers and the region’s rural communities.
As part of this strategy, the region also requires infrastructure and, with it, the development of bridges and highways to traverse its numerous rivers, such as the Batang Lupar, which separates Simanggang, the capital of Sri Aman, from its neighbouring agricultural communities of Jalan Utama Kedua and Jalan Pasisir. Working with main contractor, Naim Gamuda (NAGA) JV Sdn Bhd, Doka Malaysia was brought in to provide a flexible formwork solution for the stayed-cable Batang Lupar Bridge No. 2, in particular to cater to the unusual shape of the pylons. Initially awarded in 2019, the bridge was placed on a one-year hiatus during the pandemic, meaning Doka’s solution also needed to play catch up without sacrificing safety or increasing cost.
In terms of approach, Doka’s formwork solution will need to deliver four 145.5 metre-high slopping pylons with two crossbeams at 16.87 and 94.15 metres, respectively, and a two-sided cast in-situ deck slab at 20.87 metres in height. Using an Automatic Climbing Formwork SKE 100 plus for the casting work, Load-bearing Tower d3, Load-bearing Tower Staxo 40 and a Ringlock Shoring System were used to cast the crossbeams and deck slab. Ringlock was also used to temporarily access the Automatic Climbing Formwork SKE 100 plus platform at height. Based on the project’s remote location, the combination of Load-bearing Tower d3, Load-bearing Tower Staxo 40 and Ringlock meant a lower investment and transportation cost for the client, while Ringlock’s multifunctional features enabled its dual purpose use as both shoring and access scaffolding.
Arguably, the most essential feature of the project was the Automatic Climbing Formwork SKE 100 plus system’s flexibility in shaping the pylons, which gently taper until 94.15 metres. As a result, the craneless system, which also enabled the client to temporarily store materials on it to increase site efficiency, the project timeframe was reduced by two months, with the contractor optimistic that more time can be saved with an additional Automatic Climbing Formwork SKE 100 plus system commissioned for the remaining pylons on the other side of the river.
Speaking on behalf of the main contractor, Project Manager Yii Hing commented, “Doka’s reputation for delivering fast and efficient formwork solutions is well known in the region, and its work on the Batang Lupar Bridge No. 2 has been no exception. From the physical products and systems to the engineering and safety support on site, the project has progressed ahead of schedule with complete consideration of our assigned budgets.”
Having started almost five years ago, Doka’s hands-on training, engineering expertise and efficiency, combined with its high-performing products and systems, will mean the Batang Lupar Bridge No. 2 will likely be delivered within a year and start supporting Sarawak’s agricultural communities effective immediately.
• Coliwoo introduces its 15th co-living property launch to date – the four-storey Coliwoo Hotel Pasir Panjang falls under the brand’s co-living Hotel portfolio
• Strategic location with schools, business parks, as well as recreational amenities nearby makes it the perfect sweet spot for “bleisure” stays – combining the best of business and leisure
• Expansion of co-living hotel portfolio caters to sustained strong demand for rental accommodation as more turn towards co-living hotel spaces for longer-term stays
Exterior of Coliwoo Hotel Pasir Panjang, featuring an imaginative mural that injects vibrancy within the neighbourhood of the Pasir Panjang district
Coliwoo, a co-living subsidiary brand under real estate management services group, LHN Limited (“LHN”, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”), has recently unveiled its latest property – Coliwoo Hotel Pasir Panjang – the newest addition to the brand’s portfolio that now sees 15 properties launched islandwide.
Strategically located at 404 Pasir Panjang Road, the co-living hotel opens plentiful possibilities for a close-knit community – among students, researchers and lecturers from National University of Singapore, Curtin University and S P Jain. Also catering to other working professionals, the property is just a short drive from Mapletree Business City, Science Park and even the Central Business District, all accessible along the stretch from Ayer Rajah Expressway, West Coast Highway to Keppel Viaduct.
With several recreational spots including parks such as West Coast Park, Hort Park and Southern Ridges, attractions like Sentosa and Universal Studios Singapore, as well as malls like VivoCity, Star Vista and Clementi Mall, all just a short commute away, Coliwoo Hotel Pasir Panjang makes for the ideal sweet spot for members looking for an all-encompassing stay.
Beyond catering solely to individuals and families seeking for convenient flexible-term accommodation, these well-rounded offerings provide working professionals, especially foreigners, the perfect launchpad for a ‘bleisure’ stay – a recent trend in temporary stays that seamlessly blends elements of both business and leisure.
“With the resounding success of Coliwoo Hotel Gay World, we are excited to expand our co-living portfolio within the city fringe with our latest addition to Coliwoo Hotels. Noting the demand among students and working professionals for long-term yet flexible stays, Coliwoo Hotel Pasir Panjang boasts convenience and accessibility, without compromising on quality especially through its prime location in the heart of Pasir Panjang,” said Ms. Chong Ching Yeng, Chief Commercial Officer of Coliwoo.
Nautical Design that Reflects Coastal Ties of Pasir Panjang
Interior of the Premier Studio room type at Coliwoo Hotel Pasir Panjang, showcasing a mid-upscale modern yet homely ambience
All rooms at Coliwoo Hotel Pasir Panjang are decked in light grey hues paired with bright marine blue – reminiscent of Pasir Panjang’s coastal ties – calling to mind feelings of calmness and relaxation. The soft, ambient lighting within the rooms also serves as a welcoming embrace that members can look forward after a long day’s work or school, seeking respite in the unparalleled comfort that awaits them.
Arches and curves are also introduced at various parts of the rooms and common area, to soften the hard lines of the interior, along with tints of gold shades and trimmings on the wall, incorporating a touch of brightness to the space.
Enhancing Member Experiences
Adding to its suite of key amenities, each Coliwoo Hotel Pasir Panjang room is a self-contained studio unit that comes alongside support services, including a self-service mobile app, an onsite concierge and housekeeping. Coliwoo recently upgraded its mobile app, allowing members to seamlessly book communal spaces, redeem exclusive deals, sign up for events and more. Members need to only pay for an all-inclusive fee, testament to Coliwoo’s commitment for exceptionally hassle-free stays, no matter long or short-term.
While each unit is self-contained, Coliwoo continues to pride itself on the communal offerings it provides, recently even more so through various brand partnerships to create activities such as weekend bicycle rides and urban farming, to promote a physically and mentally healthy living experience to its members.
Solidifying Coliwoo’s Presence in the Co-Living Market
Scheduled for opening in 2024 with locations at River Valley Road, Rangoon Road, Balestier Road, Lavender Street and Arab Street, Coliwoo continues to expand its footprint through its commitment to providing members with a diverse selection of properties. The expansion strategy, through master leases etc., gears towards introducing even more choices at various locations and price points to cater to all needs – in quick succession.
Ms. Chong added, “We are primed to strengthen our influence in this competitive sector, as we continue to stay true to our dedication in fostering a dynamic community among our members. Through our value-added offerings, Coliwoo turns spaces into homes and communities, elevating our status as a sought-after lifestyle destination that transcends conventional housing norms.”
