Located at level 2 of the library, Eco Hive contains exhibits that showcase eco-conscious projects from TP's centres, departments, facilities and schools.
Niwako Aquaponics Cafe [Green Concept Award 2022 winner]
Designed by Interior Architecture & Design student Seah Kit Shann who graduated in 2020, NIWAKO “ 庭呼 ” is a derivation of “ 庭の呼吸 ”, which translates to “breathing in the garden”. It refers to the biophilia theory of immersing in natural sights and sounds to offer a sense of relaxation and connecting with nature. The spatial quality serves as a peaceful retreat from the hectic, urban lifestyle; to slow down and de-stress while enjoying the beautiful scenery. It wishes to promote agriculture in urban environments and emphasize connection with nature, more specifically, our food sources.
[Links to Green Concept Award webpage & brochure for the concept]
Made of scrap fabric, the dolls are designed with long limbs for playing and posing. The female doll's body contains a removable pillow, so that the exterior can be easily cleaned. The coasters and decorative rope rug are made of scrap fabric pieces while the notebooks are made using scrap fabrics for covers. The tote, zippered pouch and card holder are made from layers of of trash and plastic bags fused together through ironing to thicken and stabilise the materials.
These items are contributed by Makerspace.
The prototypes on display are part of the efforts by the Centre for Urban Sustainability to innovate sustainable solutions from food waste valorisation. Orange peel essential oil and pectin were extracted from leftover orange peels provided by local juicing companies. The extracts were used in the formulation of soaps and cleaning agents. Other leftover fibrous food wastes sources such as biogasse (the fibrous portion of sugarcane) and spent coffee grounds were also collected and used to formulate materials for various applications.