The new studio will be led by Neil Salton, a Principal of Woods Bagot who has lived in Singapore since 2008 and delivered a number of projects regionally. Working with Tan Kok Hiang, founder and Director of Forum Architects, Salton will build the 50-strong practice to meet existing and future client need in the region.

Salton names Singapore as a crucial market for the company for two main reasons; the potential cost savings and the company’s involvement in seven high-rise projects in Jakarta. Known across various sectors, including hospitality, Woods Bagot are currently working on the Telkom Landmark Tower, the new headquarters for Indonesia’s largest telecommunications company. These projects will continue to be supported from the Singapore studio.

Speaking about the alliance with Forum, Ross Donaldson, Group Managing Director at Woods Bagot says: “Our clients have been increasingly looking for us to build a presence in Singapore and this joint venture allows us to fast-track our strategy in that market. Kok Hiang has a fantastic reputation and we have had the privilege of working alongside the Forum team on a number of projects. I have no doubt he and Neil will maintain this status as best-in-class in the local market while linking with Woods Bagot’s Global Studio”.

Woods Bagot is also working on a landmark project for one of Singapore’s largest employers, set to be unveiled towards the end of 2013.

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