
Tierra Design Studio Pte Ltd
With over four decades of experience as an architect, initially in Los Angeles and later in Singapore as both an architect and landscape architect, Franklin brings a holistic perspective to the Tierra team. He sees no separation between architecture and landscape architecture in the design process. Tierra, an acclaimed practice established in Singapore for twenty-five years, undertakes projects in twelve countries. Their team comprises a diverse range of experts, including landscape architects, architects, planners, horticulturists, and arborists. They collaborate closely with ecologists, botanists, agronomists, and environmental scientists. Tierra’s projects adopt a comprehensive design approach, integrating principles of landscape urbanism and ecological sustainability to craft high-quality urban spaces.
Franklin Po’s approach at Tierra is shaped by a lifetime of learning, introspection, and hands-on experience. He brings a philosophy of responsible environmental design, drawing from his background in biology to understand nature’s structural systems. His undergraduate studies at UC Irvine introduced him to artists like Vija Celmins, Craig Kaufman, Robert Irwin, Ed Moses, and Larry Bell, igniting his passion for art and technology. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Franklin pursued architecture and planning at California State Polytechnic University, where he was influenced by architects such as Richard Neutra, Buckminster Fuller, and Raymond Kappe. A fellowship at Welton Beckett Architects allowed him to further his studies at UCLA Graduate School of Architecture and Planning, culminating in a Masters in Architecture.
Tierra’s holistic design philosophy is encapsulated in the acronym “RiGBY,” representing Red, Green, Blue, and Yellow—the colors symbolizing different aspects of their approach. Red signifies transportation systems, ensuring efficient vehicular movement. Green represents the integration of landscape features to enhance the built environment and promote biodiversity. Blue embodies water-sensitive urban design principles, managing urban runoff effectively. Yellow signifies social spaces for community engagement and recreational activities. The addition of the letter “i” emphasizes Tierra’s commitment to Integrative, Inclusive, and Immersive design, reflecting their dedication to enhancing environments for people of all ages and abilities.

Tierra Design Studio Pte Ltd Awards and Credentials
Tierra Design Studio Pte Ltd has been the recipient of numerous prestigious awards, recognizing their outstanding contributions to the field of architecture and design. Franklin Po, the President of Tierra Design Studio, was honored with the President’s Design Award in 2015, receiving the esteemed title of Designer of the Year. Among the notable projects recognized is the Keppel Marina East Desalination Plant, which received the China Yuan Ye Award (园冶国际奖) in 2018, earning the Gold Award. The plant also garnered the Global Water Intelligence Award in 2021, being named Desalination Plant of the Year.
Another remarkable achievement is the accolade received by Tierra Design Studio from the International Water Association in 2022, winning the Project Innovation Award. Their commitment to excellence in flood and water management was further acknowledged with the IFLA AAPME Awards in 2022, where they secured the Awards of Excellence in the Flood and Water Management Category. Tierra Design Studio’s dedication to sustainable practices is evident through their ABC Waters Certified (Gold) status.
The Tembusu project, under Tierra’s guidance, was honored with the President’s Design Award in 2018, claiming the title of Design of the Year. Additionally, it received the China Yuan Ye Award (园冶国际奖) Gold Award and an Honorable Mention at the SIA Architectural Design Awards in 2017.
The Shangri-La Orchid Pavilion project received accolades such as the SILA Silver Award in 2017 and the Presidents Design Award in 2018.
Tierra Design Studio’s contribution to the Rail Corridor Masterplan was recognized with the IFLA Asia Pacific Region Landscape Architecture Awards in 2017, where they received the Outstanding Award.
Their commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in projects like the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, which earned the NParks Skyrise Greenery Award for Excellence in 2015.
Tierra Design Studio’s innovative designs, such as the Ocean Financial Center’s Vertical Garden, have garnered international acclaim, including recognition from the Guinness World Records for the World’s Biggest Vertical Garden Award in 2013.
Projects like Parkroyal on Pickering have been honored with the President’s Design Award in 2013 and received accolades for outstanding green initiatives, such as the International Rooftop Landscaping Association’s World’s Best Roof Greening Project Award in 2013.
Other notable projects recognized include Soleil at Sinaran, Changi Airport T3, Banyan Tree Resort Lijiang, Mandai Crematorium & Columbarium, Lincoln Modern, The Loft Condominium, No. 4 Morley Road, Residential House at Bintong Park, Wells-Halliday Mansion AIDs Hospice, and Unocal Oil Museum, California, among others, reflecting Tierra Design Studio’s commitment to excellence across a diverse range of projects.
Services Offered
Tierra Design Studio Pte Ltd offers a comprehensive range of services aimed at fulfilling diverse project needs. Their expertise encompasses various aspects of project development and execution, ensuring holistic solutions tailored to clients’ requirements.
Their services include:
- Masterplanning: Tierra Design Studio specializes in masterplanning, providing strategic and visionary solutions for large-scale developments. They excel in conceptualizing and orchestrating integrated plans that encompass urban infrastructure, transportation systems, land use, and environmental sustainability.
- Urban Design: With a keen understanding of urban dynamics and community needs, Tierra Design Studio creates innovative urban design solutions that enhance the functionality, aesthetics, and livability of urban spaces. Their urban design projects prioritize pedestrian-friendly environments, green spaces, and sustainable development principles.
- Architecture: Tierra Design Studio’s architectural expertise spans a wide spectrum, from residential and commercial buildings to institutional and cultural facilities. They approach each architectural project with creativity, attention to detail, and a commitment to delivering distinctive designs that blend seamlessly with their surroundings while meeting clients’ functional requirements.
- Landscape Architecture: Tierra Design Studio is renowned for its landscape architecture services, which focus on creating harmonious outdoor environments that promote wellness, connectivity, and ecological sustainability. Their landscape designs integrate natural elements, such as vegetation, water features, and hardscape elements, to enrich the user experience and foster a sense of place.
- Interior Architecture: Tierra Design Studio’s interior architecture services encompass the design and planning of interior spaces, including residential interiors, corporate offices, retail outlets, and hospitality venues. They specialize in creating interior environments that reflect clients’ unique identities, enhance user comfort, and optimize spatial functionality.
Overall, Tierra Design Studio’s multidisciplinary approach, coupled with their commitment to innovation and sustainability, enables them to deliver exceptional projects across a wide range of sectors, from concept development to final implementation.
Contact Information
Tierra Design Studio Pte Ltd welcomes inquiries, feedback, or just a friendly chat. You can email them at [email protected] or call at +6563342595. Stay updated with their latest news and works by visiting their LinkedIn profile (@Tierra Design). If you’re interested in joining their team, send your CV and portfolio (maximum 15MB) to [email protected]. The studio is located at 1003 Bukit Merah Central Suite 03-13, Singapore 159836. Contact them via phone at +65 6334 2595 or fax at +65 6334 7432, or email at [email protected].