Pretensions was at new research and development complex Fusionopolis for an alternative energy event last Wednesday. Despite herself, P was really impressed by the futuristic styling of the complex which was created by renowned Malaysian architect Ken Yeang, well known for his low energy skyscraper design.

Fusionopolis is intended to become Singapore's icon for R&D in interactive media, physical sciences, engineering and technology and will be developed over six phases.

A very green development, Fusionopolis was largely illuminated by natural sunlight and featured a vertical planted corridor and landscaped garden terraces for natural ventilation and cooling. On the level that P was on, there was an air-curtain preventing cool air-conditioned air mixing with the hot and humid Singapore atmosphere.

There was an upmarket supermarket (Marketplace) operating in the basement and a Harry's Bar and Starbucks (oh no!) on the ground floor but most of the retail space on the first to third levels was still boarded up, not surprising since the complex only saw its grand opening two weeks ago.

P particularly liked the curvy wood warmth of the lounge area outside the auditorium which more closely resembled an avant-garde bar space than any lab P has ever seen, 'though she guesses that the Fusionopolis labs would be exemplary as well.

Fitness First, a gym chain, has opened an outlet here and P would love to see the 23rd floor, open-to-the-sky, pool, but sadly she never got the chance. The view's probably not great at present 'though; P got a wonderful view of the construction site that's currently phase 2 from the picture window in the lady's loo!