Degradation and biodiversity of rain gardens in the tropics

Lina Altoaimi; Shruthakeerthi Karthikeyan; Akshitha Vadlakunta; Yuting Wang; Abdul Thaqif Abdul Terawis

doi:10.47818/DRArch.2025.v6i2169

Degradation and biodiversity of rain gardens in the tropics

Authors

Lina Altoaimi Short Bio National University of Singapore

Lina Altoaimi is a graduate of the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture programme at the National University of Singapore. Her research interests include spatial degradation and transformation, as well as the influence of policy on urban spaces. She is currently pursuing independent research projects exploring architectural degradation and related policies in the tropical built environment.
Shruthakeerthi Karthikeyan Short Bio National University of Singapore

Shruthakeerthi Karthikeyan is an architect and designer trained in SPA, JNAFAU, India. Her research interests include urban green spaces, relationships between climate change and heritage, and urban hydrology. She is currently pursuing her Master's in Landscape Architecture (MLA) at the National University of Singapore.
Akshitha Vadlakunta Short Bio National University of Singapore

Akshitha Vadlakunta is an architect trained at Manipal School of Architecture and Planning. She is currently pursuing her Master’s in Landscape Architecture (MLA) at the National University of Singapore. Her research interests focus on speculative and adaptive landscape strategies, including climate-resilient design, experimental ecologies, and the role of public space in shaping future urban living.
Yuting Wang Short Bio National University of Singapore

Wang Yuting is a graduate from National University of Singapore with a Bachelor's degree in Landscape Architecture and winner of the Lee Kuan Yew Gold Medal for best performing graduate in her course. Currently, she is pursuing the Environmental Technology MSc at Imperial College London, specialising in Urban Sustainable Environments.
Abdul Thaqif Abdul Terawis Short Bio National University of Singapore

Abdul Tha’qif bin Abdul Terawis is a graduate from National University of Singapore with a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture. His research interests lie in simulation-based design and its applications in the landscape. He is currently undertaking independent studies on therapeutic plant-based interventions within transitional spaces of HDBs to promote well-being among the elderly.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47818/DRArch.2025.v6i2169

Keywords:

design maintenance, ecosystem services, green infrastructure, landscape degradation, rain gardens

Abstract

Rain gardens are commonly applied as a nature-based stormwater management method in urban areas, yet the long-term impacts, possible degradation, and effects on biodiversity as a type of green infrastructure remain underexplored. By comparing two rain gardens in Singapore– one of the earlier prototypes in a neighbourhood managed by a local town council in Central Singapore at Potong Pasir, and a more recent one managed by the National Parks in the West at Jurong Lake Gardens, the ecological and aesthetic functions are investigated. Thus, the rain gardens are explored through the lenses of both functional and aesthetic degradation. Quantitative methods, including the Shannon Biodiversity Index, Green View Index, Colourfulness Index, and surface heat mapping, are applied. Observational methods, including spatial configurations of the rain gardens, plant health, and soil conditions, were also explored to understand the extent of degradation. Common challenges encountered in rain gardens included poor or improper maintenance, poor aesthetic and visual engagement, as well as improper design. Through the findings, comprehensive design and maintenance suggestions are provided for designers and planners to improve existing rain gardens and extend the lifespan and function of future gardens. Rain garden lifespans can be lengthened to reap long-term benefits like effective stormwater management and habitat creation for local biodiversity. Maintenance suggestions build upon existing grey infrastructure and nature-based solutions routine maintenance protocols, tackling the four key functions of a rain garden: sedimentation, filtration, infiltration, and bioretention. Design suggestions are drawn from the data analysed, including potential tree planting configurations and the use of groundcover to reduce surface temperature.

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2025-08-30

How to Cite

Altoaimi, L., Karthikeyan, S., Vadlakunta, A., Wang, Y., & Abdul Terawis, A. T. (2025). Degradation and biodiversity of rain gardens in the tropics. Journal of Design for Resilience in Architecture and Planning, 6(2), 290–315. https://doi.org/10.47818/DRArch.2025.v6i2169