The city you'll never meet

Abstract

“The City You’ll Never Meet.” is a speculative project aimed at analysing how the Covid-19 Pandemic could affect the nature of social interaction in Singapore 50 years into the future.

Through the lens of Speculative Design, the project seeks to critique and encourage discussion on the accelerated pace of utilising virtual technology as a replacement to physical connectivity. This project is motivated by the unique social impacts the Covid-19 Pandemic has on Singapore, such as the implementation of “Work from Home” scheme and online learning, as well as the increase in mental fatigue and mental health problems because of prolonged isolation and lack of social interaction.

With the aim of generating discussion, the project explores a speculative future scenario whereby Singapore is in a state where physical interactivity is no longer necessary, even discouraged. It tackles this scenario in the form of an imaginary Non-Governmental Organisation set in the future, that seeks to understand and spread awareness of the unique circumstances of the small city state through a third person perspective.

Through a mock media website, illustrative infographic video and other complementary design mediums, the deliverables offer viewers a glimpse into this fictional scenario in hope that it will trigger empathy, encourage second opinions and emphasis considerations on the accelerated use of technology and the importance of physical touch & social interaction.

Keywords: Speculative, Future, Singapore, Technology, Physical Connectivity, Isolation