My entry to the #monomad challenge: Finding Beauty in Architecture and Nature

Among all the things I do in my free time, I probably enjoy photography the most. It’s an activity that sharpens my observational skills and helps me burn off extra calories from the lack of physical activity in my job. Spending the entire day at a desk can eventually lead to health issues, which worries me. That’s why, whenever I have free time, I like to visit places where I can take photos and enjoy a relaxing walk. I find this activity beneficial not only for my physical health but also for my mental well-being.

Ever since I started going on these photography walks, I’ve become more aware of the things around me that I used to subconsciously ignore or overlook, including the architectural elements in my surroundings. I suppose it’s because the buildings around me often seem too mundane, so I never truly appreciated them. Another reason might be that I wasn’t trying to seek out interesting perspectives and be amazed by them.

For this black-and-white photography post, I’m focusing on architectural subjects I photographed over the past few weeks. Let me start with the canopy design at Plaza Singapura. This type of design is known as a "space frame," a three-dimensional structural framework.

What amazes me about this canopy is how it artistically envelops the walkways.

A striking contrast to modern structures is the classic or traditional designs I discovered at the Chinese Garden in Jurong Lake. The buildings exude a vibrant spirit that flows through every element, from the walls to the roof, which stands out as the most impactful aspect of their design.

A subject I often photograph is nature. However, spending most of my time in the city center means that what I usually see is man-made. Even when there are plants around, it doesn’t quite feel like true nature.

Exploring the world through photography has opened my eyes to the beauty in both man-made structures and the natural world, even in the most unexpected places. Each photo I capture tells a story and reminds me to appreciate the details that often go unnoticed. Thank you for joining me on this journey—feel free to share your thoughts or your own experiences in the comments!

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