The Past In the Present

Part 1

Modernism or known as international style after 1940s, contributes to the death of

identities, history and social lifestyle of a nation in architecture. Modern houses look similar

from all over the world, thus the culture and identities of different regions and nations are

hardly to be seen in modern buildings.

On the other hand, traditional architecture is speaking for one nation about its culture,

climate, and social lifestyle. For instance, pitch roofs tell about tropical climate and courtyard

let know the social lifestyle. Traditional means the norms we been practicing in a long time. It is

the style of living been passing from one generation to another. In short, it is the root of us.

In addition, poetic in space is lacking in modernism because the structures, spaces and

form have no relation to our root. It is just like something imported from Europe that is totally

no connection to our national identities, history and lifestyle and therefore modern

architecture does not touches ones heart. However, traditional architecture would have the

trail of culture, history and identities of a nation that modern architecture does not have.

Unlike the modern houses, the traditional courtyard house integrated with “Feng Shui”

elements makes the place full of stories and that is the poetic in space.

Modernism style emphasizes on clean lines and simple forms that create a new kind of

aesthetic which is not responding to the local climate. Thus, the building will need active system

to achieve comfort. For example, as tropical climate has high density of rain water, flat roof in

modernism does not keep away rain water causes big issue of water leaking into the building. In

another word, it cost more to sustain a modern building compare to sustaining a traditional

building.

However, there are several strengths in modern architecture that can be learned and

integrated into traditional architecture to extend its limitation. For instance the technologies in

modernism allow larger scale buildings, and shorter period for construction. Therefore, we

should allow modernism to integrate into traditional architecture and lets traditional

architecture keep evolving to conserve the nation’s identities, history and social lifestyle.

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Part II

The identity of traditional architecture in Malaysia is the responsive to climate features.

For example, cross ventilation to remove heat and high pitch roof to drain rainwater quicker. In

addition, another identity of traditional architecture is the local materials like timber, brick and

concrete. However, presently modern materials such as steel and glass are to be seen

elsewhere.

1.0 Reinvigorating Tradition

Reinvigorating tradition is defined as injecting new life and meaning in to traditional

architecture. Take the example of The Aryani Resort at Terengganu, designed by Senibahri

Arkitek, of injecting new life to traditional architecture.

The concept of Aryani Resort is to create a traditional Malay Kampong environment for

tourist to have the chance for celebrating the traditional architecture and knowing our national

identities, history and social lifestyle. The resort is likely a traditional kampong but different

events in it. This is to be said as turning a village layout into commercial purposes (tourism).

The essence of Malay Kampong layout can be seen in the central courtyard which

resembles the community space in a Malay Kampong layout. This courtyard is the core of the

resort where facility like swimming pool. That becomes the spot of gathering of this community

especially where this is the place for events such as traditional performances and recreational

activities.

(Figure 1 The central courtyard, Architecture Malaysia “Hotels & Resorts” 2006)

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Aryani Resort comprises 20 rooms with 4 types villas to enhance the ambience of

traditional Malay Kampong. These villas are designed based on traditional style of Malay House

not only for the exterior look but also for the interior spaces for instance double volume space

for the ventilation purposes is the essence of traditional Malay houses.

(Figure 2 Exterior look of the Villa, Architecture Malaysia “Hotels & Resorts” 2006)

In conclusion, the architect breathes life into traditional architecture by adding new

meaning to it. Like Aryani Resort, put tourism, the new meaning into a traditional village.

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2.0 Reinventing Tradition

Reinventing Tradition means to use a new language or style to present the essence of

traditional architecture. Dr Ken Yeang’s Roof‐roof house gives an example on reinventing

tradition.

Roof roof house by Dr Ken Yeang presents the essence of Tradition that is responding to

local climate in the form of modern style. This approach can be seen in the layout planning

where its north‐south orientation protects the major space such as living area from the tropical

sun. Besides, the configuration of the space allow for the prevailing Southeast to Northwest

wind passing through and cool down the interior spaces.

(Figure 3 Section of Roof‐roof House explaining the responding climate features,

Kenneth Yeang 1984)

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(Figure 4 Roof‐roof house prevailing winds diagram explains cross ventilation approach in

design, Kenneth Yeang 1984)

In another words, Roof‐roof house has the essence of a traditional architecture in a

modern building. The essence is the passive climatic features such as the cross ventilation and

configuration of spaces to avoid heating by the sun.

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3.0 Extending Tradition

Extending Tradition is modifying traditional architecture to create additional meaning to

it. Kok’s Bungalow by GDP architects is an example of extending tradition.

The concept of blurred boundaries between indoor and outdoor is extended from

traditional Malay house can be seen in Kok’s Bungalow. The inner courtyard is adding blur to

the feeling of indoor and outdoor. 3

(Figure 5 Kok’s Bungalow‐the wide opening and inner courtyard, Architecture Malaysia

“PAM Award” 2006)

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Deriving from traditional Malay houses, wide openings are to be seen in Kok’s Bungalow.

The folding glass wall allows for full ventilation to respond local climate. This is an obvious

evidence of extending the ventilation system in traditional Malay houses.

The courtyard is clearly the modifying of traditional Chinese courtyard house. There is a

small pond in the middle of the courtyard is functioning as an cooling agent to the house. The

courtyard brought in the sun light and rain water. More than that, it brings life to the plants

inside the courtyard.

In conclusion, Kok’s Bungalow has modified traditional architecture to suit into the

contemporary living while maintain the essence of it.

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4.0 Reinterpreting Tradition

Reinterpreting Tradition means the integration of traditional elements into

contemporary style. Wooi’s Architect shows an example of reinterpreting tradition through the

selection of materials in Wooi’s Residence at Shah Alam.

Wooi’s Architect selected the 3 main traditional materials like brick, timber and

concrete added with modern glasses to extend tradition. The integration of brick piers and

diagonal timber struts that looks familiar is forming the sense of tradition to the house. Besides,

these diagonal timber struts supporting the cantilevered protruding first floor.

(Figure 6 Front View of Wooi’s Residence, Architecture Malaysia “Architects’ Homes” 2006)

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The skins of Wooi’s Residence keep reminding the presence of traditional in the house.

For instance, the un‐plastered brick wall, timber ceiling with the exposing rafter seems like

talking the story of our tradition. Although Wooi’s Residence has the contemporary layout, its

skins still

(Left Figure 7 Bricks finishes at the entertainment area. Architecture Malaysia “Hotels & Resorts”

2006)

(Right Figure 8 Timber Ceiling with Roof Rafter exposing, Architecture Malaysia “Hotels &

Resorts” 2006)

In conclusion, Wooi’s Architect is integrating traditional materials into contemporary

building. The integration of traditional and contemporary tell stories of traditions for the next

generations.

(Figure 9 Traditional Materials in Contemporary Building,

Architecture Malaysia “Hotels & Resorts” 2006)

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Reference List

AM, Architecture Malaysia “ Architects’ Homes”. 2006 p.27‐29

AM, Architecture Malaysia “Hotels & Resorts”. 2006 p. 48‐49

AM, Architecture Malaysia “PAM Award” 2006 p.21‐23

“Roof‐roof House” 2006. Retrieved on 8 April 2007, at http://archnet.org.

Urban Kampong

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1.0 Introduction

This report presents the study of traditional Malay Kampong and a case study of

present Malay Kampong. The following gives an introduction to general purpose of study.

As well as an overall preview of this report.

1.1 General Purpose of Study

This report aims to study the spirit of a traditional Malay Kampung and how it is

being related to the present Malay Kampung.

The goal of this study is to understand the needs of the present Malay Kampung

which we did a site visit on which is Kampung Banghuris at Sepang, Selangor and later

on, from the results we analyzed from the case study, form suitable proposals which will

be able to bring back the essence of a traditional Malay Kampung into the present time

Malay Kampung and at the same time enhancing it.

1.2 Preview of Report

This report will first explain the essence of a traditional Malay Kampong in terms

of how a traditional Malay Kampong sustains itself and how the community co-exists

with each other.

A site visit has been conducted at Kampung Banghuris whereby we studied its

history and background of formation. Next, we analyze and compare the present Malay

Kampung to a traditional Malay Kampung in terms of identity, layout and planning,

livelihood of its inhabitants, industries that existed, architecture as well as the cultural

and social scene. Besides that, we also researched the needs of the villagers and the

problems they faced by interviewing the villagers themselves. A first-hand experience is

also needed in order to get a better understanding and an outsider’s stance on the village

conditions.

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Last but not least, we provide proposals which we believe could enhance the spirit

of the Malay Kampung, fulfill the needs of villagers, help them conquer the problems

they are having in the present Malay Kampung and further enhance the condition of the

kampong.

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2.0 Research Analysis

From research done regarding the traditional kampong, we found out that the

traditional Malay Kampung is a self sustainable community. Besides that, Malay villages

are made up of close-knit communities where the community spirit is very strong. The

following are the analysis which we had done from our research on how a traditional

Malay kampung is in general terms.

2.1 Self Sustainable Community

The traditional Malay kampung is a self-sustainable community. They were able

to survive without the need for cosmopolitan delights. The main reason behind it would

be the character of the community that resides in them. The first example of it would be

the economic activities done. A traditional Malay village depends either on agriculture,

plantations or fishing. The economic activities depends a lot on the geographical

condition of the village. Usually, Malay kampung are usually situated near rivers which

is the main source of irrigation and drinking water. A kampung located near the river

mouth or the sea will focus more on fishing while agriculture becomes a secondary

source of food. It goes the other way if the kampong is located in the inlands. However,

so longs as the kampong is close to any water sources, even inland villages may also have

fishing as a main source of income.

The main activity in an agriculture-driven kampong is growing padi (Rice). In

addition, vegetable and fruit growing is also another source of food for the needs of

villagers; of course this has to depend on the geographical condition of the area. In a

traditional Malay Kampung, villagers worked together in the Padi fields instead of

working alone. This ensures that each farmer can take care of everyone’s fields from

pests and this understated belief between everyone decreases the possibilities of bad crop

harvests. Besides that, rearing poultry is another activity which would supplement the

villagers needs especially when it comes to main protein source. Chickens provide meat

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and eggs which the villagers can use for their own domestic purposes or even sell or trade

them for other goods.

Malay kampung that focuses on fishing activities can be found on coastal areas.

Most male villagers in these areas are fishermen. In the early mornings, they would go

out to sea in groups where they will look for suitable areas to fish. Women staying on

ground would be involved in other activities that benefit the family such as raring animals

such as cow, chicken, goat and etc as a supplement to food sources. Besides that, they

also grow crops during the monsoon season when they are unable going out to sea.

The crops and fish are mainly for the domestic uses. However, extra food

produced might be trade with the neighboring areas. In short, a traditional Malay

Kampong supports itself quite successfully.

2.2 Close-knit Community

Close-knit community is the best keyword to describe a traditional Malay

Kampong. The community spirit is very strong in a traditional Malay Kampong as

villagers know their neighbors very well. They live as a community that would look after

each other’s wellbeing.

Due to the closeness of villagers, traditional Malay Kampong have less concern

reagrding security because everyone knows each other. This ability to look after and trust

each other made it possible to open up their homes to everyone, eliminating the need for

fences which cuts of contact whatsoever.

In the daytime, villagers would work together in the fields or plantations or in

some cases, fishing or rearing animals. Those who have spare time may visit each other

just to have conversations or even play traditional games such as ‘congkak’ which is a

traditional board game. The children who came back from school may play together, be it

singing or dancing. All this could not have happened had it not been for the fact that the

community is a cohesive one.

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In short, Malay villagers work and play as a community. Therefore, community

spaces are definitely not a lacking element. This can be seen in the traditional Malay

Kampong Layout which will be discussed in the following section.

2.3 Layout of Traditional Malay Kampong

A traditional Malay Kampong is formed by small communities clustering around

the center of the kampong. Community spaces are very important in a traditional Malay

kampong because Malay kampong is a close-knit community.

2.3.1 The Small Community Forms the kampong

Malay Houses in a Traditional Malay Kampong are clustered around the center of

the kampong. There are usually several houses forming a small community. These small

communities are one of the components of a traditional Malay Kampong. Members of the

small community will look after each other and work together. For instance, Figure 1

indicates the community working together to repair fishing nets.

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(Figure 1: Community working together to repair fishing nets. Lim. 1987 )

2.3.2 The Community Spaces

Community spaces are very important for a Traditional Malay Kampong. The community

spaces for a small community can be seen in a typical Malay house. A typical Malay

House will have the selang and anjung which are the gathering places of a small

community. Selang is situated at the rear portion of a house which is an area dominated

by the female while Anjung at the front is dominated by the male. Females in a small

community usually gather at the Selang for much needed gossips and chit-chat. While on

the other hand, the male folks would discuss male-related issues in the Anjung. Figure 2

shows the design layout of a typical traditional Malay House.

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(Figure 2: Typical Traditional Malay House Layout)

The community space for bigger community, the kampong itself is conveniently

situated at the center of the kampong where or sometimes deemed the heart of the

kampong. There are community facilities such as Surau, place for praying, schools, and

the Balai (office) attached to penghulu’s (leader of the Kampong) residence. Usually,

there are large open compounds among these community facilities. These compounds are

used for the purpose of gathering and for special events like dancing during a festive. In

other words, the heart of kampong is the meeting point of the small communities that

surrounds it. Some kampong may also have a small market at the heart of Kampong for

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the need of villagers. This is where the women would come to sell the produce cultivated

for extra income.

(Figure 3: Selling vegetables and fruits in the market)

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3.0 Case Study

Much has been studied about Kampung Banghuris which is the village we

conducted our study on. The following are the results of our case study which includes

Access, Identity, Layout and Planning, Livelihood, Tourism, Industry, Architecture as

well as the Cultural and Social scene.

3.1 Access

We have found out that there is no clear entrance to the kampung. The signs are

misleading and insignificant. On the day of our site visit, we used up a lot of time

searching for the entrance despite being given instructions to the village. It was later on

that we had to contact the leader of the village (Ketua Kampung) to guide us to our

destination.

We also found out that the roads are not wide enough to accommodate long and

large vehicles. Busses especially those that carry tourists have a difficult time especially

in sharp turns. In some bends, bus drivers have to be careful not to drive into the drains

beside the road. There is no gateway to show a clear entrance to the village.

We felt that a gateway should be placed directly over the road that leads into the

village. A gateway is important to show the identity of the villagers who lived there. It

can also be a welcoming feature for visitors, thus enhancing the journey before entering

the village.

3.2 Identity

Once assigned to our respective hosts of the day, we were introduced to the

immediate family as well as the relatives who happen to live in the same area as well.

What we found out was most of the villagers are descendents of Javanese people who

came to the area a long time ago. There are also mixtures of other Malay races with their

own distinct identity. When communicating with one another, they prefer to use their

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Javanese dialect and when they communicate with visitors they switched back to English

or Malay which shows their versatility in terms of language usage.

3.3 Layout and Planning

The layout of the kampong is rather spread-out. Families with blood-ties usually

lived in one area where they can help each other out. Usually, a plot of land is inhabited

by three to four families. In the heart of the kampung lies the Balai (Community Centre),

the community field and the Surau (Prayer Hall). This is where the village folks would

gather for activities such as welcoming the visitors or for performances and discussions

regarding the welfare of the kampung. Industries are also spread out along the outskirts of

the village close to the raw sources needed for their industry.

(Figure 4: Balai-Community Centre where community folks gather)

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3.4 Livelihood

The villagers of Kampung Banghuris used work in the oil palm plantations, coffee

plantations and smaller scale farming. Since the late 90’s, villagers are switching to a

more commercialized livelihood. The introduction of light industries especially in the

food processing department had enhanced the profitability of the raw sources available in

the kampung. Besides that, the introduction of the Homestay programme had brought in

additional income to the families that are part of the programme itself. The new

generations that lived in the village that remained there usually have jobs in the

government headquarters in Putrajaya. Some are working for the administration in nearby

Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Others also have jobs in surrounding areas such as

Shah Alam, Puchong, Dengkil or Nilai. The incomes that they brought back from these

jobs have supplemented the families to live a comfortable life. As for our group, the

houses we have visited have everything that a modern family needs and wants; clean

water, electricity, entertainment appliances, satelite broadcast programmes, internet

access, wireless connections. When asked about how satisfied the villagers are with their

life there, all of them said that they were happy and contented with the current condition.

We quote a villager saying that she would prefer to live in this kampung rather than in the

city even though her brothers and sisters have homes there because she feels safe with her

families here and she already had everything she needed.

3.5 Tourism

Tourism came as a follow up to the pact which the kampung did with the

government to supplement the tourism in the area. A Homestay Programme was initiated

which encourages tourists especially those from foreign countries to experience a Malay

kampung life first-hand. The programme basically comes in packages which the visitors

would choose to their liking. Most of the visitors are encouraged to choose the whole-day

tour which gives a wider and much deeper understanding of how people lived in the

village. Included in the day-time package is lunch with the host families where visitors

try out authentic Malay cuisine, a visit to the industries in the area, oil palm plantation,

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coffee plantation and Plant-A-tree campaign. The night-time package includes dinner,

cultural performances and a night time tour.

(Figure 5: Coffee Plantation)

3.6 Industry

The industries involved in the village are light industries, mostly in the food

processing business. These industries are also involved in the tourism aspect of the

village whereby visitors get to see first hand how food production is done in small scale

or in some cases medium and high-tech scales. These industries in a way, enhance the

experience visitors get, not only can they try out some of the work, they also get to

sample some of the goods. A good example would be the “ubi keledek” factory. Ubi

keledek which is the Malay word for cassava/tapioca is grown locally and then

transported to the factory where visitors can have a look at how they are washed, cut and

then sliced using low tech measures which is also efficient. The interesting part would be

the frying of the cassava. Visitors can taste as much of these processed goods as they

want and later on, if they choose to buy them, they would proceed to the market hall. The

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14

3.7 Architecture

The architecture in the kampung is rather basic. Despite the fact that most

villagers are descendents from Java, the architecture styles are commonly local. However,

the older houses inhabited by the oldest generations have distinct Malay flair to them.

Some house implemented the older Malay traditional beliefs like the Tiang Ibu and the

different colored clothes which protects the home owners from harm but this is a rare

case and when we asked a grandfather who used to do so, he said all he could remember

was that it was just a minor belief and now he does not believe in it anymore. The houses

built by the younger generation no longer have the true essence of a Malay house; they

are mostly modernized versions of the older houses. Timber is still the main construction

material but the roofs are now replaced by corrugated zinc profiles which are more

weather-hardy compared to the traditional clay slates or “atap roofs’”

(Figure 8: Common Malay House in Kampong Banghuris)

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3.8 Cultural and Social scene

The community here is completely different from an urban setting. Most of the

village folks are closely related by blood. The culture is distinctly Malay. Although most

of the villagers are Javanese descendents, they are still able to hold on to their roots.

Since Kampung Banghuris is made up of three villages, the head of the villages still have

their position and they still retain the responsibility of caring for the welfare of their own

people. However, there is a main “Ketua Kampung” which oversees the development of

the village. He is also the one who supervises the Homestay programme.

Villagers regularly visit each other whenever possible. Since it is a relaxed environment,

everyone is free to roam the village grounds and help out with the village folks. This is a

rare find in urban areas where even neighbors do not seem to know who lived next door.

Besides that, every time after lunch or tea time, the families would gather in one area and

talk throughout the day. They will share gossips and news and discuss issues; we too

were included in the discussion of the kampung life as well as other topics which

surprisingly were mind-opening. Our experiences with the families thought us that there

is much to learn from the other person.

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4.0 Conclusion

When we compare the present Malay Kampong (Kampung Banghuris) to a

traditional Malay Kampong, we found out that some significant essences of the

traditional Malay Kampong are still being maintained in a present Malay Kampong while

some have been lost. For example, the concept of small community forming the kampong

is still maintained. This can be seen where there is a common space in between three to

four families who actually forms a small community. The families would gather in this

space in the afternoons or evenings. In addition, the concept of the heart of the kampong

in a Traditional Malay Kampong is still retained in the present Malay Kampong.

Kampong Banghuris has a surau, a balai and an open-air compound which is the

community field all located within the center of the village.

On the other hand, there are some essences of a Traditional Malay Kampong that

has been changed or modified to suit the present time. One example of this phenomenon

is the change of activities and role of the kampung. Kampong Banghuris unlike any

typical traditional Malay Kampong involves itself in the tourism sector to sustain itself.

Besides tourism being the main activity, small scale industries are also defining the role

of the kampong. Several small industries involved in the food industry. Hence, tourism

became the major income of the Kampong to sustain the villagers. However, the idea of

living and working in the kampong still lingers on.

To conclude, Kampung Banghuris shows that a kampong has to evolve to be able

to sustain itself in a new era. The role of the kampong may have changed little in

different aspects but the spirit which it beholds is still the same. The community who

lives in the kampong is still a close-knit one; the essence of community living will be still

maintained, and it shall be maintained.

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5.0 Proposals

Kampung Banghuris is very much tourism oriented. Therefore, it is very

important for the authority to develop Kampung Banghuris into an important landmark

and a better place to visit. There are many approaches that the authority could consider in

order to enhance the tourism spot in the village. Kampung Banghuris offered home stay

program to international and local tourist, and also involved in light industry to increase

the villagers’ income.

Therefore, authorities should reinvigorate the traditional architecture in the

planning of the kampong itself. Mixing in Malay and Javanese architecture could bring

back the old time feeling of the origin of the villagers in Kampung Banghuris. Thus, the

visitors could live in a real kampong environment.

Preserving the culture and history of the kampong is important. It helps to show

the real identity of the kampong. By preserving these cultures and histories, visitors could

understand the way Malay villagers live in the older days.

Authorities should let visitors participate in various activities and participate in

hands on activities like gardening, fishing, feeding animals and many more. By this,

visitors can feel the real working life of the villagers in a kampong.

Since there’s no clear entrance getting into Kampung Banghuris, authorities

should create a well defined entrance for the visitors. This will eventually lead visitors

into the kampong without having wrong turns and lost in that area.

Community spirit is important in a kampong. Therefore, communal spaces should

be created so that villagers and also visitors could gather at a place to share their daily life

routine with each other. The communal spaces could also be a place to do performance

and other kind of activities.

Kampung Banghuris is normally visited by Japanese and other western tourists.

Therefore, the authorities should provide more information to the visitors who visits the

kampong.

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5.1 Reinvigorating of Traditional Architecture, Propose Annex-Resort

In order to enhance the village, the authority could extend and supplement the

home stay program into an interesting spot where the tourists could feel the true life and

color of Malay culture in Malaysia. The home stay program offered actually letting the

tourist to stay in the house of their host family.

From the visits, most of the houses there are not of an original Malay traditional

house. Many features of a Malay traditional house had been modified to suite with the

modern living. For example, some of the houses had covered up the ventilated roof with

ceiling to installed air-conditioned and some had break away from the traditional layout.

So, annex resorts which is attached to the host house of the family is proposed to

allow tourists to experience the true life and color of a traditional Malay culture.

Different resorts will be designed in different style of a traditional Malay house. So,

tourists can actually chose which type of Malay house they wish to live in. The main

activities will still held in the host house. They can still hanging around in the living area

with the family, using their kitchens and having dinner together with the family members.

The resorts are just the annex to enhance the home-stay program.

(Figure 9: Annexes with traditional architecture)

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5.2 Preserving Culture and History, Propose Museum

After the site visit to Kampong Banghuris, we found out that many Malay cultures

are not been practiced and it slowly buried by the new way of living. Thus, the culture

must be preserved or recorded to avoid these cultures being lost.

Basically the villagers introduce the historical substance of the kampong by

bringing the visitors to the exact spot. This actually will take time to travel all the way to

each spot. It will cause inconvenient for tourists and visitors to view on a particular

historical objects at outdoor when it rains.

The museum could be built in a very traditional Malay and Javanese architecture

due to their origins and culture.

Museum proposed to function as a record the culture, identities and history of the

kampong. This place actually open to public, which acquires, conserves, researches,

communicates and exhibits for purposes of study where the exhibition and educational

interpretation can be the objects that having historical value. Other than that, museum

will also introduce the local culture and identities to tourists and visitors by preserving all

the historical substance inside to avoid the culture being lost and enable visitors to

explore collections for inspiration, learning and enjoyment.

5.3 Participation of Hands On Activities, Proposed Gardens and Farms

Some interesting activities could be introduced to tourists who visit Kampung

Banghuris. Visitors not only experience staying with the host family, the host family also

could offer more hands on activities for the visitors. Visitors could actually to plant their

own vegetables, fruits, flowers, or even collect chicken eggs or feed animals with the host

family. Community garden, poultry farm, fruit garden, vegetable garden, or animal farm

could be introduced in the village itself. Introducing these gardens and farms could

provide an opportunity for the visitors to experience the kampong real working life in the

past.

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5.4 A Well Defined Entrance, Proposed Gateway

After visiting to the Kampung Banghuris at Sungai Pelek, one of the problems

was there is no clear entrance to guide tourists and visitors toward the kampong even

though there is a sign board nearby the entrance. This problem is occurring because of the

site was kampong area with poor road system that currently haven’t been develop well.

The roads toward the entrance of the kampong are small and narrow which gives

inconvenient for heavy vehicle such as tourist busses.

This problem can be solved by proposing a gateway at the entrance of the

kampong. The design can be a Malay or Javanese traditional crafting gateway with

decoration on both sides. It functions as giving clear entrance and identity of the

kampong and at the same time create the sense of welcoming. It will be more obvious

where it located near to the main road and also giving more secure to public. Beside, the

road system can be improve by widen the road and provides car parking near the entrance

for vehicle to drop off. By having this proposal, tourists and visitors can enjoy the trip

during their traveling without any lost in direction to the kampong.

(Figure 10: Gateway of the kampong)

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5.5 Community Spirit, Proposed Amphitheater And Central Market

The amphitheater is proposed to function as a casual gathering place for the

community. It can become a place for the adults to chit-chat and also for the children to

have activities such as playing sports, dancing, singing and having informal classes. In

this case, the knowledge of traditional dances and music can be passed to the next

generation. Other than that, it will be a proper arena for performances such as traditional

dances, traditional music, instrumentation, singing, dramas and plays.

Other than that, it will also be a place for the villagers to interact with the tourists

of the home-stay program. Tourists can hang-out there during night time to enjoy the

performances. Besides, the performers can also teach those who are interested how to

dance and play the musical instruments. Here, the visitors can learn more about the

Malay traditional performing arts and enjoy themselves very much.

(Figure 11: Singing performance) (Figure 12: Dancing performance)

(Figure 13: Musical performance)

22

From the visit to the kampong, in order to buy the product made by the villagers,

visitors need to travel from one place to another.

The market will be a bazaar where kampong folks gather to sell goods they had

produced such as home-made cakes and bun, ‘kerepek’, tit-bits, Malay food, fruits,

vegetables, fish and even handicrafts and clothes. In this case, villagers and even the

tourists can get everything they need in one place, and this eliminates the need to travel

far just to get to another shops. The transaction will be much faster and it will also be

more convenient for the sellers and also buyers. It will become another point of interest

of the kampong. . It also helps to strengthen the community spirit of the kampong by

gathering the kampong folks in the market.

(Figure 14: Vegetables sold in the market)

23

(Figure 15: Handicrafts sold in market)

(Figure 16: Light industry product sold In market)

24

5.6 Info Needs, Proposed Information Centre

According to the Kampung Banghuris visit, there is another problem of poor in

communicate between foreign tourists and local villagers. Most of the kampong villagers

are not well in foreign language, only a few villagers familiar with English. But when

there is foreign tourists visit the kampong, they need to translate the language by using

the dictionary and translate again one word by one word to another. This creates many

difficulties on communication between each other because of they don’t understand the

language using by each other.

However, in order to have better communication between foreign tourist

and local people, an information centre is proposed. The aim of the information centre is

to give the convenient for tourists and visitors collect data and request for relevant

information. This information centre is ready to serve huge number of visitors due to

different nationalities and it will be able to provide translator for foreign visitors which

can help in communication of each other and better understanding of the kampong.

(Figure 17: Example of Information Centre)

25

5.7 Space Planning

All these important places like the information centre, museum, amphitheater, and

market are proposed to cluster at the heart of the kampong so that it could blend in with

the kampong context. Everyone from the kampong will gather at the heart of the

kampong every morning to communicate with each other. Then the annexes will be

spreading through the whole kampong attaching to the host house. The gardens and farms

could be located at the backyard of every host house so that every visitor could

experience the real working life in a kampong. To enhance the community spirit in the

kampong, gazebos will be added at every junction of the road. This could let one small

community to actually gather and meet with another small community at the gazebos.

26

Reference List

Lee Jee Yuan. 1987. “The Malay House: Rediscovering Malaysia’s Indigenous

Shelter System” Institut Masyaraka.

Lighting Report

1

1.0 Introduction

This report presents the study of lighting quality and condition of a double-storey shop lot

(My Bookstore) at Seri Kembangan. The following gives an introduction to general purpose of

study and limitation of data collection. This introduction also gives a overall preview of this

report.

1.1 General Purpose of Study

This report aims to analyze the lighting quality and condition of a double-storey

commercial building and provide recommendation to improve efficiency of lighting of the

mentioned shop lot.

The goal of this study is to improve lighting system of My Bookstore in 3 aspects which

are efficient and sufficient illumination. Last but not least, improve the aesthetic of lighting

system is also another major task in this study.

1.2 Limitation of Data Collection

There are 2 limitation of data collection in this study. Firstly, the first floor has limited

glazing for day lighting. The windows are blocked by the furniture, which is the book rack for

display purpose.

The next limitation of data collection is limited light type to be study. The bookstore uses

only 1 type of artificial lighting for single purpose. Thus this study does not expose us to special

lighting design such as theater and show room that emphasize on aesthetic besides practicality.

In the end of this report, recommendation on day lighting and aesthetic of lighting shall

be come after practicality of lighting and efficiency of lighting.

2

1.3 Preview of Report

This report will showcase the different types of lighting involved in the building. A set of

scaled drawing of the shop lot will be given together with the relevant plan, elevations and

sections prior to get a better analysis on how the lighting works. It is because different space will

be identifying different types of lighting.

After we venture into the building and data collection aspects, analysis will be produced

to evaluate the lighting quality and condition of that shop lot. Problem of the lighting qualities

will be discussed and then provide with recommendations to make sure lightings perform better

than initially designed.

3

2.0 Methodology

Few steps were done to collect data about lighting quality and the space. Firstly,

recording site inventory was been done and followed by user analysis. Then we record clarify the

function or activities in the bookstore which is classified as retail shop. According to Charted

Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE), illuminance (Lux) of a retail shop shall be

maintained at 500 lux.

(Table 1.0 Example of Activities/Interiors Appropriate for Each Maintained Illuminance,

Reproduced with permission from CIBSE by Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for Buildings, 10th

edition, 1994)

Next, a full set of scaled drawings will be produce after the first site visit. Subsequently,

furniture analysis will be done. Then, colours and materials of the interior finishes needed to be

recorded for later analysis. Last but not least, Lux Meter is been used to get readings of

illuminance at the interior of book store.

4

2.1 Site Inventory

This section of the report introduces the site of the retail shop, site analysis, and also the

building analysis.

2.1.1 Site Introduction

The shop lot that we chose is a retail shop which provides books, stationeries, and also

household items to the community in Seri Kembangan. Big range of group age people would

visit the store from small kids to senior citizens. Therefore adequate lighting is important to

ensure the visibility for senior citizens.

2.1.2 Site Analysis

In the macro site analysis, the site is located in a new piece of land in Seri Kembangan

which used as commercial land. While for the micro site analysis, “My Bookstore” has limited

opening, which is at the front facing the parking and road. The open space at the front has little

obstruction for the entering of day light.

(Figure 2.1 Location Map)

5

(Figure 2.2 Site Plan)

Blue Coloured Area is the location of “My Bookstore” while the pink coloured area is the

neighboring building mass. White Colour zone is the empty space.

2.2 User Analysis

During analysis, the occupants for visiting the book store mostly are children with parents,

students and readers. The group age of visitors is big range from children to senior citizens. It is

important that the occupants or users satisfied with the environment that they were in. The

connection to sequential qualities of light improves human psychologically well being in certain

environment. Bookstore, researchers found out that reader with sufficient lighting will more

enjoy the readings. In another study, retail store or bookstores were found to have a “daylight

effect on increased monthly sales” (Heschong Mahone, 1999-2003).

6

2.3 Scaled Drawings

Scale Drawings method help to record the lighting layout and zoning. This is a very

important step to clarify the function of the zone and the layout of lighting. Besides, from the

scaled plan, grid lines are drawn 2m by 2m for recording lux meter reading at the next step.

As shown in Figure 2.1, down lighting system were used at Zone B and C at the Ground

Floor, spacing each other 2m by 2m. As shown in Figure 2.1 Working Plane is defined as 1.0 m

from the floor, and the height of the lighting is at ceiling level (2700 from floor).

Figure 2.3 Ground Floor Plan

7

Figure 2.4 Ground Floor Lighting Layout Plan

8

Figure 2.5 First Floor Lighting Layout Plan

9

Figure 2.6 Section A-A

Figure 2.7 Section B-B Plan

10

2.4 Furniture Analysis

There are different kind of furniture used at the ground floor and first floor. Furniture at

ground floor is has better reflectance compared to furniture at first floor. There are 2 major

furniture at the ground floor which are grey timber bookshelves and red and cream colour plastic

book rack. While for the first floor, there is only 1 type of furniture that is Brown timber

bookshelves.

Figure 2.8 Grey timber Bookshelves.

11

Figure 2.9 Red and Cream colour plastic book rack at Ground Floor.

Figure 2.10 Brown Timber Bookshelves at First Floor

12

2.5 Interior Finishes

The interior floor finishes is cream colour homogenous tile. The wall is finishes with

white colour painting while the ceiling is white plastered ceiling. These materials have adequate

reflectance.

Structure Material

Reflectance

(%)

Floor Marble 45

Wall White Paint 75

Ceiling Plaster Smooth 80

(Table 2.0 Interior Finishes Reflectance)

Figure 2.11 Ground Floor Plan-Materials Indication

13

Figure 2.12 First Floor Plan-Materials Indication

Figure 2.13 Section A-A -Materials Indication

14

2.6 Lux Meter

The lux meter is use to record the readings of the light in unit lux. This Minolta lux meter

is very sensitive to light and high accuracy of lux readings can be record using this lux meter.

Without any obstruction around, the lux meter was placed 1m above floor level

(assuming work plan for the bookstore is 1m above floor level) to take the readings. To get a

better understanding of the lighting system in the bookstore, the whole area has been divided into

small parts consist of 2m x 2m grid lines. Reading was taken 3 times (for accuracy) at every spot

of the grid line produced after scaled drawings. Readings has been taken at 3 different times

which are 10.am (morning), 5pm (evening), 8pm (night). These readings are useful for the

calculations method of the existing and required lux for the lighting solutions.

Figure 2.14 Lux Meter

15

3.0 Results and Analysis

Results were classified into 2 aspects, day lighting and artificial lighting.

3.1 Day lighting

Day Light Factor

Day Light Factor at 10am

Out Door Illumination (Eo) 15000 lux

Working Plane 1.0m

Day light Factor (DF)=(Ei/Eo) x 100

Where Ei=illuminance due to daylight at a point on the indoors

working plane

Where Eo=simultaneous outdoor illuminance on a horizontal plane

from an unobstructed hemisphere of overcast sky

Ei DF

DF @ 0.5 H 697 4.65

DF @ H 421 2.81

DF @ 2H 358 2.39

DF @ 3H 337 2.25

DF @ 4H 305 2.03

DF @ 5H 219 1.46

DF @ 6H 197 1.31

DF @ 7H 180 1.20

DF @ 8H 180 1.20

16

Figure 3.1 Day Light Factor at 10am

17

Day Light Factor at 4pm

Out Door Illumination (Eo) 15000 lux

Working Plane 1.0m

Day light Factor (DF)=(Ei/Eo) x 100

Where Ei=illuminance due to daylight at a point on the indoors

working plane

Where Eo=simultaneous outdoor illuminance on a horizontal plane

from an unobstructed hemisphere of overcast sky

Ei DF

DF @ 0.5 H 540 3.60

DF @ H 291 1.94

DF @ 2H 256 1.71

DF @ 3H 250 1.67

DF @ 4H 239 1.59

DF @ 5H 228 1.52

DF @ 6H 185 1.23

DF @ 7H 180 1.20

DF @ 8H 180 1.20

18

Figure 3.2 Day Light Factor at 4pm

19

At the ground floor, day lighting was brought in by the south east façade, which is the

front elevation of the bookstore. Wide pieces of glass were used for the purpose of advertising its

products, has another benefit to bring in day lighting. However, there are only little portion of

space are benefited by day lighting due to the deep plan. In addition, there are no additional

openings or glazing at the other 3 elevations for allowing the entering of day lighting.

At the first floor, all the windows that bringing in day lights are been covered by racks.

Thus, there are no day lights at the first floor.

Day light brought into the building during morning covered up the area as shown in

Figure 0.0. Due to the south east facing façade, there are no direct sun light. This make the day

lighting are not adequate to cover up the whole plan. However, the quantity of lighting is

sufficient at the portion highlighted.

Day lighting during evening (4pm) has not much different with morning period. Same

portion of place could receive adequate day lighting. This area is also highlighted in FIGURE 0.0.

However, after 8pm, there are totally no day lighting as sun have been fully set around 7.30pm.

20

3.2 Artificial lighting

There are two types of luminaire used in this retail shop. These luminaries are fluorescent

lamps tube and compact florescent light bulb.

Fluorescent lamps tubes are use at the ground floor zone A. The retail or reading area on

the ground floor needs higher illuminance. The reason for doing that is because the shop lot

owner intends to cut cost on building up the plaster ceiling and lighting cost.

PHILIPS FLUOTONE 36WATT LIFEMAX TL-D 36W/54

Rapid Start Fluorescent lamp

Two rapid start fluorescent lamps is being used in a single luminaire

Watts : 36

Bulb : T12

Base : Med. Bipin

Description : Daylight Deluxe, 6200 K

Color Rendering Index : 84

Approx Life (Hrs) : 13000

Lumens Output : 2600 lm.72 lm/w

Material : Anode Ring to avoid blackening in lamp ends. Triple Coil for

extra long life.

Figure 3.3 Fluorescent lamp

21

PHILIPS PL-H™ HIGH OUTPUT Compact Fluorescent Lamps

Downlight System

Compact fluorescent bulbs are used at the ground floor Zone B and Zone C and the upper

floor. According to “My Bookstore’s” shop lot owner, the reason for choosing ceiling mounted

down lights is to achieve a flat ceiling for aesthetic value.

Feature : 4 Pin Fluorescent Lamp

Watts : 60

Bulb : PL-H

Base : 2G8

Color Rendering Index : 82

Approx Life (Hrs) : 20,000

Lumens : 2000

Materials and Finish : White extrusion aluminium housing. Die-cast aluminium inner

ring. Polycarbonate plastic outer ring. Aluminium reflector.

Figure 3.4 Compact Fluorescent Lamps( Down light system)

22

4.0 Conclusion

After analyzed the data collected, this section will be concluding the Strengths and

Weaknesses (problems) of the existing lighting at “Mybookstore”. The overall lighting at “My

bookstore” is not adequate, especially at the first floor.

The goal for lighting design is to provide sufficient illumination for acceptable visual

performance. At the same time, we should also consider the efficiency of lighting especially

design for business purpose. The efficiency of lighting can be understood as using no additional

cost to achieve sufficient lighting.

To achieve efficient and sufficient illumination for a retail shop like “My Bookstore”, the

quantity of lights must be sufficient (500 lux as mentioned in FIGURE 0.0). In order to reach the

aim of 500 lux, factors to be considered include the finishes material. Besides, it is also

important to utilize the free resource (day light) to reduce cost for lighting. Last but not least,

choosing the right type of artificial lighting and placing at the right place is also another factor to

be considered for achieving efficient and sufficient lighting. It is also recommended to have good

monitoring of artificial lighting to utilize the day lighting.

23

4.1 Interior Finishes

Applying the wrong colours and materials for the interior finishes can make additional

cost to the lighting. Hence, high reflectance materials are recommended for interior finishes to

reduce the amount of lighting needed for sufficient lighting.

The interior finishes had chosen the suitable material for achieving good lighting quality.

The colours and materials chosen are high reflectance materials as shown in the Table 2.0. With

these high reflectance materials, the interior can be illuminated more efficient.

4.2 Day Lighting

Due to the limitation of openings that a shop lot have which is on the front and rear side,

the day lighting design is been minimized. However, as being in a country that near to equator,

sun light is very constant and adequate throughout the year. Thus, that is also important to

include day lighting into building lighting system design, especially to achieve efficient lighting.

The day lighting in “My bookstore” was not properly design. However, at the ground

floor, there are big pieces of glass at the front façade for windows advertisement has brought out

the opportunity for day lighting. These big pieces of glass have brought in day lighting to the

area highlighted in Figure 3.1 and Figure 3.2.

Conversely, My Bookstore’s owner has totally turned out the day lighting at the first

floor. The rack for displaying books (its product) has covered up the windows. This action has to

be reconsidered as it does not utilize the free resources that a equator country has.

24

4.3 Artificial Lighting

A book store is where consumers enjoying the readings and retail in the surrounding. It

is important to provide comfortable surroundings for the consumer. Lightings play an important

function to produce a tremendous atmosphere.

During analysis, the reading for Zone A and B is higher than Zone C. Lightings is

efficient at Zone A. Aesthetic value is not achieved due to no ceiling. Fluorescents tubes is much

more sufficient at Zone A comparing to Zone B and C.

Figure 4.1 Ground Floor Lux Meter Reading Taken on 10:00a.m

For Zone B and C, aesthetic values is achieve because of flat ceiling is apply. The

down light ceiling mounted is inefficient. Bulb of the down light is too inner of the core.

25

Luminaire is not enough to glare out. Bulb should be adjusting a bit. These types of ceiling

mounted down light are not recommended in this retailing shop or bookstore.

For the first floor, the reflectance of furniture is the main issue to occur the

luminance in the room. The color that applies on furniture is dark. This is the main factor that

takes place. The aesthetic value is attaining since flat ceiling is use. The down light on the first

floor is ineffective because of using lower lumen types of compact fluorescents. The down light

system apply on the upper floor is not sufficient.

Figure 4.2 First Floor Lux Meter Reading Taken on 10:00a.m

26

5.0 Recommendation

To achieve the goal of efficient and sufficient lighting with aesthetic values, below are

the recommendations to improve the existing lighting condition in terms of efficiency,

sufficiency and aesthetic.

5.1 Day Lighting at First Floor

There are solutions that can be sort out by redesign or replacing the arrangement of

furniture and the lightings so luminaries can be achieved. For the first floor, furniture are

blocking where the natural lighting opening. Therefore, there are no natural light in the first floor

and the insufficient amount of light causes the first floor to be quite dim. . They should have

some openings in the first floor but still could maintain the number of racks in it. Book shelves

near the opening can be redesign into half rack for allowing natural lightings into the room. The

illustration below shows the opening of the wall and type of racks to be used in that area.

Figure 5.1 New design of space allowing day lighting, while maintaining the rack.

27

5.2 Proposing other type of Lighting

Artificial lighting type which is used in Zone B, Zone C and Level One is unsuitable in

the bookstore. It does not provide enough luminance to the bookstore. Rapid start fluorescent

lamp is recommended to be used in that 3 area. Using this type of lighting is easier to maintain

compared to the downlight system. Below is the properties of the rapid start fluorescent lamp. By

enhancing the lighting for the “My Bookstore”, owner can apply Direct-indirect fluorescents.

Figure 5.2 Rapid start fluorescent lamp

Watts : 40

Bulb : T12

Base : Med. Bipin

Description : Daylight Deluxe, 6500 K

Colour Rendering Index : 84

Approx Life (Hrs) : 20,000

Lumens : 2325

Material : Plastic uncovered ballast which fits two T12 fluorescent

light.

28

5.2.1 Calculation for the number of light source

After choosing the light type, calculation had to be made for designing a efficient and

sufficient lighting layout. This Lighthing design will be separate into 2 parts, the Ground Floor

and First Floor.

5.2.1.1 Ground Floor

Area of the book store : 361 meter square

Ceiling height : 2.7 meter

Working plane : 1 meter

Illumination of the fluorescent light : 2325 lumens

Reflectance: Ceiling – 0.80

Wall - 0.75

Floor - 0.45

DLOR – 70%

Light loss factor, LLF : 0.9

Illumination of the café, E : 500 lux

Room index, K = L X w

H (L + w)

= 361

1.7 (19 + 19)

= 361

1.7(38)

= 5.58

Utilization factor, UF: 0.79

29

Calculate amount of new lighting layout

Using the lumen method formula :

N = E x A

F x UF x LLF

= 500 x 361

2325 x 0.79 x 0.9

= 180500

1653.075

= 109.19

= 110 lamps

Suggested layout : 11 rows of 10 lamps

30

Figure 5.3 Proposing Lighting Layout at Ground Floor

31

5.2.1.2 First Floor

Area of the book store : 286 meter square

Ceiling height : 2.7 meter

Working plane : 1 meter

Illumination of the fluorescent light : 2325 lumens

Reflectance: Ceiling – 0.80

Wall - 0.75

Floor - 0.45

DLOR – 70%

Light loss factor, LLF : 0.9

Illumination of the café, E : 500 lux

Room index, K = L X w

H (L + w)

= 286

1.7 (22+13)

= 286

1.7(35)

= 4.80

Utilization factor, UF: 0.77

32

Calculate amount of new lighting layout

Using the lumen method formula :

N = E x A

F x UF x LLF

= 500 x 286

2325 x 0.77 x 0.9

= 143000

1653.075

= 86.5

= 86 lamps

Suggested layout : 8 rows of 12 lamps

33

Figure 5.3 Proposing Lighting Layout at First Floor

34

5.3 Monitoring Artificial Lighting Zone

Monitoring system for the lighting can be use at the ground floor. It can be applied near

the entrance where there are enough daylight to light up the area. When there are sufficient day

lightings, lights can be switched off for electric efficiency and cost saving. Figure 5.5 shows the

area where monitoring system could be applied in the book store.

Figure 5.5 Monitored zone according to the day lighting.

35

Reference List

Author Unknown 2007, Philips Electronic, E-Catalogue Retrieved on: 6 March 2007 at

http://www.lighting.philips.com/index.php.

Author Unknown 2007, Osram, Design Principles, Retrieved on: 6 March 2007 at

http://www.osram.com.

Stein B, Reynolds JS, Grondzik WT, Kwok AG, Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for

Building (Tenth Edition) 2006, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Szokolay S. V, Introduction to Architectural Science: The Basis of Sustainable Design.

2004, Architectural Press.

36

Appendixes

Acoustic Report

1

1.0 Introduction

This report presents the study of acoustic quality and condition of a double-storey shop lot (My

Bookstore) at Seri Kembangan. The following gives an introduction to general purpose of study and also

gives an overall preview of this report.

1.1 General Purpose of Study

This report aims to analyze the acoustic quality and condition of a double-storey commercial

building and provide recommendation to improve acoustic quality and condition of the mentioned shop

lot.

The goal of this study is to improve acoustic quality and condition of My Bookstore by enhance

or preserve desire sounds otherwise reduce or eliminate noises.

1.2 Preview of Report

This report will showcase the different types of noise sources involved in the building. A set of

scaled drawing of the shop lot will be given together with the relevant plan, elevations and sections prior

to get a better analysis on how good acoustic quality can be achieved. It is because different space will

determine to enhance or to reduce the sounds.

After we venture into the building and data collection aspects, analysis will be produced to

evaluate the acoustic quality and condition of that shop lot. Problem of the acoustic qualities will be

discussed and then provide with recommendations to make sure acoustic perform better than initially

designed.

2

2.0 Methodology

Few steps were done to collect data about acoustic quality and the space. Firstly, recording site

inventory and noise sources was been done and followed by user analysis. Then we clarify the function or

activities in the bookstore which is classified as retail shop. According to Noise Rating (NR) Limits table

cited in Introductin to Architectural Science: The Basis of Sustainable Design, the maximum NR for a

Department stores is 40. In another words, interior of department store has a quiet environment in term of

noise. In addition, Szokolay (2004), the author of Introductin to Architectural Science: The Basis of

Sustainable Design stated NR40-45 is moderately noisy judged by majority.

(Table 1.0 Noise Rating (NR) Limits table cited by Szokolay, 2004)

Next, a full set of scaled drawings will be produce after the first site visit. Subsequently, furniture

analysis will be done. Then, materials of the interior finishes needed to be recorded for later analysis. Last

but not least, sound meter is been used to get readings of frequency of sound at the interior of book store.

3

2.1 Site Inventory

This section of the report introduces the site of the retail shop, site analysis, and also the building

analysis.

2.1.1 Site Introduction

The shop lot that we chose is a retail shop which provides books, stationeries, and also household

items to the community in Seri Kembangan. Big range of group age people would visit the store from

small kids to senior citizens. Therefore good acoustic to achieve quite environment is important to ensure

the comfort for building users.

2.1.2 Site Analysis

In the macro site analysis, the site is located in a new piece of land in Seri Kembangan which

used as commercial land. While for the micro site analysis, “My Bookstore” has limited opening, which is

at the front facing the parking and road. The open space at the front has little obstruction for the entering

of day light.

(Figure 2.1 Location Map)

4

(Figure 2.2 Site Plan)

Blue Coloured Area is the location of “My Bookstore” while the pink coloured area is the

neighboring building mass. White Colour zone is the empty space.

2.2 User Analysis

During analysis, the occupants for visiting the book store mostly are children with parents,

students and readers. The group age of visitors is big range from children to senior citizens. It is important

that the occupants or users satisfied with the environment that they were in. Hence, it is important to make

sure the noise should be minimized or eliminated for the comfort of customer. As stated by the shop

Manager, Mr. Lai (2007) the key to be success in business is to make customer stay longer in the shop.

Therefore, a quite environment is one of the key aspect to make customer stay longer in the shop.

5

2.3 Scaled Drawings

Scale Drawings method help to record the lighting layout and zoning. This is a very important

step to clarify the function of the zone and the layout of lighting. Besides, from the scaled plan, grid lines

are drawn 2m by 2m for recording lux meter reading at the next step.

As shown in Figure 2.1, down lighting system were used at Zone B and C at the Ground Floor,

spacing each other 2m by 2m. As shown in Figure 2.1 Working Plane is defined as 1.0 m from the floor,

and the height of the lighting is at ceiling level (2700 from floor).

(Figure 2.3 Ground Floor Plan)

6

(Figure 2.4 First Floor Plan)

7

(Figure 2.5 Section A-A)

(Figure 2.6 Section B-B)

8

2.4 Materials and Furniture Analysis

(Figure 2.7 Ground Floor Ceilings finished with concrete)

Zone A ground floor ceilings are finished from concrete and reflect much noise compare to

gypsum boards finished ceilings.

( Figure 2.8 Ground Floor Ceilings finished with plaster)

Zone B and C ground floor ceilings are plastered which are not reflecting so much noise and at

the same time it also absorbs as part of it.

9

( Figure 2.9 Wood bookshelves)

Furniture such as bookshelves is made from wood. This material helps to absorb certain sound

waves when exposed to noise.

( Figure 2.10 Arrangement of furniture)

The uneven and arrangement of furniture in the bookstore can break down certain sound waves.

Materials of bookshelves helps to prevent reflect of sound.

10

2.5 Interior Finishes

(Figure 2.11 Ground Floor Plan-Materials Indication)

11

(Figure 2.12 First Floor Plan-Materials Indication)

(Figure 2.13 Section A-A -Materials Indication)

12

2.5.1 Reverberation

Reverberation is the persistence of sound after the sound source has ceased. Such persistence is a

result of repeated reflections in an enclosed space. (For spaces of unusual shapes, Beranek 1988.) A space

with highly reflective surfaces, therefore a low average absorption is coefficient.

Since room absorptions is related to total surface area, which turn is related by room proportions

to room volume. The bookstore we analyze shows that the space or shapes in the room is uneven. It is

arrange with different kind of furniture. Therefore the sound reflectance in the room is low.

Reverberation can be considered as mixture of previous and more recent sounds. The converse of

reverberation or reverberance is articulation.

(Figure 2.14 Chart indicating liveliness of a room. Stein, Reynolds ,Grondzik ,Kwok 2006)

13

Reverberation Time for Zone A (Refer to plan)

Dimension for Zone A = 18m x 8m x 2.7m

Absorption, A= Area x Absorption Coefficient

Surface/ Finishes Area (ft2)

Absorption Coefficient

(500Hz)

Brick wall with plaster finish 419.79 0.03

Glass Panel 86.43 0.03

Marble Flooring 1550.00 0.01

RC ceiling 1550.00 0.015

People 53.81 0.46

Wall Absorption = 419.79 x 0.03

= 12.59 Hz ft2

Glass Panel Absorption = 86.43 x 0.03

= 2.59Hz ft2

Marble Flooring Absorption = 1550.00 x 0.01

= 15.50 Hz ft2

RC Ceiling Absorption = 1550.00 x 0.015

= 23.25 Hz ft2

People = 53.81 x 0.46

= 24.75 Hz ft2

Total Absorption = 12.59 + 2.59 + 15.50 + 23.25 + 24.75

14

= 78.68 Hz ft2

Sabin, A = Total Absorption / 10.76

= 7.31

Conclusion: Sabin is exceeding 1 which means the room is totally dead in term of echo. However, this

is a good condition for a department store like “My Bookstore”. In another words, “My Bookstore” does

not have the problem of echo.

15

2.5.2 Mechanics and Absorptions

Absorptive materials are also an acoustic phenomenon so that we may understand the absorption

in appropriate. In an untreated room of normal construction, when the sound waves strike the wall or

ceiling, small portion of sound is transmitted and small portion is absorbed. Most of it is reflected.

When acoustical treatment is applied to the room surfaces, some of the energy in the sound waves

is dissipated before the sound reaches the wall. The transmitted portion is slightly reduced, but the

reflection is very much reduced.

It is important to understand that the principal effect of absorptive material on reflected sound.

The transmitted sound energy is essentially determined by the mass of the solid airtight barrier between

the two spaces.

16

(Table 2.0 Octave Band Average Sound Absorption Coeeficients)

17

2.6 Sound Meter

(Figure 2.15 Sound Level Meter, RS-232/ Data logger)

The need for a means of measuring sound level in this projects is to confirm that the designs

criteria of a shop have been met the requirement or obvious. Sound level meter is an instrument to show a

relationship meter readings with subjective loudness impressions, most such instrument that provide a

single –number output are furnished with weighting networks.

As results, networks weighting curves are used today for all the measurement, regardless of

loudness. All measurements should be identified with the weighting network used, such as 50dBA or 100

dBC(Stein et al. 2006, p. 746).

More accurate measurements of complex sounds than are possible with standard sound level

meter are made with sophisticated instruments that measure intensity in octave bands.

The readings are recorded during the business hours of the bookstore, which is 10am, 2pm, and

8pm. The sound level is measured at every 2 meters at the interior of the bookstore. The readings are

recorded in dBa unit and later converted it into db unit. Later on, calculation will be done in order to get

the sound level in the particular space.

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19

3.1.2 External Noise Sources

Mostly the sound or noise generated within the surrounding people at the pedestrian and the

vehicle flow density do generate noise. Besides that, the shop is also located very near to a restaurant.

When it is a peak hour, there will be a lot of customers dine in the restaurant which will create a lot of

noise. The exterior noise is the main generated sound. Thus, there is a need to solve these problems.

(Figure 3.4 Noise sources from pedestrian)

(Figure 3.5 Noise Sources from pedestrian, vehicles and restaurant at 10.00 am)

The external noise sources have the same condition at in the morning, noon and evening.

Therefore, the readings of Sound Meter are expected to have no much different in these 3 times.

20

3.2 Data Collection

The data shows that noise rating level in “MyBookstore” is consistent all the time. Besides, the

average of noise rating level in “MyBookstore” is 59.4dB which is 19.4 dB higher than acceptable level

(40.0dB for department store) as stated by Szokolay (2004). The sounds level is calculated by using this

formula:

Analysis of Data

(Graph 3.0 Noise Rating Level at Ground Floor and First Floor)

Note: Sound Level Calculation refer to Appendix A

The graph indicates Noise Rating Level at Ground Floor is slightly higher than the Noise Rating

level at First Floor. This can be explained that Ground Floor has a nearer contact to the external noise

sources which are the vehicles and pedestrian at the street frontage. However, the different of average

Noise Rating Level between Ground Floor and First Floor is only 2.9dB. In another words, the

environment at ground floor and first floor both are rated as Noisy.

21

(Figure 3.6 Noisiness judged by majority. Szokolay. 2004. p.154)

(Figure 3.7 Noise Rating data in Section.)

22

3.2.1 Ground Floor

The diagram shows that the db near the entrance has got the highest reading as expected. The

entrance is not closed and it’s facing the main road where noise sources from the vehicles and pedestrian

will contribute uncomfortable noise into the bookstore. There is also a fan coil unit located right above the

entrance. Therefore, it increases the noise level at the entrance. As it goes deeper inside the store, the db

decreases evenly and consistent as the noise is filtered and reflected by the furniture around it.

3.2.2 First Floor

There are no wide openings at the first floor that could let unwanted noise entering the building.

However, the highest db which had recorded is at 3 points of the diagram which has the reading of 62.9

db, 57.9 db, and also 61.5 db. It got higher db is because there are 3 fan coil units located on top of each

point which contribute some noise. As for other area, its consistent as its filtered by the surrounding

furniture.

23

4.0 Conclusion

After Analyzed the data collected, this section will be concluding the Strengths and Weakness

(problems) of the existing acoustic condition at “My Bookstore”. “My Bookstore’ is rated as Noisy

referring to Szokolay (2004).

To achieve the comfort environment for a department store, the sound level of existing which is

59dB must bring down to 40dB. (Szokolay 2004)

After understanding that most of the noise sources come from the external, the strategy to reduce

sound level to desire level (40dB) is to insulate or reduce the transmission of noise from the outdoor.

From the data, we also found out that sound level at the frontage of the shop is the highest while point

which far from the frontage is lowest.

4.1 External Noise Sources

The major sources of noise are coming from the external. These noise sources are pedestrian and

vehicles. Vehicles are contributing more noise than pedestrian do. Besides, from the data we get from

sound meter, we found that there are only very little reduction of sounds when it travels into the building.

This can be explaining that the glass door is always opened and the thickness of the glass might be too

thin to reduce the transmission of sounds into the building.

4.2 Internal Noise Sources

Internal Noise Sources have little impact to the noisy environment in the bookstore. The internal

Noise Sources are for example radio and cashier that is caused by human behavior that we cannot control

of. Therefore we suggest to reduce the internal sound level by using high sounds absorbance materials.

24

5.0 Recommendation

To achieve the goal of acceptable and suitable sound level, below are the

recommendations to improve the acoustic in the retail shop.

5.1 Furniture comment and propose

(Figure 5.1 Bookstore furniture)

Furniture that use by the bookstore is constructed by wood, therefore there will be able to reduce

sound waves travel in the room. Besides that, an uneven arrangement of furniture does affect the sounds

travel or reflectance of noise. The plastered ceiling also has the function of absorb certain noise. Furniture

of the bookstore does not need much changing in this situation.

(Figure 5.2 Section Cut Zone C - Reverberation of noise in room)

25

5.2 Materials Comment and Propose

(Figure 5.3 Zone A Existing) (Figure 5.4 Zone A New Proposed)

As shown at the picture above, recommended that the ground floor should be added Gypsum

board ceiling with a good absorbance. This could reduce reflection of sound at the interior. Besides that,

double glazing glass should be integrated along the glass panel at the entrance. This could help to reduce

noise from the exterior and could adding aesthetic value to the bookstore.

26

5.3 Current Situation

(Figure 5.5 Section of existing glass design)

(Figure 5.6 Section of new integrated design with double glazing glass)

27

(Figure 5.7 Section of existing ceiling finished)

(Figure 5.8 Section of proposed ceiling with gypsum board ceiling panel)

28

5.4 Plant trees as sound barrier

Trees will be planted at the exterior of the bookstore along the entrance. These trees act as a sound barrier

and help to absorb the sound level generated by the vehicles from the main road. As the sound wave

passes by the plantation, the noise eventually will be filtered and the sound level which enters the

bookstore will be decreased. Besides that, planting trees may help to beautify the bookstore environment.

(Figure 5.9 Section of building with trees planted)

(Figure 5.10 Arrangement of trees along the entrance)

29

Reference List

Stein B, Reynolds JS, Grondzik WT, Kwok AG, Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for

Building (Tenth Edition) 2006, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Szokolay S. V, Introduction to Architectural Science: The Basis of Sustainable Design. 2004,

Architectural Press.

Epic Green Center for Disease Control by Studio Shift

Scientific research unites with the public landscape in Studio Shift’s honorable mention submission for Taiwan’s Center for Disease Control. Cited as a gateway to the future development of the Hsinchu Biomedical Science Park, the CDC literally reaches out via its architectural design, through two central arms which welcome the public into its lush garden landscape. The footprint of the building adds nearly as much green space as it occupies, through the addition of a massive landscaped roof, accessible by a recreational path that links to the grounds below. In addition, views from the path invite the public to peek into the inner happenings of the CDC, which is constantly working to be a cooperative with the public it serves.

As suspected, Inhabitat returnee Studio Shift has included a plethora of sustainable systems throughout their design for Taiwan’s new Center for Disease Control - including solar power collection, solar shading devices, geothermal technology, reclamation strategies, natural landscaping, and overall energy optimization. Studio Shift made certain that their submission integrated many properties from the site to make it more energy efficient. They sum up the union of science and architecture in the journey toward progress stating, “…the architecture of the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control must embody the same fervor and determination found in its researchers’ quest for scientific progress. It must also promote connectivity and cohesion within the scientific community at large while opening its arms to the public which it serves.”

Co-Op Canyon Ecotopia : Anasazi Cliff Dwellings

Co-Op Canyon Ecotopia : Anasazi Cliff Dwellings

Inspired by the cliff-side villages of Anasazi Indians, Co Op Canyon is a terraced urban oasis full of vertical gardens and lush spaces that aims to create a holistic, community-centered, sustainable city block. Designed by LA-based architecture and design firm, Standard for the Re:Vision Dallas competition, the canyon harvests enough rainwater, solar energy, and agriculture to completely sustain its 1,000 residents.

Standard’s design for the Dallas sustainable block was inspired by the cliff dwellings of the Anasazi Indians and their strong connection to nature. The structure resembles a terraced canyon with housing units tucked into the canyon wall. On the canyon floor, community gardens are ripe with organic fruits and vegetables that residents grow to use themselves or exchange within the others as part of a cooperative community. Each residential unit also has its own garden and yard space.

The co-op is not only centered around the production of food, but also on community, with the aid of a community kitchen, open space, picnic areas, child care, fitness center and retail space. The community kitchen is the center of the co-op and functions as a wellness center, providing cooking classes, food tastings, and nutritional education. Retail space and small live/work units allow some of the residents to remain local for their work and shopping.

The sustainable city block can house up to 1,000 people, and in addition to its strong community aspects it is a zero carbon and structure that wastes no water. On-site power from solar panels will meet the energy demands of the community, while waste and rain water will be collected for use in landscape irrigation. Overall Co Op Canyon is a well thought out community with an appealing design - Standard has clearly thought outside of the box with their entry.

The Re:Vision Dallas challenged architects and designers to create a residential complex within one city block that could live up to a LEED-ND rating, carbon neutrality, zero waste water and no run-off, all while reducing construction waste by 75%. The city block has already been set aside and the winners of the competition will have a chance to sell their idea to the Dallas developers.