Friday, June 19, 2009

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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18
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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.

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

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.”

Monday, June 8, 2009

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.