Measured Drawings Report

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS) IN ARCHITECTURE [B.Sc. (HONS) Arc.] ARC60305 METHODS OF DOCUMENTATION AND MEASURED DRAWINGS

SARANG PALOH HERITAGE STAY & EVENT HALL NO. 12, 14, 16 JALAN SULTAN ISKANDAR, 30000 IPOH, PERAK, MALAYSIA

Declaration of submission This report is submitted in regards to the module - ARC60303 Methods of Documentation & Measured Drawings by the School of Architecture, Building and Design of Taylor’s University to obtain 5 credits for Practicum 1.

Name of building Address Supervised by

: Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay & Event Hall : No. 12, 14, 16 Jalan Sultan Iskandar, 30000 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia : Mr. Sanjeh Kumar Raman & Ar. Sateerah Hassan

This is a group effort by: Leader: Daniesh Ashik A/L Selveswaran Yong Thang Shaun

0315265 0320675

Group members: Afiqah Zahra Binti Zainol Rashid Alisha Niazali Hirani Chan Yi Qin Chong Chui Wern Eddie Goh Poh King Iche Dunstan Omari Kelvin Yong Chen Yin Ken Wong Chun Thim Lau Wei Ling Lee Yen Chei Leong Vui Yung Loh Wei Shuen

0315857 0314325 0315964 0321359 0322915 0323347 0316050 0315534 0315389 0320568 0320362 0317896

Muhammad Mubarak Ng Ee Shiung Ng Yi Yang Ryan Kerry Jee Jin Ying Saurabha Lakshman Kumar Iyer Tan Wee Keat Tan Wen Hao Tang Ze Zheng Teo Chen Yi Tey Thien Hee Toh Kean Hou

0319984 0314228 0319688 0318715 0320569 0315885 0319923 0318967 0320618 0318676 0319575

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Architecture January 2016 Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus

ii

Acknowledgement Our entire group would like to extend our gratitude to all lecturers involved and responsible in organizing and conducting this module in conjunction with this short semester - Practicum 1, and hence allowing us to gain a whole lot throughout the process.

We would also like to extend our thanks, gratitude and appreciation to two of our tutors, Mr Sanjeh Kumar Raman and also Ar. Sateerah Hassan for their guidance and advices throughout the process of this assignment and making this submission a success.

Our entire group would also like to acknowledge and express our appreciation to the following people and organizations that have contributed to us in terms of providing information, support and help in order for us to successfully complete this assignment. Below are the list of people whom we deeply thank and appreciate.

Ms. Lee Yoke Chee, the owner of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay & Event Hall for the approval of allowing us to carry out this entire assignment and making all measuring and documentation works possible, and also for the warm and welcoming treatment throughout the interview session.

Ms. Peggy Lim, the director of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay & Event Hall, for her care and generosity in terms of providing information and sufficient information which contributed to our documentation purposes.

Ms. Sharon, Ms. Pauline and Ms. Maryanne, the staffs of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay & Event Hall for their warm and welcoming hospitality and also attending to our needs at time of troubles.

Mr. Lee, furniture contractor and maintenance man of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay & Event Hall for his sufficient and beneficial information in regards to the history of the building, construction details and information regarding antiques and heritage furniture within the building.

And finally to all the 25 members of this group whom without their hard work, cooperation and dedication, this submission would not be a success.

Thank You.

iii

Abstract This report documents on the overall information and data obtained from Measured Drawings activities which were carried out on site of the mentioned building - Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay & Event Hall. The building is located along Jalan Sultan Iskandar, Ipoh, Perak. Built in the 1900s, the building exhibits a variety unique style of architecture, including Art deco, Neo-classical style and also mix and matches of style which depicts the Chinese culture back then. Facades strongly depict the architectural style embodied by the building despite the fact that it has undergone many changes throughout the decades. Refurbishment and renovation works had been executed in order to retain its condition and to also improve its adaptability in regards to the changes of time. Today, it stands as a conjoined building of three and has been successfully preserved and converted into a boutique hotel and an event hall to serve the different functions and activities of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay. The architectural style and design of the building portrays the essence of the colonial era and clearly reflects the influences of the British back then in terms of architecture and as of how the building was designed which illustrates how the building was utilized back then.

In a group of 25 students, we were assigned to measure, document and analyse the mentioned building and due to its rich cultural and historical value, the current condition of the building and its architectural development had been thoroughly documented and analyzed.

iv

List of Figures Figure 1.1

Figure 1.2

Figure 1.3

Figure 1.4

Figure 1.5

A member of the team, Tang Ze Zheng, utilizing the

Figure 1.6

An example image showing a standard typical

measuring tape to obtain the width of the column.

measuring tape which varies in lengths. (Amazon,

(Tan, 2016).

2016).

A member of the team, Tang Ze Zheng, utilizing the

Figure 1.7

Image indicating a standard typical metal rule

metal rule to obtain detailed measurements. (Tan,

which varies in terms of length and dimension.

2016).

(Working Silver, 2016).

A member of the team, Tang Ze Zheng, using the

Figure 1.8

Image showing a standard typical T-Square

ladder and measuring tape rule to obtain the height of

whereby a 90cm length was used on site.

the column. (Tan, 2016).

(Creative-Coldsnow, 2016).

Members of the team, Loh Wei Shuen (front) and

Figure 1.9

The faรงade of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay & Event

Ryan Kerry (back), interviewing and touring along the

Hall (2nd & 3rd building from the left) which depicts

premises with the furniture contractor and

the eclectic design of Neoclassical and art Art Deco

maintenance man of the hotel, Mr Lee. (Tan, 2016).

exterior. (Tan, 2016).

An image showing the device - Bosch DLE 50

Figure 2.1

Map of Perak (Khoo, Lubis, 2016.)

Professional Digital Laser Distance Meter. (Amazon,

Figure 2.2

The First British Resident of Perak, James Wheeler

2016).

Woodford Birch.

Figure 2.3

The Fourth British Resident of Perak, Sir Hugh Low who formulated the modern laws that pertaining to

v

Figure 2.4

land matters, agriculture, the mining, labour and

Figure 2.14

A typical Chinese eclectic style house.

taxation.

Figure 2.15

Grand Hotel in Ipoh. (Georgetown Dispensary

Woman dulang-washers worked as gleaners on the periphery of many tin mines. (Khoo, Lubis, Wade,

Series, 2016.)

Figure 2.16

2016.)

Figure 2.5

Sultan Idris and Sir Hugh Low, two pioneers of modern

Series, 2016.)

Figure 2.17

Perak. (Khoo, Lubis, 2016.)

Figure 2.6

Figure 2.7 Figure 2.8

Vast tracts of forest were cleared for rubber

(Landmarks of Perak, 2016.)

Figure 2.18

Lam Looking Bazaar on Jalan Laksamana, Ipoh, was the earliest International style example.

2016.)

(Landmarks of Perak, 2016.

The remains of the Hindu-Buddhist temple founded in

Figure 2.19

The map of Kinta District. (Ho, 2016.)

Bujang Valley, Kedah. (Yeang, 2016.)

Figure 2.20

Elephants transportation. (Khoo, Lubis, Wade,

A parallel two-unit traditional Malay house in Kuala

2016.)

Figure 2.21

The Geological and Mineral Map of Kinta, 1884 by

Pa Lo Ku Miao in Ipoh, with flat roof ridge

French Explorer Jacques de Morgan. (Khoo,

characteristic of the Cantonese. (Landmarks of Perak,

Lubis, 2016.)

2016.)

Figure 2.10

Kinta District Administrative Centre of Batu Gajah.

Figure 2.11

Ipoh Town Hall. (Khoo, Lubis, Wade, 2016.)

Figure 2.12

Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad in Kuala Lumpur.

(Landmarks of Perak, 2016.)

Figure 2.13

The Art Deco faรงade of the Majestic Theatre.

plantations. (Changkat Salah Rubber Estate, Perak,

Kangsar. (Landmarks of Perak, 2016.)

Figure 2.9

Anderson School in Ipoh. (Kunverjee Maljee

Figure 2.22

The portrait of the leader of Hai San secret society, Kapitan Cina Chung Keng Kwee. (Seow, 2016.)

Figure 2.23

The portrait of the leader of Ghee Hin secret society, Kapitan China Chin Ah Yam. (Khoo, 2016.)

Figure 2.24

Map of Ipoh Town, c. 1921. (Ho, 2016.)

Masjid Ubudiah (Khoo, Lubis, Wade, 2016.) vi

Figure 2.25

Dato Panglima Kinta Muhammad Yusuff. (Lord of

Figure 3.2

Lot Number Plan which indicate the site building

Kinta, 2016.)

within the red circle which indicate lot 638S & lot

Figure 2.26

Ipoh, 1887. (Ho, 2016.)

639S as Sarang Paloh Event Hall building and

Figure 2.27

Ipoh, 1894. (Ho, 2016.)

boutique hotel lot as lot 640S.

Figure 2.28

Town Field.

Figure 2.29

Hugh Low Bridge rebuilt in iron. (Khoo, Lubis, Wade,

Heritage Stay and its surrounding prominent

2016.)

buildings. (Google Maps, 2016).

Figure 3.3

Figure 3.4

Image depicting the location of Sarang Paloh

Figure 2.30

Ipoh Town, c. 1910. (Ho, 2016.)

Figure 2.31

New Town in 1900s. (Ho, 2016.)

of the Ipoh Railway Station. (PencintaLensa,

Figure 2.32

Portrait of Leong Sin Nam. (Ho, 2016.)

2016).

Figure 2.33

Whiteaways submerged. (Ho, 2016.)

Figure 2.34

The Venice of Malaya. (Kok, 2016.)

Figure 2.35

One of the famous rich tin miners, Foo Yet Kai. (Ho,

Figure 3.5

Image illustrating the historical and majestic view

The Supreme High Court of Ipoh which flanks the side of the City Hall of Ipoh. (Lim, 2016).

Figure 3.6

Ipoh City Hall stands majestically, flanking the

2016.)

Supreme High Court of Ipoh which illustrates

Figure 2.36

Jalan Sultan Iskandar. (Google map, 2016.)

eclecticism. (Flickr, 2016).

Figure 2.37

Jalan Sultan Iskandar now. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 2.38

Four units that bought by Lim’s family. (Tim, 2016.)

for the first British Resident of Perak, J.W.W. Birch.

Figure 2.39

Mr Lee, one of the contractors that in charge of the

(GoWhere, 2016).

restoration work of all Lim’s heritage buildings. (Tan, Figure 3.1

Figure 3.7

Figure 3.8

Ipoh Birch Memorial, a symbol of commemoration

Hugh Low Bridge, now renamed as Jambatan

2016.)

Sultan Iskandar connecting the old and new parts of

Site Plan which indicates the site building (within the

Ipoh town across the Kinta River. (Adiyon84, 2016).

red circle) and also its surrounding site building.

Figure 3.9

An image illustrating the pedestrian passageway vii

which segregates the building with the main road

Figure 3.10

Figure 3.11

between Jalan Sultan Iskandar and Jalan Bandar

2016).

Timah. (Tan, 2016).

Image depicting typical curbs implemented in flanking main roads.

edge of the road which provides pedestrians’

An image taken portraying the five foot way that

walkability. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.18

An image taken on site which shows the adequate

stretches throughout the entire row of shophouses.

safety measures provided (zebra crossing and

(Tan, 2016).

traffic lights) as to provide convenience and safety

Installed awnings above the rear entrances while

to pedestrians. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.19

A site plan showing the building being an

building from the rear entrances. (Tan, 2016).

intermediate lot located along Jalan Sultan

An image illustrating Jalan Sultan Iskandar

Iskandar which is flanked by a back lane behind

which are set off with 4 lanes which are flanked by

the building. (National Archive, 2016).

Figure 3.20

An image depicting one of the back entries which

An image depicting a view of Jalan Bandar Timah

was used less frequently and grant access to the back

which goes in opposite direction as compared with

of the building. (Tan, 2016).

Jalan Sultan Yusuff. (KenWooi, 2016).

Figure 3.15

Image taken on site depicting the stretch of pedestrian pavements which are laced around the

rows of heritage shop houses. (Panoromio, 2016).

Figure 3.14

Figure 3.17

order to segregate the pedestrian walkways with the

providing external shade to the occupants entering the Figure 3.13

Image showing a typical intersection/junction

which provides accessibility to the pedestrians. (Tan,

flanks the foyer and entrances of the buildings that

Figure 3.12

Figure 3.16

Figure 3.21

An image taken on site showing the main entrance

A Google Street View depicting Jalan Sultan

which leads into the main lobby and reception of

Yusuff which leads to the main road of Jalan Sultan

Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay. (Tan, 2016).

Iskandar. (Google Street View, 2016). viii

Figure 3.22 Figure 3.23

Image depicting the main entrance leading into

hotel ;the former Yick Who Gold Smith shop(Tan,

An image illustrating a typical coffee shop in Ipoh

2016).

Figure 3.31

An image depicting one of the malls along the street of Jalan Sultan Iskandar which sells souvenirs

Figure 3.25

windows and air vent design.(Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.32

An image illustrating one of the boutique hotels and

(Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.33

The state mosque of Perak which is located also Kacang Merah, 2016).

Figure 3.34 Figure 3.35

Figure 3.29

This image shows column head or “chi tou” of one of the pillars.(Tan, 2016)

Figure 3.36

produce glare. (Tan, 2016).

An image illustrating the sun from the east side

An image showing one of the columns holding up the event hall. (Tan, 2016)

An image illustrating the sun from the east side of the building which casts shadows but do not

An image showing the art deco designed window grilles (Tan, 2016).

along the opposite side of Jalan Sultan Iskandar. (Ais

Figure 3.28

An image showing the art deco designed decorative motif found above the main entrance.

(Trip Advisor, 2016).

Figure 3.27

An image showing boutique hotel’s façade door,

and local goods. (Tan, 2016). cafés within vicinity of the Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay.

Figure 3.26

An image showing the front façade of the boutique

Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay’s event hall. (Tan, 2016). which serves food and beverages. (Star Online, 2016).

Figure 3.24

Figure 3.30

This image shows the interior space of the boutique hotel. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.37

An image showing one of the metal barred windows

of the building which casts shadows but do not

found in the boutique hotel that follows the original

produce glare. (Tan, 2016).

design. (Tan, 2016).

An image depicting the front façade of Sarang Paloh .

(Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.38

An image showing a wooden barred window that uses louvres. (Tan, 2016).

ix

Figure 3.39 Figure 3.40

The floor tiles were scavenged from other old buildings

material is made out of bricks using rough

An image of the visible wooden beams that runs

masonry work. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.46 Figure 3.47

An image showing the visible roof trusses on the 1st floor of the event hall (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.51

An image showing the exposed roof tiles and beams found on the 1st floor of the boutique hotel.

Antique chairs handpicked by the owner being used in

(Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.52

The kitchen furniture such as tables and chairs were also handpicked antiques.(Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.45

Figure 3.50

2016). the building.(Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.44

An image showing the interior of the bunker (Tan, 2016).

The second staircase found in the boutique hotel which is L-shaped that also leads to the 1st floor. (Tan,

Figure 3.43

Figure 3.49

An image showing the spiral staircase found at the airwell. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.42

An image showing the bunker’s exterior view. Its

and reused.(Tan, 2016). across the room. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.41

Figure 3.48

An image depicting the visual symmetry of the roof garden.(Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.53

An image showing the five foot way shaded by the

An image showing the interior of the event hall.(Tan,

eaves of the building, as indicated 1 in Figure 3.34.

2016).

(Tan, 2016).

An image showing the floor tile design which were

Figure 3.54

An image illustrating the front hall of the building,

“Nyonya” styled.(Tan, 2016).

which is the main lobby and reception of the building,

An image showing the event hall’s ceiling where the

as indicated 2 in Figure 3.34 (Tan, 2016).

ceiling joist are exposed ; showing the contrast between ceiling and wall.(Tan, 2016)

Figure 3.55

The second hall within the shophouse building which is converted into a sitting area which features a central atrium for the spiral stairs, as indicated 3 in Figure 3.59. (Tan, 2016). x

Figure 3.56

Figure 3.57

Figure 3.58

The air well which illuminates the spiral stairs atrium

Gold Lofts within the first floor of the hotel lot by

which is the central feature of the second hall cum

which features a stairs ascending to the second

sitting area, as indicated 6 in Figure 3.59. (Tan, 2016).

floor which is the Gold Loft. (Tan, 2016).

The rear court which is located after the second

Figure 3.60

which is flanked by to side entries, one leading to a

serve the guests of the hotel, as indicated 4 in Figure

nextbed chamber and another leading to the

3.59. (Tan, 2016).

washing closet. (Qwuen, 2016).

The second rear court which is relatively

Figure 3.62

Figure 3.40

The bed chamber within the Silver Loft and an

smaller, converted into storage cum sanitary services

entry which leads into the washing closet. (Qwuen,

space with a skylight illuminating the interior, as

2016).

Figure 3.41

The Malaysian Honeyguide Loft which is unique as

Ground floor plan of the boutique hotel lot of Sarang

it is the biggest room within the floor and also

Paloh Heritage Stay which serves different functions

within the entire boutique hotel lot which bed

and as indicated by the numbers in the plan. (Ashik,

chamber twice the size and the door at the far end

2016).

leading into a luxurious washing closet.

First floor plan of the boutique hotel lot of Sarang

(AsiaBooking, 2016).

Paloh Heritage Stay which house the rooms of the

Figure 3.61

The side bed chamber within the Platinum Loft by

hall is converted into a kitchen cum dining area to

indicated 5 in Figure 3.59. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.59

Figure 3.63

Figure 3.42

The rear stairs which is located in the kitchen of the

hotel and also hold several circulation spaces as

building which connects to the first floor above which

indicated by the numbers in the plan. (Ashik, 2016).

leads to the transitional walkway. (Tan, 2016).

The receiving hall of the first floor of the boutique

Figure 3.43

The transitional walkway which is reached directly

hotel lot via ascending a spiral stairs. (Tan, 2016).

upon ascending the rear stairs while connecting it to

The hall leading into the Platinum, Silver and

the receiving hall. (Tan, 2016). xi

Figure 3.44

Figure 3.45

Second floor plan of the boutique hotel lot of Sarang

Heritage Stay which accommodates different

hotel which is the only room housing the second floor

spaces ranging from hotel rooms, lofts and also

of the boutique hotel lot. (Ashik, 2016).

internal courtyard with interior landscape as its

Gold Loft as seen interiorly while windows opening to

central feature. (Wee, 2016).

2016).

Ground floor plan of the event hall lot of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay which accommodates different spaces which serves different functions. (Wee, 2016).

Figure 3.47

The spacious event hall of Sarang Paloh Heritage

Figure 3.52

lighten up using traditional Chinese cultured style ornaments. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.53 Figure 3.54

Grill door leading into the vault cum storage

bed. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.55

Figure 3.50

Storage bunker entry behind the event hall. (Tan,

The second hall within the shophouse building which is converted into a sitting area which features a central atrium for the spiral stairs, as indicated 3 in Figure 3.59. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.56

The air well which illuminates the spiral stairs atrium which is the central feature of the second hall cum

space located at the far end of the event hall. (Tan, 2016).

The living space within the ground floor of both rooms while featuring a stairs which leads up to a

of circulation and connectivity between floors. (Tan, Figure 3.49

The hall which accommodate multiple rooms portrays grandeur essence. (Tan, 2016).

Event hall stairs atrium which is the main mean 2016).

Stairs hall as seen from the receiving hall on the first floor of the boutique hotel lot. (Tan, 2016).

Stay which sees a grandeur eclectic style which is

Figure 3.48

First floor plan of the event hall lot of Sarang Paloh

Paloh Heritage Stay which house the Gold Loft of the

the low ceiling covering the Silver Loft. (Sarang Paloh, Figure 3.46

Figure 3.51

sitting area, as indicated 6 in Figure 3.59. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.57

The rear court which is located after the second

2016). xii

hall is converted into a kitchen cum dining area to

Figure 3.58

Figure 3.63

serve the guests of the hotel, as indicated 4 in Figure

which is flanked by to side entries, one leading to a

3.59. (Tan, 2016).

nextbed chamber and another leading to the

The second rear court which is relatively

washing closet. (Qwuen, 2016).

smaller, converted into storage cum sanitary services

Figure 3.64

The bed chamber within the Silver Loft and an entry which leads into the washing closet. (Qwuen, 2016).

Figure 3.65

The Malaysian Honeyguide Loft which is unique as

space with a skylight illuminating the interior, as indicated 5 in Figure 3.59. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.59

Figure 3.60

Ground floor plan of the boutique hotel lot of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay which serves different functions

it is the biggest room within the floor and also

and as indicated by the numbers in the plan. (Ashik,

within the entire boutique hotel lot which bed

2016).

chamber twice the size and the door at the far end

First floor plan of the boutique hotel lot of Sarang

leading into a luxurious washing closet.

Paloh Heritage Stay which house the rooms of the

(AsiaBooking, 2016).

hotel and also hold several circulation spaces as Figure 3.61

Figure 3.66

The rear stairs which is located in the kitchen of

indicated by the numbers in the plan. (Ashik, 2016).

the building which connects to the first floor above

The receiving hall of the first floor of the boutique

which leads to the transitional walkway. (Tan, 2016).

hotel lot via ascending a spiral stairs. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.62

The side bed chamber within the Platinum Loft by

Figure 3.67

The transitional walkway which is reached directly

The hall leading into the Platinum, Silver and

upon ascending the rear stairs while connecting it to

Gold Lofts within the first floor of the hotel lot by which

the receiving hall. (Tan, 2016).

features a stairs ascending to the second floor which is the Gold Loft. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.68

Second floor plan of the boutique hotel lot of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay which house the Gold Loft of the

xiii

ranging from hotel rooms, lofts and also internal courtyard with interior landscape as its central feature. (Wee, 2016).

hotel which is the only room housing the second floor of the boutique hotel lot. (Ashik, 2016).

Figure 3.69

Gold Loft as seen interiorly while windows opening to the low ceiling covering the Silver Loft. (Sarang Paloh,

Figure 3.76

first floor of the boutique hotel lot. (Tan, 2016).

2016).

Figure 3.70

Ground floor plan of the event hall lot of Sarang Paloh

Figure 3.77

Figure 3.71

lighten up using traditional Chinese cultured style ornaments. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.72

Figure 3.78

The living space within the ground floor of both rooms while featuring a stairs which leads up to a bed. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.79

The interior of the mentioned room which sees

The spacious event hall of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay which sees a grandeur eclectic style which is

Event hall stairs atrium which is the main mean

a spacious interior. (Sarang Paloh, 2016).

Figure 3.80

Figure 3.73

Grill door leading into the vault cum storage space located at the far end of the event hall. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.74 Figure 3.75

the Great Tit Room. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.81

First floor plan of the event hall lot of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay which accommodates different spaces

The garden which is featured within the central courtyard within the hotel. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.82

The walkway linking the garden into the sanitary services which gradually leads into the Sarang Paloh

Storage bunker entry behind the event hall. (Tan, 2016).

An image of the walkway which leads from the stairs hall to the garden which faces the door of

of circulation and connectivity between floors. (Tan, 2016).

The hall which accommodate multiple rooms portrays grandeur essence. (Tan, 2016).

Heritage Stay which accommodates different spaces which serves different functions. (Wee, 2016).

Stairs hall as seen from the receiving hall on the

Heritage Stay Art Gallery. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.83

Second floor plan of the event hall lot of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay which accommodates only the second xiv

floor of the two double volume rooms - Stork Bird

Figure 4.7

Kingfisher Room and also the Red Throated Sunbird Room. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.84

The bed chamber and sleeping area on the first floor of the room, the second floor of the building, through the utilization of double volume space. (Sarang Paloh, 2016).

Figure 4.1

An image showing the ground floor plan of Sarang Paloh with its circulation indicated in red. (Ashik, 2016).

Figure 4.2

An image showing the first floor plan of Sarang Paloh with its circulation indicated in red. (Ashik, 2016).

Figure 4.3

The above shows the public, semi-public and private spaces of the ground floor and first floor circulation.( Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.4

The above shows the public, semi-public and private spaces of the ground floor and first floor circulation.( Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.5

Sectional perspective Y2Y2 (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.6

Sectional perspective Y4Y4 (Ashik, 2016)

Section Y1Y1 depicting spaces with natural lighting (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.8

Section Y3Y3 depicting spaces with natural lighting (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.9

Section Y1Y1 depicting green spaces.(Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.10

Section Y3Y3 depicting green spaces (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.11

Section Y1Y1 depicting the buildings ventilation (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.12

Section Y3Y3 depicting the buildings ventilation (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.13

An image showing the hotel lobby (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.14

An image showing the airwell (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.15

An image showing the pantry/kitchen space (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.16

An image showing the rear court of the boutique hotel (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.17

An image showing the interior of the event hall (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.18

The images shows the exterior and interior of the bunker respectively (Ashik, 2016) xv

Figure 4.19 Figure 4.20 Figure 4.21

The images shows the exterior and interior of the

Figure 4.30

Front desk of Yik Woh Goldsmith & Jeweller shop.

bunker respectively (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.31

Front desk of Sarang Paloh Boutique hotel lobby.

The image shows the hallway space at entrance to the spiral staircase (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.32

Safe of Yik Woh Goldsmith & Jeweller shop.

The images show the narrow corridor and the ceiling

Figure 4.33 Figure 4.34

Open courtyard in Sarang Paloh Boutique Hotel.

(Tan, 2016.)

Staff parking space.

Figure 4.35

Kitchen for Sarang Paloh Boutique Hotel. (Tan,

above it respectively (Ashik, 2016) Figure 4.22

The images show the narrow corridor and the ceiling above it respectively (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.23

Both images depicts the view of the space from the ground and from above (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.24

Both images depicts the view of the space from the ground and from above (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.25

An image showing the interior space of the Honeyguide hotel room (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.26

The images depicts the narrow hotel corridor and its double volume void ceiling (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.27

The images depicts the narrow hotel corridor and its double volume void ceiling (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.28

The images shows the roof garden and its courtyard repectively (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.29

(Tan, 2016.)

The images shows the roof garden and its courtyard repectively (Ashik, 2016)

2016.)

Figure 4.36

Rear courtyard.

Figure 4.37

Rear courtyard now. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 4.38

Living spaces for the staffs.

Figure 4.39

Hotel rooms.

Figure 4.40

Front desk of OCBC Building.

Figure 4.41

Sarang Paloh Event hall. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 4.42

Store room for Sarang Paloh Event Hall. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 4.43

Bunker.

Figure 4.44

Store room. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 4.45

Insurance company.

Figure 4.46

Hotel rooms. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 4.47

Flat slab with air vents.

Figure 4.48

Roof garden. (Tan, 2016.) xvi

Figure 5.1 Figure 5.2 Figure 5.3

Bunker that constructed with clay bricks, painted with

Figure 5.15

Usage of ceramic wall tiles in ground floor.

white. (Wong, 2016.)

Figure 5.16

The flower motifs Nyonya tiles found in the event

The original timber battens that located in the rear

hall. (Tan, 2016.)

courtyard of the boutique hotel. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 5.17

Usage of hydraulic cement tiles in ground floor.

Timber is used to construct the window frame as well

Figure 5.18

Terrazzo tiles with pattern that found in the five

as the timber shuttered wall. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 5.4 Figure 5.5

foot way. (Tan, 2016.)

Steel beams and columns are added to support the

Figure 5.19

Usage of terrazzo tiles in ground floor.

load of the first floor. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 5.20

Timber flooring in the first floor or the boutique

Steel spiral staircase in the open courtyard which coated with black paint to prevent corrosion. (Tan,

hotel. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 5.21

2016.)

Usage of timber finishes in first floor and second floor.

Figure 5.6

Gypsum plaster applied on the skirting. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 5.22

Structural diagram of the timber roof system.

Figure 5.7

Usage of gypsum plaster in the wall in ground floor.

Figure 5.23

Section of the roof of event hall.

Figure 5.8

Porcelain tiles. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 5.24

Section - a combination of king post truss and

Figure 5.9

Usage of porcelain tiles in ground floor.

Figure 5.10

Mosaic tiles in the staircase. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 5.25

Construction drawings of the timber wall panel.

Figure 5.11

Usage of mosaic tiles in the ground floor.

Figure 5.26

Timber wall panel in the second floor of boutique hotel.

Figure 5.12

Terracotta tiles. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 5.13

Usage of terracotta tiles in ground floor.

Figure 5.14

Wall tiles found in the event hall. (Tan, 2016.)

queen post truss are used in the roof of event hall.

(Tan, 2016.)

Figure 5.27

Timber flooring system.

xvii

Tables of Content Declaration of Submission

ii

2.1.3

British Colonization

21

Acknowledgement

iii

2.1.4

Social

22

Abstract

iv

2.1.5

Economy

23

List of Figures

v

2.1.6

Architecture

25

2.2 1

Chapter 1: Introduction

1.1

Objectives and Aim

1.2

History of Kinta District and Kinta Valley 2.2.1

Origin of the Name

35

3

2.2.2

Timeline

36

Scope

4

2.2.3

British Administration in Kinta District

37

1.3

Limitations

5

2.2.4

Mining

39

1.4

Methodologies

6

2.2.5

Social

40

1.5

Equipment

10

2.2.6

Economy

41

1.6

Literature Review

14

1.7

Significance of Studies

15

2

Chapter 2: Historical Background

2.1

History of Perak

2.3

2.4

History of Ipoh 2.3.1

Origin of the Name

42

2.3.2

Timeline

44

2.3.3

Development of Ipoh Town

42

History of Jalan Sultan Iskandar

2.1.1

Origin of the Name

19

2.4.1

Origin of the Name

55

2.1.2

Timeline

20

2.4.2

Insight

56

xviii

2.5

History of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay

3.3

and Event Hall

Functions of Spaces of Building 3.3.1

2.5.1

Ownership

58

2.5.2

Timeline

60

Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay Boutique

95

Hotel Building Lot 3.3.2

Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay Event Hall 106 Building Lot

3

Chapter 3: Architectural Development

3.1

Site Context 3.1.1

Site Plan and Lot Number Plan

62

3.1.2

External Structures and Surrounding

64

4

Chapter 4: Architectural & Spatial Layout

4.1

Spatial Layout

Buildings 4.2

Circulation

119

4.1.2

Public & Private Spaces

122

3.1.3

Hardscape

68

3.1.4

Building Accessibility

70

4.2.1

Spatial Programming

124

3.1.5

Genius Loci and Surrounding Cultural

75

4.2.2

Passive Design

126

4.2.3

Spatial Experience

129

Activities 3.1.6 3.2

4.1.1

Orientation of Building On Site

77

4.3

Spatial Experience and Program

Spatial Comparison

135

Design Concept 3.2.1

Design in relation to context

78

3.2.2

Form

79

3.2.3

Exterior

80

3.2.4

Interior

83

xix

5

Chapter 5: Building Materials and Construction

5.1

Building Materials

5.2

5.1.1

Structural

146

5.1.2

Finishing

149

Building Construction 5.2.1

Roof System

157

5.2.2

Wall System

159

5.2.3

Floor System

160

Conclusion

161

References

163

Glossary

164

Appendix A

Interview Transcript

B

Photobook

C

Scaled Drawings

xx

Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION Covers the aims and objectives of this study, the scope of studies and research, limitations and obstacles faced during the process of study, the methodologies implemented throughout the process of this study, the list of equipment used for the study, a brief literature review of the building and also the significance of studies in regards to the assigned building.

2

1.1 Objectives and Aim The objective of this study is to obtain the accurate measurements that

Apart from that, our group is also required to produce a research

reflect the current state of the building and to also document the

paper to emphasize and highlight the history, cultural and design

architectural and cultural significances of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay &

concept of the building. In depth and thorough research and

Event Hall.

interpretation in regards to the functionality and the construction techniques are to be documented into the report.

The team is required to produce floor plans, sections, elevations, site plan and also detail schedules. These drawings are scaled drawings

The aim of this implemented study is to allow us to produce and act

which are done according to the existing heritage building which is on

as a credible source of information regarding the assigned building -

site. In the later phase of the project also requires us to produce a scaled

Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay & Event hall for both academic,

model of the Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay & Event Hall building.

conservation and preservation purposes.

3

1.2 Scope The scope of study covers from building measurements from corner to

Various media are required in order for us to demonstrate our

edges in order to obtain accurate dimensions of each and every single

understanding and to illustrate our interpretation of the spaces

space. Besides, exterior and interior elevation are also required which

around the mentioned building. To list a few, including developing

will later contribute to the development of the section of the building.

physical 3D models in order to relate the building to the viewers, sets of scaled CAD drawings, a documentary video and a thorough and

A thorough research onto the building are also required in order obtain

concise report in regards to research, interpretations, analysis and

sufficient information regarding the building. The scope of research

findings on the building.

includes the historical and cultural background of the building and also its construction details which will also indirectly leads to the documentation of the design concept and intention. This research scope also indirectly covers the history of the functions, usage, purpose and typology of the building and how it has evolved over the years till what it is currently.

4

1.3 Limitations Limitations and obstacles are definitely unavoidable and by which are

information.

Source

of

photographs,

information

and

solved through the implementations of certain measures. One of the

documentations are scarce as well by which makes the tracing back

most problematic issues is the restricted mobility and accessibility

of history of the building difficult. Certain beneficial information were

around the site building while measuring works are carried out. Some

declined to be shared by the refurbishment firm of the building as

parts of the building which requires measuring are too high up and

well in order to retain its confidentiality.

making it a problem to access. Besides, certain ornamentations which

Online data and physical sources such as books and catalogues are

are too intricate could not be measured and hence different sort of

not as rich in terms of information which limits our research scope.

techniques were implemented in order to curb these issues. Eye level

Due to it being quite a low profiled building, hence many are not

scaled images were taken and were scaled down in AutoCAD in order

aware of its story or some not even its presence. Hence, most of the

to obtain a more accurate dimension and more proportionate picture of

research analysis and information are based on whatsoever which were

certain details and ornamentations.

retrieved on site and by which and compared, analyzed and interpreted thoroughly.

In terms of field of research is not as rich as expected which limits us in terms of documentations and analysis. This was because the building is not as prominent as compared to other certain heritage buildings around Malaysia and also in Ipoh, hence dwarfing it and its regarding 5

1.4 Methodologies Various methods were implemented in order to collect data to complete

intricate details and certain ornamentations (see Figure 1.2).

the research and documentation of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay. The

Measuring tapes are mostly utilized along with the help of a ladder

team, composed of a total of 25 students, was segregated into several

in order to obtain measurements for a certain height (see Figure 1.3).

sub groups which are to be listed in the following: floor plans group,

The digital laser measurement device contributes to measuring

elevations group, sections group and also detailing schedules group.

heights and parts of building which are restricted in terms of mobility

Each group operated under a sub group leader who oversaw the entire

and accessibility due to hazard and heights.

process of operation of the group which later on had to be coordinated and collaborated with the other sub groups in order to produce an accurate set of measurements and drawings.

Methods of Measurements Despite the different methods utilized while obtaining measurements for the drawings of the building, the team primarily utilize the function of the measuring tape (see Figure 1.1), the usage of digital laser measuring device and also the metal rule in order to obtain measurements for

Figure 1.1 - A member of the team, Tang Ze Zheng, utilizing the measuring tape to obtain the width of the column. (Tan, 2016).

6

In order for us to obtain data of the faรงade of the building which were too high, perpendicular scaled images were taken from the opposite side of the building in order to be scaled down while producing the digital drawings later. This indirectly contributed to allowing us to produce drawings which are slightly accurate for the ornamentation details which were on the faรงade which were nearly impossible to measure.

Due to it being an old building, certain walls and floorings are not of proportion as to one another. For instance, certain walls are not

Figure 1.2 - A member of the team, Tang Ze Zheng, utilizing the metal rule to obtain detailed measurements. (Tan, 2016)

perpendicularly conjoined to one another as also for the level of the floorings. In order to curb with this, datum lines are set using a T-square and with the help of the digital laser measuring device in order to measurements of certain drops, pitches and inclination of the floor level.

Majorly most of the measuring works for the details and ornamentations, regardless of it being on the faรงade or within certain building elements are done via perpendicular scaled images. This was carried out in order to be time efficient. These photos were then later on sent into AutoCAD in order to be traced and scaled down with proportionate measurements and dimensions.

Figure 1.3 - A member of the team, Tang Ze Zheng, using the ladder and measuring tape rule to obtain the height of the column.

(Tan, 2016).

7

Production of Drawings The measurements obtained for each and different parts of the building

useful information were also retrieved online books, journals and

on site were either directly drafted on or off site. After returning to

websites as well.

campus from site, further discussion commenced in order to draft the measured drawings via AutoCAD. Along the process while producing and refining the drafted digital drawings, certain presets of line weights, line scale and line type were distributed by the sub group leaders to their sub group members in order to fully commence the actual production of the drawings. These steps were done in order to ensure consistency, standardization and also quality in the drawings produced.

Methods of Research In order to fully document and to expand our scope of coverage in regards to the historical, cultural and the architectural aspect of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay, various interviews were conducted with the owners of the building, the employees within the hotel and also the furniture contractor and maintenance man of the premises (see Figure 1.4) which

Figure 1.4 - Members of the team, Loh Wei Shuen (front) and Ryan Kerry (back), interviewing and touring along the premises with the furniture contractor and maintenance man of the hotel, Mr Lee. (Tan, 2016).

is working for them for the past 6 years approximate ever since the starting of their family business. The team had also been busy visiting various authorities and libraries in order to obtain various beneficial information which will be later documented in the report. Besides, certain

8

Methods of Model Making & Production In order to be efficient and to have quality control within the model making and production process, added with the fact that the faรงades of our building are highly decorated and ornamented, our team decided to utilize the method of laser cutting. Along the way, various techniques were used in order to identify the different layers of model facets and its belonging digital drawing. This is to ensure the cuttings for different facets of the model to be done on isolated wood panels. After different facets are produced from the laser cutting process, the sub group in charge of model making then carefully assemble the bits and pieces together in order to complete the model.

9

1.5 Equipment In order to obtain accurate measurements and to produce certain documentations, certain tools and equipment are required in order to allow use to obtain and retrieve certain desired data and information.

Bosch DLE 50 Professional Digital Laser Distance Meter The Bosch DLE 50 Professional Digital Laser Distance Meter was an expensive and valuable piece of equipment which was used in order to obtain accurate dimensions and to conduct measuring activities in towards certain parts of the building which was less accessible and hazardous to our reach. Due to its cost and it belonging to the campus, it was handled with proper care. This piece of ingenious device was utilized to measure certain height, for instance the height of the ceiling from the floor in a room at a certain specific point to another. This was done by placing the device on a flat floor with the laser transmitter facing

Figure 1.5 - An image showing the device - Bosch DLE 50 Professional Digital Laser Distance Meter. (Amazon, 2016).

the ceiling. After certain adjustments towards the settings on the device, the measurements and intended dimensions will appear digitally on the screen of the device. (See Figure 1.5) 10

Standard typical measuring tape (assorted lengths) This was one of the most primary and most frequently used devices

obtain measurements of inclination, pitches and settlement of

throughout the entire measuring activity that had been carried out within

flooring within the premises. Besides, T-square mainly also serves

the building. This common measuring equipment contributes to most of

to act as a large scale ruler by which is to be placed perpendicularly

the measuring activities as it is convenient and mobile to be easily

beside an intricate object or detail which requires tracing and by

brought with and can be easily purchased from a hardware store and

which a scaled image was taken and later traced via AutoCAD. (See

which comes with various kinds of lengths and dimensions which will be

Figure 1.8)

handy at times. This device were mostly utilized to measure most of the reachable height of certain parts of the buildings and also for most of the width, lengths and depth of different parts of the buildings, for instance the stairs within the building. (See Figure 1.6).

Standard typical metal rule (assorted lengths) This was one of the most useful tool of measuring when on site as it provide measuring capabilities for certain intricate details. This was because the units on this measuring device are more detail and intricate.

Due to its length and weight of the device, hence it provide convenience

Figure 1.6 - An example image showing a standard typical measuring tape which varies in lengths. (Amazon, 2016).

while utilizing for any sort of measuring purposes. (See Figure 1.7).

Standard typical T-Square (90cm) The main use of the T-square on site are mainly to act as datum posts in order to obtain finish floor level (FFL) and also while allowing us to

Figure 1.7 - Image indicating a standard typical metal rule which varies in terms of length and dimension. (Working Silver, 2016).

11

Ladder There were a few ladders on site, brought in personally by the members of the team. One of the ladders was approximately 7ft in height whereas the other was roughly 14ft in height as it was foldable in half. Another ladder which was 8ft in height provide access to higher heights which were inaccessible conveniently without ladders. Ladders were also convenient in the sense that they provide usage within the interior spaces of the building. The ladder was operated with care and measurement works using ladders were always done in pairs in the

Figure 1.8 - Image showing a standard typical T-Square whereby a 90cm length was used on site. (Creative-Coldsnow, 2016).

sense that the person on the ladder will be measuring while the other supports the ladder to ensure the safety of another above. (See Figure 1.3).

Stationeries In order to record the measurements of each and every single detail measured by the members, various stationeries were used for instance, papers, pens, erasers, rulers, scale rulers, color pens, tracing papers, graphs papers, butter papers etc. This allowed for quick sketching, drafting and also visual documentations of the items, spaces, dimensions and also measurements that were being documented.

12

Photography tools and equipment Several items that were being utilized by the members of the photography crew in order to visually document the spaces, the details, the faรงade and the furniture within the building. The various tools are for instance the DSLR camera with Digital Single Lens Reflex, tripods, digital cameras and also smartphone cameras.

Laptops & Preinstalled AutoCAD software The documented measurements, dimensions, drafts of various spaces surrounding the building were all exported into AutoCAD in order to produce and develop digitalized drawings as a final product later on.

Through AutoCAD, the line weights were edited and standardized using a single preset and by which were distributed among all CAD sub groups in order to standardize all drawing specifications. All of these were done via laptops with preinstalled AutoCAD software.

13

1.6 Literature Review The Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay has become a very important and one

reflect the past where memories and stories still were told while

of the most prominent building in the city of Ipoh. Despite the fact that

reminiscing and giving off a feeling of nostalgia to the people of Ipoh.

the foreshadowing of the future development of Ipoh currently, the

The literature review emphasizes on the importance of knowledge

building was once an infamous goldsmith, pawn shop and jewelry store,

on the history and theory based on analysis and interpretation.

and also a building which used to accommodate the Oversea Chinese Banking Corporation (OCBC Bank).

The key figure of this study is the most recent ownership of the building and the history that lies behind it and what and how had it

The bank started operation as early as 1939 through purchasing the

influenced the people over time. In addition, the study of the spaces

current building from the Bank of Malaya from a Chinese Merchant. Due

within the building, the cultural aspects and also the site context are

to the Great Depression, it was put for sale at a very low price. Hence,

selected for the writings. Books, articles, blog reviews, journal and

the owner of OCBC bank took the opportunity to purchase the property

other sort of physical publications provide information on the historical

over and took charge of the operation ever since.

background of Malaya and Malaysia, and in this sense more specifically towards the city of Ipoh and its culture and history throughout all these

Today, the structure still stand prominent along the infamous street of

times which sees the influences of architectural style imprinted onto the

Hugh Low which is now known as Jalan Sultan Iskandar, while still

building.

14

1.7 Significance of Studies

Figure 1.9 - The faรงade of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay & Event Hall (2nd & 3rd building from the left) which depicts the eclectic design of Neoclassical and art Art Deco exterior. (Tan, 2016).

The entire purpose and objective of this module is to emphasize the

its building, the switching of ownership of building, its original building

importance of heritage buildings around Ipoh by which will reflect greatly

have witnessed much historically significant changes along Jalan Sultan

upon the rich culture and history of Malaysia (see Figure 1.9). This very

Iskandar and also within Ipoh City itself. It has undergone various

building, Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay, despite the changes made within 15

typological functions which serves different strata of the society then and

This study also aims to further analyze the politics and also the

now.

economics that surround the building, within the city of Ipoh and also along the historically well-known Jalan Sultan Iskandar. Through

Through sketching, drawing, measuring and documenting the building

this, it serves to also show how it characterizes various eclectic

on site, hence enabling us students to develop more appreciation

styles of both Western and Eastern cultural design and how various

towards both the heritage buildings and also the rich culture and history

influences had the tendency to imprint their own style into the

of Malaysia.

embodiment of architecture of the building.

16

Chapter 2 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND Covers the history of our site from macro scale to micro scale which are Perak, Kinta District & Kinta Valley, Ipoh, Jalan Sultan Iskandar and Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay & Event Hall buildings.

17

2.1 History of Perak Perak, one of the 13 States of Malaysia, is the second largest State in Peninsular Malaysia. The State of Perak is divided into 9 Districts (see Figure 2.1) which are Kuala Kangsar, Hulu Perak, Perak Tengah, Hilir Perak, Kinta, Kerian, Manjung, Batang Padang and Larut, Matang and Selama which is the merging of the previously separated District.

Perak is rich with the tin-ore resources especially in Larut and Kinta District. Perak is wealthy with natural resources and attracted the attention of native rulers as well as Europeans in the mid-19th century.

It not only brings the economic benefits but also results in a sanguinary battle among the chiefs. The Perak Sultanate was unable to control these battles and sought assistance from the British. The British started to interfere in affairs and soon came out with their new administration methods for Perak. The arrival of the British changed the existing

Figure 2.1 - Map of Perak (Khoo, Lubis, 2016.)

condition of Perak. which included the introduction of the rubber industry in the late 19th century.

18

2.1.1 - Origin of the Name According to the Misa Melayu- an ancient text of Perak, the second king Sultan Malik Shah noticed that one of the tributaries was white as coconut milk. Then he sent his chief Megat Terawis to investigate the source of the stream. He found that there was a large fish suckling its young, with milk flowing from her ample white breast. So the Sultan gave the name “Perak” (which means ‘silver’ after the silverish white fish milk) to the main river which flows from the north to the south of the state.

19

2.1.2 - Timeline

20

2.1.3 - British Colonization Due to the huge demand of tin in the Industrial Revolution, the Europeans especially British and Dutch had a high desire to monopolise the production of the tin. The chaos among the chiefs wasn’t enormous enough to involve British until the power struggle between the Raja Ismail and Raja Abdullah.

Though the signing of the Pangkor Treaty on 1874, it showed that Perak was agreed to accept the installation of the British Resident. J.W.W.

Figure 2.2 - The First British Resident of Perak, James Wheeler Woodford Birch.

Birch (See Figure 2.2) was appointed as the first British Resident in Perak. The status of the Resident was served as the advisor of Sultan for all matters except than those involving Malay religion and traditional practice. The Sultans lost their power in administration. The launch of the resident system in other Malay States had strongly affected their Sultanate structure.

However, the intervention of British marked a turning point in British policy. The new art of government helped the Perak in development. A

Figure 2.3 - The Fourth British Resident of Perak, Sir Hugh Low who formulated the modern laws that pertaining to land matters, agriculture, the mining, labour and taxation.

handful from the colonial officer, the traditional elite and leaders of migrants collaborated to re-built Perak. From the British point of view, their end objective was a prosperous, settled population cultivating the land under a benevolent government.

21

2.1.4 - Social Tin was discovered by Long Jaafar in 1848, drew in a large population of Chinese immigrants from the Chinese diaspora to Nanyang. They built their livelihood, fame, and fortune around the mines. Beside working as miners (figure 2.4), most of the Chinese involved themselves in all sorts of economic activities such as traders, hawkers, goldsmiths, rickshawpuller, fortune-tellers as well as the civil servants. Chinese associations like Kheng Chao Association (Hainanese) and Ku Kong Chow Association was born to promote relationships and cooperation among the Chinese business community.

Figure 2.4 - Woman dulang-washers worked as gleaners on the periphery of many tin mines. (Khoo, Lubis, Wade, 2016.)

Most of the Malays were traditionally agrarian occupations and ancestral miners. They planted cash crops such as indigo and sugar cane to support themselves.

The Indians worked as the coolies, servants, gardeners and lowgovernment servant. Until 20th century, the booming of rubber plantation brought in thousands of Indians.

Not to excluding the European society - including government officers, planters and some involved in the Christian mission.

Figure 2.5 - Sultan Idris and Sir Hugh Low, two pioneers of modern Perak. (Khoo, Lubis, 2016.)

22

2.1.5 - Economy Tin mining in Perak is the major economic activity throughout the 19th and the 20th centuries. The British government put a lot attention on infrastructure and development such as road construction and a proliferation of public and commercial buildings. The first railway line in Malaya was opened in 1885 to connect Port Weld (now called Lumut) and Taiping.

Besides mining, agriculture is also one of the most important incomes of the locals. The rubber industry was brought in by R. Ridley in 1890s and introduced by Sir Hugh Low, the fourth British Resident. The Industrial

Figure 2.6 - Vast tracts of forest were cleared for rubber plantations.

(Changkat Salah Rubber Estate, Perak, 2016.)

Revolution in Europe increased the demands of rubber which is the raw material of tyre. The industry opened up the working opportunities and attracted the Southern Indian labour force.

The combined revenues from the sale of tin and rubber made the British Malaya one of the richest colonies of the British Empire. This brought about increased investment by the colonial administration in the construction of buildings and the development of infrastructure to facilitate efficient exploitation of the country’s resources.

23

When the rubber industry was scorching hot in 1910, the people started to get rid of their tin shares to invest in rubber (See Figure 2.6). The rubber boom benefited the estate coolies and when it came to the tin crash in 1908, the mining coolies began to abandon the mines to work in the estates. The rubber was selling at nearly five times the price in 1908 and the Perak Pioneer reported:

RUBBER IN 1910 If one saw a cheerful face in Kuala Lumpur a few years ago, it generally belonged to a tin miner, and he probably came from Ipoh.

Now it is the planters who are smiling, and the miners look glum.

(Ho, 2016.)

However there was no immediate industrial action taken. The rubber boom lasted only until the end of the year and the fall demand of rubber happened in 1940s due to the invention of the synthetic rubber.

24

2.1.6 - Architecture In the early centuries AD, there were a number of Indian empires in Southeast Asia. These empires had influenced the Peninsula Malaysia with their own traditions, customs, arts and crafts. Plus the trading between the Indian empires with the Chinese brought the Buddhist and Hindu religions into this region. The earliest architectural style such as the use of laterite blockwork (See Figure 2.7) can be discovered from the remaining ancient Hindu-Buddhist temples.

Soon Islam was introduced in peninsula Malaysia by Arab and Indian Muslim traders. The Sultan title was used for the king that believed in Islam. The Sultan of Melaka wanted to expand his sultanate as well as the spread the Islamic religion continued. The sultanate dominated both

Figure 2.7 - The remains of the Hindu-Buddhist temple founded in Bujang Valley, Kedah. (Yeang, 2016.)

sides of the Straits of Melaka for more than a hundred years and this period marked the classical age of Malay culture and architecture. As we can see today, many of the Malay states in peninsula Malaysia can refer back to their origin which is the Melaka Sultanate.

25

(i) Traditional Architectural Style The traditional Malay style can be found in early buildings. The usage of the natural materials with low thermal capacity like timber, rattan, bamboo and attap are used to minimise the heat flow into the house.

The traditional Malay style can be divided into three sections - the rumah ibu (core house), silang (link) and dapur (kitchen) respectively.

The Malay house in the States can be categorized by the bumbung Perak, or gambled roof which later on developed from the bumbung lima (five-ridge roof) (See Figure 2.8). The simple and lightweight construction of the gamble roof helps ventilation efficiency.

Figure 2.8 - A parallel two-unit traditional Malay house in Kuala Kangsar. (Landmarks of Perak, 2016.)

Another interesting feature of the Perak Malay house is the anjung (entrance porch) which usually decorated with the fine lattice arches.

Before the British administration, there was no brick buildings besides the notable founded in Pulau Pangkor which was built by the Dutch. The buildings were predominantly built with timber, with the fusion of the traditional Malay architecture.

26

(ii) Regional Architectural Style The regional architectural style was brought into the Peninsular Malaysia by the immigrants in the late 19th century. They brought along their own religious beliefs and practices and built places of worship as soon as they settled in the new country. The building inherited the essence from their lands of origin.

The temples of different Chinese dialect groups had similar floor plans and distinct roof styles whereas the Indian temples somehow reflected back to the age-old design principles of similar temples in the Southern India.

Figure 2.9 - Pa Lo Ku Miao in Ipoh, with flat roof ridge characteristic of the Cantonese. (Landmarks of Perak, 2016.)

27

(iii) Neoclassical Style The Neoclassical style is a revival style of the Greek and Roman architecture which impresses visitors. By considering the local climate, the Neoclassical styles soon cooperated the verandahs and overhanging roofs into their design and widely applied on buildings.

Shop houses, townhouses, associations, clubs, institutions and secular schools all in Perak used the Neoclassical elements in a hybrid mix.

The example for the Neoclassical style is the Kinta District administrative centre of Batu Gajah which was the earliest building that embodied the new British architectural style. It created an impressive trio compared to the linked government office.

Figure 2.10 - Kinta District Administrative Centre of Batu Gajah.

28

(iv) Colonial Architectural Style The British colonial architecture was the expression of dominance and power and the grand Palladian style was exported by British to its various colonies and settlements at the height of the British Empire.

Palladian style derived from the classical Roman and Greek architectural orders. It utilises the symmetrical planning, harmonic proportions and Greek and Roman motifs and Doric lines to the columns.

The Palladian style was widely used in government offices and buildings which were able to provide buildings with an image of distinction, grandeur and authority. The example the Palladian style can be found

Figure 2.11 - Ipoh Town Hall. (Khoo, Lubis, Wade, 2016.)

at the Ipoh Town Hall.

29

(v) Mogul Architectural Style Coexisting with the Neoclassical style was the Mogul style, which was first seen in the peninsular Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur’s New Government Offices (built 1894-97; now Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad) (See Figure 2.12). The Mogul style also called “Indo-Islamic”, was developed in India during the Moghul Dynasty (1526-1858).

Masjid Ubudiah (See Figure 2.13) in Kuala Kangsar was one of the examples of the Mogul architecture style.

Figure 2.12 - Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad in Kuala Lumpur.

(Landmarks of Perak, 2016.)

Figure 2.13 - Masjid Ubudiah (Khoo, Lubis, Wade, 2016.)

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(vi) Chinese Eclectic Style The early Chinese settlers in Malaya could not afford to have grand houses constructed, their priority being the accumulation of wealth in order to send funds back to China and eventually return themselves. It was not until the 19th century that the houses following traditional Chinese designs were built in Malaya.

The fundamental concepts of Chinese architecture are the courtyards, emphasis on the roof, exposure of structural elements and the use of colour. In the Chinese traditional, the ethnics and values of an extended family able to live together is the most desirable community. The idea forms a basis of traditional Chinese society and of classical Chinese house design “three generation under one roof�.

The courtyard used as the dweller spaces and entertainment for the

Figure 2.14 - A typical Chinese eclectic style house.

informal guests. For Chinese, a house is a private and personal space.

The courtyard will be enclosed with walled system. The concept of feng shui also applied in the Chinese Eclectic style houses. Most obvious example for the Chinese Eclectic Style is the shop house.

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(vii) Anglo-Straits Architectural Style After the consideration of the climate, the Anglo-Straits architecture style was introduced by George Drumgold Coleman. His design adopted the colonial style architecture and put in the Malay architecture principle such as the timber construction with a steep attap roof. However due to the risk of fire, attap roof was abandoned and Chinese roofing tiles were used. To enhance the building’s prestige, the classical elements such as the roman columns and western ornamentation were added later on.

The Anglo-Straits Architectural style was more popular among Chinese

Figure 2.15 - Grand Hotel in Ipoh. (Georgetown Dispensary Series,

towkays (wealthy businessmen), due to its being better suited to the

2016.)

conditions prevailing in Southeast Asia.

Examples of the Anglo-Straits Architecture style are Grand Hotel (See Figure 2.15) and Anderson School (See Figure 2.16).

Figure 2.16 - Anderson School in Ipoh. (Kunverjee Maljee Series, 2016.)

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(viii) Art Deco and International Style The Art Deco style started in the late 1920s. The new materials like mosaic and glass block began to be used in significant buildings. A very significant change, with the embrace of, first, Art Deco that we have seen with the Mercantile Bank in Ipoh and then the early International Style.

Lam Looking Bazaar (See Figure 2.18) is the earliest example of the International Style.

Figure 2.17 - The Art Deco faรงade of the Majestic Theatre.

(Landmarks of Perak, 2016.)

Figure 2.18 - Lam Looking Bazaar on Jalan Laksamana, Ipoh, was the earliest International style example. (Landmarks of Perak, 2016.)

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2.2 History of Kinta District and Kinta Valley The Kinta is one of the ten administrative districts in Perak (See Figure 2.19). It surrounds the Kinta River Valley which once was famous for its tin. Kinta Valley had seen small-scale Malay mining before the influx of Chinese immigrants transformed the industry in the late 19th century.

Located at the bank of the Kinta River, it was an important tin mining centre, 5 miles from Ipoh. Due to the way upstream location, the Kinta ore deposits were richer and deeper than those at Larut.

The moving of the administrative office spur on the development of the Kinta District. From Kota Bharu, Batu Gajah and at the end fixed in Ipoh, the Kinta District slowly became the most flourishing tin mining area.

However, an unpredictable flooding stroke Kinta Valley and a series of

Figure 2.19 - The map of Kinta District. (Ho, 2016.)

social issues began to happen.

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2.2.1 - Origin of the Name According to the Riwayat Kinta, in the days when there were genies and sorcerers, a sea captain from Sumatra, after crossing the Straits of Melacca, steered his ship up the Perak River and then rowed up an unnamed river as far as Gunong Cheroh. There the crew heard sweet music coming from a waterfall and saw a flying lizard leaping in the air across the water. The sea captain told his crew, “The name of this river shall be Kinta, because it flows like the sound of tinkling bells. The flying lizard told me so.” Immediately after his speech, the flying lizard disappeared. The captain announced, “The Genie of Kinta transformed itself into a flying lizard. This is a fine place for a settlement.” (Ho, 2016.)

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2.2.2 - Timeline

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2.2.3 - British Administration in Kinta District In 1877, Sir Hugh Low, the fourth British Resident established the Perak Council of State in Kuala Kangsar with several Malay royals and chiefs and two Chinese mining towkays, Whereas at the district level, Kinta was handled by a European officer with a few ‘native’ chiefs. 3 year after the assassination of the British Resident, J.W.W. Birch, the British decided to set up their first police station in Pangkalan Pegu, near Ipoh.

Pangkalan Pegu was the village of Sultan Ismail, one of the chieftains implicated in the Birch murder. The British thought that it was the capital of the Perak but in fact, Kinta was the regime of the Malay.

Figure 2.20 - Elephants transportation. (Khoo, Lubis, Wade, 2016.)

Before the construction of roads and railways, transportation was dependant on the river. The lowest landing stage on the Kinta was Kota Bharu, near Gopeng. Moving on to the Batu Gajah, the river port of Papan and finally to Ipoh, the most important mining centre in the district.

The Kinta River was difficult to access. During the wet season, the heavier cargo boats could go as far as Batu Gajah and the smaller cargo boat could reach Ipoh. However when it came to the dry season, only two tons of boat could go make it to Batu Gajah then they needed to rely on the sampan, elephants (See Figure 2.20) and bullock-carts to reach Ipoh.

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In 1879, Kota Bharu served as the first administrative centre of Kinta. It

Batu Gajah was an ideal place for the Europeans.. Ipoh was very far

was the river port for the Gopeng, which was the most important

from Batu Gajah and Taiping where the British Resident resided,

mining and biggest town in Kinta. The first built metalled road was built

was even further away. The Perak Sultan was in Kuala Kangsar. The

to connect Kota Bharu and Gopeng by British. It served as long as 5

only chief in Ipoh was Dato Panglima Kinta.

years as the centre of the economic and official activities. However, due to its location in a low swampy area, an outbreak of Malaria caused the town to be abandoned.

The administration centre was changed to Batu Gajah at 1884. It was an ideal place for headquarters for 10 years. The British government wanted to transform this place into Taiping-style administration. Offices, bungalows, hospitals, clubs, churches and other facilities were built on Changkat, a cool and salubrious plateau which is couples miles away from the town. The social life in Batu Gajah couldn’t be found in any other town and the European were satisfied with the situation. In the 1890s, Batu Gajah was the only town in Perak besides Taiping and during that time Ipoh was just a village surrounded by jungle. Although Ipoh was hard to reach, the rich tin deposits made Ipoh (as was foretold as town that was more prosperous than Batu Gajah. Especially when the Kinta Valley Railway connected Ipoh and Teluk Intan, it brought a prosperous growth to Ipoh.

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2.2.4 - Mining

introduced the new agriculture (rice bendang, pepper and coffee) the

Among all the districts in Perak, Kinta District had the most concentrated

reaction wasn’t as enthusiastic as the mining.

mines especially in Gopeng, Papan and Sungai Raia (See Figure 2.21).

In 1888, the export of tin in Kinta almost equalled to that of Larut. Larut had productive mines but the mines found in Kinta Valley was small yet numerous. But the mining industry in Larut was predominant compared to Kinta due to the advantages of the Larut-Port Weld railway. It greatly reduced the cost of transportation in Larut.

In 1889, the year that Sir Hugh Low retired, the tin production of the Kinta Valley overtook the tin production of Larut. The Straits Trading Company launched the “Cash for Ore” which drove the second Tin Rush. In 1892, the price of the silver began to drop which caused tin to reach the dazzling height. The Kinta Valley Railway that connected Kampar- Kota Bharu- Batu Gajah- Ipoh was completed by this time. Kinta replaced Larut as the new most important tin mine and the capital of Perak changed from Taiping to Ipoh.

In early 1890s, a European company began to enter the mining market which leaded by the Chinese. The Gopeng Tin Mining Company brought in the new mining method, hydraulic sluicing. Although the British

Figure 2.21 - The Geological and Mineral Map of Kinta, 1884 by French Explorer Jacques de Morgan. (Khoo, Lubis, 2016.)

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2.2.5 - Social The Kinta District was handled by Dato Panglima Kinta. The number of Chinese miners in Perak increased from 9,000 in 1877 to an estimated 50,000 five year later. (Perak Government Gazette 1897, 2016.) From 1875 to 1884, most of the mining ventures were still concentrated in Larut. In 1884, the first Tin Rush to Kinta began. Compared to Larut, Kinta provided a much larger field for the emergence of mining kongsis reflected a diversity of Chinese dialect group and origins.

Kinta was dominated by miners that belongs to Chinese secret societies.

The most famous secret society was Hai San secret society which

Figure 2.22 - The portrait of the leader of Hai San secret society, Kapitan Cina Chung Keng Kwee. (Seow, 2016.)

controlled by Hakka Chinese (See Figure 2.22) and Ghee Hin secret society which controlled by Cantonese (See Figure 2.23). Before the signing of Pangkor Treaty, the territory war always happened between these two secret societies.

Not to forget the penghulus, they were the government representatives to the villagers. Their contribution also helped in the success of Kinta Valley. But what they lost in their authority they were able to gain in their personal wealth.

Figure 2.23 - The portrait of the leader of Ghee Hin secret society, Kapitan China Chin Ah Yam. (Khoo, 2016.)

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2.2.6 - Economy The mining industry flourished in the Kinta Valley due to the well-planned government and the collaboration with the native chiefs. The sufficient labour also helped to speed up the development of the Kinta District.

The economic success of the Kinta District can be showed as an example of the governance that had created the necessary conditions for the economic development.

The big leap of the Perak economy brought Perak to become the premier state in the Federated Malay States in 1896. However, Kuala Lumpur was chosen as the capital. Nevertheless after the tin mining boomed for 3 years, in 1896, Kinta faced a recession for the first time. Flooding of mines caused by the unusually heavy rains and the shortage of labour due to the immigration brought up the social issues to Kinta Valley.

The recession of the tin mining created the unbridgeable gap between the poor and rich, the safety and security problem, the pollution of the land and others.

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2.3 History of Ipoh Ipoh, is the capital of Perak. Ipoh’s heritage core compromises the Old Town and New Town. From a small village in 1880s, Ipoh overtook Taiping as a commercial centre and grew into Perak largest’s town by 1911.

2.3.1 - Origin of the Name The first British Resident, J.W.W. Birch marked “Epau” on his sketches of map on his journal. Soon after Sir Hugh Low replaced J.W.W. Birch, he called it “Epoh” in his annual report for 1879. He described Ipoh as the “chief village in the district” and noted that a police post was built there that year. The French mining prospector, Jacques de Morgan marked Ipoh as the “Sakai or Malay village”. The Orang Asli used the

Figure 2.24 - Map of Ipoh Town, c. 1921. (Ho, 2016.)

poisonous latex of the numerous pohon upas to smear their blowpipe darts for hunting. The Malay called it as pokok ipoh which ipoh means the dart poisons in general. (Gimlette, 2016.)

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There were two kampongs at the banks of Kinta River which were Kampong Ipoh and Kampong Paloh. The words paloh means the pools that formed by fishing traps set up by the villagers. The earlier Malay settler will pass at least three landing stages when they came to Ipoh.

The lowest landing stages was Kampong Paloh and later on known as Kampong Masjid Lama (which near the present-day FMS Bar) and finally the Gunung Cheroh. The Gunung Cheroh formed a natural bazaar which allowed the goods to be taken from the boat and used the elephants to send them to the interior of Ulu Kinta.

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2.3.2 - Timeline

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2.3.3 - Development of the Ipoh Town

building lots and sold them to the Chinese at $25 per lot.

(i) 1880 - 1889

The same land is now worth from $200 to $300 per lot. (Ho,

Up to the mid-1880s, Ipoh wasn’t the most important mining centre. But

2016.)

things changed in the mid-eighties. Although there were challenges to access Ipoh, it didn’t seem to be a problem to the immigrants. They were more concerned about the rich deposits that could be found in Ipoh.

Ipoh began to transform in 1882. The Governor of the Straits Settlements visited this place and described it as a “large and straggling village with majority Malay, few Sikh and some Chinese”. (Ho, 2016.)

The chief of Ipoh at that time was Dato Panglima Kinta Mohammed Yusuff (See Figure 2.25). He owned a lot of land and laid out plans for the town in 1886. The town planning was too rushed to build without referring to the Land Office and regulations.

There are 227 houses, 50 of which are brick or earth buildings and 175 houses with tile or iron roofs. The land upon which the

Figure 2.25 - Dato Panglima Kinta Muhammad Yusuff. (Lord of Kinta, 2016.)

town is built was formerly kampong land, the greater part of which belonged to the Dato Panglima Kinta. With the approval of the Collector and Magistrate, the Dato divided his land into

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The first Tin Rush happened in 1884. The report in 1888 stated that there were nearly 2,000 Chinese and 8,000 Chinese miners flocked into Kinta and guessed that most of them were actually moving towards Ipoh. Ipoh was one of the biggest towns besides Gopeng.

The wooden Hugh Low Bridge was built across the Kinta River, allowing the wheeled traffic to go all the way from Lahat to Gopeng. The development of roads slowly started to open up the development of the Ipoh. The early development of the town was fuelled by the ongoing high price of tin which was $35 per picul.

Figure 2.26 - Ipoh, 1887. (Ho, 2016.)

The earliest facilities in the town were built at the Club Road, Station Road, Belfield Street and Hill Street. Railway station, courthouse, police station were all situated in a small locality. Hospital was built as well to answer the needs of the large mining population where beri-beri, fever and dysentery were prevalent.

Kinta became the principle tin producing district and Ipoh replaced Gopeng, became the chief district of mining activity.

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(ii) 1890 - 1899 In 1891, the first Chinese Theatre was built in Leech Street and following suit not long after were entertainment quarters such as brothels, gambling houses and liquor shops were built. A market was built at the Market Street, where the riverbank and landing stages of Kinta River was.

However, it was a densely-populated town, with mostly wooden and attap houses built, the perfect recipe for a conflagration. A fire broke out in 1892 which burnt down 123 houses. How the fire began is not known

Figure 2.27 - Ipoh, 1894. (Ho, 2016.)

but probably due to arson. The rebuilding happened very efficiently after the fire. The tragedy gave the local authorities an opportunity to reorganise the town. A more proper and detailed plan was laid out with the assistance of WJP Hume, the Assistant Collector of Land Revenue.

The Old Town was actually founded after the fire and the original timbers were replaced with bricks for fire precaution. By the beginning of 1893, its population had grown to over 5,000. The wide straight streets were metalled. Trees were planted along the main streets. The houses in course of construction were of a far better class than any in the States.

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The Ipoh Sanitary Board was established which was responsible for the cleanliness and hygiene of the town.

Ipoh has now become a considerable town with 340 houses and a population of about 4,000. The attap houses in it are being replaced by brick ones, of which 20 are now under construction, and altogether the place has a most prosperous air. (Leech, 2016.)

The restoration speed of Ipoh was the fastest among all the towns in peninsula Malaysia. It served as the commercial hub and premier town

Figure 2.28 - Town Field

of a rich-tin mining district.

In 1895, Ipoh had become a town. After 1895, Ipoh started to acquire other public buildings and a new mosque was built in 1898. Soon, churches and town field (padang) (See Figure 2.28) was constructed.

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(iii) 1900 - 1909 Starting from this period, the infrastructures in Ipoh was starting to delevop. The wooden bridge across the Kinta River in Hugh Low Street was now replaced by iron in 1900 (Figure 2.29). More and more facilities were being built by the local authorities. The Ipoh Sanitary Board succeeded to in taking effective measures to secure proper ventilation of houses, adequate back lanes and spaces between buildings, and the removal of unsafe and unhealthy dwellings.

More importantly the opening up of a branch of the Chartered Bank in 1902 which met a long-felt need. Finally there had been nowhere money

Figure 2.29 - Hugh Low Bridge rebuilt in iron. (Khoo, Lubis, Wade, 2016.)

could be safely deposited beyond the doubtful security of one’s home.

In 1909, another public space was constructed which was the People’s Park. The land at Ipoh was premium and the rent of buildings was extremely high. The fantastic development of Ipoh was administrated by the British Resident, E.W. Birch and he wrote:

Ipoh is growing apace. It is in a state of transition which makes it in many ways inconvenient and unslightly. Building is going on everywhere. Land is being reclaimed, and the method of

Figure 2.30 - Ipoh Town, c. 1910. (Ho, 2016.)

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reclamation is in some cases unsavoury. Bridges are being erected and the process of construction does not facilitate traffic. It possesses a newspaper (The Times of Malaya) and the impatient give vent to their feelings in its columns. But in possesses, I am glad to say, many citizens who are very proud of it, who have made money in it, and who are assisting the government while they assist themselves in making it a town which will excite the admiration of visitors. (Jennings, 2016.)

Ipoh continued to expand rapidly under the term of E.W. Birch as the Resident of the Perak. The development of the New Town was started

Figure 2.31 - New Town in 1900s. (Ho, 2016.)

in 1908 by Yau Tet Shin, the Ipoh’s foremost contractor. Yau was considered as one of the largest property owners in Ipoh, where he had about 400 houses already in occupation (See Figure 2.31). He was building a new township of 350 houses in the Gopeng Road. The latter referred to the New Town which built according to a better standard, with regular street wide enough for motorcar.

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(iv) 1910 - 1940 The population in 1911 was 12,791 whereas in 1914, it had reached around 27,500 which had more than doubled in the 14 years since the turn of the century. The outbreak of World War I happened in 1914.

Many of the volunteers left to fight on the various fronts overseas, some never to return. But generally the prosperity and political disturbance arose because of the war.

The real crisis for Kinta and Ipoh started with the end of the war. The increased tin production and the unanticipated drop in demand caused a slump. The tin market didn’t recover till 1922 and during 1928, the tin

Figure 2.32 - Portrait of Leong Sin Nam. (Ho, 2016.)

production reached its new peak. The slumps lead to great distress amongst the mining population in Kinta. Towkay Leong Sin Nam (See Figure 2.32) established the Ipoh Chinese Relief Camp after the first slump to help the miners who were remained behind. The second slump was more severe and longer in duration than the first, causing the Kinta Sanitary Board to forego part of his land revenue for a period of years and to base its assessment in the Ipoh area.

Figure 2.33 - Whiteaways submerged. (Ho, 2016.)

The public electricity supply for the town was installed at 1906. Ipoh was the only town in Federated Malay States to have completed its town plan,

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Submitted it for approval and got it approved before the World War II. The whole town was divided up into zones or development areas and detailed schemes for each area carefully worked out.

The most important development in Ipoh was the Ipoh Flood Mitigation Scheme between 1914 and 1941. Due to its location besides the Kinta River, Ipoh experienced flood quite frequently during the heavy rain especially the Great Flood happened in 1926 (See Figure 2.33). The houses on the streets nearest the Kinta River fared the worst. Shops

Figure 2.34 - The Venice of Malaya. (Kok, 2016.)

were submerged into a depth of six feet and no one dared to cross the street due to the swift current (See Figure 2.34).

The state engineer came out with conclusion to divert the waters of Sungei Choh into Sungei Pinji instead of directly flow into Kinta above Ipoh. Most of the work was consist in straightening and canalising the Kinta River itself. As a result, the decision was very much dependent on making sure Ipoh was flood-free.

Although Ipoh had made a full recovery by 1941, the plans for transferring the state capital from Taiping to Ipoh were shelved indefinitely, and in fact, it fell to the Japanese to put them into effect.

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(v) 1957 - now The British returned to Malaya after the Japan surrendered in 1945. The returning British took another few weeks to consolidate control over the whole country. During the Japanese Occupation, tin mines, plantations and all productive concerns once were owned by the European, were requisitioned by large Japanese companies called Kaishas. The Japanese wasn’t utilize the mines in a proper way yet allowed huge quantities of provisions and household-utilities to dump into the mines.

When the tin miners began to re-habitat their mines after the Japanese occupation, the Chinese gravel pump mines paled in comparison with

Figure 2.35 - One of the famous rich tin miners, Foo Yet Kai. (Ho, 2016.)

the dredges. The ranks of the tin wasn’t as valued as before due to the events in 1930s- the slump, followed by tin control, the repatriation of thousands of mining coolies to China, laws that restricted the coolies’ reenter the country, the cessation of mining during the Japanese Occupation and the unsettled post-war conditions with lawlessness in the countryside, the miners had to make up for lost time by renewed industry. The government started a re-habitation fund to help the miners to reopen their old mines or to start a new mining site.

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The returning of the miners (See Figure 2.35) in 1950s helped to rebuild

to be due to the exhaustion of tin deposits, the low tin prices and high

the mines as well as redounded upon society. The mines were flooded

operating costs.

during the year of inactivity. They built schools, formed associations to support the Chinese and upgraded the mining methods.

Compared to the early centuries, Malaysia no longer relies on the tin as the income of the country. Malaysia is now an industrialized

Even after the independent, Ipoh Town Council was still served. But the

market economy and agriculture with potential like palm oils and

difference was the chairman and committee that appointed were the

rubber had taken over the place of tin.

representatives from us. Ipoh was a truly Malayan town which developed and adorned through the energy and munificence of the representatives from all the races that make up our plural society today.

In the early 1960s, Ipoh was the first town in the Federation of Malaya to install parking meters at Shaik Adam Road, and to build the first ‘multistorey’ parking facility – the triple-storey municipal car park at Post Office Road.

The mining industry was once the major contributor of Malaya economy.

In 1979, Malaysia produced almost 63,000 tonnes of tin which was 31 percent of the world output. However in 1994, only 6,500 tonnes was produced (Yap, 2007.). Now, the tin is exported as the domestic electronic and tinplating industries. The inactive tin industries is believed

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2.4 History of Jalan Sultan Iskandar 2.4.1 - Origin of the Name Jalan Sultan Iskandar is the first main street after development. It was formerly named after Sir Hugh Low, who was the fourth British President of Perak. In 1975, it was renamed as Jalan Sultan Iskandar Shah who was the 30th Sultan of Perak.

Figure 2.36 - Jalan Sultan Iskandar. (Google map, 2016.)

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2.4.2 - Insight Jalan Sultan Iskandar was a Malay kampong surrounded by the jungle at first. After the arrival of the tin miners, the Malay kampong started to develop. The early development was too rushed to build without referred to any local authorities. However the outbreak of the fire in 1892, created an opportunity for the local authorities to reorganize their town planning system. The Ipoh Old Town was believed to be built at this time. On the other side of Jalan Sultan Iskandar which is across the Sultan Iskandar Bridge, it was Ipoh New Town. Ipoh New Town was built in 1908 by Yau Tet Shin.

The streets in the Old Town are narrower than those in New Town.

Figure 2.37 - Jalan Sultan Iskandar now. (Tan, 2016.)

Generally, they were designed to accommodate a slower form of travel such as bicycles and trishaws. Jalan Sultan Iskandar in Old Town can only accommodate two vehicular lanes.

Whereas in New Town, the street able to accommodate a greater volume of traffic on a daily basis due to the effective town planning.

Jalan Sultan Iskandar in New Town consists of four vehicular lanes and intersects with many roads to form traffic junctions.

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Businesses like goldsmiths’ and tinsmiths’ shop, cloth shops, Chinese coffee shops and provision shops can be founded along Jalan Sultan Iskandar. However due to the recession of the tin mining industry, the goldsmith’s and tinsmiths’ shop along the street began to close down and people started to move back Kuala Lumpur, leave the unused spaces which were neglected by society.

Fortunately the consciousness of conservation had arisen a few years ago in the Ipoh Old Town. The restoration of heritage shop houses was carried out by the Ipohites and gave the old buildings a new light in modern society.

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2.5 History of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay & Event Hall Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay & Event Hall is a collection of three

on sale at that time and they submitted the tender to show their

shophouses which one of them used to be the Yik Woh Goldsmith &

interest to purchase.

Jeweller Shop and the other two was the former Overseas Banking Chinese Corporation (OCBC) headquarters.

2.5.1 - Ownership According to the history of the Ipoh, the land in Ipoh Old Town originally belonged to Dato Panglima Kinta. After building the shop houses on his land, he sold the lot to the Chinese with $25. One of the famous tin mining local Chinese tycoons, Leong Sin Nam bought it and opened the first Chinese Bank, which is Bank of Malaya. Due to the recession of Leong Sin Nam, this building was later on bought by the Overseas Banking Chinese Corporation (OCBC).

The OCBC purchased Yik Woh Goldsmith & Jeweller Shop unit and Lim Kopi unit as well when they bought the buildings from Leong Sin Nam.

Figure 2.38 - Four units that bought by Lim’s family. (From left) Yik Who Goldsmith & Jeweller Shop, OCBC Building, Lim Kopi. (Tim, 2016.)

By a chance of coincidence, the unique Art Deco style façade of the OCBC building attracted the attention of Lim’s family. The building was 58

The first tender submission failed. However, not more than half a year, the tender came back and asked them whether they still interested in it.

But the only term was to buy the four units altogether which were the Yik Woh Goldsmith & Jeweller Shop (one unit), OCBC Building (two units) and Lim Kopi (one unit) (See Figure 2.38). The Lim’s family bought up the four units and started their heritage preservation and conservation journey (See Figure 2.39).

The name “Sarang Paloh” was a combination of Malay word for nest and traditional Cantonese word for pa-loh which means dam. The name was inspired by Mr Lim who travels a lot which flying everywhere like a bird.

By using the aviary theme in their hotel, they hope that the hotel will be

Figure 2.39 - Mr Lee, one of the contractors that in charge of the restoration work of all Lim’s heritage buildings. (Tan, 2016.)

able to create a sense of belongingness to all the travellers here.

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2.5.2 – Timeline

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Chapter 3 ARCHITECTURAL DEVELOPMENT Covers the site context of the surrounding, the design concepts of the mentioned building, the spatial typology of the building, the implemented spatial planning of the interior and the building’s design and construction in regards to it climatic adaptations.

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3.1 Site Context The site context are documented in such a way that it is segregated into

from the site plan, the building is located Jalan Sultan Iskanda

4 sub components, namely the 3.1.1 - site plan and lot number plan (illustrates the location of the building in regards to the site while portraying the scale of the building within the site using certain proximity scale, while the lot number plan shows the zoomed in site plan of the building along with its surrounding building close up along with its lot number), 3.1.2 - external structures and surrounding buildings (depicts the prominent buildings and landmarks surrounding the site building which may indirectly influence the site building some way or another), 3.1.3 - hardscape surrounding the site building and also 3.1.4 - building accessibility surrounding the site building.

3.1.1 - Site Plan & Lot number plan The site plan which shows the surrounding of the site building (see Figure 3.1) while also illustrates the location of site building’s exact location and how it correlates with the sit surrounding it. As illustrated

Figure 3.1 - Site Plan which indicates the site building (within the red circle) and also its surrounding site building.

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known as the infamous Hugh Low Street. This road stretches over a bridge which connects Old Town Ipoh and New Town Ipoh which is separated by the Kinta River. Being one of the infamous street in Ipoh, this stretch of road is one of the busiest and bustling road in Ipoh and it was and still flanked by many heritage shophouses which till now still remain functional and occupied with family business and local trading activities.

The lot number plan (see Figure 3.2) indicates the location of the building by which lot of land the building is situated based on the locality map of Ipoh by the municipality of the city of Ipoh. The building occupies three lots, one being the Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay boutique hotel’s lobby with hotel rooms and lofts on the floors above (formerly known as Yik Woh Goldsmith & Pawn Shop) while the other two lots are occupied by the Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay’s event hall with also hotel rooms and lofts on the floors above. (Formerly known as Overseas Building,

Figure 3.2 - Lot Number Plan which indicate the site building within the red circle which indicate lot 638S & lot 639S as Sarang Paloh Event Hall building and boutique hotel lot as lot 640S.

occupied by the Overseas Chinese Banking Corporation in the 1930s back then and was left vacant later on.)

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3.1.2 - External structures and surrounding buildings As illustrated in the image (see Figure 3.3) depicts the location of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay along Jalan Sultan Iskandar while surrounded by various prominent buildings which either rich in culture and history, architecturally significant or built approximately during the period of time when the mentioned site building was too built. Various buildings can be found surrounding it including municipal building, government buildings, or buildings by which serves the public of the citizens in Ipoh. (i) Ipoh Railway Station

Figure 3.3 - Image depicting the location of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay and its surrounding prominent buildings. (Google Maps, 2016).

The Ipoh Railway Station, affectionately known as the Taj Mahal of Ipoh by the locals is a Malaysian Train Station and was named after the state’s capital. (See Figure 3.4) It serves as the main railway terminal for the state under Keretapi Tanah Melayu. It was designed by Arthur Benison Hubback and was officially inaugurated in the year 1917. Its architecture embodies various vernacular colonial Western styles and a mixture of eclecticism which includes the Neo-Moorish, Mughal and also the Indo-Saracenic styles that draws influences from the British Indian colonial architecture. Its prominent adoption is the late-Edwardian Baroque architecture which shows moderate rustication distinctively.

Figure 3.4 - Image illustrating the historical and majestic view of the Ipoh Railway Station. (PencintaLensa, 2016).

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(ii) The Ipoh Supreme High Court (Mahkamah Tinggi Ipoh) The Supreme High Court of Ipoh, (see Figure 3.5) originally known as the Courthouse was officially inaugurated on the 14th July 1928 by RW Thomson who was the British Resident at that time. It was designed and constructed also by Arthur B. Hubback, based on the architectural style embodied by the current City Hall of Ipoh with intentions to provide an imposing and elegant balance within the streetscape. Its design emphasized on imposing elegance and balance not only within the streetscape but also in terms of the faรงade. Its balance were seen through the ground floors archways and covered walkways and the imposing covered verendas with decorative pillars on the upper storey.

Figure 3.5 - The Supreme High Court of Ipoh which flanks the side of the City Hall of Ipoh. (Lim, 2016).

The original 2 storey building had also been increased in size with a new 3 storey building which had been constructed in keeping with the original architectural style. (Colonial Buildings & Architecture, 2016). (iii) The Ipoh City Hall The Ipoh City Hall, (see Figure 3.6) formerly known as the Ipoh Town Hall was built along with the Supreme High Court of Ipoh. Its construction began in 1913 and was complete in 1916 due to delays caused by the shortage of materials and the high cost of labor due to the occurrences of the First World War. Its design was mainly a combination of classical

Figure 3.6 - Ipoh City Hall stands majestically, flanking the Supreme High Court of Ipoh which illustrates eclecticism. (Flickr, 2016).

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and Renaissance designs which indirectly led to eclecticism. This striking piece of architecture was too designed by Arthur B. Hubback.

This building now serves as venue to hold various significant events and inaugural congress. (Colonial Buildings & Architecture, 2016). (iv) Ipoh Birch Memorial The pavilion-shaped Birch Memorial (see Figure 3.7) is located along Dato Sagor Food Courts which is directly opposite the state mosque and behind the city council buildings along Jalan Dato Sagor and Jalan Dato Maharajela. This monument was erected by the British as a commemoration symbol of the death of the first British Resident, James

Figure 3.7 - Ipoh Birch Memorial, a symbol of commemoration for the first British Resident of Perak, J.W.W. Birch.

(GoWhere, 2016).

Wheeler Woodford Birch (J.W.W. Birch) who was murdered on 2nd November 1875. It was constructed in the 1908 and was completed a year later. It was designed by Mr. Steadman, a British architect. The tower was constructed with bricks and concrete instead of marble and granites in order to save cost. (Colonial Buildings & Architecture, 2016).

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(v) Hugh Low Bridge (Jambatan Hugh Low) Started as a wooden bridge, it was the first erected across the Kinta River in 1890. The bridge was named after Sir Hugh Low (1824-1905), who served as the 4th British Resident of Perak between 1877 and 1889.

The bridge was later then rebuilt with iron 10 years later, enabling its expansion of Ipoh across the river which leads to new town development of Ipoh across the Kinta River. Widening works on the bridge were commenced in order to curb with the increase traffic in the 1930s. It is now known as the Jambatan Sultan Iskandar (see Figure 3.8) in conjunction with the renaming of the road across it. (Exploring Malaysia, 2016).

Figure 3.8 - Hugh Low Bridge, now renamed as Jambatan Sultan Iskandar connecting the old and new parts of Ipoh town across the Kinta River. (Adiyon84, 2016).

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3.1.3 - Hardscape The hardscape that will be covered are structures which surrounds the site building, for instance the five foot ways both front and back lane of the building, the pavements and sidewalks which circulates the front of the building, the curbs that is laced along the pavements and also the awnings used for shading purposes. (i) Passageways / Sidewalks / Pavements The pedestrian pavements (see Figure 3.9) that surrounds the building serves to segregate the main boundary of the building with the main road flanking it. The walkway is made of colored granite bricks which are

Figure 3.9 - An image illustrating the pedestrian passageway which segregates the building with the main road which provides accessibility to the pedestrians. (Tan, 2016).

assemble pieces by pieces. It provides accessibility and convenient circulation to the pedestrians which guarantees safety from busy traffic. (ii) Curbs The curbs (see Figure 3.10) basically serves to fabricate the edge of the sidewalk in order to increase its aesthetics and also to define a smoother drop from different levels of ground and serves as a distinct divider between the pavement and the main road. This band of elements goes all the way around the walkways.

Figure 3.10 - Image depicting typical curbs implemented in order to segregate the pedestrian walkways with the flanking main roads.

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(iii) Five Foot Ways / Exterior corridor The five foot walkways (see Figure 3.11) are the most frequent used mean of circulation by the occupants and visitors of the shophouses around. It circulates the front foyers of each and every single shophouses throughout the entire row. It serves as a buffer between the main road and the pavements with the interior of the building. The walkways are also setback within the building to provide shade from sun and rain. (iv) Awnings at the back lane Awnings (see Figure 3.12) were implemented above the rear doors of the building. This is to provide external shade against the sun and also the rain while granting accessibility to occupants entering the building

Figure 3.11 - An image taken portraying the five foot way that flanks the foyer and entrances of the buildings that stretches throughout the entire row of shophouses. (Tan, 2016).

from the rear doors. The awnings, made from ceramic roof tiles and simplified wooden trusses serves also to add aesthetics values onto the rear elevation of the building.

Figure 3.12 - Installed awnings above the rear entrances while providing external shade to the occupants entering the building from the rear entrances. (Tan, 2016).

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3.1.4 - Building Accessibility Due to Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay being located along Jalan Sultan Iskandar, one of the busiest and prominent street in Ipoh, hence accessibility granted to the site building was not a major issue and due to it being situated at a strategic location in Ipoh, hence its accessibility was quite direct - 2 of the main entry points located each one at the front and back respectively. (i) Surrounding road conditions The stretches of roads are well paved. The few main roads which

Figure 3.13 - An image illustrating Jalan Sultan Iskandar which are set off with 4 lanes which are flanked by rows of heritage shop houses. (Panoromio, 2016).

surround the building include Jalan Sultan Iskandar (see Figure 3.13) which formerly was known as the infamous Hugh Low Street which was also one of the busiest main roads in Ipoh, Jalan Bandar Timah (see Figure 3.14) and also Jalan Sultan Yusuff. (See Figure 3.15). As compared to Jalan Sultan Iskandar, the other two roads which flank both sides of the building lot are relatively less busy, with both roads having 1 lane each and which goes in opposite directions whereas the entire stretch of Jalan Sultan Iskandar is with 4 lanes. This easily differentiate the contrast of the traffic conditions handled by three roads respectively.

Figure 3.14 - An image depicting a view of Jalan Bandar Timah which goes in opposite direction as compared with Jalan Sultan Yusuff. (KenWooi, 2016).

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Greeneries were scarce around the road due to the restriction of space along the road and hence, the transition between the building and the main road were drastic. The only distinct segregation between the building and the main roads were pedestrian walkways.

The 2 roads, namely Jalan Bandar Timah and Jalan Sultan Yusuff are oriented oppositely, in the sense that traffic flow are of opposite direction.

These 2 single lane roads both intersects over Jalan Sultan Iskandar (see Figure 3.16) which forms two junctions along the road, and hence traffic flow of both these roads are of perpendicular traffic direction with Jalan Sultan Iskandar.

Figure 3.15 - A Google Street View depicting Jalan Sultan Yusuff which leads to the main road of Jalan Sultan Iskandar.

(Google Street View, 2016).

Figure 3.16 - Image showing a typical intersection/junction between Jalan Sultan Iskandar and Jalan Bandar Timah. (Tan, 2016). (ii) Walkability 71

According to on site observations and experiences, the walkability rate and range of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay is relatively efficient. Indirectly due to the building being located along one of the busiest streets in Ipoh - Jalan Sultan Iskandar, hence form the factor of immense pedestrians being around the building.

Having mentioned that, pedestrians’ pavements and sidewalks are sufficiently and adequately provided for along the surrounding roads of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay which are quite well maintained in terms of conditions and cleanliness. This ensures better walkability for tourists

Figure 3.17 - Image taken on site depicting the stretch of pedestrian pavements which are laced around the edge of the road which provides pedestrians’ walkability. (Tan, 2016).

and visitors throughout the surrounding and also to the building. As the building is located on one of the busiest streets in Ipoh, hence there are vast amount of backpacker inns, coffee shops etc. which tend to attract immense tourists, backpackers or maybe even the locals within the area.

Apart from that, all of these attractions and hotspots of Ipoh are within vicinity with each other, hence granting the ease of accessibility and reachability and indirectly granting higher walkability rate for any pedestrians travelling by foot.

Figure 3.18 - An image taken on site which shows the adequate safety measures provided (zebra crossing and traffic lights) as to provide convenience and safety to pedestrians. (Tan, 2016).

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(iii) Entry points of building Generally due to the building being a heritage shophouse, hence the need of many entry points are unnecessary. Besides, due to the fact that it is an intermediate lot, hence directly, the building only have entry points from the front and also from the back. The building lot and location along the road can be noticed through the zoomed in site plan. (See Figure 3.19).

Technically, there were two entry points (front and rear each) for each lot and considering the fact that two buildings were conjoined hence there were 4 points of entries that could grant access into the building, 2 being the front entries and the other 2 being the rear entries. (See

Figure 3.19 - A site plan showing the building being an intermediate lot located along Jalan Sultan Iskandar which is flanked by a back lane behind the building. (National Archive, 2016).

Figure 3.20).

Due to the factor that both conjoin building serves and a hotel and the hotel’s event hall respectively, hence the front entrances are mainly used to access the interior of the building as compared to the entries at the back of the buildings. Having said that, the entrances at the back are mostly for the delivery of goods or also shortcuts to the back rows of shophouses which saves much more time as compared to having to go around to the back of the building.

Figure 3.20 - An image depicting one of the back entries which was used less frequently and grant access to the back of the building.

(Tan, 2016).

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The front entrance of the then Yik Woh Goldsmith and Pawn Shop, (see Figure 3.21) leads to the main lobby and reception of the Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay, whereas the front entrance of the then OCBC Bank Building, (see Figure 3.22) leads to the event hall of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay. Both of the main entrances are often used and prioritized as there were no means of connectivity between 2 buildings from within the ground floor of the building.

Figure 3.21 - An image taken on site showing the main entrance which leads into the main lobby and reception of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.22 - Image depicting the main entrance leading into Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay’s event hall. (Tan, 2016).

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3.1.5 - Genius loci & surrounding cultural activities As of today, the stretch of Jalan Sultan Iskandar still grasps traditional and cultural spirit of the spaces which spans over a century ago. The shop owners and the locals of Ipoh are mostly elderlies who lead a very casual lifestyle. Quality of life and welcoming presence are what most of the residents seek rather than the hectic and congestive fast pace of the urban city lifestyle.

According to on site observation, most of the shophouses along the street of Jalan Sultan Iskandar begin their business at the beginning of

Figure 3.23 - An image illustrating a typical coffee shop in Ipoh which serves food and beverages. (Star Online, 2016).

the day at around 8.30am in the morning while closes at different points of time around the day which depends on the type of business being operated.

Various types of businesses are being carried out within vicinity of this area, regardless of it being a family business or branches and franchises of local businesses. Some of the businesses are of food and beverages (see Figure 3.23) whereas some are of local goods, souvenir store and malls (see Figure 3.24) and some being inns and boutique cafĂŠs (see Figure 3.25), local hotels as what Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay is.

Figure 3.24 - An image depicting one of the malls along the street of Jalan Sultan Iskandar which sells souvenirs and local goods. (Tan, 2016).

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Due to the State Mosque (see Figure 3.26) being strategically placed on the opposite side of Jalan Sultan Iskandar, the people distribution around the area are dense especially during peak hours - Muslims prayer hours.

All of this shows the distinct trading activities which supports the Ipoh local economy and brings in the spirit of the past.

Figure 3.25 - An image illustrating one of the boutique hotels and cafĂŠs within vicinity of the Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay. (Trip Advisor, 2016).

Figure 3.26 - The state mosque of Perak which is located also along the opposite side of Jalan Sultan Iskandar. (Ais Kacang Merah, 2016).

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3.1.6 - Orientation of building on site The row of shophouses which consist of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay and event hall flanks the south side of the stretch of Jalan Sultan Iskandar, and hence its main façade is facing north. This can be seen via site plan. (See Figure 3.1, 3.3 & 3.19).

As the front and rear façade of the building faces north and south respectively, hence sun orientation is not a major problem which will be an affecting factor in regards to the buildings activities due to the temperature. This is because the building will be of moderate

Figure 3.27 - An image illustrating the sun from the east side of the building which casts shadows but do not produce glare.

(Tan, 2016).

temperature as it will not be facing the direct glare of the sun neither in the morning nor noon as it not facing neither east nor west.

One of the image sees the sun glaring from the east in the morning (see Figure 3.27) which does not form direct glare to the building nor when it is on the west in the late afternoon which is illustrated in the other image.

(See Figure 3.28).

Figure 3.28 – The image sees the sun in the late afternoon which strikes down on the building without directly penetrating the building’s façade. (Tan, 2016).

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3.2 Design Concept The design concept has 4 different aspects that is studied, namely under

From the year 1900 to 1960, the architectural style of the

3.2.1 - relation to context (depicts the design relations of the building

surrounding buildings gradually changed; adopting western

with the community of its time), 3.2.2 - form , 3.2.3 - exterior (covers

characteristics which emphasizes more on geometrical shapes and

mainly the façade of the building) and finally 3.2.4 - interior.

the use of industrial materials, such as concrete, glass and metal.

These characteristics are evident on the façade of both buildings;

3.2.1 – Design in Relation to Context

Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay & Event Hall which are the styles of art

Vernacular architecture or better yet known as traditional architecture

deco and neo-classical. Art deco and neo classical styles in

was commonly known during the early 19th century, where local builders

Malaysia resulted from British colonization.

and designers were mainly employed to design and build most of the commercial buildings using materials that deeply reflects the traditions

With exception to the façade of the building, the concept of the building

of its community. This particular style of architecture tend to be

design follows the straits eclectic style which is evident in the designs of

influenced by the climate and culture of the community, therefore it is

the interior doors, windows, spaces and exterior roofs. As a

seldom a single style but a mix of different features, as is the concept

consequence of a predominantly Chinese and Malay community.

behind the interior of the heritage stay Sarang Paloh & Event Hall. The façade however is not of oriental design but European.

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3.2.2 – Form The concept in terms of form for both buildings place emphasis on verticality and length. The building consist of few spaces in a linear fashion and is arranged accordingly with other shop lots to form a row of shops. There is a possibility that the form is designed such a way due to the working life of the community during the year the building was built which was the early 19th century. Larger buildings were not very conventional as shop lots because the cost is too high for it to be built.

This lead to spaces being compressed to a linear form to give an illusion of being small and compact on the outside while to compromise, the height of the building is usually exaggerated to a few floors and individual lots tend to have long bodies; usually separated into specific functional spaces. Additionally the concept of symmetry can be easily identified

Figure 3.29 - An image depicting the front façade of Sarang Paloh .

(Tan, 2016).

just from the façade itself. Individual lots tend to be rectangular without any circular geometry added to the space as the style of “straits eclectic” and “art deco” often portray a more simple, elegant and traditional layout.

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3.2.3 – Exterior The design concept for both exterior and interior will be divided into a few parts to be studied, namely the Sarang Paloh Hotel and Lobby (formerly known as Yik Woh Goldsmith), Sarang Paloh Multipurpose Event Hall (formerly known as the OCBC Bank) and the first floor of both conjoined buildings where the hotel rooms are. (Lee, 2016) Starting from the hotel lobby, its exterior façade slightly defers from that of the event hall. While the event hall is more dominant in its art deco mixed neo classical approach. Sarang Paloh’s hotel lobby design concept accentuates a style that is more traditional, evident from its choice of windows, doors and air-vents. The building’s façade itself is

Figure 3.30 - An image showing the front façade of the boutique hotel; the former Yik Who Gold Smith shop(Tan, 2016).

from the art deco period; hard edged, linear with geometrical shaped ornaments of straight lines and the often seen flag poles on the very top of the building. Its entrance however, uses windows and doors that are wooden which dates back to styles used during the 1920s which will be further elaborated in the “interior design concept” section. The air-vents above the windows retain its original features which were made out of metal and has a design resembling that of a “cloud” being its outline. These designs for the windows, doors and air-vent can be seen throughout the entire Goldsmith building as the owner of the current hotel wanted to preserve the building’s original identity.

Figure 3.31 - An image showing boutique hotel’s façade door, windows and air vent design. (Tan, 2016).

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The current event hall and hotel taking up two shop lots is the former bank of OCBC. This building’s façade as mentioned earlier is a mix of art deco and neo classical. The style of Art deco plays more importance on the bottom half of the building while the top half where the pediments and circular columns are, reflects more of the neo classical style. The use of decorative metal grilles and glass for the windows were preserved by the owner. The center piece that is round, might have some engravings on it in the past but is now left empty.

Figure 3.32 - An image showing the art deco designed decorative motif found above the main entrance. (Tan, 2016).

This could be a reference to the well-known porthole window that is normally present in art deco designs however is only translated to the grille as a geometrical window ornament. Above the door, a decorative motif familiar to the art deco style can also be seen. The door itself however, is not that of art deco but a design chosen by the owner as the original door design was not known.

Figure 3.33 - An image showing the art deco designed window grilles (Tan, 2016).

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The four columns holding up the top half of the façade is quite remarkable as it might not be purely art deco but a hybrid of the European style and Chinese architecture. The column head, or better yet known in Chinese as “chi tou” can be found in Chinese influenced building where the column head’s projecting brick bracket is at the top of the column. The column itself however, is more influenced by European style as it follows the Tuscan order where the column is part of the wall. While the combination of both Chinese and European styles were quite interesting with one being simplistic while the other being more decorative, such design is now rarely seen as the trend brought over by art deco later becomes more simplified and is rectilinear in shape.

Figure 3.34 - An image showing one of the columns holding up the event hall. (Tan, 2016)

On the top half of the façade, neo classical designs can be seen in the pillars as well as the pediments. The pillars holding up the pediments is a well-known characteristic of the neo classical movement which was at its prime during mid 18th to early 19th century.

Figure 3.35 - This image shows column head or “chi tou” of one of the pillars.(Tan, 2016)

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3.2.4 – Interior The three former shop lots (ex-OCBC Bank being 2 lots), were originally built 2 storeys high. The ground floor being where trades were normally carried out during the day while the top floor as living areas during the night. This is still kept true by the owners as they had refurnished the 1st floor into hotel rooms. While many original designs have changed due to time, the buildings were very well preserved as the materials used for the roofs, windows, floor tiles, staircases and many more, were antiques as well.

Figure 3.36 – This image shows the interior space of the boutique hotel. (Tan, 2016).

The interior of the hotel lobby’s ground floor is influenced by an abundance of Chinese culture. The windows are identical to the one on the façade which is made out of timber with vertical timber bars and solid timber shutters built inwards. According to Mr Lee, who is the contractor responsible for most of the furnishing done in Sarang Paloh, all the window openings and style were kept as it is, some replaced with similar materials as the original were too old. As for the air vents which were also on the façade, the metal bars remained as it is. These style of windows and air vents were introduced to shop lots owned by the wealthy during the 1930s. (Lee, 2016)

Figure 3.37 - An image showing one of the metal barred windows found in the boutique hotel that follows the original design. (Tan, 2016).

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Figure 3.38 - An image showing a wooden barred window that uses louvres. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.39 – The floor tiles were scavenged from other old buildings and reused.(Tan, 2016).

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Looking up at the ceiling of the lobby, the wooden and beams are visible rather than being covered up. This made the space feel lighter and gives the illusion of height which in turn makes the 5 meter width shop lot more spacious and open.

Figure 3.40 – An image of the visible wooden beams that runs across the room. (Tan, 2016).

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Connecting the lobby to the kitchen is the atrium. A spiral staircase made of metal is situated on the inside of the atrium, enabling circulation to the 1st floor of the building. An opening can be seen just above the staircase which allows sunlight to bask on the metal material and the vegetation planted on the walls which gives off a refreshing and cooling ambience to the space. There is no particular design style to the space itself as the metal staircase made out of “garmia� metal is a modern addition to the building. The style however could be related to Bauhaus as the design applies the trademark exposure of construction materials and support pillars. The choice of material for the staircase and the type of staircase allows visual continuation from

Figure 3.41 - An image showing the spiral staircase found at the airwell. (Tan, 2016).

the kitchen to the atrium which in turn makes the space less compact.

The second type of staircase that can be found in the building is the Lshaped wooden stairs. This type of staircase were widely used in straits eclectic shop lots. Its design is rather modest where the railings and baluster tend to be simple in design. The stairs allow circulation to the top floor as well but rather than being open in terms of visual continuation like the spiral stairs, this staircase allows more privacy as it causes visual barrier between floors.

Figure 3.42 – The second staircase found in the boutique hotel which is L-shaped that also leads to the 1st floor. (Tan, 2016).

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A majority of the furniture used in the building were antiques, each handpicked by the owner to preserve the aged look and design of the interior.

Figure 3.43 – Antique chairs handpicked by the owner being used in the building.(Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.44 – The kitchen furniture such as tables and chairs were also handpicked antiques.(Tan, 2016).

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The events hall interior design concept retains most of the art deco style that we see on the façade. From the windows, to the cornices and also the columns, the original art deco design has been kept by the owner. The tiles used for the event hall were “Nyonya” decorated tiles chosen by the owner. “Nyonya” being a mix of Chinese and Malay culture, fits the concept well as it gives off a natural and traditional touch to the interior space. Hand painted tiles can be found along the walls as they were originally there since the building was made. The floral design on the tiles goes well with the flooring tiles which in turn gives off a sense of continuation between wall and floor.

Figure 3.45 - An image showing the interior of the event hall.(Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.46 – An image showing the floor tile design which were “Nyonya” styled.(Tan, 2016).

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At the ceiling, wooden beams are visible and is quite in contrast to the walls. The concept being, wanting visitors to be able to see the old wooden beams left by time. Throughout the entire building, this design concept presents itself in many of the details and structures; most were left as it was with minor to major repairs done to make them usable again, while some had to be completely replaced with similar structure, design and material. Nevertheless, the essence and spirit of the space remains.

Figure 3.47 - An image showing the event hall’s ceiling where the ceiling joist are exposed ; showing the contrast between ceiling and wall.(Tan, 2016)

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At the back of the event hall which is an outdoor courtyard where the bunker, office and toilets are situated. Again, a contrast can be seen between the event hall’s art deco design and the courtyard’s traditional Chinese design. The main attention goes to the bunker situated in the center of the courtyard which is made out of bricks where the rough masonry work indicates the original vernacular style.

Figure 3.48 - An image showing the bunker’s exterior view. Its material is made out of bricks using rough masonry work. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.49 - An image showing the interior of the bunker (Tan, 2016).

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Both the heritage stay lobby and the event hall have first floors with similar design concept. The floors connected to one another and can be accessed from either building.

The overall concept of the design for the hotel room floor can be summarized as a mix of traditional Chinese and Malay style. Like the bottom floor, the ceiling is not covered; exposing the wooden beams and trusses. While the space is quite small in width, the exaggeration of the height completely makes up for it. The concept is similar to that of traditional houses as the structures are bare. There are certain

Figure 3.50 – An image showing the visible roof trusses on the 1 st floor of the event hall (Tan, 2016).

areas where the roof tiles can be seen as well. These roof tiles can be properly seen on the outside courtyard which is also a floating garden.

Figure 3.51 - An image showing the exposed roof tiles and beams found on the 1st floor of the boutique hotel.(Tan, 2016).

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Situated above the bunker, the garden serves as a beautiful view and also helps ventilate the building. The symmetrical layout of the garden and the attempt of a “roof garden� which gives back to nature, blends in well with the concept of the hotel. Surrounding the garden are hotel rooms; each having windows that faces the garden.

Figure 3.52 - An image depicting the visual symmetry of the roof garden.(Tan, 2016).

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While trying to preserve the history and architecture of the building, the owner had also implemented their very own interpretation of culture and tradition to each hotel room. Each room have different styles; some using straits eclectic style windows that still uses a stick to toggle the wooden louvres, while some pays tribute to the exaggerated height seen throughout the building.

Through the mix of different architectural styles, Sarang Paloh brings its guest to a series of different times and era of architecture. Its concept lies in its spatial division; each accentuating a style and culture of the past that cannot help but resurface as its beauty is without a doubt, undeniable.

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3.3 Functions of Spaces of Building A shophouse is typically made up of faรงade which strongly depicts their

Hence, it does not portray the exact same spatial layout and spatial

own architectural style and identity influenced by the era back then.

function as of what is depicted by the boutique hotel lot.

Generally, a heritage shophouse consists of a standard five-foot way which is recessed within the ground floor which is shaded by eaves

As mentioned, the event hall actually comprised of two lots of

above, front hall and second hall which is relatively smaller, which is

buildings which conjoined into a single large building. Hence from

segregated by an internal courtyard or an air well, rear court, back lanes

an elevation point of view, it dominates the building surrounding it

and floors above. Besides, within the internal spaces, consist of various

within that same row of shophouses.

types of party walls and partition walls, roofing systems above, floorings

Generally, Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay which is comprising of two

and beams. This traits and features of a typical heritage shophouse

un-identical different buildings show its own uniqueness and

architecture is depicted in the architectural style of the boutique hotel lot

own specific spatial layout which serves different functions.

of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay.

The unique feature of this two lot is that both are un-identical to each other, unlike most of the rows of shophouses which portrays similarities with each other. Unlike them, the event hall lot for Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay is contrastingly different from the boutique hotel lot of the hotel.

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3.3.1 - Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay boutique hotel building lot The building, which portrays a typical heritage shophouse building style portrays the straits eclectic style which also comprise of the Art Deco style, Neoclassical and also the Chinese cultured style. As mentioned previously, the lot of building is constructed with the presence of a five foot way (see Figure 3.53), a front hall (see Figure 3.54) upon entering the main entrance which is now converted into a main lobby and reception for the hotel, a second hall (see Figure 3.55) within the building which in this building features a central atrium to house the spiral stairs, which also opens up to an air well (see Figure 3.56) which illuminates the spiral stairs and provide natural ventilation as well. Moving deeper within the building after the second hall is the rear court (see Figure 3.57)

Figure 3.53 - An image showing the five foot way shaded by the eaves of the building, as indicated 1 in Figure 3.59. (Tan, 2016).

which is now converted into a kitchen cum dining area which serves the hotel guests and lastly a second rear court (see Figure 3.58) which holds sanitary services and also a skylight. Attached floor plans of the boutique hotel lot of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay for reference.

Figure 3.54 - An image illustrating the front hall of the building, which is the main lobby and reception of the building, as indicated 2 in Figure 3.59 (Tan, 2016).

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Figure 3.55 - The second hall within the shophouse building which is converted into a sitting area which features a central atrium for the spiral stairs, as indicated 3 in Figure 3.59. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.57 - The rear court which is located after the second hall is converted into a kitchen cum dining area to serve the guests of the hotel, as indicated 4 in Figure 3.59. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.56 - The air well which illuminates the spiral stairs atrium which is the central feature of the second hall cum sitting area, as indicated 6 in Figure 3.59. (Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.58 - The second rear court which is relatively smaller, converted into storage cum sanitary services space with a skylight illuminating the interior, as indicated 5 in Figure 3.59. (Tan, 2016).

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Figure 3.59 - Ground floor plan of the boutique hotel lot of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay which serves different functions and as indicated by the numbers in the plan. (Ashik, 2016). (i) Five Foot Way

premises of businesses to the walkway or gain visual publicity by

The five foot way (see Figure 3.53 - while as indicated 1 in Figure 3.59),

exhibiting their items outside. Likewise, the five foot way in

better known as kaki lima are pedestrian walkways intended into the

our site building is used to act as a foyer which leads to the main

ground floor of a building from the road, so that the overhanging upper

entrance. It is decorated with mosaics and ceramic

floors can provide a cover to shield pedestrians from the sun and the

tiles with different patterns which gives off a sense of nostalgia as its

rain. This feature can be found in many shophouses, especially heritage

aesthetics is traditional.

buildings around Malaysia. It is known as a five foot way because it is in fact a consistent 5ft width from the absolute front of the building to the wall of the main entrance of the building. It is often used to extend the

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(ii) Front Hall / Main Lobby and Reception

from that, it also serves as a sitting cum resting area while being

The front hall of the boutique hotel (see Figure 3.54 - while as indicated

served tea for the hotel guests. The second hall is illuminated and

2 in Figure 3.59 for location) is of semi-public use. It is used as a main

ventilated with an internal air well which now serves as an atrium to

lobby cum reception to serve Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay. It indirectly

house the mentioned spiral stairs.

serves as a welcoming porch for visitors. Typically back then, this lobby was used a front hall to serve in house guests and it is highly decorated

(iv) First Rear Court / Kitchen cum Dining Area

as it is the first part of the building in which the guests will experience. It

The first rear court (see Figure 3.56 - while as indicated 4 in Figure

is also used as a business premise to house local goods and a space to

3.59) which is indirectly the third court is a relativelysmaller court

deal and handle customers

right after the second hall. It usually serves as a private court for kitchen and dining area. This building back then was slightly unique

(iii) Second Hall / Central Courtyard & Private Hall / Sitting Area

in the sense that the entire rear court serves as parking spaces for

The second hall (see Figure 3.55 - while as indicated 3 in Figure 3.59)

employees evehicle such as their bicycles. Besides, it also serves

back then was usually used as a private hall which serves for either the

as a space to unload business goods and also indirectly a storage

employees of the building to access storage spaces or will be adapted

space. Currently, the management of the hotel had converted the

to be used as an ancestral hall. The ancestral hall within were usually

original parking space into a kitchen and dining area which serves

spaces where family ancestral altar were placed but the uses within the

as a venue to serve the hotel guests.

second hall were not restricted to only this. Due to the typology of building being a goldsmith and jewelry store, hence this part of the building was used as a vault to store safe and for safety storage for gold and jewelries. As for what it is currently, the management of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay had converted it into a central courtyard which features the spiral stairs which leads up to the first floor above. Apart 98

(v) Second Rear Court / Sanitary Services cum Back Storage Area

(vi) Open Air Well and Courtyard

Back then, the second rear court (see Figure 3.57 - while as indicated 5

The air well (see Figure 3.58 - while as indicated 6 in Figure 3.59)

in Figure 3.59) was technically uncovered to allow natural lighting and

back then mainly serves to enhance natural lighting illumination

ventilation. It also used to and is still housing the sanitary services. The

while also ensuring sufficient ventilation within the interior. It had a

unique feature of this space back then was the basin which was used as

mobile canopy which was operated via a horizontal pulley system.

a space for gold and jewelries’ cleansing. Gold and jewelries were

Currently, the hotel management still retains the use of the space as

washed and scrubbed in the basin here before exhibiting it in the front

an air well while adding a spiral stairs within it and hence indirectly

hall for sale. As of what is currently, it still retaines its use to provide

forming a spiral stairs atrium and a central courtyard in the second

sanitary services but too also use it as a storage space while the use of

hall.

the basin and the rest of the space for gold and jewelries cleansing is disregarded.

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Figure 3.60 - First floor plan of the boutique hotel lot of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay which house the rooms of the hotel and also hold several circulation spaces as indicated by the numbers in the plan. (Ashik, 2016). (i) Receiving Hall of the first floor

to the event hall lot next to it. Apart from serving as a receiving hall

The receiving hall of the first floor (see Figure 3.61 - while as indicated

from the spiral stairs, it serves also as a mean of connection to the

1 in Figure 3.60) is the first space a user experience as he or she ascend

transitional walkway by which is reached upon ascending the rear stairs.

to the floors above. It serves as a sitting area while connecting all lofts

(As indicated 4 in Figure 3.60).

and rooms of the first floors. It also serves as a space to further segregate and distribute the rooms accordingly to each sides of the entire floor as it is a central hall connecting hotels from the left and right side while also serving as an entry way connecting the boutique hotel lot 100

(ii) Platinum, Silver Gold Lofts’ Hall

which is twice the size the bed chambers in the Platinum Loft and

This hall (see Figure 3.62 - while as indicated 2 in Figure 3.60) is a direct

has a larger washing closet. These rooms are decorated interiorly

connection from the receiving hall next to it and by which opens up to

with different styles, ranging from neoclassical style, to straits

the Platinum, Silver and Gold Lofts of the hotel. It mainly leads to the two

eclectic and also to Chinese cultured traditional style.

main doors, by which one straight leads to the Platinum Loft while the other entry on the side leads to the Silver Lofts. Apart from that, the space features a stairs which ascends upwards to the Gold Loft above on the second floor of the hotel lot. (iii) Platinum, Silver and Malaysian Honeyguide Lofts This three rooms are hotel lofts which fills the interior of the first floor of the hotel lot. Two of which are Platinum Loft (see Figure 3.63 - while as indicated 3 in Figure 3.60) and the Silver Loft (see Figure 3.64 - while as indicated 3 in Figure 3.60) are rooms located far end due north side of the building and is accessed via the Platinum, Silver and Gold Lofts’ Hall.

Platinum Loft is relatively bigger as compared to the Silver Loft and by

Figure 3.61 - The receiving hall of the first floor of the boutique hotel lot via ascending a spiral stairs. (Tan, 2016).

which consist of two bed chambers and a washing closet for sanitary services, whereas the Silver Loft only consist of one bed chamber and a washing closet which is relatively smaller in size as compared to the washing closet of the Platinum Loft. Malaysian Honeyguide Loft (see Figure 3.65 - while as indicated 3 in Figure 3.60) is the largest room within the entire first floor of the building. It consists of a bed chamber 101

Figure 3.62 - The hall leading into the Platinum, Silver and Gold Lofts within the first floor of the hotel lot by which features a stairs ascending to the second floor which is the Gold Loft.

(Tan, 2016).

Figure 3.64 - The bed chamber within the Silver Loft and an entry which leads into the washing closet. (Qwuen, 2016).

Figure 3.63 - The side bed chamber within the Platinum Loft by which is flanked by to side entries, one leading to a nextbed chamber and another leading to the washing closet. (Qwuen, 2016).

Figure 3.65 - The Malaysian Honeyguide Loft which is unique as it is the biggest room within the floor and also within the entire boutique hotel lot which bed chamber twice the size and the door at the far end leading into a luxurious washing closet.

(AsiaBooking, 2016).

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(iv) Rear Stairs and Transitional Walkway The rear stairs (see Figure 3.66 - while as indicated 4 in Figure 3.60) which is located at the rear court of the building ascends to the

Figure 3.66 - The rear stairs which is located in the kitchen of the building which connects to the first floor above which leads to the transitional walkway. (Tan, 2016).

transitional walkway (see Figure 3.68 - while as indicated 4 in Figure 3.60) above which gradually leads to the receiving hall which is located at the first floor of the boutique hotel. This stairs first ascends to a door which separates it from the transitional walkway. The transitional walkway is then flanked by entries on both sides, the left an entry which leads to the event hall lot and the one of the right grants access to the Malaysian Honeyguide Loft. The walkway then transits to the receiving hall which is ascended also from the spiral stairs.

Figure 3.67 - The transitional walkway which is reached directly upon ascending the rear stairs while connecting it to the receiving hall. (Tan, 2016).

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(i) Gold Loft within the Second floor The Gold Loft (see Figure 3.69 - while as indicated 1 in Figure 3.68) located on the second floor of the building is the only space occupying the second floor of the building of the boutique hotel lot. This room is unique in the sense that it is constructed above the platinum room while utilizing the property of the space being a double volume space. It is accessed via the stairs in the Platinum, Silver and Gold Loft Hall. The Gold Loft views downwards through two windows onto the top of the low ceiling which covers the Silver Loft within the space. Its bed chamber is relatively bigger than the Silver Loft but relatively smaller as compared

Figure 3.68 - Second floor plan of the boutique hotel lot of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay which house the Gold Loft of the hotel which is the only room housing the second floor of the boutique hotel lot.

(Ashik, 2016).

to the Platinum Loft.

Figure 3.69 - Gold Loft as seen interiorly while windows opening to the low ceiling covering the Silver Loft. (Sarang Paloh, 2016).

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3.3.2 - Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay event hall building lot This building depicts its own uniqueness as it comprises of two lot, hence

the ground floor (see Figure 3.59), the first floor (see Figure 3.60)

dominates the rest of the other building within that same row. The

and the second floor (see Figure 3.69).

building portrays a strong Art Deco exterior through its linear elements and geometries and what lies within the exterior holds strongly onto the neoclassical style of architecture. Due to its current typology of being a bank building, hence the interior of the building depicts a grandeur design due to the implementations of the high ceiling. After taken over by the current hotel management, they had took the initiative into implementing the traditional Chinese cultured design into the building, such as the implementations of the Nyonyans tiles onto the floorings.

This building generally also consist of a five foot way before entering the entrance of the building, which leads to the foyer of the building upon entering the hall of the building. Within the hall of the building leads to the stairs atrium which serves as the main means of connectivity between two floors within the building. The building comprises of 3 floors,

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Figure 3.70 - Ground floor plan of the event hall lot of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay which accommodates different spaces which serves different functions. (Wee, 2016). (i) Event Hall

colors of glazed stained glass above by which supports and leads to

The event hall (see Figure 3.71 - while as indicated 1 in Figure 3.70) is

the second door of the event hall which is made of glass.

one of the main venue featured in Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay. Due to its typology being a bank back then, this used to be the great hall where

Hence this area directly serves as a buffer and a grand foyer between

banking activities were carried out and counters and bank lobby were

the event hall and the main entrance. The walls of the event hall are

placed. Currently, being a venue where various events are hold, it is

highly decorated with embedded columns and pilaster with neoclassical

grand in terms of height and embodies a grandeur style with the use of

and art deco design while decorated with embedded mosaics with floral

a traditionally looking overhead timber canopy, decorated with various

patterns on its wall and body. Besides, the floorings are decorated with

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the usage of Nyonyan tiles and ceramics mosaics, giving off and

currently seen today. Now, as it serves as an event hall, this

ceramics mosaics, giving off an essence of Chinese cultured tradition.

particular space is converted into a storage space by the hotel management to store furniture such as chairs and tables which are

(ii) Event Hall stairs atrium

used to serves and hold various events.

The event hall stairs, (see Figure 3.72 - while as indicated 2 in Figure 3.70) located at the east side of the hall leads straight upwards to the floors above which are lofts and hotel rooms of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay. The stairs, being a 2 quarter landing stairs form interesting circulation while ascending the floors above. It also serves as the main circulation and access point to connect to the boutique hotel lot next door.

These stairs which are decorated with steel balustrade are concealed within a glass room atrium which indirectly segregates it from main event hall space. (iii) The vault cum storage space Due to the building serving as a bank back then, this space used to be

Figure 3.71- The spacious event hall of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay which sees a grandeur eclectic style which is lighten up using traditional Chinese cultured style ornaments. (Tan, 2016).

the vault or a strong room (see Figure 3.73 - while as indicated 3 in Figure 3.70) which serves to keep the money-safe safely and securely.

This space is tight and cramped and is located at the far end of the event hall. This space was strategically placed that way in order to ensure its security in the sense that it limits its access only to the employees back then. It is guarded through the usage of grills and locks which are 107

(v) Storage bunker This bunker (see Figure 3.74 - while as indicated 5 in Figure 3.70) is a unique piece of building feature within the premises. This bunker back then literally serves as a bunker, only that back then it was not used to accommodate storages but rather a place to seek shelter and refuge. Due the bank being established during the midst of the Second World War, hence the security of the bank was always their main concern and priority. Hence, this refuge bunker serves to Figure 3.72 - Event hall stairs atrium which is the main mean of circulation and connectivity between floors. (Tan, 2016).

provide refuge for the staffs and employees of the bank and thus

(iv) Offices and utilities

construct this refuge bunker. This is to ensure survival necessity for

Generally, the usage of this particular room (as indicated 4 in Figure 3.70)

whoever seeks refuge in it. Besides, due to the function it served

still retains its function as an office. Back then, the office serves to house

back then, it is strategically located behind the bank as to limit

working spaces for higher ranking bank employees and hence explain

access to any means of hostility. As of now, the hotel management

its location being strategically placed at the end of the hall which is much

had utilized the space and converted it into a storage cum utility

safer and secure. Now, the hotel management still retains its usage and

space for the hotel.

explains the thick walls and numerous amount of air vent used to

function as an office to accommodate the staff and employees of the hotel working as the management of the event hall. This space, accessed via a modern glass door is rather long, wide and spacious as it was used to accommodate a number of employees back then as what also is now.

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(vi) Sanitary services The vast amount of sanitary facilities and services (as indicated 6 in Figure 3.70) being located with close proximity with each other is due to it serving the survival needs of refugees back then. The sanitary services are vast in amount to ensure sanitary the survival needs of refugees back then. The sanitary services are vast in amount to ensure sanitary conveniences in regards to the refugees seeking refuge within the bunker back then. As of now, the hotel Figure 3.73 - Grill door leading into the vault cum storage space located at the far end of the event hall. (Tan, 2016).

management had also retained its sanitary usage while converted 1 out of 6 of them into another storage space.

Figure 3.74 - Storage bunker entry behind the event hall. (Tan, 2016).

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Figure 3.75 - First floor plan of the event hall lot of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay which accommodates different spaces ranging from hotel rooms, lofts and also internal courtyard with interior landscape as its central feature. (Wee, 2016). (i) Stairs hall The stairs hall (see Figure 3.76 - while as indicated 1 in Figure 3.75) is an atrium accommodating the stairs led up from the ground floor of the event hall. This stairs hall directly opens to a door on the eastern wall linking the boutique hotel lot and the event hall lot together which grants

access directly to the receiving hall of the first floor of the boutique hotel lot. This stairs, being a 2 quarter landing stairs also leads straight into the courtyard garden while due north, leads straight up into the hall with 5 hotel rooms above the event hall lot of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay.

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(ii) Hotel Rooms and Lofts The hotel rooms and lofts (as indicated 2 in Figure 3.75) which are identified as Magpie Room, the Great Tit Room and also the two other smaller rooms located in the great hall of rooms on the first floor of the event hall, are rooms and accommodations offered by the management of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay Each of these rooms are decorated and ornamented with different styles and interior essence which intend to transcend different user experiences. (iii) Great Hall with Rooms This hall (see Figure 3.77 - while as indicated 3 in Figure 3.75) is grand

Figure 3.76 - Stairs hall as seen from the receiving hall on the first floor of the boutique hotel lot. (Tan, 2016).

in terms of height and space. This space back then was actually a high ceiling height office which serves the banking corporation. These offices were accommodated by higher ranking banking officers as a working space. As of now, the hotel management had converted the entire spacious space into a great hall and corridor which leads and opens up to various different types of hotel rooms. This great hall is an L-shaped hall which is spacious and is laid with timber furnished floorings and by which embodies the grandeur essence of the interior as it possesses a very high floor to ceiling height. The walls are now decorated with

Figure 3.77 - The hall which accommodate multiple rooms portrays grandeur essence. (Tan, 2016).

paintings of different kinds and also chandeliers to provide interior light illumination.

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(iv) Red Throated Sunbird Room and Stork Kingfisher Room These two unique rooms (see Figure 3.78 - while as indicated 4 in Figure 3.75), being directly behind the walls of the faรงade, are rooms of high ceiling and by which the double volume heights are utilized. These two rooms utilized the height of the rooms in order to place the bed and sleeping area in order to cope with small floor room area within the room.

The ground floor (first floor of the entire building) of these two rooms is being utilized as living area and also to implement a space for the washing closet. Due to the room being strategically placed behind the faรงade walls, hence the interior of the rooms are being naturally

Figure 3.78 -The living space within the ground floor of both rooms while featuring a stairs which leads up to a bed. (Tan, 2016).

illuminated by the natural light entering from the faรงade windows, producing a soothing and warm stay and environment. (v) Olive Bird Pipit Room This room (see Figure 3.79 - while as indicated 5 in Figure 3.75) is the largest room within the entire floor of the event hall lot building and also the largest out of the three rooms which are strategically placed behind the faรงade wall. Due to its larger space, hence the room fully utilizes the spacious floor area without sacrificing the double volume height within its interior. This room is located in between the Red Throated Sunbird

Figure 3.79 - The interior of the mentioned room which sees a spacious interior. (Sarang Paloh, 2016).

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Room and Stork Bird Kingfisher Room and hence is directly placed behind the arched windows as seen from the façade walls. (vi) Walkway

landscape. The garden can be either accessed via the stairs of leading from the walkway or the ladder which leads to the ground floor of the building which is the rear side of the bunker.

The walkway (see Figure 3.80 - while as indicated 6 in Figure 3.75) technically links the building’s void together which is present due to the internal courtyard and the garden. The walkway leads from the stairs hall via ascending it form the ground floor of the event hall, which directly faces the Great Tit Room while overseeing the view and scenery of the internal courtyard and the garden due to it being at a higher level as compared to the gardens’ floor level. The walkway is decorated with Nyonyan tiles which portrays a sense of traditional Chinese culture while being shaded by a row of gabled roof.

Figure 3.80 - An image of the walkway which leads from the stairs hall to the garden which faces the door of the Great Tit Room.

(Tan, 2016).

(vii) Courtyard garden The courtyard garden (see Figure 3.81 - while as indicated 7 in Figure 3.75) is strategically placed in the central courtyard of the building and hence directly becomes a central feature within the hotel. The garden was implemented by the hotel management by utilizing the roof slab of the bunker while implementing a pond on top of it. The garden also features an arched bridge which is being strategically placed in the center of the garden while being filled with lush greeneries and

Figure 3.81 - The garden which is featured within the central courtyard within the hotel. (Tan, 2016).

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(viii) Walkway to Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay Gallery This walkway (see Figure 3.82 - while as indicated 8 in Figure 3.75) technically leads to the sanitary services of the floor but also can be implied to access the Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay is within the premises of Lim Ko Pi. This walkway is accessed via a stairs which links from the center of the garden. (ix) Sanitary services These sanitary services (as indicated 9 in Figure 3.75) are located beside the garden which flanks the south side of walkway. Besides, there are also strategically placed next to the Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay Art Gallery which grants conveniences to the users, visitors and also tourists visiting the premises. (x) Open yard

Figure 3.82 - The walkway linking the garden into the sanitary services which gradually leads into the Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay Art Gallery. (Tan, 2016).

These two open yard (as indicated 10 in Figure 3.75) one being at the back of the hotel room and the other located at the back of the sanitary services, are open spaces with flexible uses. Currently, the hotel management had utilized to place mechanical services and also flower pots and landscape in order to enhance the greenery within the area.

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Figure 3.83 - Second floor plan of the event hall lot of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay which accommodates only the second floor of the two double volume rooms - Stork Bird Kingfisher Room and also the Red Throated Sunbird Room. (Tan, 2016). (i) First floor of Stork Bird Kingfisher Room & Red Throated Sunbird Room

of these two rooms. (See Figure 3.84 - while as indicated 1 in Figure 3.83) The double volume height within these two rooms is used to

A wise way used to cope with the spatial limitation within the interior of

accommodate the bed and sleeping area.

these two rooms, the hotel management took the initiative to implement

This gives off a different and unique user experience while having a

a second level while utilizing the double volume height within the space

comfortable and warm living experience.

(ii) Void spaces 115

These void spaces are formed by the different ceiling heights due to the implemented room space through the utilization of the double volume space of the two rooms within the space.

Figure 3.84 - The bed chamber and sleeping area on the first floor of the room, the second floor of the building, through the utilization of double volume space. (Sarang Paloh, 2016).

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Chapter 4 ARCHITECTURAL & SPATIAL LAYOUT Covers the relationship between shophouses and its spaces and also its properties of spaces in which covers the technicalities which comprises of the interior and exterior spatial properties, circulation to use, private and public, organization analysis and also the visual experience and acoustics within the space thrughout the building.

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4.1 Spatial Layout A shophouse is typically made up of faรงade and also repetition of halls

walls between them and adherence to street alignment. Shophouses

within the interior. Generally, a heritage shophouse consists of a

have narrow street frontages, but may extend backwards to great

standard five-foot way which is recessed within the ground floor which is

depths, in some cases extending all the way to the rear street due to

shaded by eaves above. The front hall and second hall which is relatively

the limitation of space within the interior. Hence, most of the early

smaller, is segregated by an internal courtyard or an air well, rear court,

shophouses are usually narrow but long in terms of length.

back lanes and floors above. A shophouse varies from place to place and hence depicting different varieties of spatial layout. A shophouse is

The basic layout of Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay boutique hotel lot

a vernacular architectural building type that is commonly seen in areas

and event hall lot derives from each other.Sarang Paloh Heritage

such as urban Southeast Asia. Shophouses are mostly two or three

Stay is designed with the basic layout of heritage shophouses,

stories high, with a shop on the ground floor for mercantile activity and

whereas the spatial layout within the event hall is slightly different as

a residence above the shop lot. This hybrid building form characterizes

the typology of the shophouse in the past served as a bank, hence the

the historical centres of most towns and cities in Southeast Asia region.

layout was understandable due to its usage as compared to the boutique hotel lot next door.

Typically, shophouses consist of spaces of halls, ranging from public and private spaces as it ascends deeper within the building. Shophouses abut each other to form rows with regular or irregular faรงade, with fire 118

4.1.1 – Circulation The circulation of a building shows the sequence of which the architect wants the user to experience. The following sub components 4.1.1a and 4.1.1b will further elaborate on the circulation intended by the owner for the boutique hotel, event hall and both shop-house’s 1st floor.

Figure 4.1 - An image showing the ground floor plan of Sarang Paloh with its circulation indicated in red. (Ashik, 2016).

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4.1.1a – Boutique Hotel Ground Floor Circulation The objective of the boutique hotel’s circulation is to enable its guest, experience the warmth of home lodging. For a hotel, its introduction to the building begins with a modest entry, moving in from the five foot walk way. Moving past the lobby, the user is then quickly introduced to the air-well and kitchen where the spiral stairs to the 1 st floor of the building is visible. These two spaces were not separated by any obvious partition but is instead deliberately left open to the user’s view. This then ends with a rear court where the toilet is situated. From the plan, we could see that the linear experience of the building not only shows in its form but rather its circulation as well where the placement of its walkway promotes a sense of continuity in both visual and space.

4.1.1b – Event Hall Ground Floor Circulation Much like its neighbor in the boutique hotel, the halls circulation also follows a linear sequence. However, the event hall only has two main spaces; the main hall and an air well / rear court. The circulation begins with the five foot walkway as its buffer zone to the entrance. The first interior space experienced would then be the main hall where it would Figure 4.2 - An image showing the first floor plan of Sarang Paloh with its circulation indicated in red. (Ashik, 2016).

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be booked with events throughout the year including the likes of

encouraged to stroll around the accessible areas where the main

weddings. The following space that comes after that serves not only as

attention is placed on the spatial ambience.

an air well but also as the building’s rear court. The circulation revolves around the bunker situated in the center of the air well space which

The shop houses of Ipoh Town were built with the intention of

allows access to offices, utility rooms and toilets.

sustainability in mind. This lead to its banal and repetitive design layout which in turn makes it cost efficient as it does not require an architect to be built or designed. However, the influence of

4.1.1c – Boutique Hotel & Event Hall First Floor Circulation

community culture and architectural history is apparent, as they

There are a few access points that leads to the upper floor of Sarang

managed to give individuality to the building’s façade alongside its

Paloh; main one being the two staircases from the boutique hotel. The

decorative motifs which is an outward expression of the community’s

event hall also has access to the upper floor but is recognized as a

ideology and aspirations. While the vernacular style of circulation

private space. The first approach being the inconspicuous stairway

leaves not much of an impression, the spatial palimpsest gives birth

located on the left of the event hall in the main hall. Ladders on both

to a new form of architecture only explainable by the changes of time.

sides of the bunker in the air well also allows access to the upper floors.

However, this approach is not conventional and is primarily only for hotel staff and owner’s private use.

The circulation on the top floor is only limited to the semi-public spaces.

The remaining spaces are private as they function as hotel rooms for guest. Accessible areas are limited to the hallways, walkways and roof garden; all of it with loop circulation. This meant that guest were

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4.1.2 – Public & Private Spaces

Figure 4.3 & 4.4 – The above shows the public, semi-public and private spaces of the ground floor and first floor circulation.( Ashik, 2016) The highlighted blue zone indicates the public zone which as its name

Semi-public spaces are controlled by the owner: accessible only to

implies, is open to the public. The five foot way is part of the building

certain people which in this case, the customers of the hotel and event

and functions as a buffer zone before moving in to the building hence,

hall. These spaces are closed to public.

making it a public zone. Sarang Paloh is not only known for its heritage stay but also its interior designs that mimics that of old buildings. This

There are 10 hotel rooms, and 4 miscellaneous rooms (offices, storage

attracts tourist which in turn makes the hotel lobby and atrium a space

and utility); all of which are private spaces. These rooms are only

open to the public for viewing.

available to the hotel customers, owner and workers.

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4.2 Spatial Program & Experience A building’s activity or program has always been predetermined before it is built. Architecture always revolve around spaces; the activities

Generally, a building’s spatial program and properties are fully

planned for the spaces which in turn reflects its identity. Throughout

dependent on its owner or architect. Although Sarang Palloh’s

the history of architecture, buildings were designed and built for a

current design is a reminiscent of its past glory, the spaces within

purpose. The same also goes for Sarang Paloh.

is a palimpsest of the taste of its successive owner.

In its history, Sarang Paloh was two buildings that were adjacent to one another yet had no relation. The current boutique hotel lobby was a goldsmith shop while the event hall was a bank. This explains the difference in spatial layout of both buildings as the programs and activities carried out respectively are different.

Now, Sarang Paloh is a heritage hotel with over 10 rooms for lodging on its top floor. The ground floor kept its overall form with some changes made to cater to its current use.

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4.2.1 Spatial Programming

Figure 4.5 – Sectional perspective Y2Y2 (Ashik, 2016) Program Objective To preserve the architectural historical and cultural features of the

and socialize like that of a living room, followed by the kitchen and

building.

toilet as the last of its sequence. On the top floor; a place to rest, sleep and to experience the different aspects that each room has to offer.

The building offers spaces that cater to families and couples as a haven for holiday getaways. The spatial sequence of the building emulates that of a comfortable heritage home that sets itself apart from the outside world; starting from the lobby where people would relax 124

Figure 4.6 – Sectional perspective Y4Y4 (Ashik, 2016) Program Objective To preserve the architectural historic and cultural features of the

walk-in outsiders are only allowed access to the facilities if they

building.

participated. The hotel customers on the other hand, are open to all facilities available on both floors. The halls program is not limited to

Similar to the boutique hotel, event hall also functions as a space for

meetings, performances and big or small events as it is well known for

reminiscing. However, this building offers spaces that cater more to

its multipurpose use. The top floor is similar to the boutique hotel with

larger groups of people. The program is set in such a way that

the exception of a roof garden. Guest are allowed to interact with the

customers of the hall are allowed to use the ground floor facilities while

garden which expands the possibilities of activity in the provided space.

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4.2.2 Passive Designs i) Natural Lighting Natural lighting is lighting provided by daylight. It could be muted or brilliant as long as it is the main source of light that illuminates a space.

In Sarang Paloh, natural lighting from the airwell illuminates the kitchen/ dining areas where the spiral stairs are located. The rear court of the boutique hotel also has natural lighting that comes from a sky

Figure 4.7 - Section Y1Y1 depicting spaces with natural lighting

well. Naturally, the bunker and garden also has natural lighting as it is

(Ashik, 2016)

exposed without cover.

Figure 4.8 - Section Y3Y3 depicting spaces with natural lighting (Ashik, 2016)

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ii) Green Space Green space is an element of architecture that brings nature to design.

Not only does it provide aesthetic function, it also adds on to the ambience of the surrounding and affects the comfort of people as it cools spaces using effects such as evapotranspiration. Green spaces also serves its purpose visually. As the building is sandwiched between two other shop lots, the presence of the garden enable customers to have a

Figure 4.9 - Section Y1Y1 depicting green spaces.(Ashik, 2016)

relaxing view alongside a cooling atmosphere.

Figure 4.10 - Section Y3Y3 depicting green spaces (Ashik, 2016)

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iii) Ventilation Sarang Paloh makes use of the stack effect to ventilate the building. The double volume spaces; some with ceiling and some without, ensures that wind is captured and then distributed to the interior spaces. The air well also ventilates the building by introducing wind from outside to the building’s spaces and then out again.

Figure 4.11- Section Y1Y1 depicting the buildings ventilation (Ashik, 2016)

Figure 4.12 - Section Y3Y3 depicting the buildings ventilation (Ashik, 2016)

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4.2.3 Spatial Experience 4.2.3a Ground floor of Boutique Hotel Hotel Lobby The hotel lobby is dimly lit most of the time. This alongside the exposed structures such as the timber joist gives the space a warm and cozy atmosphere that makes one reminisce and imagine its past. The space seems bigger than it is as the furniture used was mostly made out of wood that are light and thin.

Figure 4.13- An image showing the hotel lobby (Ashik, 2016)

Spiral Staircase Airwell The natural light that illuminates the space alongside the spiral staircase gives the dim space a warm ambience. The space feels lighter and open as the spiral staircase seems to be floating in between spaces due to its exposed structure.

Figure 4.14 – An image showing the airwell (Ashik, 2016)

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Pantry/Kitchen The kitchen is normally illuminated by day light from the air well. This results in the space being dim. However, the change of light intensity in the space throughout the day gives a sense of time to it. The space is also cool due to the ventilation and the plants planted around the space.

Rear Court Located behind the kitchen is the rear court which is also where the toilet is. The space is small but is well ventilated. The sky well provides ample

Figure 4.15 – An image showing the pantry/kitchen space (Ashik, 2016)

lighting which also contributes to the open atmosphere of the space.

Figure 4.16 – An image showing the rear court of the boutique

hotel

(Ashik, 2016)

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4.2.3b Ground floor of Event Hall Event Hall The event hall gives off a grand impression with its size, ornamented walls and columns. Its choice of floor tiles adds on a local oriental vibe to the space which gives the space its originality. Just like the boutique hotel, the ceiling is also exposed; showing the joist within. This amalgamation of different materials gives a fresh perception to the space.

Figure 4.17 – An image showing the interior of the event hall (Ashik, Bunker

2016)

The bunker is currently used as a storage by the owners. The space within is small and stuffy as the air ducts were sealed off. Besides storage, the space is not suitable for any other activities due to the spaces constraints and lack of ventilation.

Figure 4.18 & 4.19 – The images shows the exterior and interior of the bunker respectively(Ashik, 2016) 131

4.2.3c First floor of Boutique Hotel Hallway The hallway can be accessed via the spiral staircase. The space is very well ventilated due to the outside being not just the air well but also green plants that helps cool down the space. Natural lighting is also provided to the space. While the space is small, it is appropriate for light activities such as reading.

Corridor The corridor can be accessed via the L- shaped staircase of the

Figure 4.20 – The image shows the hallway space at entrance to

boutique hotel. Though its narrow, it compensates with its high ceiling

the spiral staircase (Ashik, 2016)

which is inconsistent; showing the roof joist and roof tiles. This gives off an illusion of an open space and the space no longer seems cramped.

Figure 4.21 & 4.22 – The images show the narrow corridor and the ceiling above it respectively (Ashik, 2016) 132

Gold, Silver & Platinum Room Corridor This corridor leads to 3 rooms which are the gold, silver and platinum rooms. The space makes use of its double volume to fit all 3 rooms into that space. Like the rest of the 1st floor, the ceiling is exposed showing the roof joist. Some of the roof tiles were transparent which allows natural light to penetrate through. The space gives off a vintage vibe with the use of old materials such as terracotta roof tiles and bamboo.

Figure 4.23 & 4.24 – Both images depicts the view of the space Hotel Room (Honeyguide)

from the ground and from above (Ashik, 2016)

One of the hotel rooms found on the boutique’s first floor. Each room has its own particular style. The only similarity is that they all have high ceilings and are often pitched. The rooms tends to be long with high walls which gives a grand vibe to the space.

Figure 4.25 – An image showing the interior space of the

Honeyguide

hotel room (Ashik, 2016)

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4.2.3d First floor of Event Hall Hotel Corridor Above the event hall is another corridor that leads to a few other hotel rooms. The corridor is L-shaped where it hides the rooms from view when not approached. The main feature of this space is its double volume void space where the ceiling’s height is exaggerated. Just as the corridor in the boutique hotel, the space is narrow yet seemed big due to its height. This space has three contrasting features; the art deco

Figure 4.26 & 4.27 – The images depicts the narrow hotel corridor

design wall, the hotel room’s gypsum wall and the wooden flooring.

and its double volume void ceiling (Ashik, 2016)

Courtyard & Roof Garden The roof garden serves as the green space of the building. It is directly above the bunker and is accessible via the 1st floor walkway. Alongside the garden is a mini pond with fishes and a variety of aquatic plants. The space has ample natural light as well as being well ventilated. The sight of the blooming flowers accompanied by the sound of running water adds on to the already soothing ambience.

Figure 4.28 & 4.29 – The images shows the roof garden and its courtyard repectively (Ashik, 2016)

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4.3 Spatial Comparison Yik Woh Goldsmith & Jeweller shop was a typical shop house where the ground floor was used for business, however the upper floors were the residential accommodations. Currently, it now houses the boutique hotel.

Through interviews and analyses of the remaining structure of the shop house, we managed to interpret the spatial usage and layout. The changes that had made are: Figure 4.30 - Front desk of Yik Woh Goldsmith & Jeweller shop. (i) From Front Desk to Hotel Lobby From the five foot way entering hotel lobby, the changes of the ceiling height interrupt the visual and spatial continuity between two spaces and create a strong sense of enclosure to the users. In the past, this space was used as the front desk. This was the only space that the public was able to access. After the front desk, two alcoves were found. The alcoves were used to freshen up and stored the tea set. Whereas now, the public is not restricted to access this space which now serves as the hotel lobby.

The two alcoves are no longer usable.

Figure 4.31 - Front desk of Sarang Paloh Boutique hotel lobby. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 4.30 (above) & Figure 4.31 (below) - Comparison of spatial usage during past and present.

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(ii) From Safe to Open Courtyard Only the staff had accessibility to the spaces after the front desk. For security purposes, the open courtyard was covered. This space was then used as a safe. A door was originally there to access the safe from the front desk.

Figure 4.32 - Safe of Yik Woh Goldsmith & Jeweller shop.

Figure 4.33 - Open courtyard in Sarang Paloh Boutique Hotel. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 4.32 (above) & Figure 4.33 (below) - Comparison of spatial usage during past and present.

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(iii) From Parking Space to Kitchen The kitchen was used as a bicycle parking space for the staff. The staff would enter the parking space through the back door and then walk to the front desk. The circulation of the public was different of that of the staff. Initially there was no L-shape staircase to connect the ground floor to first floor.

Figure 4.34 - Staff parking space.

Figure 4.35 - Kitchen for Sarang Paloh Boutique Hotel. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 4.34 (above) & Figure 4.35 (below) - Comparison of spatial usage during past and present.

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(iv) Rear Courtyard The spatial usage of the rear courtyard in the past and present remain the same. The washing basin in the rear courtyard was used to wash gold. Where there was a toilet located opposite it. Today there are two toilets and a store as can be seen in figure 4.8.

Figure 4.36 - Rear courtyard.

Figure 4.37 - Rear courtyard now. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 4.36 (above) & Figure 4.37 (below) - Comparison of spatial usage during past and present.

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(v) From Living Spaces to Hotel Rooms The second floor was the living quarters for the employees. Right above the current kitchen was the former kitchen located in one of the rooms called ‘The Malaysian Honeyguide’. It is currently a washroom in The Malaysian Honeyguide. The former Chinese style air vents are still present in the washroom.

The owner added a partition wall to separate the spaces into different rooms where previously it was a spacious living space and store room.

Figure 4.38 - Living spaces for the staffs.

Figure 4.39 - Hotel rooms.

Figure 4.38 (above) & Figure 4.39 (below) - Comparison of spatial usage during past and present. (Tan, 2016.)

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The Sarang Paloh Heritage stay and event hall was the former headquarters to the OCBC Building. The function of this buildings isn’t similar to that of typical shop houses. There were no tenants residing in this building. The ground floor was the front desk of the bank while the second floor was used for offices. This commercial building was transformed into an event hall and hotel rooms after it was bought by Lim’s family. There were some changes of the spatial usage listed below:

Figure 4.40 - Front desk of OCBC Building.

(i) From Front Desk to Event Hall The high ceiling height can be observed from the entranceway from the five foot way to the event hall. The ceiling height creates a sense of grandness experienced by visitors. The accessibility of the public was restricted; as they could only access the front desk. The event hall has one private staircase that was used by staff to access the second floor.

Figure 4.41 - Sarang Paloh Event hall. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 4.40(above) & Figure 4.41 (below) - Comparison of spatial usage during past and present.

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(ii) From Locker to Store Room There are a few rooms before the courtyard. Since this was once a bank, there was a room that was used as a vault to store money. The grille that once served as protection is still there and now serves as the grille for the store room for the event hall. Besides the locker, the other room was believed to be used as the office which now is utility room.

Figure 4.42- Store room for Sarang Paloh Event Hall. (Tan, 2016.)

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(iii) From Bunker to Store Room . At the end of the event hall is where the bunker is located. The bunker was built during a time where there was war. Its current function is a storage room. The pre-existing air vents are still in pristine condition. The rooms that surrounded the bunker were once offices. Currently houses the managers office and washrooms. The windows in the offices are for ventilation purpose without any views.

Figure 4.43 - Bunker.

Figure 4.44 - Store room. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 4.43 (above) & Figure 4.44 (below) - Comparison of spatial usage during past and present.

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(iv) From Insurance Company to Hotel Rooms The rooms that found in the first floor of the Event Hall were the offices for the insurance company. There was no connection between the Yik Woh Goldsmith & Jeweller shop and OCBC Building. A door was later added on the common wall of both buildings to join the hotel as one. The spaces in the third floor were commodious spaces which is now partitioned into different rooms.

Figure 4.45 - Insurance company.

Figure 4.46 - Hotel rooms. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 4.45(above) & Figure 4.46 (below) - Comparison of spatial usage during past and present.

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(v) From Flat Slab to Roof Garden Upon descending the staircase, there is a roof garden consisting of a small bridge and a fish pond. There was initially no roof garden.. It was once a flat slab with air vents built on it. The staircases connected to the roof garden were built later on. The only structure that existed was the corridor that connected opposite room.

Figure 4.47 - Flat slab with air vents.

Figure 4.48 - Roof garden. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 4.47 (above) & Figure 4.48 (below) - Comparison of spatial usage during past and present.

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Chapter 5 BUILDING MATERIALS & CONSTRUCTION Covers the traditional and modern building structural and finishing materials and the construction details of the roof, floor and wall.

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5.1 Building Materials Structural (i) Clay Bricks Masonry The brick is a singular unit, which together with others, forms walls or

evaporate through the wall which strengthens the structure, lasting for centuries.

columns. Clay bricks were used to construct the wall in the Yik Woh Goldsmith & Jeweller Shop and OCBC Building. The clay bricks were introduced in 1982 after the fire outbreak in Ipoh. As afire precaution, the firebreak wall was built between the two units.

Additionally the bunker (See Figure 5.1) in the OCBC Building was constructed by clay bricks. As an incredibly hard wearing material, clay bricks arevable to take the knocks of everyday life as well as the extreme weather conditions,Such that there are situations where there are no defects even after a hundred years.

Figure 5.1 - Bunker that constructed with clay bricks, painted with white. (Wong, 2016.)

Mortar is used to bond bricks in the construction of a wall. Lime mortar was used. This kind of mortar allows the ground moisture to rise and

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(ii) Timber Timber is a traditional yet economical material. It is used widely in the early architectural building such as traditional Malay architecture. It can be easily found and can be worked in various ways such as carvings.

The good insulation helps to keep the interior cool. It is used in the battens (See Figure 5.2) and joists. The early shop houses in Ipoh were constructed by timber. Although it brings a lot of advantages, the greatest problem about timber is, it is an easy combustible material.

Besides that, timber requires maintenance because it is susceptible to termites or water damage.

Figure 5.2 - The original timber battens that located in the rear courtyard of the boutique hotel. (Tan, 2016.)

According to Mr Lee, the damaged timber truss will be replaced with recycled timber, as wood from older trees has higher load carrying capacity compared to the new wood.

Figure 5.3 - Timber is used to construct the window frame as well as the timber shuttered wall. (Tan, 2016.)

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(iii) Steel Steel is cost efficient, durable and sustainable. Steel construction was first introduced to Ipoh in 1900 due to the reconstruction of the wooden Hugh Low Bridge. Iron replaced the timber in the bridge. Steel was widely used in the OCBC Building such as the grille used for the safe as well as the window grille.

The steel columns in the boutique hotel were later added on to support the structure of the old building. Additionally, steel is used to construct the spiral staircase (See Figure 5.5) in the boutique hotel to connect the

Figure 5.4 - Steel beams and columns are added to support the load of the first floor. (Tan, 2016.)

ground floor to first floor, It is important to note coating is required for the exposed steel to prevent galvanization.

Figure 5.5 - Steel spiral staircase in the open courtyard which coated with black paint to prevent corrosion. (Tan, 2016.)

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Finishing (i) Gypsum Plaster Plaster is used as the finishing for the exterior and interior walls. It is applied on the brick masonry walls for protection and aesthetic purposes. Plaster is very workable and easy to apply. Lime plaster is made up of lime (calcium carbonate), and aggregate and water. The lime plaster allows the ground moisture to rise and evaporate through the walls and strengthen it over time. It is also beneficial as it absorbs harmful carbon dioxide when it sets and reduces the chances of an invasion of pests, unlike timber. The application of the gypsum plaster

Figure 5.6 - Gypsum plaster applied on the skirting. (Tan, 2016.)

is popular from 1930s to 1950s.

The use of gypsum plaster can be found in the walls of both buildings except the bunker which was constructed by the clay bricks and coated with white paint.

Figure 5.7 - Usage of gypsum plaster in the wall in ground floor.

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(ii) Porcelain Tiles Porcelain tiles are available in a wide variety of colours and sizes. It is moisture and stain-resistant, easy to maintain and comparatively affordable. However, the porcelain tiles are very easily to break. Once it has broken, it is difficult to repair.

The porcelain tiles is a new addition to the building. It is added on cover up the cement floor. It can be found in the boutique hotel lobby.

Figure 5.8 - Porcelain tiles. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 5.9 - Usage of porcelain tiles in ground floor.

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(iii) Mosaic Tiles (Spiral Staircase) Mosaic is the art of creating images with the repetition of small pieces of coloured glass, stone or tiles. Mosaic tiles has different sizes and colours. Similar to the terrazzo tiles, it is fashionable and practical thus it was widely used in the early modernism buildings. The mosaic tiles can be found on the spiral staircase of the Botique Hotel (figure 5.11).

Figure 5.10 - Mosaic tiles in the staircase. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 5.11 - Usage of mosaic tiles in the ground floor.

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(iv) Terracotta Tiles Terracotta tiles is essentially baked clay, cement and composite material such as terrazzo, used for floors. Terracotta tiles have high durability and versatility. They are lied on the lime concrete floor to keep the breathability of the surface - cool the rooms.

Most terracotta tiles originated from Fujian and Guangdong. They can be found in the kitchen and rear courtyard of the boutique hotel (figure 5.13). It reflects the natural colour of materials and creates a sense of old-worldly feel and ambiance to the spaces.

Figure 5.12 - Terracotta tiles. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 5.13 - Usage of terracotta tiles in ground floor.

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(v) Ceramic Wall Tiles The ceramic wall tile was introduced as decoration. This kind of tiles were originated from Europe. The ceramic wall tiles with raised decoration, bright colour and high gloss finish, were very popular in 1920s. The more ornamentations reflected the more prosperous the owner and the surrounding area.

The ceramic wall tiles can be found in the interior of the event hall (figure 5.15). They believed that the tiles were constructed during the time of

Figure 5.14 - Wall tiles found in the event hall. (Tan, 2016.)

Bank of Malaya by Leong Sin Nam. The wall tiles used to be covered by plaster during the time of the OCBC Building and was discovered by the current owner.

Figure 5.15 - Usage of ceramic wall tiles in ground floor.

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(vi) Hydraulic Cement Tile (Event Hall + Roof Garden) Hydraulic cement tile is made up of high quality Portland cement mixed with coloured pigments, then poured into a metal mould and pressed with a hydraulic press. It was introduced in the eary twentieth century and became more popular from 1920s to 1940s.

The hydraulic cement tile is widely used in Art Deco style shophouses which give a great sense of beauty. The Nyonya style hydraulic cement tiles found in the event hall are further added on by the owner. The

Figure 5.16 - The flower motifs Nyonya tiles found in the event hall.

(Tan, 2016.)

Nyonya style tiles have a very brilliant and attractive colour and unique motifs design. This kind of tiles can be found in the event hall and the corridor on first floor (figure 5.16).

Figure 5.17 - Usage of hydraulic cement tiles in ground floor.

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(vii) Terrazzo Tile (in situ) Terrazzo tile is a composite material, poured in place or precast, which is used for floor or wall treatment. It consists of marble chips and coloured cement, poured on site.

It is a modern material thus it can be easily found in the early modernism building. Practicality and trend were the main consideration during the modernism period; therefore the in situ terrazzo tile was widely used.

Terrazzo tiles can be found in the five foot way and the corridor outside the bunker of event hall (figure 5.19).

Figure 5.18 - Terrazzo tiles with pattern that found in the five foot way. (Tan, 2016.)

Figure 5.19 - Usage of terrazzo tiles in ground floor.

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(viii) Timber Finishes Timber finishes used to cover the timber to provide an overall protection.

A transparent coating was painted on the timber flooring in the first floor as well as all the timber structure. It was first introduced to cover the doors, shutters and air vents.

The floor finishes was done a few years ago during restoration. Timber flooring finishes can be found in the first floor of boutique hotel and the rooms.

Figure 5.20 - Timber flooring in the first floor or the boutique hotel.

(Tan, 2016.)

Figure 5.21 - Usage of timber finishes in first floor and second floor.

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5.3 Construction Details (i) Roof System The roof system can be clearly seen from the first floor of the Boutique hotel and the second floor of event hall. Timber was used to construct the roof structure in the boutique hotel whereas in event hall, steel was used. The timber structure provides a lighter weight construction which ‘chengal’ wood is the first choice.

The roof system in the boutique hotel is a typical timber roof construction.

It consists of ridge board, rafters, purlins and joists, the roof is covered with terracotta tiles on the most upper part. Till days, timber is still widely used as the roofing materials. It is easy to handle and construct. In the past, metals such as nails are rarely seen in the construction. However, pre-cut holes and grooves are used to fit the timber elements into one

Figure 5.22 - Structural diagram of the timber roof system.

another

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In the event hall, gable roof with steel compound trusses are used to construct the roof. Compound trusses are used by combining the king post truss and queen post truss, which the straining beam of the queen post truss as the tie beam for a king post truss above (See Figure 5.24).

The steel trusses are supported using the bolts and nuts. Not only are they designed to take tension loads, they are also affordable. The steel trusses are believed to have been built around 1900s during the OCBC Building period. The gable roof created a magnificent height for good ventilation purpose as well as created a sense of grandness for the users which matched the Art Deco style.

Figure 5.23 - Section of the roof of event hall.

Figure 5.24 - Section - a combination of king post truss and queen post truss are used in the roof of event hall.

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(ii) Wall system There are two types of walls that can be found in the buildings. Namely load bearing walls and timber wall panels. Load bearing walls are used to support the weight of the building, from roof to floor. Bricks are arranged overlapping and bound together by mortar. Plastering process is applied later on to create an acceptable final wall. Most of the walls in both buildings are plastered besides the bunker wall was not plastered but is coated with paint.

The load bearing wall also served as the fire wall after the fire outbreak in 1982. It is extremely important for shop houses to prevent the fire spread from one unit to the other as this has detrimental consequences.

Figure 5.25 - Construction drawings of the timber wall panel.

Fire walls are thicker in order to withstand high temperatures and long burning periods.

Timber wall panels were inherited from the traditional Malay architectural style. The timber wall panels can helps to keep the interior cool and it reflected the way of life and culture of the users. It can be found on the second floor of the boutique hotel. Originally, there were only two windows opening on the timber wall panel.

Figure 5.26 - Timber wall panel in the second floor of boutique hotel.

(Tan, 2016.)

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(iii) Floor system The ground floor system was built using concrete. The concrete slabs is laid on the ground that was covered with aggregate such as sand and stones. It creates a stronger base for the buildings. Tiles will be added later on to create a more aesthetic surface.

First floor and second floor were using timber as the supporting floor structure. The timber floorings are lighter in the construction. As a fire precaution, the timber flooring was supposed to be changed into concrete flooring. However the owner managed to deal with the appropriate authorities, and managed to continue the use of the timber flooring, which retains the essences of the old building. A layer of timber flooring finishes will be added on to protect the timbers.

Figure 5.27 - Timber flooring system.

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CONCLUSION

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Architecture is a way of life that transcends every medium including

It could be that the idea of conserving an old run down building

even time. It is not a religion that stays stagnant forever, but a belief

serves no purpose and brings no profit to its owner. Sadly, that

that evolves with time. Through this believe, we learn about the

could be the sad truth and one of the biggest factor to why old

evolution of aesthetics, the appreciation one should have for its

buildings are now left to crumble on its own.

environment and also the appreciation to a buildings existence as a precedent.

Sarang Paloh is exactly that old building. It was in pieces, its art form no longer memorable but now a holiday getaway destination

Through this project, we were lucky enough to study a building filled

that is known to many. Not only does this attract the attention of

with architectural history and culture. However, it was not a

people, it also brought awareness and even made us appreciate

coincidence that this historical building still exist. Preservation of old

the building more. It was also due to this that we were able to study

historical buildings is no longer a common cause in our country,

the history and culture of Sarang Paloh’s former identity. We were

Malaysia. Historical buildings are slowly being replaced one after

able to derive for ourselves the evolution of its aesthetics,

another, its history forgotten.

appreciate its existence as a part of the community and understand its design roots that would not have been possible without the conservation of the building.

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References Ahmad, A.G. (1994). The Architectural Style of The Peranakan Cina.

Retrieved 15 February 2015, from http://www.hbp.usm.my/conservation/SeminarPaper/peranakan%20cin a.html Guan, T.C. (2011). Learning From The Singapore Shophouse: Towards A Sustainable Tropical Architecture. Retrieved 8 February 2016, http://ufdcimages.uflib.ufl.edu/UF/E0/04/38/63/00001/GUAN_T.pdf Ho, W.H., Lim, T.B., Flores, R.S. (2013). Encounters with Ipoh: familiar spaces, untold stories.

Ho, T.M. (2009). Ipoh: when tin was king. Ipoh, Perak: Perak Academy.

Ipoh World. (n.d.). Retrieved 12 February 2016, from http://www.ipohworld.org/ Joshi, N. (2015). Conservation + Communication + Communities: Culture and Community Design Studio. Petaling Jaya: Taylor’s University.

Kamal, K.S. (2008). Categories and Styles of Shophouses and Townhouses in Malacca and George Town, Malaysia. Retrieved 10 February 2016, from http://buildingconservation.blogspot.my/2009/01/categories-ofshophouses-at-malacca.html Khoo, S.N., Lubis, A.R. (2005). Kinta Valley: pioneering Malaysia's modern development. Ipoh, Malaysia: Perak Academy.

Shah, R.N. (2006). Landmarks of Perak. Kuala Lumpur: RNS Publications.

Tan, Y.W. (2015). Penang shophouses: a handbook of features and materials.

Too, A. (n.d.). The shophouse typology.

Yeang, K. (1992). The architecture of Malaysia. Pepin Press.

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Glossary Autocad - a commercial software application for 2D or 3D computeraided design (CAD) and drafting.

Affectionate - having the tendency to show and display warmth, affection or care towards a certain subject.

Abut - an adjacent object or the subject to be next to or have a common boundary with, to touch on and also to lean upon.

Air well - an architectural structure built in the olden days to promote natural lighting illumination and also to enhance natural ventilation within the interior spaces.

Accessibility - the approachability and also the quality of being available when needed.

Accommodate - the tendency to reconcile and bringing into harmony or to be able to occupy certain volume of object.

Ancestral hall - it is also known as the lineage temple which is a temple or a hall dedicated to deified ancestors and progenitors of surname lineages or families in the Chinese traditional religion.

Anjung - Porch, raised portion of a house.

Adaptations - the responsive adjustment of a sense organ or a certain alteration and moderation made in order to suit the external environment.

Approximate - the estimation of a certain calculated value of something based on informed knowledge.

Adequate - the sensation of having sufficient and satisfactory or acceptable in quality or in quantity.

Attap - Refers to the leaves from a nipa palm that are used for covering the top of a building or a roof in kampongs.

Aesthetics - a set of principles concerned with the nature and appreciation of beauty, especially in art and also the branch of philosophy that deals with the principle of beauty and artistic taste.

Awnings - a canopy that extend from a certain area which serves the purpose to provide shading and to shelter people from rain and sun.

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Balustrade - an ornamental feature or parapet on a balcony or surrounding a bridge, terrace or stairs which consist of railings.

Conjunction - the action or an instance of two or more events or things occurring at the same point in time or space.

Buffer - an architectural subject which exist to lessen or moderate the impact of something and to shield and protect something within.

Eaves - the part of the roof that meets or overhangs the walls of a building.

Bumbung - Roof; the cover at the top of a house.

Chandeliers - a decorative hanging light with branches for several light bulbs or candles.

Eclecticism - a conceptual approach that does not hold rigidly to a single paradigm or set of assumptions, but instead draws upon multiple theories, styles or ideas to gain complementary insights into a subject.

Collaborate - an action of working with someone to produce or create something.

Embedded - the action that fix an object firmly and deeply in a surrounding mass and also to attach.

Colonial - an architectural term depicting the style of certain buildings, usually referring to buildings of or relating to the characteristics of the British architecture which colonized dofferernt regions of the world.

Embodiment - a tangible or visible form of an idea, quality or feeling and also a representation or expression of something in a tangible or visible form.

Coordinate - an action to bring different elements of a complex activity or organization into a relationship that will ensure efficiency and harmony.

Essence - the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, especially something abstract, that determines its character.

Commemoration - an action that serves as a remembrance which is typically expressed in a ceremony.

Conjoin - the action to join or combine two or more separate elements and subjects.

Fabricate - construct or manufacture (something, especially an industrial product), especially from prepared components.

Fengshui - In Chinese thought, system of laws considered to govern spatial arrangement and orientation in relation to the flow of energy (qi), and whose favorable or unfavorable effects are taken into account when siting and designing buildings.

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Flank - be situated on each side of or on one side of (someone or something).

Ingenious - cleverly and originally devised and well suited to its purpose.

Franchises - an authorization granted by a government or company to an individual or group enabling them to carry out specified commercial activities

Initiative - the ability to assess and initiate things independently.

Implementations - the process of putting a decision or plan into effect; execution.

Gabled roof - the triangular part of an outside wall of a building formed by the sides of a sloping roof.

Intricate - very complicated or detailed.

Genius loci - the prevailing character or atmosphere of a place.

Grandeur - splendor and impressiveness, especially of appearance or style.

Hardscape - the non living or man-made fixtures of a planned outdoor area.

Illumination - the shade and piercing of rays of lighting or light.

Joists - A length of timber or steel supporting part of the structure of a building, typically arranged in parallel series to support a floor or ceiling.

Methodologies - a system of methods used in a particular area of study or activity.

Mobility - the ability to move or be moved freely and easily.

Municipal - an organization body of or relating to a city or town or its governing body.

Immense - extremely large or great, especially in scale or degree.

Inaugurate - mark the beginning or first public use of (an organization or project).

Inclination - a slope or slant.

Nanyang - Chinese name for the warmer and fertile geographical region south of China, known as Southeast Asia.

Nostalgia - a sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past, typically for a period or place with happy personal associations.

166

Nyonya - Combination of Chinese, Malay and other influences into a unique blend.

Rafter - One of several internal beams extending from the eaves to the peak of a roof and constituting its framework.

Orientation - the relative physical position or direction of something.

Reminiscing - indulge in enjoyable recollection of past events.

Ornamentations - things added to something to provide decoration.

Overhang - a part of something that sticks out or hangs over another thing.

Renaissance - the cultural rebirth that occurred in Europe from roughly the fourteenth through the middle of the seventeenth centuries, based on the rediscovery of the literature of Greece and Rome.

Pavilion - a building or similar structure used for a specific purpose, in particular which are usually highly decorated.

Ridge board - A timber laid along the ridge of a roof, to which the upper ends of the rafters are attached.

Perpendicular - a straight line at an angle of 90째 to a given line, plane, or surface.

Rustication - fashion (masonry) in large blocks with sunk joints and a roughened surface.

Pilaster - a rectangular column, especially one projecting from a wall.

Sanitary - of or relating to the conditions that affect hygiene and health, especially the supply of sewage facilities and clean drinking water.

Pitch - the steepness of a slope, especially of a roof.

Premise - a house or building, together with its land and outbuildings, occupied by a business or considered in an official context.

Soothing - having a gently calming effect.

Skylight - a window installed in a roof or ceiling.

Proximity - nearness in space, time, or relationship.

T-square - a T-shaped instrument for drawing or testing right angles.

Purlins - A horizontal beam along the length of a roof, resting on a main rafter and supporting the common rafters or boards.

Towkays - A business owner; boss especially a Malaysian Chinese 167

Transcend - be or go beyond the range or limits of (something abstract, typically a conceptual field or division).

Typology - a classification according to general type, especially in archaeology, psychology, or the social sciences.

Ventilation - the provision of fresh air to a room, building, etc.

Verandah - A roofed platform along the outside of a house, level with the ground floor.

Vernacular - architecture concerned with domestic and functional rather than monumental buildings.

Vicinity - the area near or surrounding a particular place and proximity in space or relationship.

Walkability - It is a measure of how friendly an area is to walking.

168

Appendix A: Interview Transcript

This interview took place between the interview team and the owner

say some of people of the older generations are quite

of the Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay & Event Hall, Ms. Lee Yoke Chee.

open-minded with the changes and supportive of the younger generations’ ideas. Hopefully the citizen of

Interviewer

: Hi Mrs. Lim. Good afternoon. We are students from

Ipoh will move on from the narrow minded mentality

Taylor’s University and we would like to have an

of theirs and thinking deeper into preserving their

interview with you about Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay.

culture. Because of this intention, we are willing to be

First of all, what do you think about the current Ipoh

initiative and we really hope that through us, people

heritage conservation practices and movement?

would come to realize and appreciate the value of old buildings and that they could be preserved.

Mrs. Lim

: We hope that the citizens of Ipoh would move on and

Frankly, we are one of the pioneering families who

light up Ipoh make it more prosperous. But it seems like

are preserving and conserving heritages around

the younger generation are the ones who are educating

Ipoh. Due to our initiation, everyone around starts to

the older generation. Part of the younger generation love

follow our footsteps as well, and this is what that was

old buildings and indirectly attracts and pull the older

intended since the beginning of our initiation.

generation closer into conserving older and heritage buildings. Older generation nowadays think that old

Interviewer

stuffs, including buildings should be

: From our understanding, Mr. and Mrs. Lim are not in Ipoh as often back then. Mind sharing with us what’s the

either thrown away or just to let it be how it was without

story behind this?

any sort of mind-set into conserving, preserving and making it better. Regardless, the younger generations here in Ipoh have different mind-set and really do feel the essential need to preserve old buildings. So I would

Mrs. Lim

: Yea, we aren’t always in Ipoh. We used to stay in Indonesia because we were working there. I came back here at around the year 2000 due to my children’s

education. Currently, Mr. Lim is still in Indonesia due to

buildings. We knew from the moment we start that

his career as an engineer. During the time when I got

it’s a long road down and it’s definitely not going to

back, they (my children) were still young and I was a

be easy but definitely worth it. Throughout the

housewife back then. By the time they were older, the

process, there’re bound to be many arguments and

eldest daughter came back from Australia andstayed

contradictions between one another. Not many

here for around a year while waiting for her results.

people are aware that it’s actually much harder to

Throughout her stay in Ipoh, this particular OCBC

preserve old building than to rebuild a new one. After

Building caught her eyes considering the fact that it was

purchasing the OCBC lot which comes together as a

on sale, she suggesting purchasing the premise. The

package of 4 lots (Yik Woh Goldsmith & Pawn Shop

first tender handed in was a failure, but despite that,

and also the lot which is currently Lim Ko Pi), we first

after more than half a year, the tender circulated back

start out with the opening of Lim Ko Pi as it was the

and asked if whether we were still interested and hence

least damaged among the rest of the lots. The

leading us into purchasing the building.

reason of the opening of Lim Ko Pi is to indirectly raise awareness regarding the importance of

Interviewer

Mrs. Lim

: So basically this particular OCBC Building is the first

preservation works towards heritage buildings and

heritage building that you guys purchased and by which

also to appreciate the value within heritages. Through

initiated the family business into conserving and

the opening of this coffee shop, the public would

preserving heritage buildings around Ipoh?

indirectly also know more regarding the history and

: Yes, and to be precise, all of these started off with my

culture of Nan Yang as the shop embodies its essence.

daughter. I like old building but not to the extent that I

I believe you guys are all also aware of the history of this

would purchase the entire building. But it is my daughter

particular OCBC building. It too had also started off with

who encouraged us to start preserving old heritage

a Chinese back then - Leong Seng Nam, who happens

to also be from Nan Yang. For Sarang Paloh Heritage

required to purchase the entire four lots together.

Stay, it’s actually taken charge and care by Miss Peggy,

The particular OCBC Building lot is actually bigger

who happens to be my second daughter. She is also the

than the rest and hence houses 2 lots, Yik Woh

one oversees of all the construction during the

Goldsmith & Pawn Shop is of one lot and Lim Kopi

refurbishment phase and currently managing it.

another. And as mentioned, we started off with the

Throughout the refurbishment process, we didn’t go

opening of Lim Ko Pi and later one the seven multi-

through any architects or interior designers but we do

colored shop lots.

consult them. We personally employed contractors and one of them being Mr. Lee and he is one of our most

Interviewer

:

Throughout

this

entire

conservation

and

trusted employee as he is very capable and also very

preservation process, do any of you guys happen to

passionate about heritages ranging from buildings to

face any sort of restrictions and obstacles caused by

furniture. Wear and tear occurrences do happen onto

the rules and regulations enacted upon this entire

these old buildings frequently and it is he who we seek

thing?

for at such times.

Mrs. Lim Interviewer

: One of the highest priority set by the government is

: So basically purchasing the OCBC Building was the

that the main façade of the building must be preserved

first move made and then later on moved on to

and must be remained unchangeable. Besides there are

purchasing the lot which is currently Lim Ko Pi?

also certain rule which we are abided in regards to the interior.

Mrs. Lim

: Actually Lim Ko Pi, the OCBC Building and Yik Woh Goldsmith belong to one owner, which is under the ownership of OCBC Bank. So upon purchase, we are

Interviewer

: Oh, so what are the restrictions for the interior?

Mrs. Lim

: Keeping the original wooden flooring is definitely not

Mrs. Lim

:

They

allowed

it

as our

proposal

and

permitted and the government wants it to be torn down

documentations were sufficient and efficient in order

and wants it to be cemented. But in our opinion, this

to cope with any sort of fire emergencies.

would greatly degrade the heritage value and authenticity within the interior of the building, thus we

Interviewer

fought for it to be retained.

Interviewer

: Why did they insist on changing all floorings to cement?

: So what are the steps taken in order to gain the approval?

Mrs. Lim

: Quite a lot that was needed to be done to be precise. We asked people to hand in letters while

Mrs. Lim

: It’s because of the fire and through changing it would

gaining some help with some of the runners from

cope greatly in regards to any sort of fire tragedy

MBI (Majlis Bandaraya Ipoh).

interiorly. Due to us not wanting the flooring to be cemented, we need to come out with all sort of safety

Interviewer

proposal and documentations in order to cope with any

: So, in the end despite the restrictions, you guys didn’t change the materials?

sort of fire emergencies. Precautions must be taken and all proposed safety measures had to be approved by the

Mrs. Lim

: No. There’s no point to that and which will contradict

authorities in order to cope with it and furthermore these

with our aim. Preserving façade is definitely important,

lots involve some of it being a hotel, hence it has to be

but changing the interior will totally defeat its purpose,

far more fireproof.

making the building to lose its original essence. There are a lot heritage buildings with only preserved façade

Interviewer

: So they approved of it in the end?

but then there’s no meaning to that, no value in it and not counted as truly preserving the heritage building.

Interviewer Interviewer

: As a matter of fact, we came across some similar

: As for the structure within the buildings, how do you make sure that the structure is safe?

concept shop lot with one by the name of Sekeping and was wondering do you know it and if you do, we were

Mrs. Lim

: For those of which are corroded, we took it down

wondering as to whether or not you could give us some

and replaced it with the old wood, the ones of which

opinion regarding its preservation works. They sort of

we got it from the junk yard.

have the same intentions and ideas as to preserve the building but they did it in a very much different way. For

Mrs. Lim

Interviewer

: Ahh I see. So, instead of replacing the spoilt ones

instance, their walls are not touched at all, structures are

with new ones you actually replace it with old and

left as what it was back then and even their lobby has

recycled building materials in order to reflect the

the essence of abandonment. In your opinion, what do

originality, authenticity and the essence of the

you think of this kind of preservation approach?

interior of the building?

: Well I would say that could definitely preserve the value

Mrs. Lim

: Yes, that exactly was our intention.

Interviewer

: So did you guys asked for help from any professionals

but in my opinion that lacks practicality. They need to do something about the walls for instance as they would corrode sooner or later. Actually as for us, we actually

in the field?

did studies regarding the lime as back then it was used to mix the plaster in order to make the walls. We try to

Mrs. Lim

: Before we did anything, we consulted architects and

do that for our wall in order to preserve the quality of the

civil engineers. Mr. Lim has some construction

walls and giving back the essence of the walls.

knowledge and background and my daughter, Peggy studied Chemical Engineering. So regardless, she too

has some knowledge about engineering which could help in terms of construction.

Interviewer

Interviewer

: Behind the event hall (OCBC lot) why is there a bunker-

: It looks very old. Were they the original old tiles or otherwise?

like structure behind and was it always there?

Mrs. Lim Mrs. Lim

: No it’s not the original old tiles. Actually the roof tiles

: It’s exactly a bunker. Based on passed owners, it’s a

on the top of OCBC Building are mostly worn and

place where staffs of the bank take refuge during cases

torn down. These are the tiles that we used to

of emergencies and war, and was frequently in use

replace them with. The ones that you saw were

especially during World War II.

spares which will be used to further replace any broken roof tiles in the future as time goes by.

Interviewer

: We noticed that there’s a garden above the bunker. What was it like back then before renovations?

Interviewer

: Due to the way you preserve the building, the building looks as if it were as real as of what it was

Mrs. Lim

: It’s just a floor slab back then. Stairs were originally not

like back then to a point where it’s hard for us to

there before. You can notice there are two holes

distinguish any sort of differences as to which was

penetrating through the roof slab above the bunker

refurbished and which was originally there.

which actually serve as air vents back then.

Mrs. Lim Interviewer

Mrs. Lim

: But then here comes the other problem, old tiles tend

: While we were touring around the bunker which is now

to break easily. That’s why we are having problem with

converted into a storage space, we noticed a few stacks

our roof occasionally. It tends to break off from time to

of old, chattered roof tiles.

time due to wear and tear caused by weathering

: Are they still good or old?

conditions.

to whether or not we could dig up any sort of good Interviewer

: How often does it occur?

tiles and indeed there were, buried deep beneath the layer of plaster which was used to coat the walls of

Mrs. Lim

: Quite often. That’s why we have a lot spare roof tiles

the bank.

stacked in our storage for times like those.

Interviewer Interviewer

: How was it like back then on the top floor of the OCBC

: Does that mean that there were other owners back then besides OCBC that owns the building?

lot?

Mrs. Lim Mrs. Lim

: Yes they were. Actually OCBC Bank bought it from

: It was filled with trees and roots lingering all over. It’s

a Chinese merchant - Leong Seng Nam. He started

very creepy.

a bank known as the Bank of Malaya and back then due to the great recession during the 1930s, OCBC

Interviewer

: As for the floorings, like for instance the floor tiles that

Bank bought it from him and hence did some interior

are in the event hall now, were they there originally?

changes within the building, one of which being the plastering of the walls which covered the mosaics

Mrs. Lim

: They are the new tiles. We utilize the Peranakan

embedded onto the columns.

(Nyonyan) tiles in order to reflect the essence of a traditional Chinese building. As for the mosaics

Interviewer

: But while touring within the event hall, we notice that

embedded onto the columns, it was originally buried

one of the strip of mosaics on the columns are actually

deep under roughly a feet of wall plastering. My

sticker pasted onto it.

daughter and I wanted to play a hunch and try our luck like the heritage building of Cheong Fatt Tze, to see as

Mrs. Lim

: The original strip of mosaics were spoilt. To add on to

complimenting the acoustics of the space and with

that, our building had been actually used to film movies

this I must really give credit to Ms. Peggy as she is

before by Singapore MediaCorp, a renowned movie

the one who insisted to convert this space into an

producer and filming firm. They came here to film a show

event hall and not something else.

and wanted to utilize the space as a traditional Chinese medicine shop. So in order to provide consistency of the

Interviewer

tiles onto the walls of the columns, they duplicated the

: Yea. We were just thinking as to why it isn’t a used as a lobby? Because lobbies are normally grand.

tiles in the form a sticker strip, printed it and pasted it onto the walls.

Mrs. Lim

: Yea indeed. But in the end of the day, lobbies are just places where people, client, or visitors linger

Interviewer

: Out of all kinds of spaces that you guys could transform

around while checking into a hotel while without

this lot into, why change it into an event hall but not

actually really utilizing the space which is a waste.

something else?

But now you see people, client and visitors enjoying the beauty of this space and actually utilize it for

Mrs. Lim

: We wanted to fully utilize the space to become a venue where several events can be held and where people

numerous purposes and functions.

Interviewer

: Do you roughly know how the arrangement of the

could gather while admiring the beauty of the interior

interior within this lot of building was as it being a bank

essence of the space, rather than maybe converting it

back then, in terms of the furniture, the counters and

into just a lobby which will be wasting the potential of the

also the placing of the vaults?

building. Besides, throughout this whole time, people from the local Chinese orchestra craves to book this event hall for performances and events as they were

Mrs. Lim

: Yes they do have a vault. In the event hall, as you can see there’s a place where it is covered by a grill door

and within in now is converted into a storage space for

Interviewer

Interviewer

: Were the three buildings connected in a sense that

furniture. That place back then was the vault serving the

they already have doors connecting within it or it was

bank.

added on later?

: We also noticed something uniquely odd within that

Mrs. Lim

: We took down some of the walls. The hallway

particular area. The ceiling height near the vault is lower

connecting the garden courtyard to the art gallery

than the space within the event hall. Was it originally

above Lim Ko Pi was originally a wall by which we

there or not and why was is done that way?

took it down later on, the door connecting Yih Woh Goldsmith & Pawn Shop was also added on later by

Mrs. Lim

: I think it was already originally there. The only changes

which originally was a wall which is also taken down.

we made there was the increase of the drop of the ceiling in order to fit the air-conditioning.

Interviewer

: So what was it like back then within the atrium which houses the spiral staircase now?

Interviewer

: The top floor of the OCBC Bank Building currently serves as hotel rooms for Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay.

Mrs. Lim

: It’s just an air well.

Interviewer

: But was it covered?

Mrs. Lim

: Yes, everything was covered back then because it is a

What was it like back then?

Mrs. Lim

: It’s empty. There were no rooms. We make partition walls for that. But despite that, there were certain rooms which were originally there which we just converted it

pawn shop. Even the air wells in Lim Ko Pi were covered

into hotel rooms also.

because it was an insurance company back then.

Interviewer

: So what do you know about the history of the shop

Interviewer

: Then in regards to this whole stretch of road - Jalan

houses in Ipoh? When and why it started? Based on our

Sultan Iskandar, any significance of it? Was it a very

understanding, this road was known for its goldsmith

stable land? Did you face any obstacles during

shops and trading activities right?

refurbishment like for instance land settlement or other sorts?

Mrs. Lim

: Actually this area were owned by Malays but due to the bad economy situation back then, it was then sold to the

Mrs. Lim

: It was and still is a very stable land. In regards to

Chinese. Leong Seng Nam started the Bank of Malaya

settlement, I’ll tell you directly, every buildings have

and then sells it to OCBC bank during the recession. So

settlements, and depending on how minor or major

we can actually conclude that trading activities and

it

family businesses have been along this road for more

vibrations occurring on the road. But this land is not

than 40 years.

an agricultural land nor a mining land, so it is

is. Every building will experience it due to

relatively quite stable.

Interviewer

: Correct me if I’m wrong but weren’t it squatters for the staffs back then above Yik Woh Goldsmith & Pawn Shop

Interviewer

and OCBC Bank building?

: So as far as you could remember, any sort of incidents, tragedies or obstacles faced while undergoing the process of refurbishment?

Mrs. Lim

: For OCBC Bank building, it wasn’t because it was a bank. But as for the floors above Yik Woh Goldsmith & Pawn Shop were squatters for the workers.

Mrs. Lim

: So far so good. But the only problem that we encounter is definitely the wetness and dampness. You see for the buildings here and it being old buildings, the tendency of wetness and damping emerging out from the walls are

frequent. Waterproofing wasn’t that good back then and

particular styles and ideas and merely based on self-

we can’t avoid these problems. So the only thing we

instincts.

could do is to maintain it from time to time frequently.

Interviewer Interviewer

: From what we manages to see from the hotel rooms

: But your point of view is to maintain the Chinese essence.

which were the Silver and Platinum Rooms, we noticed that different styles of design were used. Mind sharing

Mrs. Lim

Mrs. Lim

what was the intended design styles which were

Chinese cultural style, including Nan Yang and

implemented within the rooms?

Nyonyan style.

: I’d say that we did based on our own design instincts

Interviewer

and also to our personal likings and design preferences.

Interviewer Mrs. Lim

: Yea. To be honest, it’s a mix and match of a lot of

: Oh ok. It sort of brings back the Chinese cultured

: Yea that explains the Nyonyan tiles used within the event hall.

Mrs. Lim

: Yea. Because to be honest, the Nyonyas reflects

essence of the interior space.

on a very deep culture and then it looks grand. We

: We were aiming for that. Some of the beds that you all

actually really do like Nyonyan tiles and stuffs and we

saw were actually works of Mr. Lee. While most of the

were thinking why not merge all together and this is what

furniture are of antique collectors. They are all from

was resulted from those intentions.

traditional Chinese families. Some of the small stools are built by Mr. Lee as well. If you ask me if there’s any

Interviewer

: Oh ok. Interesting thought. Alright, thank you so much

sort of significance in the design of the interior space or

for your time and effort to help us out in gathering

anything or where the ideas came from, there are no

information for this assignment through this interview.

Mrs. Lim

: Yea. Because to be honest, the Nyonyas reflects on a very deep culture and then it looks grand. We actually really do like Nyonyan tiles and stuffs and we were thinking why not merge all together and this is what was resulted from those intentions. Thank you guys also for utilizing our buildings for your assignments and it was a pleasure meeting you all. I hope that I’ve helped you guys enough for your assignment.

Interviewer

: Thank you so much, you already have. See you soon.

Appendix B: Photobook

Appendix C: Scaled Drawings