Architecture Culture and Histor y II
MALAYSIA HIGHLIGHTS OLD JKR BUILDING pg. 3 - 8
PARLIAMENT BUILDING pg. 9 - 14
A study of modern Malaysian architecture TIMELINE AND DIAGRAM ANALYSIS OF POST-INDEPENDENCE ARCHITECTURE IN KUALA LUMPUR
STANDARD CHARTERED BUILDING pg. 15 - 20
NATIONAL MOSQUE pg. 21 - 26
WISMA ANGKASAPURI pg. 27 - 32
BANGUNAN GETAH ASLI pg. 33 - 38
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INTRODUCTION History of Malaya’s independence. For as long as the earliest documented history, Indigenous Malays have inhabited the land until the 17th century, European traders can be found present in the Straits of Malacca, doing business with international traders. By the mid-19th-century, British however, are already the most powerful colonizer in India, were looking towards Southeast Asia for new resources for war and global monopoly. For up to a century the British had successfully colonized Malaya, and in the later years up to 31st August 1957, independence was achieved .By 1963, Malaya sees the integration of eastern states of Sabah and Sarawak and the union up until today is known as – Malaysia. Post-Independence and Modernism in the Urban Architecture of Malaysia. Before the Second World War, the impact made by the European influences was apparent in some of the Modernist influenced buildings. The Public
Works Department (PWD) was responsible for the design and production of largest volume of buildings in the country. The architecture of this period was heavily influenced by the
International Style of Modernism. The most ubiquitous International Style buildings were JKR own series of offices which were based on “Standard Office Plans”.
Malaysia finds its own architectural identity post-inde pendence, through heavily lending from British influence, British colonial inspired designs can be seen throughout especially in major cities. In the blossom of Malaysia’s progression towards modern technology and global status, Malaysia saw buildings with more modern motifs (i.e. the use of more glass at the facade and flat roofs) as well as elements of local Islamic motifs arise over cities’ skylines. This evolution that became known as Modernism architecture, can be seen
POSTINDEPENDENCE ARCHITECTURE most prominently over Kuala Lumpur, with examples being the Petronas Twin Towers (KLCC), the KL tower, the National Mosque the National Science Centre, and many more. Reference : Post Merdeka Architecture (2007), 80 years of Architecture (2000)
TIMELINE 1957 OLD JKR building
1963
1964
PARLIAMENT building
STANDARD CHARTERED
1965 NATIONAL MOSQUE
1968
1980
WISMA ANGKASAPURI
BANGUNAN GETAH ASLI
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Location Jalan Sultan Lumpur
Salahuddin,
Kuala
Style International Style Architect W. Ivor Shipley Department)
1957
Ng Jing Yuan 0331472 Esther Wong 0332188 Lim Feng Yi 0332257 Vanessa Huang 0331528 Nur Anis Natasha 0326821 Pavitra a/p Yoganathan 0332425
Works
The most ubiquitous International Style buildings were JKR’s own series of offices, based on “Standard Office Plans” which were known for its functional approach for efficient use of space. The core design idea was a single-loaded naturally ventilated corridor system enveloping the office spaces. Modernist elements used in designing this building are boxy structures, wide roofs and projecting slabs to provide shade.
OLD JKR BUILDING First designed and built in the 1950’s, Jabatan Kerja Raya (JKR) is the federal government department in Malaysia under the Ministry of Works (MOW), mainly responsible for the construction and general maintenance of public infrastructure in West Malaysia and Labuan.
(Public
During that era, Malaysia embarked on an aggressive post-independence construction period where the expedient need for various offices, schools, colleges and other public buildings resulted in the creation of standard plans by the Public Works Department (PWD), currently known as JKR.
Historical Timeline 1872 Major J.F.A McNair established Jabatan Kerja Raya 1920 Completion of the Public Works Department Building which was designed by A.C. Norman.
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DIAGRAM ANALYSIS
SUBTRACTIVE
MASSING The Old JKR Building consists of a series of cuboids arranged in a rectilinear form. The cuboidal form promotes a sense of stability and its vertical linear form defines the edges of spatial field. Each linear cuboidal block functions mainly as office spaces. These forms are derived from the “Standard Office Plans�, resulting in forms which are geometrically simple and adhere to the functional approach of efficient use of space (The Living Machines, 2015).
UNIT TO WHOLE The Old JKR Building comprises of three storeys in which each floor represents a unit composed of a cuboidal form, stacked vertically parallel on top of each other. Each unit forms the office spaces which are located at each floor. The aggregation of units are joined together and seen equally as a whole thus, enhancing the unity of the building (Precedents In Architecture, 2012).
MATERIALITY Concrete and glass are used mainly in the construction of the building. Steel columns made up the support system of the building and were arranged linearly and repeatedly on each floor, creating an emphasis of horizontality which expresses functionalism that was much focus on during the emergence of the era of Modernism. The use of concrete, glass and steel marked the evolution of the building industry during the Industrial Revolution.
Sections of cuboidal form are subtracted from the main body of the building, forming the corridors and overhangs which shade the floor or corridor beneath them. The subtracted form created the horizontal circulation which eased the facilitation of the users at each floor and emphasized the dominant form of the main building.
REPETITION AND RHYTHM The building consists of windows and doors arranged linearly in alternating pattern and repeatedly along each floor. This creates a continuous rhythmic pattern of squares and rectangles which provide a sense of orderliness and ensures visual continuity.
SYMMETRY AND BALANCE The geometric cuboidal form of the Old JKR Building is bilateral symmetrical in composition in which the halves of the cuboid mirror each other. The visual weight is evenly balanced by the horizontal and vertical axis of symmetry which reconciles the opposing forces in the composition, further enhancing the visual stability. Having balanced weight on equal sides of the building creates a sense of rational order and state of equilibrium. Hence, ease the facilitating of the arrangement of spaces of the building.
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NATURAL LIGHTING The sun path which travels from east to west penetrates sunlight through the windows and metallic railings, illuminating the corridors with dramatically changing rays and shadows. The play of light and shadow was emphasized in the architecture of Le Corbusier in search of more poetic and symbolic formulations. (International Style - Modernist Architecture 1925-1965, 2001)
CIRCULATION The Old JKR Building consists of a single loaded naturally ventilated corridor system linking the office spaces. The floors are vertically connected by open staircases at two ends. The
FENESTRATION The windows and doors on each floor serve as means of fenestration by promoting passive solar cooling, as well as provide natural points of
horizontal linear floors which act as corridors serve as a mean of horizontal circulation, providing linkage for the office spaces at each floor. Vertical circulation is articulated with the open staircases
ventilation and air circulation. Fenestration aids in improving indoor air quality and increase comfort level of the spaces. The doors serve as entry ways
which are stacked up vertically at both ends connected on every floor by open cantilevered corridors, ensuring a continuous circulation flow between each floor. (Azaiddy Abdullah, 2015).
which provide the transition from one space to another through the act of penetrating a vertical plane (Energy Education, 2015).
MODERN ELEMENTS FOUND IN THE OLD JKR BUILDING 1.
Emphasis on rectangular planes and horizontality which expresses functionalism and regularity (International Style - Modernist Architecture 1925-1965, 2001).
2.
Lack of ornaments - geometric regularity and straight lines provide a clean aesthetic facade (What is Modern, 2011).
3.
Extensive use of concrete, glass and steel in the overall structure of the building (What is Modern, 2011).
4.
The repetitive display of windows on the facade provide a sense of rhythmic flow of visual continuity and allow penetration of sunlight to illuminate the interior spaces (International Style - Modernist Architecture 1925-1965, 2001).
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10 Location Jalan Parliament, Kuala Lumpur (previously known as West Folly Hill) Style Regional Modern (The hybrid of Early Modernist style with strong Regionalism elements.) Architect W. Ivor Shipley Department)
1963
Tan Yin Yee 0329299 Teoh Chong Kin 0331215 Farhana Khandaker Ridha 0331362 Lim Jun Wei 0329389 Reyshmi Ratchaniya Rajagopal 0329773
Works
Its design shows the hybridisation of two distinct styles made for a ‘nationalistic’ building. The distinctive and unique ‘pineapple-skin’ look facades of the main block and tower block are regionalistic devices that provides sun-shading in the tropics (Parliament Building, 2016).
PARLIAMENT BUILDING The construction of the building was a contrivance of the first Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tunku Abdul Rahman a building specifically for Parliament. As a result, a site near to Lake Perdana, Kuala Lumpur was selected for the construction of the building due to its strategic location on a hill and near the city centre.
(Public
Historical Timeline
The Parliament building has two parts. Clear spatial separation between the parliament and the governmental establishment was a crucial design consideration. The main block hosts the Hall of Senate and House of Representatives whereas the tower block hosts the representatives offices.
1959 Site selection for Parliament Building.
2012 Repair facade panel and pinnacle rooftop
1962 Construction work started.
2014 Proposed restoration works and upgrading of Parliament Building (Main Block, Parliament Square and its surrounding areas)
1963 Completion and Opening of Parliament Building 2011 Multipurpose Hall was renovated to become House Block to temporarily house House of Representatives and the Senate.
Construction of block for members of Parliament and the administration office and other blocks of supporting offices
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DIAGRAM ANALYSIS
SYMMETRY AND BALANCE The tower block can be seen to display biaxial symmetry, as two definite axis of symmetry can be drown. The main block shows symmetry only with one axis of symmetry which cut through the longer section of the building. If studied based on axis, we can see that the perched triangular roof is off-axis and slightly to the left. Hence the overall building form shows asymmetrical balance (Parliament Building, 2016).
SPATIAL HIERARCHY
GEOMETRY This building consists of a 17 storeys tower block and a 3 storeys main block. Both tower block and main block are cuboid in shape. The tower block has a square base while the main block has a rectangular base. The unique part of this building is the use of 11 triangular shaped structures on the top of the main block, forming a pinnacle (Parliament Building, 2016).
MATERIALITY The Parliament building mainly uses reinforced concrete structure due to its high compressive strength and high durability. Precast concrete is used during the construction as it significantly speeds up the construction time. Most of the facade walls are tempered glasses finishes to keep the interior of building cool constantly (Parliament Building, 2016).
RESPONSIVENESS TO SITE The building is located on a sloppy hill, overlooking the city from its high level topography, significing its ceremonial connection with the city. It also provides a sense of its importance as well as formality when perceived amidst the adjacent landscape. The building is also easily accessible by motorized vehicles though surrounded in a natural setting and maintained with greeneries overlooking a lake (Parliament Building, 2016).
The 3 storeys main block is ‘The heart of the whole building’, which is the most important part of the Parliament building where the House of Representatives is located. Its dominance in hierarchy is further displayed by the pinnacle-shaped roof design resting on top of the main block, which defines its importance as the House of Representatives (Parliament Building, 2016).
SPATIAL ORGANISATION The Parliament building is divided into the tower block and main block, connected by two 50-metre bridges. The tower block has offices for ministers and members of Parliament. The highest level of this building, known as Anjung Parlimen has an open space that is frequently used for functions and has a breathtaking panoramic view of the city skyline. The House of Representative is designed in the main block. The space acts to support and facilitate the parliamentary process. Beneath it, the basement level acts as the service floor (air-conditioning, telecommunication, water and electrical supplies) (Parliament Building, 2016).
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NATURAL LIGHTING
REPETITION AND RHYTHM The pineapple-skin looking precast terrazzo cladding panels on the faรงade of the building show repetition and
REPETITIVE TO UNIQUE The repeating usage of rectilinear cuboid forms in the tower block and main block displays the repetitive element in this building. The 17-storey-office is designed as a cuboid with a rectilinear-shaped water
rhythm. All the panels are similar in size (132 inches in height and 40 inches in width). Each course of terrazzo panel is offset by half the length of a single
tank designed on the roof of the building. In addition to that, the main block of the Parliament building is also a rectilinear structure which havs the same faรงade appearance as the tower block. The uniqueness of this building is the triangular prism structure roof of the
terrazzo panel with respect to the adjoining course. This arrangement is repeated throughout the facade, giving flow and movement to it (Voon Fee, C., 2007).
House of Representative. It is not similar to any other parts of the building. This design is to show its uniqueness and contrast with other parts of the building, at the same time highlighting the special useof the space (Parliament Building, 2016).
The whole facade of the building is laminated tempered glass which allows sufficient sunlight to enter the building. It also reflects heat from the sun, keeping the interior of the building cool. With the terrazzo panels as the outer layering, it provides shade and evades direct sunlight. The triangular roof designed on the House of Representatives has openings between one another allows daylight to illuminate the chamber, at the same time, highlighting the most important part of the building (Parliament Building, 2016).
MODERN ELEMENTS FOUND IN THE PARLIAMENT BUILDING 1.
Use of modern architecture material such as reinforced concrete for the structure of the building while tempered glasses are use for finishes (What is modern, 2011).
2.
Use of simple rectilinear shape in the main block and tower block (What is modern, 2011).
3.
Use of recessed openings for the windows to create shading to keep the interior cool (What is modern, 2011).
4.
Large glasses window used to direct natural lighting into the building (Modern architecture design, 2016).
5.
Minimum use of bombastic design. Use of simple facade terrazzo panels as decorating element to show the minimalist aesthetic of the building (Modern architecture design, 2016).
6.
Concrete is not painted in order to express the natural texture and characteristics (What is modern, 2011).
7.
Asymmetrical form of the building express the modern element being used (Postmodern architecture, n.d).
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Location Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur Building Style Early Modern or International style (Brutalist Architecture) Architect Kington Loo, BEP Akitek SDN BHD 1964
1964
STANDARD CHARTERED BUILDING One of the earliest tall structures in the city, the Standard Chartered building became the first banking and administrative headquarters for the Standard Chartered Bank (Azaiddy Abdullah, 2015). Chin Kar Mun Ng Guo Yik Benjamin Ngai Daren Lai Yong Ping Ping Zuha Majid
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The banking hall is a double-storey space with a partial mezzanine floor (Yeang, K., 1992). Recessed
windows with sun-shading structures can be seen on the upper floor (Yeang, K.,1992). It is comprised of a podium and a ten-storey tower block with several central lift cores (Azaiddy Abdullah, 2015). Even now, this archetypal form configuration is still seen in many modern commercial buildings (Azaiddy Abdullah, 2015).
The building has a 1950’s appearance due to the reinforced concrete ‘post and lintels’ shading frame and the ‘Brutalist’ unfinished concrete side walls (Yeang, K., 1992). The facade shows a regionalist idea of modern structures due to its response to the climatic conditions of the city (Azaiddy Abdullah, 2015). There is easy access to the building for motor vehicles by having no specific pedestrian entrance (Yeang, K., 1992).The ground level of this building also had one of the first drive-through ATM facilities in the country (Azaiddy Abdullah, 2015).
Historical Timeline
The building is now called Wisma Amanah Raya which serves as headquarters for Amanah Raya Berhad.
1965 Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman officiates the opening of the Chartered Bank Building.
1st May 1921 Founding of AmanahRaya Berhad. 1964 Completion of Standard Chartered Building.
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DIAGRAM ANALYSIS
SYMMETRY AND BALANCE
MASSING The concept of the building comprises of two rectilinear forms of different dimensions, creating primary and secondary elements. Perception of the overall volume of the building is not affected by the fenestration on the facade. The simplistic form design influenced by modernist architecture easily gained public acceptance (Clark, R. H., & Pause, M., 2012).
MATERIALITY Reinforced concrete used in the construction of walls and roof overhangs provide a smooth texture surface whereas the glass windows arranged linearly, makes up the facade, allow endless penetration of natural sunlight into the interior spaces of the buildings. The vast use of concrete and glass gave the building an industrial or utilitarian appearance in relation to Le Corbusier’s declaration that a house is a “machine for living in” (International Style - Modernist Architecture 1925 1965, 2001).
SPATIAL ORGANISATION The lower part has a larger base consisting of basement car park, reception and consultation office. Private office floors are located on the upper floors to restrict accessibility of public. The joint between the two rectilinear structures provides an open space which forms the open concept terrace which acts as a rest area.
The building established bilateral symmetry with two visible axis of symmetry, hence achieving balance and harmony. The overall structure also displays a very solid and stable composition (Clark, R. H., & Pause, M., 2012).
EMPHASIS The vertical fins and protruding horizontal slabs are placed juxtaposed against each other, creating sections of windows arranged repetitively in a linear order. Monotonous regularity gave emphasis on the horizontality and verticality elements which created an elegant unity within the frame of the building (Khan, H., 2001).
REPITITION AND RHYTHM The windows showcase element of repetition as they are arranged orderly in one linear direction, repeated for each floor of the building. Roof overhangs appears to sandwich each floor as a clear divider of each floor showing the rhythm of the layers in the building. The flat roof maintains the consistency of horizontal overhangs planes which is heavily emphasized during the International Style Modernism era (Clark, R. H., & Pause, M., 2012).
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MODERN ELEMENTS FOUND IN THE STANDARD CHARTERED BUILDING SPATIAL HIERARCHY SSpatial hierarchy is shown through the public and private separation of spaces between the two parts of the building. The bottom level
NATUAL LIGHTING AND VENTILATION lLarge number of windows allow natural light to enter the building during daytime. Roof overhangs and the
of the building is a more public space, where the admission office and car park are found. The top level of this building are the offices, hence function as a more private space. The
vertical fins at each floor provides adequate shading to prevent direct exposure of sunlight. Windows allow fenestration into the building, ensuring a good
spatial hierarchy provided a clear and functional utilisation of spaces within the building (Clark, R. H., & Pause, M., 2012).
amount of ventilation to avoid high moisture content (Clark, R. H., & Pause, M., 2012).
1.
Use of flat roof in the building (Modernism, 2017).
2.
The building itself emphasizes horizontal and vertical lines through simple geometric shapes in the building (What is modern, 2011).
3.
Glass windows are used to allow penetration of natural light into the building (What is modern, 2011).
4.
Use of reinforced concrete as the main material of the building (Modernism, 2017).
5.
Modern structural system such as concrete floor slab and concrete column are used to enhance the stability and durability of the building (What is modern, 2011).
6.
Minimal ornamentation is used. Focus is on simple straight lines, boxes and solid colours to give a clean aesthetics to the building (Modernism, 2017).
7.
Use of long overhangs in the building to provide shading and reduce the thermal heat entering the building for users’ comfort (What is modern, 2011).
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22 Location Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur Style Mixture of modern architecture, traditional Islamic style and traditional Malay Architecture Architect UK architect Howard Ashley, Hisham Albakri, Baharuddin Kassim.
1965
NATIONAL MOSQUE National Mosque is a mosque that has a capacity of 15000 people and is situated among 13 acres of beautiful garden. (National Mosque of, 2018)
Chin Kar Mun Ng Guo Yik Benjamin Ngai Daren Lai Yong Ping Ping Zuha Majid
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The entire area is surrounded partly by concrete walls and decorative fencing. National Mosque was built as a symbol of Malaysia becoming a new independent nation when Tunku Abdul Rahman
became the first Prime Minister of Malaysia. National Mosque is primarily used as a place for Muslims to perform prayers. Occasionally, it was used as a centre for religious meetings and ceremonies when large congregations gathered. It also acts as a tourism attraction. (Lim, Yong Long (2007) The national mosque: Centre of Modern Architecture Studies in Southeast Asia.)
The design concept of building is to blend classical Islamic patterns and contemporary modern architectural style together with tropical vernacular architecture elements. Verandah support structures inspired by coconut palm fronds while the dome and minaret reminiscent of opened and unfurled royal umbrella (Sustainability of 13, n.d.).
Historical Timeline 1960 Beginning of construction 1963 Laying of foundation stone of National Mosque 1965 Completion and opening of National Mosque 1987 National Mosque underwent major renovations
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DIAGRAM ANALYSIS
MASSING The mosque consists of a wide based cuboid, a series of secondary cuboids and couples of cones. The asymmetrical approach of the National mosque creates contrast to imperial symmetry of traditional mosque designs. The depth-to-height proportion encourages convective air currents throughout its structure. The main part of the mosque, the minaret and the dome is emphasized vertically (Azaiddy Abdullah, 2015).
PARTI The architect intended to build a mosque that differs from the traditional dome roof mosque by designing certain pleated roofs. At the same time, different sizes of rectangular shapes are interplayed to create symmetry within the spaces (Azim A. Aziz., 2015).
MATERIALITY The structural posts and beams were made from reinforced concrete. Radial folded plate roof of main prayer hall and mausoleum were constructed using reinforced concrete which is commonly used in the Modernism era due to its flexibility to create new forms. Use of multicoloured glass windows in the clerestory of the main hall provide tranquility and serenity to the space. (Azim A. Aziz., 2015).
ASSYMMETRICAL BALANCE The mosque has asymmetrical composition of volumes through the articulation of individual volumes that has its own local symmetry. Overall visual balance is achieved through the play of horizontality and verticality. The longer horizontal extension towards one side of building is balanced by higher vertical extension of the two radial folded plates roofs at the opposite side (Lim, Yong Long., 2007).
HIERARCHY
ADDITIVE AND SUBTRACTIVE The mausoleum and conference hall were added to the main building and are linked with corridor. The form of mosque is subtracted from rectangular structures to create open spaces for natural light and air current to enter(Lim, Yong Long., 2007).
Visual hierarchy of national mosque is achieved through shape and size.The prayer hall, the most important part of the mosque, gains attraction through its pleated roof. It further emphasizes its importance through its large size and green-blue coloured roof tiles compared to the smaller and white-coloured mausoleum. Hierarchy through placement is also applied to this building. Prayer hall is placed at the centre of the building as the main feature and occupies the most space among the other functional spaces (Azim A. Aziz., 2015).
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VENTILATION
REPITITION AND RHYTHM
Built on a raised platform supported by pilotties with high ceilings is conducive for ventilation.The passenger walkways use columns instead of walls for support to allow maximum ventilation. The pathways positioned at North and East side of building are screened with terrazzo grillworks to allow cool breeze to pass through while providing partial shading(Azim A. Aziz., 2015).
The columns display verticality that is shown throughout the building. The columns are arranged in grid manner in the verandah to establish a measurable rhythm. Vertical lines communicate a feeling of loftiness and spirituality. Erect lines seem to extend upwards beyond human reach, toward the sky(Lim, Yong Long., 2007).
CIRCULATION The main prayer is located at the first floor. There are 7 staircases access to the main prayer hall from the ground floor. The 7 staircases are designed at North, East and South side of the building. The multiple accesses to the main prayer are purposely designed for crowd control especially during Friday prayers and special events (Lim, Yong Long., 2007).
MODERN ELEMENTS FOUND IN THE NATIONAL MOSQUE 1.
The overall structure is low and rectangular. The tall minaret juxtaposed against the extended corridors for dramatic effect (What is Modern, 2011).
2.
Columns are used for load bearing instead of solid walls to create open and flowing interior spaces thus allowing visual contact with the surroundings (What is Modern, 2011).
3.
Reinforced concrete is chosen as the main material instead of timber and stone which are widely used in traditional mosque (Voon Fee, C., 2007).
4.
Despite the lavish interior design of the National Mosque, the exterior is relatively clean and simple without heavy ornamentation (Voon Fee, C., 2007).
5.
Interior spaces are lighten up with the use of natural light. Grillworks are used as partial shading while providing aesthetics purpose (What is Modern, 2011).
6.
Multicolored glass windows are used in the clerestory under folded dome of main hall to enhance the lighting of the hall and provide tranquility and serenity to the space.
NATURAL LIGHTING In the Mausoleum, the reflective pool surrounding the heroes’ graves reflects the sunlight into the interior of the semi enclosed space. Besides, the roof of the veranda is purposely elevated. The gap between both of the roof is covered with glasses to allow penetration of sunlight into the building (Lim, Yong Long., 2007).
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28 Location Jalan Pantai Dalam, Bukit Putra, Kuala Lumpur Style Regional Modern, International style with slight Malay architectural influences Architect Nicholas James Papas, N.J Pappas and Associates, Canadian architects and engineers
1968
WISMA ANGKASAPURI Ng Jing Yuan 0331472 Esther Wong 0332188 Lim Feng Yi 0332257 Vanessa Huang 0331528 Nur Anis Natasha 0326821 Pavitra a/p Yoganathan 0332425
Angkasapuri, the Malaysia Broadcasting Complex , approximately 33 acres, sits on 80-foot hill beside the Federal Highway. It was to house the headquarters of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in 1968. Presently,Iit serves as the main governmental building for Malaysia's Ministry of Information and it is also the headquarters for Radio Television Malaysia (RTM).
They treat the buildings as a sieve that filter the external climatic conditions is the approach to the design of the iconic Angkasapuri’s Aministration Building, it bears influences from Le Corbusier’s architecture princciples.
The main focus of the complex is the Reception Hall sandwiched between the 10-storey Administration Building and Wisma TV, and complemented by a Radio House and an auditorium.
His philosophy such as the application of strutural pilotis, open plan, freestanding facade and ribbon windows for light infiltration can be seen in this building. The use of brise-soleil in the forms of “shields” was to function as a passive cooling design that shades for the building it enveloped.
Historical Timeline 1966 Construction of Wisma Angkasapuri started. 1968 Completion of construction. 1969 Opening of Wisma TV division. 1972 Addition of Wisma Radio. 1988 Engineering building housing facilities for planning and R&D opened. 2012 Addition of Wisma Berita RTM.
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DIAGRAM ANALYSIS
ORIENTATION
MASSING Composing of three abutting cuboidal forms of varying dimensions. The administration building is given the most importance as main operations are running here, thus it is designed to be iconic. Vertically extended form resulting in more efficient space-use due to its reduced footprint in the increasingly dense urban topography.
MATERIALITY Sunscreen on the facade is made of terrazzo concrete ‘shield’. Reinforced Concrete is used due to cheaper cost and convenience which is a trait of Modernism. Tinted glass is used for windows to adapt the tropical climate by filtering the sun rays. The seven barrel vaults of the entrance hall is made of reinforced concrete (Azaiddy Abdullah, The Living Machine, 2015).
STRUCTURE The administration building is supported by 18 reinforced concrete columns or pilotis that carried every horizontal slab as floors, absence of load-bearing wall allows flexibility for space usage. This is an implementation of the influential concepts purported by Le Corbusier under one of his Five Points of a New Architecture (Azaiddy Abdullah, The Living Machine, 2015).
Built in the equator zone, the long sides of the administration building are north-south facing which receive relatively lesser radiation, minimized the heat gain of the building. The east-west orientation is minimized to the shorter sides of the building.
ASSYMMETRICAL BALANCE Entrance hall acts as the axis. The inequilibrium created by the bigger base area of the Wisma TV and the smaller base area of Administration Building is counterbalanced by the greater height of the administration building and the smaller height of the Wisma TV. Equilibrium in the conceptual weight for both sides of the axis is achieved.
SPATIAL ORGANISATION Wisma TV follows a traditional office plan and a grid organization, where the spaces are compartmentalized .within a grid, portions can be subtracted, added so that the size of the grid can be changed to crease spaces of difference sizes accordingly to needs for different studios. Administration office is a break away from traditional office plan and implements a modernist flexibility in spatial organization with open plan as the spaces are not confined by walls , demountable partitions are used accordingly.
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SHADING DEVICES Sunscreen facade protects glass wall behind it from expose to direct sunlight and heat, keeping interior cool. Extruded barrel-vaulted roof shades the window beneath from direct sunlight and glare, avoiding uneasiness to the eyes when people view from the inside (Azaiddy Abdullah, The Living Machine, 2015).
REPETITION AND RHYTHM Repetitive barrel-vaulted roof of the entrance hall creates a wavy rhythm, giving dynamic quality. The alternating horseshoe crab ‘shields’ gives the perception of porosity to the administration building facade. Vertical patterns of the facade of Wisma TV renders a sense of orderliness and simplicity (Azaiddy Abdullah, The Living Machine, 2015).
SPATIAL HIERARCHY Reception hall acts as public space and main nexus directing human traffic to the flanking buildings. Wisma TV is a semi-private space as employees and permission-granted individuals are allowed to access. Administration building is a private space as only employees can access the building.
CIRCULATION Linear circulation is applied. In the Administration building, stairs and lifts are placed at two ends, making it possible to travel from floor to floor without having to retrace one’s steps to initial end. Circulation directly follows the grid organization pattern of the building in the Wisma TV. Two building are connected via a first floor bridge in the Entrance Hall. A simple and coherent circulations scheme can be observed.
MODERN ELEMENTS FOUND IN WISMA ANGKASAPURI 1.
The design contains pilotis for the car porch area. Reinforced concrete columns were used to serve structural function.
2.
Absence of load bearing walls and open interior spaces are found in the administration office.
3.
The building shows a free standing façade, independent of structural function.
4.
The form of building is rectilinear.
5.
Façade served as an “ environmental filter” , a sun-shading devices half-shading the glass behind.
6.
Generous use of glasses to allow penetration of natural light and create a feeling of lightweightness.
7.
Absence of ornamentation on the plane surface of building creates a sense of simplicity.
8.
Series of repetitive elements such as structural columns and shading devices were applied.
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Location 148, Jalan Ampang, Kampung Baru, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur Style International Style Architect Swan & Maclaren architecture firm
1980
BANGUNAN GETAH ASLI The Getah Asli Building was the testimony to the importance of Malaysia’s rubber industry while rubber production had been one of the main economic activity in the early 20th century. Tan Yin Yee 0329299 Teoh Chong Kin 0331215 Farhana Khandaker Ridha 0331362 Lim Jun Wei 0329389 Reyshmi Ratchaniya Rajagopal 0329773
The four-storey podium consist mostly of retail outlets, fast-food chain, restaurants, banks, showroom and cafeteria. The upper part of the
building is rented out to tenants like Affinbank. The main building is the headquarters for the Malaysian Rubber board or Lembaga Getah Malaysia. Architecture of this building believes that architecture equates to the struggle to refine form and structural system and was meant to give regular order to the aesthetic of a building.
This idea was applied in the design of the Bangunan Getah Asli through the use of a stark modernist idiom in the architectural aesthetics, commensurate of the image of the modern nation. This modernism was rooted in the philosophy known as “Functionalism” that explores way to resolve problems related to technology, socio politics and economics together aesthetics.
Historical Timeline 1960s Construction of four-storey podium block. 1964 The four-storey podium block was officiated by the first Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tunku Abdul Rahman. 1980s Construction of the main block.
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DIAGRAM ANALYSIS
MATERIALITY Black tinted curtain wall is used in the facade of two buildings to lower down the
MASSING The building have a form of cuboid and basic geometric shape to create a more functional space. The main building has a central vertical axis of symmetry, showing the balance in the Getah Asli Building. Bangunan Getah Asli classified as ‘Modernism’ was rooted in the philosophy described as “Functionalism” (Azaiddy Abdullah, 2015).
interior’s temperature. Reinforced concrete were used for the main structural material and flooring to
create not only a strong structure and smooth surface. Polycarbonate used as the cover of the bridge.
help improve the connection and circulation between two buildings. Outside the fourstorey podium has a overhang roof for drop off area.
Subtraction : The main building is supported by exposed ground level columns or pilotis to free the ground floor for circulation.
PARTI The building is designed in a simple way by using rectangular forms as the basic shapes. Its design emphasize in create a more functional spaces for the users, due to the reason lots of vertical and horizontal line had been used in designing the building to create a well-defined plans, put every single space into good use, even the roofs of the podium and main building are flats (Azaiddy Abdullah, 2015).
SITE CONTEXT Getah Asli building was the testimony to the importance of Malaysia’s rubber industry, so it located at the center of Kuala Lumpur. It situated at the busy intersection of Jalan Ampang and Jalan P.Ramlee, it can make the circulation of data and human resources become easier. However it is now overshadowed by the Petronas Twin Tower.
ADDITIVE AND SUBTRACTIVE Addition : The four-storey podium and the main building is connected by a bridge between them which
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REPETITION Long vertical strips of glass windows show a repetition of windows throughout the facade of the two buildings. This allows natural lights shine through the windows. This will create a sense of organisation and showed the coherency of these two buildings.
SYMMETRY AND BALANCE Both buildings have a form of a cuboid and it shows a basic geometric shape.The main building has a central vertical axis of symmetry showing the balance between parts of the Getah Asli Building.
NATURAL LIGHITNG The four-storey podium contains a central courtyard with a raised roof to allow natural light from four sides. The main building is covered with curtain wall to allow natural light from all sides.
The four-storey podium and main buildings openings are covered with glass and curtain wall which blocks the natural flow of natural ventilation. The entrance is the only pathway for the wind to enter the building (Azaiddy Abdullah, The living Machine, 2015).
MODERN ELEMENTS FOUND IN BANGUNAN GETAH ASLI 1.
Geometric shapes are used to maximise the space function of the building. which makes Banguanan Getah Asli look minimal and without much ornamentation (What is Modern, 2011).
2.
The building uses horizontal massing and flat roof to assimilate into the site (Modernism, Riba, 2012).
3.
Reinforced concrete is used to enhance the stability of the building structure. Metal and glass frameworks are used for the facade to utilise natural light (Modernism, Riba, 2012).
4.
The entire facade of building uses windows and curtain walls to enhance the visual connection between interior spaces and site, taking advantage of the views in the center of Kuala Lumpur (What is Modern, 2011).
SPATIAL HIERARCHY The four-storey podium contains a central courtyard, which the cafeteria and Affin Bank are located beneath it, all together defined as public space. The upper floor of the four-storey podium are semi-private spaces. The main building is mostly private space except for the entrance. The upper floor of the main building are private offices, defined as private space (Azaiddy Abdullah,The Living Machine, 2015).
VENTILATION
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Ching, F. K. (2015). Architecture : form, space, & order. Hoboken, New Jersey : Wiley, 2015.
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Postmodern Architecture. (n.d.). In triposo. Retrieved from https://www.triposo.com/loc/Kuala_Lumpur/architectural_style-postmodern_architecture/background
Azaiddy Abdullah.(2015).The Living Machines. Kuala Lumpur : Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia, 2015. Azim A. Aziz. (2015). 50 Years National: ATSA Architects Sdn Bhd Lim, Yong Long. (2007). The national mosque: Centre of Modern Architecture Studies in Southeast Asia. Voon Fee, C. ( 2007).The encyclopedia of Malaysia Architecture: Archipelago Press. Khan, H. (2001). International style : modernist architecture from 1925 to 1965. Koln [Germany] : Taschen, 2001.
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