Comprehensive Report

Final Design Report :

Social Cultural Centre, Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Architecture School of Architecture, Build and Design Architectural Design Report (ARC60108)

Name : Chow Wei Qi Student ID : 0331447 Tutor : Ar Emmanuel Canlas

1.

Project Background & Project Brief ………………………………………………………... 3 1.1. Abstract 1.2. Introduction of Project 1.3. Project Objectives

2.

Site Investigation & Contextual Studies ………………………………………………….... 4-30 2.1. Brief Historical Background 2.2. Urban Studies & Macro Site Analysis

3.

Design Strategies & Exploration……………………………………………………………... 31-38 3.2. Precedent Studies 3.3. Design Narrative 3.4. Site Planning Strategies & Diagrammatic Design Response 3.5. Spatial Programming & Organization

4.

Environmental and Technological Strategies ……………………………………………... 39-46 4.1. Sustainability Concept 4.3. Material and Resources 4.4 Microclimate Studies 4.2. Energy Conservation features 4.6. Structural Concept

5.

Final Design Portfolio …………………………………………………………………………. 47-61 5.1. Complete Boards .

2

1

PROJECT BACKGROUND & PROJECT BRIEF

1.1

Abstract

This module is a thematic studio based on the theme of ‘sustaining humanities’ architecture for people, place and time. In line with the current discourse on sustainability, it upholds the belief that architecture can create better places, that architecture can affect society and humanity, and that it can have a role in making a place civilized by making a community livable. The design project is divided into three main phases: Pre-Design Phase, Schematic Phase and Final Design Phase.

In the Pre-Design Phase, an in depth and comprehensive analysis is conducted on the intangible and tangible qualities of the site while looking into the possibilities and impact of the proposed project to the site and people. All these information will then be assembled into a bigger picture that could be used as references and guide for the next phase in design.

1.2

Introduction of Project

Johor Bahru is one of Malaysia premier city and urban destination because of its highly modernized infrastructure. The city is one of the fast-growing city in Malaysia after Kuala Lumpur.

The city has a very strong connection and relationship with Singapore, throwing trades on both sides. Most locals opted to travel to Singapore for work and leisure while Singaporeans going to JB during weekends to shop.

Based on the current feel of the place, Johor Bahru City is a hotspot at both day and night time where the most popular destinations are theme parks, temples, parks, shopping malls and entertainment centres.

In the Schematic Phase, exploration of spatial organization and form design takes place through looking into relevant precedent studies as basis for design approach. Demonstration of approach, strategy and concept responding to the contextual condition, design objectives and user experience are further developed as well.

According to several research and analysis conducted, Johor Bahru City is lacking in its socio-cultural aspect which relates to having a platform for public interaction extending beyond lifestyle centre where it is more of a people to product rather than people to people interaction.

Therefore, Johor Bahru City is in need of a ‘City Lobby’ where it could encourage positive engagement between the public, an opportunity for youth, elderly and adult public to stamp and define the place through their own collaborative activities.

Lastly in the Final Design Phase, integration of Environmental & Technology and structural aspect into the design expected to enhance and improve the qualities of the design aside from its aesthetics.This provides an insight to the overall process and considerations taken into account to achieve a comprehensive and clear final design.

The Final Architecture Design Project calls for designing a ‘City Lobby’, with the theme of ‘sustaining humanities’, which will engage and re-engage the city’s local population and visiting tourists from other towns or countries. This project addresses the researches and studies on socio-cultural issues related to the architecture of Johor Bahru.

1.3 ● ● ● ●

Project Objectives To design spaces that will create positive impact to the public To fully explore design through a series of test to identify the possibilities and potentials To incorporate elements of sustainability through to design to promote a healthier living environment To deliver project efficiently with compliance to the guidelines and regulations, buildability, safety standards and user requirements.

3

2

SITE INVESTIGATION & CONTEXTUAL STUDIES

2.1

Brief Historical Background

1940-1980 1940 - Sultan completed

1855-1885 The present area of Johor Bahru was originally known as Tanjung Puteri and was a fishing village of the Malays.

Ibrahim

building

was

1942 - The continuous development of JB was however halted with the Japanese invasion.

1946 - UMNO under Dato’ Onn Jaafar created.

1962 - Shophouses began to emerge, catering to various different businesses and The old Market was moved to Jalan Wong Ah Fook, which then became the city hub.

1900-1920 Water market was established on Segget Island, making it a trading location for farmers and fishermen.

1980-1991 Construction of large-scale buildings forming a town.

Urban design began to change in proportion and scale of building.

Segget river covered and buildings constructed over.

roads

and

Road around Sultan Ibrahim building was built for easy access to the nearest buildings.

1920-1940 1921 - Land exploration leading to major roads built. Example; Jalan Wong Ah Fook 1924 - The Johor Causeway link for train and road construction was built.

1940 - The secretariat building was complete.

2000-onwards 2005 - Legaran Segget is opened.

2006 PERSADA Johor (International Convention Center) opened

4

2.2 Urban Studies & Macro Site Analysis

LANDMARK

SITE B

AS ATTRACTION

Visual Landmark Social Landmark Functional Landmark Historic/Religious Landmark

Landmarks provide visual cues to direct users into site.

SITE B

Our social-cultural hub can continue the landmark sequences with continuity of path by multiple approaches.

5

DISTRICT ZONING

TRANSPORTATION

MIXED -USED COMMERCIAL ( FINE GRAIN )

ADMINISTRATIVE

Bandar Johor Bahru is made of old and new town ,heritage buildings are part of the identity amongst this site.

SITE B

HERITAGE

MIXED -USED COMMERCIAL ( COARSE GRAIN )

6

EDGES USER EXPERIENCE

EDGE

Urban Scale Drastic contrast by the coarse grain urban fabric creates a clear distinction in its skyline comparing to the much traditional build form.

7

NODES PEDESTRIAN

DROP OFF / PICK UP POINT

The walking culture around site B is strong thus there’s many pedestrian nodes throughout the day.

PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE / TRANSPORT NODE

Social nodes here are gathered due to convenience as well as a necessary contact point for drop off/pick up.

SECONDARY SEATING

Enabling people to have views across spaces while giving them options to sit or linger.

INFORMAL BUS STOP/ PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE SITE B

INFORMAL PICK UP/ DROP OFF POINT

FISH HEAD CURRY / EATERY NODE

DROP OFF/ PICK UP POINT

8

NODES FUNCTIONAL SHOPLOTS

PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE

INFORMAL FRESH GOODS VENDOR

Functional nodes occurs at certain time of the day and only certain days of the week.

SITE B

FOOD ALLEY

INFORMAL PICK UP / DROP OFF POINT

These nodes gathered due to specific activities such as sitting at shaded areas , buying groceries as well as eating in between buildings.

WALKWAY OF TEMPLE

9

VEHICLE CIRCULATION PATTERN ONE-WAY CIRCULATION TWO WAY CIRCULATION

SITE B

10

Vehicular Circulation

Vehicular circulation

Weekday 10am

Weekday 12pm

SITE B SITE B

High Circulation Peak Medium Circulation Peak Low Circulation Peak

High Circulation Peak Medium Circulation Peak Low Circulation Peak

Vehicular circulation

Vehicular circulation

Weekday 3pm

Weekday 6pm

SITE B

High Circulation Peak Medium Circulation Peak Low Circulation Peak

SITE B

High Circulation Peak Medium Circulation Peak Low Circulation Peak

11

Vehicular circulation

Vehicular circulation

Weekend 10am

Weekend 12pm

SITE B

SITE B

High Circulation Peak Medium Circulation Peak Low Circulation Peak

High Circulation Peak Medium Circulation Peak Low Circulation Peak

Vehicular circulation

Vehicular circulation

Weekend 3pm

Weekend 6pm

SITE B

SITE B

High Circulation Peak Medium Circulation Peak Low Circulation Peak

High Circulation Peak Medium Circulation Peak Low Circulation Peak

12

CIRCULATION

Zebra Crossing

PEDESTRIAN DENSITY

What is the Density of Pedestrian?

Pedestrian Bridge Underground Path

High human density due its retail area and the main road.

Secondary Path

SITE B

Designated walkway prioritize non-motorized user; increasing the user comfort despite the busy road.

13

LAND USE

SITE B

COMMERCIAL FINANCIAL VACANT RELIGIOUS OPEN CAR PARKS GOVERNMENT

HEALTHCARE EDUCATIONAL

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

UNDEVELOPED

14

NODES User Groups (10am)

User Groups (5pm) User Groups

User Groups (2pm)

15

SCALE PERCEPTION 1 1 Jalan Wong Ah Fook is situated within high rise buildings and the width of the road and pedestrian walkway is wider than Jalan Trus, which makes the user feels tiny and humble.

A

A’ 2

Jalan Trus has narrower road width which makes the scale smaller. Hence, user can have an intimate walking experience.

3

1

2

3

B

1

SCALE PERCEPTION 2 B’

There is a huge contrast of the topography of both roads (Jalan Wong Ah Fook & Jalan Trus). Hence the user need to use the staircase in order to access to the other side of the road. However, it is not OKU friendly, hence, it is harder for the OKU to cross through.

2

3

1

2

3

16

SKYLINE BUILDINGS ACROSS THE SITE ( JALAN WONG AH FOOK)

Drastic change of height of buildings creating a huge contrast of the roofscape.

Height of buildings are almost the same which softens down the contrast of the roofscape..

17

SKYLINE BUILDING ACROSS THE SITE ( JALAN TRUS )

Drastic change of height of buildings creating a huge contrast of the roofscape..

The gradual decrease of heights of shop lots portrays a stepped effect and softens the contrast of roofscape height.

18

URBAN WALL

19

URBAN WALL

20

THE SITE DIMENSIONS

1m

54.

m .2 2 6

m

.7 47

m

.8 57

21

THE SITE ELEVATION 1 - JALAN WONG AH FOOK

THE SITE ELEVATION 1 - JALAN WONG AH FOOK

22

THE SITE ELEVATION 2 - JALAN TRUS

THE SITE SECTION X - X

23

Local Hangouts

New Development Choices of activities less likely to intersect each other and utilise a same space.

1

Old Development Activities happening tend to cross over with other activities allowing different people with different purpose in the same area to interact

Sparse

Local Kopitiam (Jalan Trus) 2

The new development area have toned down the robustness of the street.

Local Kopitiam (Jalan Wong Ah Fook) 3

Events & Exhibition JB City Square SITE B

4

Night Activities Hua Mui Restaurant 1

Heritage walk

Concentrated Adam Hawa Cafe 2

Retail 1

Shopping Malls (Jalan Wong Ah Fook)

4

3

2

Prayer flowers (“Indian street”)

Shoplots (Jalan Trus)

Shoplots ( Jalan Wong Ah Fook)

5

Shopping Mall (“Jalan Trus)

Mac Gregor’s

6

7

Old Shop Lots (Heritage town)

Repurposed Old Shop Lots (Heritage town)

Religious & Cultural Activities 1

Hinduism prayers

2

Buddhism prayers

3

Night Bazaar 3

4

5

6

7

4

Islamic prayers

Chinese New Year Parade- Chingay

Deepavali parade

Merdeka parade

Weekly chinese cultural activities

Square dancing

24

SENSE OF PLACE ARCHITECTURE What is the cultural impression of Johor Bahru?

Two distinct impressions of the site are observed between Jalan Trus and Jalan Wong Ah Fook.

Jalan Wong Ah Fook Futuristic

- Modern architecture - High - rise buildings - Ibrahim International building district plan (IIBD) - Wide pedestrian walkways

Jalan Trus Traditional

- Shophouses - Religious buildings - 5 foot walkway - Intimate walkways

25

SENSE OF PLACE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF JOHOR BAHRU

Ibrahim International Business District- IIBD Plan

26

SENSE OF PLACE

Pedestrian bridge project where its intention to build connection link from City Square to IIBD district

FUTURE DEVELOPMENT CORONATION SQUARE

IIBD’s planning boundary

1. Ibrahim International Business District (IIBD) is a transformation plan for Johor Bahru City to achieve metropolis international standard. re.

2. Coronation Square is one of its projects.

3. To achieve dragging attention from more users, pedestrian hub has been suggested begin from JB Sentral to Coronation Squa

Coronation Square

27

SENSE OF PLACE ACTIVITIES

Jalan Wong Ah Fook Commercialised

-

High

end

Jalan Trus Religious/Customary

retail - Low end retail

-

Business

activities - Religious activities

-Caters to the upper crust of the society

- ‘Tapak’ food culture - Heritage walk - Catering to a wider user group

28

SENSE OF PLACE PACE

Jalan Wong Ah Fook

Jalan Trus Laid Back

Fast lane

- Slower pace in life - Economizing

- Less competition in politics and economy

-Transitory

- Chance of contact higher

-Businessmen

- Locals

-Foreign workers

29

SWOT Analysis

STRENGTH - Adaptation to the modern era - Convenient transportation - Government initiative in building a livable city - Variety of business - Interesting topography

OPPORTUNITY - Linkage between the 2 streets - Contact point - Dual experience - Improving walkability - Introduce social space

THREAT - Lack of surveillance - Weak civic consciousness - Robbery cases - Dodgy alleyways

WEAKNESS - Not OKU friendly - Lack of cultural identity - Lack of night activities - Urban coarse grain

30

3

DESIGN STRATEGIES & EXPLORATION

3.1 Precedent Studies

Sheltered community plaza

Community Plaza

central community plaza

Shop & restaurants

Polyclinic Foodcourt

Stepped garden terraces that slope down towards the water and accommodate various communal amenities, including gathering places, playgrounds and a natural amphitheatre.

Easy access to all gardens and terraces Gardens overlooking waterway

31

Plassen Cultural Center Location : Molde, Norway Architect : 3XN Architects Area : Completion Year : 2012

Wide horizontal panels, visually integrating the inner life of the building with the urban surroundings.

The building connects the city’s two districts, creating a social hub for Molde".

Architectural solution for the complex site condition was to introduce several wide staircases to form a multi-functional structure with three outdoor amphitheatres and an accessible rooftop terrace

Upper district

Lower district

Staircase as an essential link between the city's upper and lower districts.

Section

32

Open Amphitheatre

Outdoor Cafe social hub convertible performance area

Multiple entrances make the building seem inviting and accessible to all.

Library

Concert Hall

Open Amphitheatre

Educational Performance Auditorium General Services Office

Flexible and Multifunctional series of flowing transitions between stages, gallery, cafĂŠ and public spaces and creates the illusion that the inner and outer spaces are one.

33

The Commons Location : Bangkok 10110, Thailand Architect : Department of Architecture Area : 5000.0 m2 Completion Year : 2016

A small retail development in the city center creating new possibilities of outdoor living space. It provides a solution answering to a classic challenge of a multi-storey retail building on how to draw people upward to the upper levels.

Issue ‘Building a wholesome community’

-

-

Lack of outdoor space Tropical heat Dense living condition

Solution Active vertical urban living area Draw people in naturally through gradual series of steps and platforms

The Commons

loft-like, open-plan community mall

34

‘The Ground’ vertically opens up through large voids on the upper floors, connecting to a large public open-air area occupying nearly thirty percent of each of the third and the fourth floor plate.

Shop

3F

2F

Shop

Shop

Restroom The space vertically and horizontally flows in and out the entire building and allows for natural ventilation throughout.

Shop

1F

The wide ‘Ground’ with its gradual series of steps and platforms connecting the street level to the second floor naturally draws people to walk up leisurely.

Common Area

GF Staff Area

Car Park

Section

35

3.2 Design Narrative

3.3 Site Planning Strategies & Diagrammatic Design Response

The design aims to play up the contrast between the two significant streets within the site which are Jalan Wong Ah Fok and Jalan Trus. The social cultural centre could act as a catalyst for social cultural exchange as well as to strengthen the social energy within the site. At the street level of Jalan Wong Ah Fok, the amphitheatre lend itself as a vibrant urbana node that aims to draw attention to the building, continuing the wide pedestrian walkway which creates a smooth flow that draws people into the building along with generous space for events and activities. Along with the steeply angled roof, the perception of large, continuing and inviting further emphasizes and enhances the inviting gesture of the building. At the street level of Jalan Trus, the building’s facade gives reminiscent of the street’s traditional character which is more conservative, thus giving the building a contemporary yet distinctive character in relation to the surrounding

Contemporary Geometry is manipulated to compliment the urban visual profile along Jalan Wong Ah Fok while enhancing the overall appearance of spatial richness inherent in the built form.

Symmetry Main axis across the site dividing the building into two main parts in response to the site while creating a strong sense of place with strong visual interest.

Conservative Traditional shophouse feature (arch frame) injected into the building facade facing Jalan Trus as to respond and respect the existing character of the site.

Jalan Wong Ah Fok

Jalan Trus

Expressive Form

Public & Private

To create s new centrality within the city centre and differentiate itself from the monolithic blocks of buildings

Programmes facing Jalan Wong Ah Fok to be more private as compared to programmes facing Jalan Trus

Services

Diminishing Floor Area

Services spaces are in monolithic blocks that sits between the steeply angled roof, avoiding it from overshadowing the overall appearance of the built form.

Floor area diminishes as the building rises to maximize view within the site as well as to emphasize the main activities at lower floors

36

3.4 Spatial Programming & Organization The programmes in the social cultural centre are arranged according to the importance and the level of public and private of activities being held. Higher level of social interactive activities are emphasized on the lower floors, facing Jalan Wong Ah Fok, while spaces that are more private with enclosed activities are focussed on the higher floors, facing Jalan Trus.

Drop Off City Library A private and cozy area for people to search for resources as well as for social exchange purposes

Reception & Office

Jala n Tr

us

A lobby area where people could obtain information about the building and a small office for administration purposes.

Temporary Accommodation A temporary staying or resting area for administration staff

Ground Floor

Jala

nW ong

1st Floor

Ah

Fok

Cafe & Retail Amphitheatre -

-

An interactive and inviting platform for people to stop and engage in social and cultural exchange activities Appreciation of greeneries continuing the side pedestrian walkway.

Play Fountain An interactive platform especially for families to interact and socialize

An open concept cafe and retail space where people could interact and socialize without boundaries

37

3.4 Spatial Programming & Organization Lounge A pre-function area for people to gather and socialize before entering the theatre.

Gallery An exhibition area to showcase the history of site

3rd Floor

Theatre 2nd Floor

A formal setting for social and cultural performance.

Chilling Area Private rooftop chilling area with bean bags and an outdoor mini screen allow people to gather in small groups and interact.

Viewing Deck A transparent viewing deck provides people with a thrilling experience while observing the surroundings.

4th Floor

38

4

ENVIRONMENTAL AND TECHNOLOGICAL STRATEGIES

4.1 Sustainability Concept

4.2 Materiality

The Social Cultural Centre uses a contemporary approach in it’s built forms. The steeply pitched angled roof design is incorporated into the design, allowing the building to stand out from the existing monolithic blocks of buildings at its surrounding, thus enhances the visual interest within itself. As the building faces two street of distinctive character, the intention is to respond and respect the streets’ character but at the same time presenting it as a new centrality within the site. The overall appearance of the building has an incredible ingenuity in its construction which is also soften by the fair integration of greeneries at its surroundings.

Proposed materials and construction methods are integrated in with the consideration of the site and street character. This was to ensure that the building fit in to the surroundings while presenting itself as a contemporary yet distinctive building. The roof connects to the wall andl the way down to the ground and sits on concrete pedestal. The steel construction integrated as the frame structure of the roof and wall to further enhance the image of the building as a contemporary structure. The steeply pitched angled roof creates an interesting form to the building where the built volumes decreases as the building increases in height.

Frameless curtain wall is also incorporated into the facade of the building to emphasize the building as a contemporary building while complementing the visual of the building. This also allow natural lighting and transparency into in the spaces within the building, allowing it to be more interactive and inviting.

4.3 Microclimate Studies

Shadow Diagram The Micro site is surrounded by commercial buildings which are more than 3 storey height with an exception of the Public Bank next the site which is ….. The surrounding buildings does provide shading especially during morning and evening. The site is more exposed to sunlight during noon time

1400 HRS

1000 HRS

SITE B

SITE B

1700 HRS

SITE B

39

4.4 Energy Conservation Feature Cross Ventilation The open concept spatial organization allows prevailing wind from the north to flow into the building seamlessly

Natural Lighting Wide openings of steeply angled roof and wall allows natural lightingt to cast into the building.

Cross Ventilation

40

4.5 Structural Concept Sectional Detail

41

Sectional Detail

42

Full Wall Section Detail

43

Staircase Detail

44

Facade Detail

45

Roof-Wall Detail

46

5

FINAL DESIGN PORTFOLIO

47

BASEMENT SCALE 1:100

48

49

FIRST FLOOR PLAN SCALE 1:100

50

SECOND FLOOR PLAN SCALE 1:100

51

THIRD FLOOR PLAN SCALE 1:100

52

FORTH FLOOR PLAN SCALE 1:100

53

ROOF PLAN SCALE 1:100

54

55

56

57

58

59

Final Renderings

60

Progress Model

Final Model

61