Asian Architecture Case Study

Asian Architecture (ARC 2234 / ARC 60403) Project 1 : Case Study Paper

Adaptation of Design Features of the Orang Asli Dwellings to Counter Heat Gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

Student name & ID : Lecturer : Submission date :

Teh Kah Khen 0314502 Mr. Koh Jing Hao 11th November 2014

Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

Adaptation of Design Features of the Orang Asli Dwellings to Counter Heat Gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

Contents 1.0

Abstract…………………………………………………………………………………………3

2.0

Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………….4

3.0

4.0

2.1

Belum Rainforest Resort………………………………………………………………6

2.2

Orang Asli in Malaysia…………………………………………………………………9

2.3

Design features of the Orang Asli dwellings……………………………………….10

Heat gain as a challenge in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding 3.1

Climatic data of Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding……………………….13

3.2

Factors contributing to heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding…15 3.2.1

Radiation from the Sun……………………………………………………..16

3.2.2

Poor natural ventilation……………………………………………………..17

3.2.3

Body & appliance heat……………………………………………………...18

3.2.4

Infiltration of warm air into the space…………………………………......19

Solutions to heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding……………………20 4.1

Lightweight materials & construction………………………………………………..21

4.2

Elevated building……………………………………………………………………...26

4.3

Open concept………………………………………………………………………….28

4.4

Pitched roof……………………………………………………………………………31

5.0

Conclusion…………………………………………………………………………………....34

6.0

References……………………………………………………………………………………35

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

1.0

Abstract

This paper studies the relationship between the features of the Orang Asli dwellings and the building design of Belum Rainforest Resort in Pulau Banding to counter heat gain in a tropical climate. Orang Asli is a generic Malaysian term referring to the group of indigenous community

which are commonly found in Malaysia. Malaysia being a country located near the equator experiences hot and humid weather throughout the year. In this study, it is anticipated that the features of the Orang Asli dwellings adapted in the building design to enable the reduction of heat gain into the building to successfully achieve thermal comfort for the users. Assisting the validation of this research, literature reviews based on various sources related to the Orang Asli dwellings especially those found in similar climates were conducted to enhance this writing. The Orang Asli dwellings utilizes resources around together with local techniques to construct the shelter. Few noticeable features are, raised building above the ground and construction of building members together with use of materials that allow natural flow of air into the building.

This promotes natural ventilation that is crucial to counter heat gain. Roofs are typically steep and the design also applies an open concept. These features are partly applied and adapted in the building design of the resort depending on the suitability and function. In conclusion, the features adapted in the building design of this resort corresponding to the features of the Orang

Asli dwellings has provided positive outcome and evidently responds to the site and climate.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

2.0

Introduction

Adaptation of vernacular architecture according to regional climate and context is crucial in providing harmony and comfort to the users. In Malaysia, the early days of architecture by aboriginal people have successfully adjusted to local means and progressively altered to

become better suited to the environment. Reference and application of the design features introduced by the Orang Asli in Malaysia into modern architecture can significantly respond to the context and create a strong relationship between; harmonizing the building and fabricating it to the site.

Chosen site to be Belum Rainforest Resort is located in a tropical climate with great presence of Orang Asli marks. It has shown influences on the building design of the resort with priorities to provide human comfort as well as aesthetics.

In this paper, it discusses the adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings as an approach to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding. It will answer the questions respectively as posed below :

Question 1 : What are the design features of the Orang Asli dwellings?

Question 2 : What are the factors contributing to heat gain?

Question 3 : How does the idea of lightweight materials and construction being implemented in the building design to reduce heat gain?

Question 4 : In what way does the feature of elevated building design being adapted to counter heat gain? How does it help?

Question 5 : How does an open concept design help in mitigating heat gain?

Question 6 : How does the application of pitched roof design help to reduce heat gain?

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

Orang Asli Dwelling

Lightweight Materials & Cons.

Elevated Building

Open Concept

Adapted

Direct

Radiation from the Sun

Belum Rainforest Resort

Body & appliance heat

Pitched Roof

Heat Gain

Poor natural ventilation

Infiltration of warm air into the space

Figure 1: Research paper concept mapping; adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

2.1

Belum Rainforest Resort

Belum Rainforest Resort is located in Pulau Banding, Kelantan midway in between the East and West coasts. Connected via a scenic East-West Highway from the nearest town of Grik and Jeli, this resort sits in the midst of the tropical paradise island. Also, consisting of two different

phases with unique features respectively; phase 1 withtraditional or tropical design and phase 2 with modern, eco-friendly design. This resort is a gateway for nature-lovers and adventureseekers whereby vast experiences can be gained; from relaxation to numerous outdoor activities to picturesque views, it offer users a chance to get closer to nature. Besides, the Belum-Temenggor Rainforest which is surrounding the island is also known for its abundance in natural wonders ranging from the Rafflesia plant, rare species of hornbills, native animals like ‘tapir’, great waterfalls and rich forests. Set to be one of the oldest rainforest in the world with over 130 million years of age, this untouched, three-hundred thousand hectares of land is also house to several indigenous groups of people. With the vast facilities this resort offers, it is among the many must-go places in Malaysia.

Quick building facts Location

: Pulau Banding, Grik, Kelantan

Type

: Resort; traditional & modern

Climate

: Tropical; hot & humid

Built-up area

: 40,000 sq. ft.

Budget

: RM 29 million

Opening date

: 2013

Owner

: Banding Island Development, EMKAY Group

Architect

: C’ Arch Architecture & Design

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

Figure 2: Location map of Belum Rainforest Resort in the peninsula. (Source : Belum Rainforest Resort, 2014)

Figure 3: Sightings from Belum Rainforest Resort. (Source : Belum Rainforest Resort, 2014)

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

Phase 1 Phase 2 Orang Asli settlement replica

Figure 4: Location map indicating the resort that is divided into two phases having constructed at a different time period and showing different architectural styles and features. Also shown on the site map the Orang Asli settlement replica situated at Tanjung 1 (tip of the peninsula).

Figure 5: [from left to right] Traditional suites, modern chalet, Orang Asli settlement replica. (Source : Belum Rainforest Resort, 2014)

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

2.2

Orang Asli in Malaysia

Orang Asli is a Malay term that transliterates as ‘original people’ are the indigenous people found in Peninsula Malaysia. This native group of people can be classified into several groups, namely Senoi, Proto-Malay and the Negrito which usually occupy the northern part of the

peninsula. Cumulatively, the added up to only 0.5 percent of the population of Malaysia owing to modernism and urbanization. These people are not homogenous group as every ethnic has their own language and culture making them unique from one another.

Due to localization, each group have varied occupations and living. Often influenced by the environment, they have suited themselves in almost all means. This adaptation is important to sustain their lives. Nevertheless, the way of life is also affected by the architecture of each tribe which is distinguishable.

In Belum Rainforest located at Kelantan, the identified native people is the Negrito group that can be further called Pangan or the forest people. The architecture of these people are generally contextual meaning, they take advantages from around and utilized into the design of the shelters. Having said that, techniques are usually bounded to the capabilities of the people

of the group and material wise are commonly found within the environment.

However, the Orang Asli settlement found in Belum Rainforest Resort is only an architecture replica of the exact. On the other hand, the real community can only be found in the forests nearby this island and they are evidently adaptive to the context and tropical climate. Few notable architecture found on the replicated site are a gathering hall, an accommodation unit, a hut and several furniture and utilities. Having said that, they can all be tied up accordingly as

they show similarities in design features, construction and materials.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

2.3

Design Features of the Orang Asli Dwellings

The process of adaptation to environmental stressors and pressures has shown distinct variables among the groups of Orang Asli. It has also reflected in the architecture of each group which is often responding to the context accordingly with similar tropical climate. Normally,

Orang Asli people practices nomadic living although a portion sets up permanent dwellings throughout. The forest is the source to their everyday living and usually dwellings are erected because of the sources to sustain life. It is said that they do not consume the sources completely at an area and so, they move on. Therefore, this has several impacts on the architecture itself.

The key design feature of Orang Asli dwellings is to provide a human comfort as well as a shelter against the harsh environment and predators. A typical community usually comprises of 20 to 30 family units living in temporary dwellings constructed using natural vegetation. For instance, the orang asli houses in Belum Rainforest are made up bamboo and Nipah roofing that are found around the forest and are common building materials. Having said that, the location is also nearby a lake and studies have shown that dwellings constructed at such is usually temporary. Because of that, the architecture does not involve complex constructions and

is only limited by local techniques that are simple and fast.

Other notable features such as elevated building plan to protect against insects and encourage natural ventilation, steep, pitched roofs that are constructed using king truss method increases interior height for ventilative purposes and shed off rainwater, large overhangs for shading, building with many access ways and openings, long plan with proper orientation and lightweight and porous constructions.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

Figure 6: Rungus Longhouse in Sabah that belongs to a sub-group of the KadazanDusun people that shows an elevated, long building plan design with usage of local materials. (Source : Jr, 2010)

Figure 7: Longhouse in Ranau, Sabah. [from left to right] Open concept with long building plan with roof supported by king trusses and lightweight and porous construction using bamboo. (Source : HMA, 2008)

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

A conclusion can be drawn based on the similarities in design features of Orang Asli houses found in Malaysia. It can be said that the hot and humid climate of Malaysia has influenced the architecture of the dwellings making the houses have close to exact features in order to adapt to the environment. Thus, the Orang Asli shelter found in Belum can be evidently proved to be as the traditional, vernacular architecture that is a common language which will be discussed in the later sections.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

3.0

Heat Gain as a Challenge in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding 3.1

Climatic Data of Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding

Having located in a tropical forest of Peninsula Malaysia, Belum Rainforest Resort in Pulau Banding experiences constant hot and humid climate throughout the year. Temperature usually

varies from the day to the night with relatively lower temperature in the day and increases up to the mid-day whereby the temperature drops at night. The temperature of the climate ranges from 22 degree Celsius to 32 degree Celsius. Besides, it is also surrounded by the thick, dense Belum-Temenggor Rainforest making the average annual rainfall to be high of about 22,050 mm and with great number of precipitation days.

Graph 1: Graph showing the average minimum temperature, average maximum temperature and average water temperature of Gerik, Perak. (Source : MyZoover, 2014)

Table 1: Table showing the climatic data of Gerik, Perak. (Source : MyZoover, 2014)

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

According to the data obtained, the average minimum temperature and average maximum temperature does not fluctuate drastically. The hottest temperature was recorded in the month of February with an average daily high temperature of above 33 degree Celsius. On the other hand, the coolest temperature was recorded in the month of November with an average daily low temperature of 21 degree Celsius. It can be deduced that the site experiences two climatic seasons; warm season which starts from February to June and the cold season lasting from July to January.

Meanwhile, the average water temperature shows much variation. Due to the warm season, the site experiences longer hours of sun making the Temenggor lake to be exposed to heat longer resulting in a higher average water temperature. From the month of July to October, the site experiences wetter season with greater precipitation sum and more number of precipitation days.

Lastly, the highest relative humidity recorded was in the month of October. It can be said that the month of October experiences a wetter climate due to less hours of sun and greater precipitation sum. Thus, the average daily temperature is expected to be lower. Next, the lowest

relative humidity recorded was in the month of December and January. With fewer precipitation days and precipitation sum accompanied by relatively long hours of sun causes the site to be drier making the average daily temperature higher.

In conclusion, the climate of the site resembles the tropical climate of Malaysia. And since Malaysia only experiences one season annually, the considerations of building design often only include tackling heat gain as the main concern. Solutions to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort is utmost in order to provide comfort to the users.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

3.2

Factors Contributing to Heat Gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau

Banding Since the primary concern of the resort is to provide comfort to the users and the fact that it is situated in a tropical rainforest with hot and humid climate throughout the year, it cannot sway

away from the heat. Also based on the data collected, Belum Rainforest Resort experiences relatively long hours of sun exposure. Therefore, the heat gain will have several impacts on the design of the resort as well as onto the users. Prior to that, there are many factors that contribute to heat gain into the buildings in Belum Rainforest Resort.

Radiation from the Sun

Belum Rainforest Resort

Body & appliance heat

Heat Gain

Poor natural ventilation

Infiltration of warm air into the space

Figure 8: Concept mapping showing the factors contributing to heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

3.2.1

Radiation from the Sun

Also known as direct sunlight, this action causes a rise in the temperature of the environment as well as heating up the materials within. Malaysia being a maritime country close to the equator experiences much sunlight which consecutively causes solar radiation. Apart form that, it is also

rare to attain a full day with completely clear sky even during periods of severe drought or monsoon seasons. Based on research, on average Malaysia receives about six hours of sunlight a day. However, the northern region such as Alor Setar and Kota Bharu receives an additional hour of sunlight a day in comparison to Kuching which undergoes less hours of sunlight a day. It is also tabulated that on the month of January, the northern states experiences extreme hours of sunlight in a day of up to 8.7 hours.

Graph 2: Graph plotted showing the solar radiation in a day in Malaysia. Average direct radiation is higher in the early hours of the day but, the absolute peak direct solar radiation occurs during the afternoon hours. (Source : CK Tang, 2012) Thus, it can be concluded that Belum Rainforest Resort located in the northern peninsula experiences relatively great hours of sunlight in a day which subsequently increases solar heat gain.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

3.2.2

Poor Natural Ventilation

The natural location of Belum Rainforest Resort surrounded by high mountains has impacted the natural ventilation to the site. Having said that, wind from all directions are partially blocked by these mountains and also filtered by the dense tropical forest minimizing the wind towards

the site. It results in the accumulation of heat such as heat stored in materials and heat on surfaces that dissipates slower to the air due to the lack of air movement. Stagnant air also traps heat and humidity which in turn causes the rise in temperature, higher locally than the surrounding.

On the other hand, the average temperature of the site is relatively high thus, harvesting natural ventilation during hot climate will result in heating up the environment causing unpleasant setting to the users. A research also shows that the optimum natural ventilation is more effective with the presence of colder wind that arises primarily from the north and northwest peninsular. Cold wind from these locations happens during later noon (approximately 5.00 pm) until late morning. Nevertheless, natural ventilation is crucial in tropical climate as a passive strategy to reduce heat gain.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

3.2.3

Body & Appliance Heat

The human body expels heat through respiration and activities carried out. More so, heat is also contributed from materials that made up a space. Due to sun exposure, materials absorb heat and radiates into the surrounding. Besides, together with electrical lighting and equipment, it

causes an increase in internal temperature which disturbs the human comfort. A space is subjected to solar radiation through glass windows and heat conduction through opaque walls.

Materials with great thermal conductivity such as concrete which is a common structural material used in Belum Rainforest Resort encourages thermal flow. With long hours of sunlight, concrete slabs and walls are heated until maximum capacity in which heat is then transferred into the interior of cooler ambient temperature. The use of glass is also obvious in a contemporary design. Aside from providing natural lighting, glass enables long wave radiation (infrared heat) to enter that contributes to internal heat gain. Therefore, materials chosen has to adapt to the local climate with relevance as supportive members, aesthetic values and thermal comfort.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

3.2.4

Infiltration of Warm Air into the Space

In addition to heat contributed by building occupants and materials, heat from exterior can also penetrate into the internal environment. Uncontrolled infiltration of warm air can lead to increase in internal temperature and humidity which causes severe discomfort. It may be caused by

adventitious or unintentional gaps and cracks in the building envelope. Moreover, the porosity of the building materials and magnitude of the natural driving forces of wind and temperature also aids in infiltration. Since the resort is in the midst of vast nature, views are utmost. Openings can be found in great numbers in this resort to provide visual pleasures can be a medium for warm air to enter the space. Ironically, ventilation openings that serve for the better can also become routes for unintentional warm air inflow when the pressures acting across such openings are dominated by weather conditions. Warm air of average 29 degree Celsius not only adds to the quantity of air entering the building but also distorts the intended air flow pattern to the extent of detriment of overall indoor air quality and comfort. The sufficient warm air inside the building rises can also stagnate which again increases indoor air temperature. Overall, it is important to remove hot air that rises out of the space to provide user comfort.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

4.0

Solutions to Heat Gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding

The building design of Belum Rainforest Resort is of contemporary and traditional. Having located within a context with Orang Asli influences, the design shows traces of adaptation from the Orang Asli archtecture. It has been mentioned that the Orang Asli dwellings are very much

context-related and together with the local climate in Pulau Banding, the solutions to counter heat gain in the resort can be summarized from the design features of the respective dwellings.

Orang Asli Dwelling

Lightweight Materials & Cons.

Elevated Building

Open Concept

Pitched Roof

Figure 9: Concept mapping showing the solutions to heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

4.1

Lightweight Materials & Construction

The Orang Asli dwellings found in Belum utilizes simple construction with usage of materials sourced locally. Take for instance, instead of using opaque walls and slabs, the houses constructed uses materials such as timber and bamboo. Furthermore, the construction involves

no complicated procedures but still able to achieve optimum strength. The houses of the Orang Asli are erected using bamboo as the single material which can be identified from the Orang Asli gathering hall on site. Members are joined in the simplest manner with the exception of nails and mortar. In the case of a more sturdy space required, timber is used to replace bamboo. Cengal wood is a common material that provides relatively greater strength. However, the construction using both types of materials shows similarities. Floors are made up of series of timber joists and layered with strips of bamboo as a surface finishing. Besides, the timber columns that elevates the floor also spans to the roof to provide support for the roof as well as for the walls. Walls are constructed similarly as the floor using same materials. Similar goes to the roof, timber is arranged in the form of a King truss which is further used to clad ‘attap’ as the roof finishing. All in all, materials are sourced locally and the significance of the usage is to adapt to the environment and provide human comfort in the tropical climate.

5 4

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3 1

Figure 10: Orang Asli house found on-site in Belum. (Source : Author, 2014) ARC 2234/60403 Asian Architecture

Figure 11: Sectional drawing of the Orang Asli house found on-site.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

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1

4

3

5

Figure 12: Components that made up the Orang Asli house found on-site. Refer to Figure 11. (Source : Author, 2014)

It can be sum up that timber and bamboo are thermally less conductive. Meaning it does not absorb and radiate as much heat which subsequently helps in reducing heat gain. Furthermore, the floors and walls are constructed in a manner that allows small gaps in between members which promotes ventilation and loss of heat. The porosity of materials also helps in mitigating heat gain into the building. Lastly, the ‘attap’ roof made up of woven palm leaves around a rattan stick which forms the ‘tile’ is also a heat insulator and provides ventilation as well as air flow. Some of these features can be identified in the resort design as part of a strategy to counter heat gain.

Figure 13: Sketch showing the floors and walls constructed using bamboo in a manner that allows flow of air through for natural ventilation.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

Lightweight materials can be first identified in the Phase 1 resort which is the Ara and Ixora Suites located near the Hornbil Restaurant. Somah wood saplings sourced from the forest have been used in this building. The wood saplings are arranged vertically side-by-side to form a series of horizontal screens that provides some barrier for privacy to the interior spaces of the room. These non-structural elements also acts as the handrail along the first floor as well as shading the exterior of the building. Instead of replacing wood sapling with common louver and railing made of steel, this enables the reduction of heat absorbed as it is a heat insulator. Thus, it does not add to the heat generated from the structural components of the building and consecutively, able to reduce interior heat gain to achieve thermal comfort as well as aesthetics.

Figure 14: Sectional drawing of Phase 1 Ara & Ixora Suites showing the application of lightweight materials in the building.

Figure 15: Somah wood sapling that decorates the walkway of the suite that acts a screening. (Source : Author, 2014)) ARC 2234/60403 Asian Architecture

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

Besides, it can also be identified that bamboo has been used in the reception lobby. This material as mentioned, lightweight is used as aesthetic values over the ceiling to provide a sense of lush and warmth in the space. Bamboo is also used as screening walls on one of the faรงade. The construction of the screens whereby the arrangement of bamboo pieces with gaps in between enables natural ventilation into the interior. Overall, it can reduce interior heat gain as well as provide aesthetical values. Last but not least, it does not contribute to heat gain as a material used as bamboo is an insulator to heat.

Figure 16: Sectional drawing of the reception lobby showing application of bamboo as a material in the space.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

This method adapted from the principles of Orang Asli dwelling features can also be noted in the Tor Tambra Bar. Similarly, the use of bamboo is also obvious in the ceiling and floor.

However, the bamboo strips that formed the floor is constructed to allow more effective air flow into the space to diminish heat apart from the elevated space.

Figure 17: Sectional drawing of the Tor Tambra Bar showing usage of bamboo as finishing on the floor and ceiling.

In conclusion, the use of bamboo and wood saplings as a material for a purpose in the building serves its function but does not invite any unwanted consequences such as additional heat gain into the building.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

4.2

Elevated Building

The Orang Asli dwellings are usually elevated above ground for few reasons. One to avoid moisture to be in contact with building materials that would deteriorate the materials, avoid flooding into the interior spaces and most of all, improve the natural ventilation to achieve

thermal comfort.

Figure 18: Few Orang Asli dwellings found throughout Belum that all have similar design; elevated building above ground. (Source : Author, 2014)

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

This design feature can be seen in the Tor Tambra Bar in Belum Rainforest Resort. Since the location of the bar near the lake and having less shading from tress, it is exposed to great solar radiation and humidity. Therefore, to counter the heat within, the space is elevated from the ground. To further increase natural ventilation, the bar also applies an open concept with less walls to encourage inflow of air as well as promote visual connection to the surrounding. This increase in natural ventilation from below ground and around the building is able to carry heat generated from the interior spaces which eventually able to counter heat gain.

Figure 19: Sectional drawing of the Tor Tambra Bar showing design features that allows and enables natural ventilation into the space.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

4.3

Open Concept

The Orang Asli dwellings also show an open concept design. This feature can be identified from the settlement through two unique shelters which are the gathering hall and the L-shaped house. Both shows a free, unobstructed plan whereby the interior of the spaces are not

partitioned. Besides, these two buildings also have sufficient openings which aids in natural ventilation. Apart from structural components that made up the space, unnecessary walls are excluded from the design to avoid contributing to heat gain in the interior. Materials used are usually thermal insulator and naturally porous. The openness of the space allows uninterrupted flow of air which is able to carry heat out of the building.

Figure 20: Orang Asli L-shaped house with the interior design that is an open concept showing free, unobstructed spaces. (Source : Author, 2014)

Figure 21: [from left to right] Plan drawings of Orang Asli meeting hall and Orang Asli L-shaped house showing interior spaces that are interrupted by intermediate walls or partitions making it an open space.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

The open concept feature is adapted in the Hornbill Restaurant located on the upper hill of the site. The restaurant is erected with supporting walls with no intermediate partitions and sufficient folding doors as openings. The kitchen is segregated from the dining area by walls resulting an unobstructed dining space. Doors and openings encourage flow of air in and out of the dining space. This natural ventilation helps to reduce ambient temperature. Furthermore, this dining space also accommodates large number of occupants and together with heat-producing appliances and lightings, heat gain in the interior is obvious. On the other hand, warm air induced into the space also contributes to heat gain and by having uninterrupted spatial layout, warm air is able to travel through the space without disturbance. By having these features applied, heat gain can be mitigated and thermal comfort can be achieved.

Figure 22: Hornbill Restaurant applying an open concept which can be traced back from the design features of the Orang Asli dwellings. (Source : Author, 2014)

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

The reception lobby also applies an open concept design. Due to the location of this lobby with minimal natural shading and overviewing the highway and cliff, heat is generally intimidating.

Radiated heat from the direct cliff impacts the heat gain in the space. Thus, the design of this lobby utilizes minimal walls and partitions with the main concern of achieving a spacious layout.

The arrangement of furniture and built-ins are also well considered to prevent interrupting the flow of air. For instance, the reception desk in situated on one side of the space whereby it does not block the direction of wind flow into the space. Besides, the lounge area is placed along the direction of wind flow to provide comfort to the users. This feature allows maximum flow or air that increases natural ventilation to counter the heat gain caused by the climate.

Figure 23: Sectional drawing of the reception lobby showing a space that is unobstructed which allows flow of wind freely across the space for natural ventilation to counter heat gain in the space.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

4.4

Pitched Roof

A pitched roof is a common style for Orang Asli architecture. The construction of a pitch roof is made from King trusses. This design allows a greater interior height which is crucial to overcome heat gain. The higher surface to ceiling height enables hot air to rise effectively from

the ground resulting in a more comfortable environment. The higher ceiling avoids hot air from stagnating at a lower altitude which could disturb the users. Having this pitched roof together with the ‘attap’ finishing allows hot air to escape from the interior more effectively as accompanied by large openings on the sides of the buildings. This feature also allows more wind circulation within the space. Also known as stack ventilation, a higher interior space with great number of openings enables a more effective natural ventilation to reduce heat gain.

Figure 24: Orang Asli gathering hall found on the settlement in Belum showing a relatively high pitched roof. (Source : Author, 2014)

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Figure 25: Sectional drawing of the gathering hall indicating the movement of hot air towards the ceiling and escaping via the high pitched roof.

Together with natural ventilation, heat can be easily diminished from the space.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

This feature can be seen adapted on several designs of the resort. A pitched roof has been applied in the Hornbill Restaurant. The ability to accommodate large number of occupants with high amount of lightings and electrical equipment produces relatively high heat demands for a more spacious space. Thus, a pitch roof serves the function to provide higher floor to ceiling height which effectively remove hot air with the aid of breezing wind blowing through and into the space from opened folding doors decorating the perimeter of the restaurant.

In addition, a pitched roof can also be identified in the phase 1 suites. This double-storey building is exposed to direct sunlight and has less natural shading around. With the presence of a pitched roof, the upper rooms result in greater height primarily to reduce heat gain as well as achieving the traditional style design to adapt to the context and culture. The pitched roof feature can also be seen on the phase 2 chalets with the main function to achieve thermal comfort as well as aesthetic wise. Since the location of the chalets are on a gradual slope, exposure to sunlight is unavoidable. To avoid sacrificing scenic views from the chalets, the space is fixed with many openings and window panels. Thus, this causes materials to absorb more heat and subsequently radiate great amount of heat within. Having a pitched roof, heat gain is compensated and therefore, heat gain can be countered to provide optimum

environment for the users in the space.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

Figure 26: [from left to right] Pitched roof design on the Phase 1 Ara & Ixora Suites.

Hornbill Restaurant with a higher pitch roof since it accommodates greater number of occupants which therefore, produces relatively larger amount of heat. (Source : Author, 2014)

Figure 27: Phase 2 traditional chalets with a combination of contemporary and traditional design also showing the application of pitched roof in the design. (Source : Author, 2014)

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Figure 28: Interior of the traditional chalet with a high floor to surface height to allow an effective stack ventilation to take place for the comfort of the users.

(Source : Belum Rainforest Resort, 2014)

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

5.0

Conclusion

The adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding has met the intentions to serve better for the users. The influences of the culture and context is obvious in the architecture of the resort making it in

general responsive and preserving the value of the rainforest. Based on research and observations, the design features of Orang Asli dwellings applied on the buildings in Belum Rainforest Resort has significantly tackled the local, tropical climate. Since the climate of the site does not vary much, the adaptation of these features has helped in reducing heat gain into the building and with the incorporation of design ideas from the Orang Asli such as materials and constructions, the resort is able to take advantage of natural occurrence such as wind for natural ventilation to aid in achieving thermal comfort. Apart from that, the focus on nature encompassing mainly visual pleasure which requires many openings and unobstructed view from spaces of the resort can also be reached without compensating thermal comfort. With the proper design feature picked from the Orang Asli dwelling architecture, users are able to appreciate nature as well as enjoy the spaces comfortably. In conclusion, the Orang Asli architecture has provided a base line that really shows strong relationship with the surrounding by all means especially the local weather. The adaptation of these design features from the

dwellings has significantly countered heat gain in the resort resulting in an overall harmonious environment worthy to visit and spend time.

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

6.0

References

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Adaptation of design features of the Orang Asli dwellings to counter heat gain in Belum Rainforest Resort, Pulau Banding.

Websites Average Weather for Ipoh, Malaysia. (2014). In Weather Spark. Retrieved October 28, 2014, from http://weatherspark.com/averages/34039/Ipoh-Perak-Malaysia Jr, D. (2010). Mari Mari Cultural Village in Sabah. In Malaysia Asia. Retrieved October 26, 2014, from http://blog.malaysia-asia.my/2010/07/mari-mari-cultural-village-in-sabah.html.

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Retrieved October 29, 2014 from, http://sustainabilityworkshop.autodesk.com/buildings/thermalmass

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