1
ARC 70209 CULTURE & COMMUNITY DESIGN STUDIO ASSIGNMENT 1B
NAME
: SOPHIA MAHESON
STUDENT ID
: 1007P69807
LECTURERS
: DR. NIKHIL JOSHI AR. EDWARD CHEW
2
Table of contents List of tables 1.0 Introduction
1
1.1 Problem statement
8.0 Design Strategies
65
9.0 Discussion
70
10.0 References
71
1.2 Aims & Objectives 1.3 Research Question
2
1.4 Methodology 2.0 Literature Review
3
3.0 Case Studies
6
4.0 Fieldwork
13
4.1 Data Collection 4.2 Participatory Approach 5.0 Data Collection
14
5.1 Social Study 5.2 Cultural Study 5.3 Economy Study 6.0 Site Analysis
30
7.0 Proposed Program
60
3
List of Figures :
Figure 5.1c : The usual hang out area under the ‘ketapang’ tree.
1.5 Methodology
Figure 5.1d : Typical house in the Settlement
Figure 1.5 : Diagram of research methodology used in the report
Figure 5.1e : Boats of fishermen, parked by the shore. Figure 5.1f : Hatten development emerging on the skyline of the
2.0 Literature Review
Portuguese Settlement.
Figure 2.0 What makes a great place? Figure 2.1 The types of spaces,
Figure 5.1g : Outdoor kitchen; operating as a small restaurant and hang out spot. Figure 5.1h: Reclaimation of land resulting in low tide, day or night.
3.0 Case Study
Figure 5.1i : Panorama of site, from the sea.
Figure 3.1 The MarketFront Pike Place
5.2 Cultural Study
Figure 3.1.2 Massing Pike Place
Figure 5.2a : Local wine made from glutinous rice
Figure 3.2 The Arc Masterplan
Figure 5.2b : Preserved seafood to be sold
Figure 3.2.1 Sustainable desgin concepts
Figure 5.2c : Fisherman soup : Famous
Figure 3.2.2 Massing strategies of the Arc
local seafood soup
Figure 3.3 Lake and structure, balance
Figure 5.2d : Pang Susis (Savoury Meat Buns), influenced by Chinese
Figure 3.3.1 Central Public Park
Siew Pau
Figure 3.3.2 Massing strategies
Figure 5.2e : Devil Curry : Famous home -cooked dish within the Settlement
5.1 Social Study
Figure 5.2f : Pineapple jam tart
Figure 5.1a : Cars on the roads in between Settlement houses
Figure 5.2g : Traditional costume and dance during performance
Figure 5.1b : Motorcycle, one of the most commonly used vehicle in the
Figure 5.2h : Bell tower at Portuguese Settlement
Settlement
Figure 5.2i : St. Peter statue where community pray and make their wishes
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5.3 Economy Study
- Open space between Lim Kok Wing campus and the sea.
Figure 5.3a : Distribution of Jobs
Figure 6.2c: Condition 2
Figure 5.3b : Level of Livelines chart
-Open space between Portuguese square and the sea.
Figure 5.3c : Identity
Figure 6.2d: Condition 3
Figure 5.3d :Business Opportunities
-Open space between Portuguese square and house.
5.4 Historical Study
Figure 6.2e: Condition 4
Figure 5.4a : Key Plan; Location Plan; Site Plan
-Open space between Secondary school and house.
Figure 5.4b : Location of Melaka Figure 5.4c : Figure shows plan & elevation of typical residence in the Portuguese Settlement in 1930
6.3 LIGHT vs HEAVY
Figure 5.4d : Pictures above show No.10 Portuguese House in Portuguese
Figure 6.3a: Interrelation of activities define liveliness of the settlement
Settlement, Melaka
6.4 ACTIVITY vs TIME
Figure 5.4e : Pictures above show current architectural style and pattern of
Figure 6.4a: Daytime activities of the settlement from morning till noon
residential houses in Portuguese Settlement
Figure 6.4b: Night time activities of the settlemen
6.0 Site Analysis
t from evening till night
6.1 SCALE vs HORIZONTALITY
6.5 FLOW vs INFRASTRUCTURE
Figure 6.1a: The sec
Figure 6.5a: Sections through major roads of the Portuguese Settlement
tions below identify three different settlement experiences to illustrate the
Figure 6.5b: Figure shows macro analysis of vehicular network capacity
relationship between street and volume from a pedestrian’s perspective.
Figure 6.5c: Figure shows macro analysis of bus route
6.2 SOLID vs VOID
Figure 6.5d: Figure shows micro analysis of vehicular and pedestrian
Figure 6.2a: Figure-ground plan of Portuguese Settlement
circulations
Figure 6.2b: Condition 1
6.6 EDGE vs FILTERS
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Figure 6.8h: Landmarks found in the Portuguese Settlement
Figure 6.6a: Edges of the sea against built form with highlighted views from the site Figure 6.6b: Panoramic view from site Figure 6.6c: Collage of views from Lim Kok Wing and Food courts
6.9 PHYSICAL DATA
6.7 PATTERN vs VERTICALITY
Figure 6.9a: Sun path diagram of the Portuguese Settlement
Figure 6.7a: Site plan showing 4 areas of the site to be studied
Figure 6.9b: Windrose diagram of the Portuguese Settlement
6.8 ELEMENTS OF LYNCH
Figure 6.9c: Section showing tide levels of the seafront at the sit
Figure 6.8a: Paths found in the Portuguese Settlement Figure 6.8b: Administrative Edge is comprised of the custom
7.0 Program Proposal
quarters
Figure 7.0 Proposed Program Chart
Figure 6.8c: Food & Beverage Edge is comprised of the restaurants and
Figure 7.1 Schedule of spaces
food court located by the seafront Figure 6.8d: Education Edge is comprised of SMK Canossa Convent and
8.0 Design Strategies
Lim Kok Wing University
Figure 8.1 Design Strategies Diagrams 1
Figure 6.8e: Residential Edge includes all residences located in the
Figure 8.2 Design Strategies Diagrams 2
settlement
Figure 8.3 Design Strategies Diagrams 3
Figure 6.8f: Districts found in the Portuguese Settlement Figure 6.8g: Nodes found in the Portuguese Settlement
Introduction
1 1.2 Aim
1.1 Problem statement The Portuguese community in Malacca is at a disadvantaged
The aim of this report is to explore the relationship between the
position in being a marginalized community in a multi racial country
public spaces and the Portuguese community and the enhancement
whereas other major races have attained economic and political
of the economic vitality in their settlement.
control. (Fernandis, 2003). Political support in business and commercial dealings gives the advantage to the community that has
To create place capital – which are individual actions that build a
economical dominance to do well in society. In addition, the
welcoming sense of place.
insecurity of the sea; i.e. the loss of seafront has diminished their income for the fishermen and the youth are fast moving to other
1.3 Objectives
occupations in the factories or migrating to bigger towns like Kuala Lumpur where job opportunities are better. As mentioned above, the
1. To critically analyze the numerous uses of public spaces and how
Portuguese heritage and culture of the Portuguese Settlement is
they can be developed into a place that drives the economy of the
facing a staggering decline. (Feranadis, 2003). The only thing that is
Portuguese settlement.
left for the community to celebrate is the existing food court, the Portuguese cuisine that is only native to this Portuguese Settlement,
2. To explore and develop the various design strategies based on
and the yearly festivals that go on; i.e. The San Pedro Festival,
how public spaces are used to create a commercial-culture centric
Christmas Day just to name a few, all these activities are carried out
hub.
on the Portuguese Settlement. Therefore, the issues of the Portuguese community highlighted
3. To create public spaces with cultural meaning to the Portuguese
above should be addressed for future improvements.
community with the integration of economic activities.
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1.4 Research Questions Main research question How does the relationship between the public spaces and the Portuguese community enhance economic vitality of the settlement? Sub research questions Why public spaces? What are the relationships between public spaces and economy? To what extent public spaces help in enhancing economic vitality? In what way it can help in reconnecting the local youth community? How to create communal interaction through proposed program?
Figure 1.5 Methodology; steps taken in order to write this report Source: Author, 2015
1.5 Methodology
The methodology used in this report employs numerous site
The main methodology of this report is of the qualitative approach
sketches, photography, and site visits. This report seeks to approach
through a numerous analysis of theories through case studies and
the physical aspects and spatial programming through architecture
literature reviews and spatial analysis to extract a methodology from
design.
which to weave with the issues on site, the Portuguese Settlement.
Upon identification of the issues, a proposal to create design strategies was conceived in approaching the current state of the Portuguese Settlements. In conclusion, the collective design
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strategies are used as tools in design exploration to test the research
What is Place Capital?
outcome.
It is a key to producing lasting wealth, and a way to efficiently build and leverage these other kinds of capital, is to focus on place. Place
2.0 Literature Review
Capital can be defined as the shared wealth (built and natural) of the
Defining Public Space and Place Capital.
public realm – and it is increasingly becoming society’s most important means of generating sustainable economic growth for communities. (What is place capital?, n.d.) The public places we most value, both in our communities and around the world, have this wealth and attract its preservation and expansion. (Carr, Francis, Rivlin, & Stone, 1992) Focusing on place can best build and leverage many kinds of capital, while often creating resilience and further innovation. Where Place Capital is strongest people actually compete to contribute to this shared wealth, often changing their behavior in ways that ultimately support the value the place gives to others. Public markets, town commons, and communal wells are early examples of human efforts to create these ‘shared value generators’
Figure 2.0 What makes a great place? Picture source: Project for Public Spaces, 2015.
in physical places. Today, public places receive relatively little focus and investment above the necessary infrastructure and facilities to support production and distribution.
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In contrast to the ‘public market’ model, which organizes support
Thus, this is one of the ways to rejuvenate the Portuguese
for shared community goals and public space, retail environments
Settlements.
and advertising endeavors often drain value from the public realm. On top of this, transportation investment largely ignores, and usually degrades, the destinations of Place Capital, favoring the
The increasing significance of place
movement of capital through places. (Fernandis, 2003). Finally, the
The paradox is that inspite of, and in response to, this increasingly
architecture of public buildings, educational institutions and open
placeless environment with the loss of the seafront due to land
spaces rarely supports the potential value it can create. There is a lot
reclamation of the Hatten City Project and the Malacca Gateway
of attention on “good design” to have a sustainable, or less negative,
Project, produced with limited creativity; the perception of places is
impact on the environment or community, but little is being done to
increasingly determining where one chooses to be at any one
leverage the great value, and further demand, that the built
moment. The portuguese community are more discerningly and
environment can induce.
deliberately choosing to identify themselves with places they feel
How a community channels human, social, economic, infrastructural
express their identity, or to use places as a way to express their
and cultural capital into the generation of Place Capital effectively
identity.
determines the Portuguese community’s success in attracting and spawning further wealth generators such as further emphasizing in their cottage industries to make their goods well known to the public. In addition to that, the vocational training center allows social cohesion between the youth age group and the elderly. With different information and resources become more and more available and the pace of change accelerates, it should be easier than ever to create places that we want to be in, that build Place Capital.
Thus, the concept of a living street is based on the idea that its inhabitants share something in common. Streets can double as a space for passing and for pausing, for people to get to activity spaces as well as engage in activities along the street. The role of the streets and sidewalks in the public realm is not just for movement, but as marketplaces and meeting places (Gehl & Gemzoa, 2001).
Seeing ourselves as co-creators of these places, through our relationships as participants, or as placemakers, elevates our role in society to builders of civilization. (What makes great places?, n.d.)
5 Figure 3.1 Artist’s impression of the transformation of The MarketFront. Source: Hull, n.d. Building Programe: As a designer, the responsibility of creating a prominently placed mixed-use building that respects the unique
3.0 Case Study For this research 3 different public spaces were studied with different qualities for this case study.
3.1 Case Study 1 The MarketFront by Miller Hull Pte. Ltd. Location: Pike Place Market Front, Seattle, Washington, USA.
history and character of one of Seattle’s most familiar and beloved city icons — while exploring new potentials — is no small feat. Finding an appropriate solution that links tradition and modernity is both daunting and exhilarating. (Hull, n.d.) The MarketFront is a low-rise, mixed-use development that will provide parking for the Market and the waterfront, low-income housing for seniors, expanded social services and additional Market retail and restaurant space. The MarketFront will also provide 30,000-square-feet of public open space and views of Elliott Bay while creating a critical new connection between Pike Place Market and the new Central Waterfront that emerges after the demolition of the Alaskan Way Viaduct. (Hull, n.d.)
6 Figure 3.1.2. Connectivity to the waterfront and building porosity are the massing strategies that the architect took into consideration. Source: Hull, n.d.
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3.2 Case Study 2
public space associated with the community. Traditionally, this
The Arc at Bandar Rimbayu, Selangor, Malaysia.
appeared in the simplest forms as: street, junction, yard; and in more
By: Garis Architects
elaborate urban forms as: city square, park, hall, stadium. (The Arc, 2015) Building Programe: The Arc, is derived from the underlying plan shape of an arc embracing the communal green open space. At the opened side, each end is lowered to provide pedestrian access by ramping up towards the green roof deck that serves an upper level pedestrian network of garden paths connecting the whole collection. (a&m, 2015)
Figure 3.2. The Arc’s Masterplan is to showcase the sustainable approach. Concept: The intrinsic human act of place making is the basic principle driving the design conceptualization. Humankind’s desire to mark their presence on the landscape is the fundamental driving force - to make a place identifiable to their kind or collective group belongs to them. The collective social activities are centered on a
Figure 3.2.1 The arc is designed to be a living and evolving education to showcase sustainable design. Source: a&m, 2015
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This design project revolves around the climatic factors for
Figure 3.2.2 Massing Strategies of The Arc; emphasizes on the
condusive living environment, and emphasising on creating a sense
connectivity, enclosure, permeability of the main communal spaces
of family and neighbourhood through establishing harmony between
such as the park, gathering space, football field and the clubhouse.
residents and built environment. The open courtyards serve as a
Source: a&m, 2015
transformable space for both pedestrian and vehicles. (a&m, 2015)
3.3 Case Study 3 Cultural Hub for Ningbo’s Labour Union By: schmidt hammer lassen architects Location: Ningbo, China
9 Sited on the edge of a new ecological wetland area in Ningbo’s New East Town, the 100,000 square meter hub will house an array of functions. Retail, office, training, and learning facilities will complement all a three-screen cinema, 1,200-seat performing arts venue, exhibition hall, public library and Union Staff arts club.
The Cultural Hub for Ningbo’s Labour Union is planned to serve
(Rosenfeld, 2015)
both the city and the union’s nearly three million members, the “Home of Staff” will unite two stepped complexes of support, health, education, culture and leisure facilities with a half a kilometer long central park. (Rosenfeld, 2015) Figure 3.3 Built structure adjacent to a lake. Source: Rosenfeld, 2015
Figure 3.3.1 Central Public Park with green roof terraces. Source: Rosenfeld, 2015 “We have designed the Home of Staff as a series of stepped building volumes that are linked by a landscape that rises from a central
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public park to become a series of accessible green roof terraces”, explains Morten Schmidt, founding partner at schmidt hammer lassen architects. “The volumes, which from the air appear like a pixelated image, rise up at each end and form two individual buildings that are connected by a sunken walkway and a series of park pavilions.” (Rosenfeld, 2015) Figure 3.3.2 Site as a public park in the middle, the building is stepped towards the water edge to frame the views. Lastly, landscape terraces and green roofs. Source: Rosenfeld, 2015
Case study conclusion
11 of Ningbo has attempted to do so. The proposed program should also have a lot of vegetation and a smooth and inviting
access
Based on these case studies it can be concluded that the rewards of
from the targeted entrances, which is clearly shown in The Arc
transforming a public space into a notch higher go way beyond than
at Rimbayu. Therefore, the Portuguese community and their visitors
just the space, although the place in itself enriches the lives of its
should feel welcomed as they enter with exciting activities that
users and enhances its surrounding buildings and neighborhood
make the settlement bustling and teeming with life.
which is clearly stated in the Ningbo Cultural Center and the MarketFront. These public places contribute to community health – whether socially, economically, culturally or environmentally. In these three projects, they add enhancement to the public realm – not only visually, but also in providing a sense of character and a great opportunity for public activities as shown in the massing strategies for the Arc at Rimbayu to revitalizethe entire site. They can be anchors for communities, acting as focal points for definition and foundations for healthy growth. All of these assets, as well as the opportunity these places offer for people to relax and enjoy themselves, add up to greater community livability. In this report, the proposed program could explore the possibilities of having activities within the spaces that accentuates connectivity between most of the crucial places on site whilst allowing visual and physical accessibility and connectivity to the sea as the Cultural Hub
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4.0 Fieldwork
4.2 Participatory Approach
The fieldwork comprised of data collection in the form of site
The participatory approach refers to an activity carried out by
observation,
a
including members of the community or organisation so as to guide
participatory approach activity to receive valuable feedback from
the design-making process (Rabinowitz, 2013). Such an activity was
the community.
vital to understand the needs and expectations of the community.
photographs
and
informal
interviews
and
This in turn enables the students to gain sufficient knowledge on a cultural level. Two schemes were then presented on the 14th of 4.1 Data Collection
September and invaluable data was collected which would later
During the course of this research analysis stage, the actual process
inform the schedule of programs that were required for the
of data collection started on the 10th of September in the afternoon.
community.
A total of 20 CCDS students were organised into four equal groups that would be responsible of collecting the necessary data categorically. The four groups were divided based on the themes of social, cultural, economy and environment for the Portuguese community. Additionally, informal interviews, designed mainly to collect qualitative data, were carried out in each of the aforementioned groups so as to maximise the efficiency of gathering information.
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5.0 DATA COLLECTION 5.1 SOCIAL ASPECTS A list of questions have been prepared and specific objectives have been set when interviewing the community. This section mainly covers the information and the current issues which are faced by the Portuguese community. 1. T R A : - What are the means of transport here in the community? (bus, car, Q motorcycle, by foot or etc.) N To know the sufficiency of existing mode of transportation. S A P : - Majority Settlers owns a car or motorcycle. Not much public transportation. O R T : - What is the traffic frequency in the community? (noise pollution) Q To identify the noise frequency of traffic in specific areas. A A T : - Low. Not much of noise pollution caused. I O N
Figure 1 : Cars on the roads in between Settlement houses
Figure 2 : Motorcycle, one of the most commonly used vehicle in the Settlement.
14 2. SOCIAL SPACE Q : - Where are the intermingle spaces for the community? To know communal spaces and understand the community’s interest and wish list. A : - Usually hang out by the sea, under the well-known ‘ketapang’ tree by the beach. Q : - How does a large group of family being set apart? To know whether the expansion of houses is needed, intensity of home division. A : - Many shifted out of Settlement to obtain better jobs, but comes back to visit elders during festive breaks. 3. UTILITIES Q : - Are there any improvements in utilities (water, electricity and etc.) made for the past few years? To know sufficiency and advancement of utility supply in the community. A : - Ranking of 7 out of 10. Sufficient but not much advancement.
Figure 1 : The usual hang out area under the ‘ketapang’ tree.
Figure 2 : Typical house unit in the Settlement.
15 4. OCCUPATION Q : - Where do you work & what do you work as? To know the exact occupation of the Settlers. A : - Fishing was once the main job, but now many Settlers have to work multiple jobs to cater for family’s needs. Q : - How does the new development benefit the community? (Hatten Development) To know the impact of new developments nearby towards the community. A : - Re-claim of land main cause of fishing difficulties. Settlers are forced to travel far (an hour) to sea to fish. Fishes sold could not even cover cost.
Figure 1 : Boats of fishermen, parked by the shore.
Figure 2 : Hatten development emerging on the skyline of the Portuguese Settlement.
16 5. SOCIAL ACTIVITIES Q : - Which is the most significant & important space in the house / community? To identify the most important / main space in each homes @ entire community. A : - Kitchen. As women are the ones who spend most of their time home, they cook daily and does preparation to run their restaurants at night. Men spend time in open community space usually by the sea side, under the infamous “ketapang” tree situated at the coastal area.
6. NEIGHBOURHOOD & INTERACTIONS Q : - Among your neighbours, where do you interact? (micro) - Among community & other nearby villages. (macro) To understand human interactions within the community spaces. A : - Micro – Elders spend time with one another at coffee shops and by the beach in the day, restaurants for drinks by night. Younger generation school by day and sports/activities by evening/night. Macro – Lack interaction, Settlers very much on their own. Only leave Settlement for resources if need to.
Figure 1 : Outdoor kitchen; operating as a small restaurant and hang out spot.
17 7. HEALTH & WELLNESS Q : - Based on social gatherings (drinking, high seafood intake), how well the community keep up with their health? To know sufficiency of medical facilities in the community. A : - Lifestyles do not directly affect Settlers health. Elders no sign of slowing down, most still working hard. - Most of them gets treatment from government hospitals because it is affordable, but not satisfied with service.
8. EDUCATION Q : - Does the elderly Settlers emphasize on their children’s education? To know whether the young generations still inherit their tradition. A : - Many Settlers encourage the younger generations to further their studies. Many young ones become professionals when study abroad. Young ones still come back to town occasionally and during festives.
Figure 1 : Reclaimation of land resulting in low tide, day or night.
18 9. POLITICS Q : - What is the Settlers’ perspective towards the governing body at the moment? To know whether community support the current governing and what is their upkeep with current political issues. A : - All Settlers are unsatisfied with the current governing body and Chief Minister. No acknowledgement and help given to the community but have been destroying it (by reclaiming land on their source of income). Never hear them out, but just build based on their liking and whatever that generates income.
Figure 1 : Panorama of site, from the sea.
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Introduction Culture ignites the community’s life and enrich our world. (Arts Council England, 2014) Social wellbeing, education, health, and economy, these are the elements which will impact the community’s desires to embrace the culture. The sophisticated combination of culture releases the creative potential which will stimulate the growth of the community. Culture
Figure 2 Pineapple jam tart: Favourite tea time accompany of the community
diverge ourselves from past to present. No society can form without culture. There’s no way to sustain a development with the absence of culture. Culture provides the cohesion and identity for a community.
Figure 1 Devil Curry: Famous home-cooked dishes within the Settlement
Culture is a valuable resource to present. Culinary Habit
Costume During the early 16th century, the Portuguese men married local Asian
Food represents the fundamental profile of culture. Portuguese Settlement
women, who were mostly Malay. With this maternal influence, Portuguese
is famous for their variety of food. For instance, Pickled Salt Fish (also
Eurasian women wore the ‘Baju Panjang’, which looked similar to the
named as Acar Ikan), Pickled Fish Roe, Cincaluke (tiny baby shrimp
‘sarong kebaya’. Today, traditional wear only appeare on stage for dance
sauce), local wine, dried Karing- Karing (dried thread fish) and Belacan
performances and during festive season. The dance is performed by
(dried shrimp paste) (Cuisine, 2005). These are the exclusive products
couples dressed in the costume of the traditional Portuguese descendants
derived from Portuguese community and it is reputed to be the best within
of Malacca.
the country. The intermarriage with local community has developed a diversity of culinary art for this community(Net, 2001). However, this small community unable to develop a formal tradition culinary practice and it is varied cook by cook. There’s a need to establish a practice in order to preserve the distinguish culture.
Figure 5 Fisherman soup: Famous local seafood soup
Figure 6 Pang Susis (Savoury Meat Buns), influenced by Chinese Siew Pao.
20 Kristang language is a legacy and heritage left by the faraway Portuguese to Malaysian history. It would be tragic and unfortunate if this heritage is lost, to Malaysians in general and the tiny Portuguese community in Malaysia. Religion Majority of the Kristang practice Roman Catholicism. The settlement neighbourhood gather every evening to start their prayers in one of the house and circulate from house to house at 3 days interval. The significant bell tower of the settlement is situated next to the St. Peter statue. The bell Figure 1 Traditional costume and dance during performance
is used as a tool to inform and gather the community in a festive or religious event and during funeral. The St. Peter statue is a place for the
Language
community to pray and make wishes. The religious practice is reflected on
Kristang, also known as the Malacca Portuguese Creole has a strong
the ornamentation of house within the settlement and Sunday mass in the
influence together with the Malay language which is the dominant local
morning.
language of Malaya. Its vocabulary is largely Portuguese-based, with a substantial contribution from the Malay language. It is used as a daily
Conclusion
communication tool in Portuguese Settlement, predominantly among the elder generation.
Through the years, the Kristang community in Malacca has survived
Due to the population size of Kristang community, the language was listed
against all odds and unfavorable conditions with all the elements of
as an endangered language by UNESCO. Today, Kristang language is not
culture, traditions, music, dance, language and religion intact. Building
the language choice of the young adult in Portuguese Settlement, as the
and growing on this multi-ethnic and multicultural stage, the strong
language is not taught formally in school. The language can only be
assimilation power of the community is constantly ‘absorbing’ and
learned verbally through daily conversation.
‘marinating’ itself with the cultural richness of Malaysia. Despite all the
21
mixed marriage and diminishing community population, the identity and communal sense of Kristang never seems to dilute. With their far ancestor arriving centuries ago, there are merely any connections between Kristang and the Portugal today. The community see themselves as a native, and proud both with the identity as a Malaysian and Kristang community
Figure 2: The St. Peter statue where communities pray and make wishes
Figure 2: The bell tower at the Portuguese Settlement
Festival
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Economy Study
Neighbouring developments
Current economic situation
The community feels that they are powerless against these
From the informal interviews that were conducted, it was found out that
developments. Although they have been voicing their concerns as well
the economic situation of the Portuguese community has been
as expressing their rejection towards neighbouring developments, their
deteriorating over the years as more seaside development were
pleas are constantly ignored and belittled. The community also feels
approved and implemented, which caused environmental issues that
that these developments are harming their natural livelihood by
affect one of their main economic livelihood - fishing. Presently,
affecting their surrounding environment. Developments require land
fishing is still one of their economic means of surviving, but no longer
reclamation and when that happens, the natural shoreline of the
their primary source of income. Today, the Portuguese settlement is
settlement is affected; fishermen then would not be able to fish at their
famous for their seafood restaurants located along the shoreline of
normal area, which is in close proximity with the settlement. They
Malacca. Part of the community is running their own seafood
would then be forced to go out to deeper sea and they do not have
restaurants that generate sufficient income, and symbolises their
proper equipment for such a task. There is, however, a minority, which
primary economic means. Meanwhile, they also produce their own
hopes that the developments will contribute to the job opportunities for
home-products that would be sold within the community as well as to
the settlement.
visitors. The average income of the restaurant owners is around RM7000. Fishing Other
Food Industry Unemployed
Entrepreneur
Expectations of community A lot of the respondents felt that they cannot rely on the local government anymore and therefore expect the people of the community
15% 10% 25%
to start their own businesses in order to be able to sustain a living in the 40%
10%
Figure 3 - Distribution of Jobs
long run.
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Liveliness of shops
Economic identity
Most of the shops and restaurants only operate during the evening and night
Most of the people consider themselves as Eurasians and thus they feel really
from 5pm to 11pm. Since the prices are not really affordable for the locals, the
concerned about having something unique to the Portuguese settlement in
main customers are tourists and Malaysians who come to visit the Portuguese
Malaysia. The respondents were asked how strongly they feel about standing
settlement for the seafood. It is to be noted that the heaviest activities happen
out as an identity.
from Friday to Sunday.
Figure 5 - Identity
20
20
18
18
15
15
13 10
8
8
5
5
5 3
No. of Interviewees
No. of Interviewees
Figure 4 - Level of Liveliness
13 9
10 8 5 5
2 0
0
3
0
0
0 1
2
3
4 Level of Liveliness
5
6
7
1
1
2
3
2
2
4
5
0 1
6
7
Economic Identity
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Opinion on local government
Business opportunities
The majority of the people in the Portuguese settlement feel that the local
Although the economic situation is not too bright, there are
government should be doing more in order to reach out to them whereas there
opportunities for various age groups as shown below. As stated
is a small group of individuals who feel that the government has been
previously, the younger generations are encouraged to pursue higher
completely neglecting their opinions and requests. Additionally, the
studies.
government does not provide subsidies to the restaurant owners.
14
Level of involvement from younger generations The young generation is less involved because most of them choose to find jobs outside of the community and they do not think there is a place for them within the community as a whole. It is to be noted that a lot of the parents encourage their children to pursue higher studies in order to have a wider range of job prospects outside of the settlement.
12
12
12 10
10
7
8 5
6
5 3
4 2 0
1
2
1
0
Education
Food Industry <21
Entrepreneur
22-35
2
Fishing
>36
Figure 6 - Business Opportunitie
Historical Study
26
28
6.0
29
6.0 Site Analysis 6.1 SCALE vs HORIZONTALITY 6.2 SOLID vs VOID 6.3 LIGHT vs HEAVY 6.4 ACTIVITY vs TIME 6.5 FLOW vs INFRASTRUCTURE 6.6 EDGE vs FILTERS 6.7 PATTERN vs VERTICALITY 6.8 ELEMENTS OF LYNCH 6.9 PHYSICAL DATA
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6.0 Site Analysis 6.1 Scale vs Horizontality The settlement grain in plan reflects different typologies of buildings in terms of volume, scale and arrangement of housing block. The growth of the settlement is mostly affected by the seafront, with commercial buildings closest to the sea, followed by educational and residential. The variation of scale and volume defines the public and private zone. Passers-by experience varied scales of the space, moving towards the site. SECTION A-A
Squera Road
SECTION B-B
Daranjo Road
SECTION C-C
Eredia Road
Figure 6.1a: The sections below identify three different settlement experiences to illustrate the relationship between street and volume from a pedestrianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perspective.
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6.2 Solid vs Void
CONDITION 3
CONDITION 4
CONDITION 2
CONDITION 1
Figure 6.2a: Figure-ground plan of Portuguese Settlement
public and private space. Upon closer inspection of open public spaces, there are semi-spaces that ties public and private spaces. Semi-spaces consist of semi-private and semi-public spaces which
The map of the settlement illustrates a mass-to-void relationship
have differing levels of control and accessibility.
between built and un-built spaces which shapes the perception of
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The sense of ownership in a particular place can be affected by many factors such as volume, width and scale of an open space, its visual connectivity, permeability and activity. Perceptual boundaries do not always correspond to the conditions of physical boundaries. In conclusion, the physical arrangement and width of the street,
Figure 6.2b: Condition 1- Open space between Lim Kok Wing campus and the sea.
scale and volume of the building and the usage of the space influences human perception towards a place.
Figure 6.2c: Condition 2- Open space between Portuguese square and the sea.
Figure 6.2d: Condition 3- Open space between Portuguese square and house.
Figure 6.2e: Condition 4- Open space between Secondary school and house.
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6.3 Light vs Heavy The hierarchy of building types is determined by significant landmarks. Main destinations can become important urban magnets for activities and people. The settlement has many landmarks that are determined by the community and visitors. Activities are responsible for such permanence. Hence, light and heavy becomes a metaphor of classification whereby heavy represents a landmark. This classification reveals the settlementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hierarchy networks, showing the settlement as a polycentric hierarchy and pattern of activities that frames the vibrant seaside while highlighting the minor activities within the settlement. HEAVY
MEDIUM
LIGHT
Portuguese Food Court
Portuguese Square
Portuguese Food Stall
Night activity at the food court
Medium activity at Monterios Restaurant
Portuguese House Restaurant
The interrelation of the different degrees of hierarchies of programs and activities
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6.4 Activity vs Time Type of activities in the settlement differ throughout the day. The settlementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s image to visitors portrays a seaside community with a specialized food profile. During the day, activity is focused on the Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Albuquerque Road and side streets towards SMK Canossa Convent. Low activity is seen at the seafront as visitors to the seafront is scarce during the day. As the eateries only open in the evenings, night activity in the settlement spikes as visitors populate the food court, transforming the seafront into a lively interaction node. This is further enhanced with street side vendors that adds a retail layer of activity to the already active node. The understanding of temporal and permanent activities within the time cycles reveals the tendencies of peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s congregational patterns within the entire settlement.
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Figure 6.4a: Daytime activities of the settlement from morning till noon
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Figure 6.4b: Night time activities of the settlement from evening till night
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6.5 Flow vs Infrastructure Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Albuquerque Road as a domain infrastructure is the main access to the Portuguese settlement. The pedestrian infrastructure is treated as secondary. In the housing area it is almost imperceptible, provoking passers-by to traverse alongside vehicular.
Figure 6.5a: Sections through major roads of the Portuguese Settlement
Vehicular Capacity Network
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Figure 6.5b: Figure shows macro analysis of vehicular network capacity
Traffic organization on a macro scale of the Portuguese Settlement are mostly for vehicles rather than as pedestrian linkage towards to Bandar Hilir and Permatang Pasir. Minor inner road networks are only linking within the micro context and supporting the major road spine. Bus Route
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Figure 6.5c: Figure shows macro analysis of bus route
Buses are a common means of public transportation in reaching the settlement. The road widths in the settlement are narrow which creates difficulty for buses to access the site. There are two bus companies that pass by the Portuguese settlement on regular time intervals, namely, SKA and the Town Bus. Micro Vehicular and Pedestrian Circulation
40 Existing vehicular access to the Portuguese Settlement from Ujong Pasir is only via Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Albuquerque
Road,
which
leads
to
congestion during peak hours. Access to the site is via the public paid car park. Pedestrian circulation is along the fringes of vehicular roads as there are no designated pedestrian routes on site.
Figure 6.5d: Figure shows micro analysis of vehicular and pedestrian circulations
6.6 Edge vs Filters
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Figure 6.6a: Edges of the sea against built form with highlighted views from the site
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Figure 6.6b: Panoramic view from site
Figure 6.6c: Collage of views from Lim Kok Wing and Food courts
Visually, the sea is considered a pleasing view from the food court and the entire perimeter edge of land. Therefore, the view has been maximized and unobstructed except for the Hatten Project west of settlement.
6.7 Pattern vs Verticality The character of a place is transmitted in terms of height and width,
houses define the essence of the streets. Extended jetties create
proportion and scale, aesthetic and materiality, light and colour.
harmonious horizons between solid structures and the water body.
The suburban area has a stable building typology between inner
With the arrival of Lisbon Hotel (now Lim Kok Wing), the colonial
urban fabric and its approach to the waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edge. Single-storey
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style building creates a contrast between both the residences and the water. Architectural typologies can be segregated into layers of aesthetic complexity. By extracting the colour palette, faรงade and scale rhythms, scale of volume and openings, we can have a closer engagement with the character of the place.
Figure 6.7a: Site plan showing 4 areas of the site to be studied
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46
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6.8 Elemen ts of Lynch
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Site Dialogue - The study of the Elements of Lynch of the site reveals the current perception and mental map of the community and visitors of the settlement. The proposal of design strategies has to coexist with the different characteristics of the neighbourhood in hopes of adapting to the context to create different dialogues between the proposal and the site. This would allow for conversations to arise between the site and adjacent communities.
Path According to Lynch (1960), paths are the streets, sidewalks, trails, and other channels in which people travel.
Figure 6.8a: Paths found in the Portuguese Settlement
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Edges According to Lynch (1960), edges are perceived boundaries such as walls, buildings, and shorelines.
Figure 6.8b: Administrative Edge is comprised of the custom quarters
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Figure 6.8c: Food & Beverage Edge is comprised of the restaurants and food court located by the seafront
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Figure 6.8d: Education Edge is comprised of SMK Canossa Convent and Lim Kok Wing University
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Figure 6.8e: Residential Edge includes all residences located in the settlement
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Districts According to Lynch (1960), districts are relatively large sections of the city distinguished by some identity or character.
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Figure 6.8f: Districts found in the Portuguese Settlement
Nodes According to Lynch (1960), nodes are focal points, intersections or loci.
Figure 6.8g: Nodes found in the Portuguese Settlement
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Landmarks According to Lynch (1960), landmarks are readily identifiable objects which serve as external reference points.
Figure 6.8h: Landmarks found in the Portuguese Settlement
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To understand the Portuguese Settlement, the mapping of the Nodes & Landmarks of the area will help identify the areas that are significant to both the local communities and visitors to the settlement.
6.9 Physical Data Sun Movement
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Figure 6.9a: Sunpath diagram of the Portuguese Settlement
Wind Movement
Figure 6.9b: Windrose diagram of the Portuguese Settlement.
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Table 6.9a: Meteorological data showing dominant wind directions, wind speeds and air temperature throughout the year Tidal Levels
Figure 6.9c: Section showing tide levels of the seafront at the site
There are 4 waves of tidal intervals that occurs along the Straits of Malacca, causing the site to experience a mix of high tides and low tides at different intervals of the day. High tides generally occur during the 2nd and 4th waves which are during the early mornings from 0600 hours up to 1100 hours and the evenings at 1730 hours up to 2330 hours. The 1st and 3rd waves are generally low tides.
7.0 Proposed program
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The Central Promenade: Community Culture Park
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The Central Promenade : Community Central Park The Central Promenade : Community Central Park is a new mixed used development to revitalize the immediate surrounding with a proposal of live, work and play within the Portuguese Settlement. The site has an existing jetty and a restaurant built by the government in the 1990s that was relocated; this site is to be transformed into a place housing miscellaneous activities to promote the lively culture of the Portuguese to the tourists and the neighbourhood, and to also boost the economy of the site. This proposal is led by a research question; to what degree multiple usage of public spaces of waterfront architecture provide positive benefit for the Portuguese Settlement? By including collective social activities that are centred arounf a public space associated with the community. Public spaces are intertwined with social connectivity, the higher use of public spaces creates higher social contact with the users. This is apparent in its simplest forms like streets, markets, parks, community halls, food courts. This scheme is conceived from this fundamental intent providing shelter for communal activities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a place of regular living amenity, social recreational and communal sports events. Public Spaces creates social connectivity to encourage the economical growth of the settlement. With the lack thereof of spaces to showcase in their settlement homes; programmatic spaces work together to provide economic benefit such as the cottage industry, food courts, wet and dry markets that allow social cohesion as well as to show case the local talents and tastes to encourage movement pattern in and out of this proposed programme.
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This also helps the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy as the seaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shoreline is receeding hance there is loss of connection to the sea and also loss of livelihood because it is harder for them to catch fishes. Thus, this programme helps the portuguese community to once again put their mark on theor own land.
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Figure 7.0 Proposed Programe chart. Source: Author, 2015
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7.1. Proposed programe: Vocational Training Center; Culinary school Target user groups: Youths, middle-aged women, tourists Issue: Lack of interest in the youths towards Programe brief: To encourage the youths to take part in Portuguese unique cuisine so that the recipies could be passed down from generation to generation. Thus, creating job opportunities to middle aged women to teach the youths and tourists to cook their wellknown cuisine; encouraging family-run business. To showcase their Figure 7.1 Proposed Programe chart. Source: Author, 2015 Based on the readings of the literature review, case study findings
popular dishes like the Portuguese Baked Fish and the Curry Debal.
and site analysis this would be the proposed program for the Portuguese Settlement, which aims to establish a sense of community and sense of ownership within the community.
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7.2. Proposed program: Vocational Training Center; Kristang
tarts, micro winery, frying of the fish belachan to be made into
Language Classes
sambal paste. This center will be focused on the 3 processes as
Target user groups: Youths, tourists.
stated on the above; and it is run by the locals and these processes
Issue: ‘Papiah Kristang’ language facing a decline
are showcased to tourists who are curious about the process of these
Programe brief: To encourage the youths to master the language at a
Portuguese delicacies being made. To also encourage job
young age so that this language would be preserved, as it has
opportunites to the target user groups.
influenced many words in the malay language. To enlighten the tourists of the Portuguese creole language.
7.4. Proposed programe: Wet and dry markets Target user groups: The people of the Portuguese Settlement, fishermen, and seafood restaurant owners Issue: Lack of nearby markets; nearest market is as far as 30 minutes walking distance. Program brief: Fishermen sells their catch to the markets, T=the
7.3. Proposed Program: Cottage Industries; Manufacturing,
market vendors sell them to the restaurant vendors or the people of
Packaging & Retail.
the settlement and tourists, the smaller fishes are used to make
Target user groups: Youths, middle-aged men and women.
‘sambal belachan’ or salted fishes. The dry markets are also to
Issue: Sluggish economy.
facilitate the restaurant owners, the settlement dwells for fresh
Programe brief: To promote the cottage industries of the Portuguese
vegetables.
Settlement as previously they were only done indoors and outdoors in the community’s homes. I.e. Drying salted fish, baked pineapple
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Program brief: To provide facilities to encourage crab farming as to 7.5. Proposed programe: Community or Multipurpose Hall
create a symbiotic system between the crabs and the mangrove trees
Target user groups: Portuguese community, tourists,
as to preserve the trees for the future. Crabs can be used to cook at te
Issue: Lack of public space for cultural activities, recreational
restaurants or to be sold at the wet market.
activities, gathering space. Program brief: Usages of the community hall for major festivals,
7.8. Proposed program: Boat dock
sports activities, cultural dance practices so that the community hall
Target user group: Fishermen
brings vibrancy to the settlement.
Issue: No proper place to park boats Program brief: To provide a proper refurbished jetty for boats to
7.6. Proposed programe: Relocation of the restaurants
dock after fishing. Boat dock is proposed near by the wet market
Target user groups: Tourists, resident community
storage as to facilitate the transport of the seafood to the stores to
Issue: Uneven tourist distribution amongst restaurants
weigh.
Program brief: Relocation of the restaurants on seafront as to celebrate views of the sea and to encourage even distribution of
7.9. Proposed program: SoHo & Homestays
consumers in patronizing the restaurants.
Target user group: Tourists, working class adults. Issue: Lack of tourist lodging.
7.7. Proposed program: Crab farming
Program: Homestays for tourist to experience Portuguese culture.
Target user groups: Fishermen Issue: Mangrove trees depletion
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7.10 Schedule of spaces Figure 7.10
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8.0 Design Strategies 8.1 Environment and Technology: • Permeable design. •
Passive design strategies.
•
To allow as much air movement as possible within the structure; natural ventilated building, to reduce the usage of mechanical ventilation
•
Double volume spaces. - Community Hall.
•
Allowing natural ventilation to take place, and natural lighting.
•
Large overhangs – Market place, Cottage Industries, Restaurants.
•
To provide more shading into the building.
•
Rainwater harvesting – soil irrigation
•
Photovoltaic panels – excess could be offset electricity bill and sold to Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB)
8.2 Economical •
Spatial connectivity between different spaces such as the markets, cottage industry, restaurants provides a visual connection between one another to ease movement pattern on site.
8.3 Cultural • Design sensitivity to the surrounding context. • Buildings to face the Portuguese Square and the Chapel to respond to their façade instead of ignoring them. • Local maerials such as; Laterite Stone and timber shoud be used to respond to site. •
Public spaces: such as the community hall to provide connectivity with to the Malacca Straits during the Intrudu and San Pedro Festival to enhance the meaning of the cultural practice.
8.4 Social • •
Public / Communal Space Diversity and array of internal programmes.
•
As stated in the above programe schedule.
•
Public spaces; Community hall, and around the ‘Ketapang tree’
•
Communal gathering spaces
•
Different hierarchies of communal spaces.
•
Vertically and visually connected communal spaces.
Figure 8.1 Design Strategies Diagrams Source: Author, 2015
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Figure 8.0 Design Strategies Diagrams Source: Author, 2015
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70
71
72
Figure 8.2 Design Strategies Diagrams; Passive Design Strategies Source: Author, 2015
73
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Conclusion: Design Strategies. In conclusion, design strategies obtained from the handling of the selected method forms a basis of design to approach the issues of physical aspects and spatial programming of the public spaces that help with the enhancement of the economy in Portuguese Settlement. The highlighted design strategies will be incorporated into the design exploration to reflect the environmental and technology aspect, spatial programming, and public spaces. This report explores that improving public spaces and the integration of the economical activities can lead to creating desirable adaptable communal spaces, environmentally sustainable and sociable community spaces, and strengthening and sustaining long-term communities in the economy within the context of the Portuguese Settlements, Malacca, Malaysia. (Author, 2015)
9.0 Disscussion
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with a single ethnic group. The following benefits focus primarily on the importance of these places to cities, but they are applicable to
In conclusion, throughout this project and based on the readings;
every community such as the Portuguese Settlements.
public spaces are an extension of the community. When they work well, they serve as a stage for our public lives. They can be the
Revitalizing streets for walking, gathering, and shopping is perhaps
settings where celebrations are held, where exchanges both social
the most direct example of how placemaking can benefit a city or
and economic take place and where the Portuguese cultures mix.
town economically, is the next step that the Portuguese community
They could be the ‘front verandahs’ of our public institutions – post
should take in beautifying their community. (What makes great
offices, office buildings – where we can interact with each other.
places?, n.d.)
Where differencial of class do not exist; i.e. the fishermen and the working class would be interacting with one another in the market place. When cities and neighborhoods have thriving public spaces, residents have a strong sense of community; conversely, when such spaces are lacking, people may feel less connected to each other. They are recognized and valued in their cities and towns as places with their own special flavor that relate to and nurture the larger community and bring the public together. In addition to the above, great public places benefit all kinds of communities, from dense urban neighborhoods and downtowns to small towns and suburbs, and from diverse communities to those
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10.0 References
Portuguese Settlement at Ujong Pasir, in the state of Melaka, Malaysia, as i. (n.d.). Retrieved October 1, 2015.
Johnston, K. L., & Johnston, K. L. (2013). Public Space and Urban The Arc at Bandar Rimbayu / Garis Architects. (2015, September 8).
Life : A Spatial Ethnography of a Portland Plaza by.
Retrieved October 6, 2015. Hou, J., & Rios, M. (2013). Community-Driven Place Making The Social Practice of Participatory Point Park. Journal of
Schmidt hammer lassen establishes cultural hub for ningbo labor
Architectural
union. (2014, May 5). Retrieved October 8, 2015.
Education,
57(1),
37–41.
http://doi.org/10.1162/104648803322336557 Efroymson, D., Jones, L., & Efroymson, D. (2009). Public Spaces : How They Humanize Cities Authors : Editor : Photography : HealthBridge - WBB Trust, (October). Place Capital: Reconnecting Economy with Community Project for
What Makes a Successful Place? - Project for Public Spaces. (n.d.). Retrieved October 7, 2015. Mosher. (n.d.). Development in Denver: Why Open Space Spurs the Economy - Project for Public Spaces. Retrieved October 10, 2015.
Public Spaces. (n.d.). Retrieved October 5, 2015. UNESCO, The Federal Government of Malaysia, The State Government of Melaka: Please step in to protect and sustain the well-being, the environment, and the heritage culture of the
Gerard Feranadis. (2003). Kajian Malaysia, VoL XXI, Nos. 1&2, 2003. The Portuguese Community At The Periphery, XXI. Hull. (n.d.). Miller Hull - Pike Place Market Waterfront Entrance. Retrieved October 10, 2015.