Encore Melaka Theatre
Malaysia, a land rich in culture and history, is also home to some of the world’s most remarkable architectural gems. With Malaysia Day fast approaching, we embark on a journey to discover the architectural brilliance behind Malaysia’s iconic buildings, each of which tells a unique story of the nation’s heritage and progress.
Architecture plays a vital role in the shaping of the environment, impacting both the functionality of structures and the aesthetics of our surroundings. It reflects cultural, social, and technological trends, making it a dynamic and evolving field. As we explore these architectural splendours, we gain a deeper appreciation of the country’s past and present, all through the lens of remarkable design and construction.
A Timeless Symbol: Sultan Abdul Samad Building
Tourism Malaysia
The Sultan Abdul Samad Building stands as a testament to Malaysia’s historical journey, showcasing architectural brilliance while serving as a vibrant reminder of the nation’s heritage and the pursuit of independence. While continuing to be the backdrop for Malaysia’s annual Independence Day parades, it’s a must-visit destination to immerse in the rich tapestry of local history and culture.
Designed by the renowned British architect AC Norman, the building’s Moorish-style architecture is a fusion of British and Islamic elements, showcasing local cultural diversity and historical legacy. Its distinctive features, including red brick construction, three towers, grand porch, curved colonnades, and two domes, create a visually captivating façade. The imposing 41.2-meter-high clock tower, reminiscent of the Big Ben, adds to its grandeur.
Embracing Breezes: PJKita Community Centre
H.Lin Ho | Arch Daily
Nestled within the heart of Kelana Jaya Park, the PJKita Community Centre spanning an impressive 4.3 acres is more than just a physical structure. Designed as a prototype for the innovative T-Canopy concept, this centre brings together diverse elements that create a sense of unity and offer a blueprint for inclusive community development.
In the realm of sustainable architecture, this concept stands as a testament to innovation and adaptability. Its functional form and structure are not static entities but rather dynamic, interchangeable, and integrated elements that can be multiplied and replicated.
The Spine isn’t just a corridor – it’s a symbol of thoughtful design that embraces nature. Stretching an impressive 60 meters beneath the canopy, the sheltered walkway doesn’t just serve a singular purpose. It’s a versatile space that brings the community together.
The Seremben Sojourn: Red Hill Gallery
The birth of architectural marvels often involves a journey of exploration, and the Red Hill Gallery is no exception. This is the story of a remarkable quest led by the visionary architect, Cherng Yih Lee, on the outskirts of a quaint tropical town, Seremban. As Lee and his team ventured through abandoned oil palm plantations and the last traces of a dairy farm, they embarked on a poignant journey that would eventually give rise to the Red Hill Gallery.
In its very heart, the prevailing palm oil trees formed a boundary, guarding a cluster of seemingly forgotten rubber trees. It was a discovery that sparked a design process that would transform the landscape.
Entering the forest path is akin to stepping into a dark cave. The canopy of rubber trees casts dappled shadows, creating a sense of mystique and intrigue. It’s a journey into the unknown, where the building remains veiled in secrecy, heightening the sense of adventure. Contrastingly, as visitors step into the building’s gallery, they are greeted by a starkly different scene—a vast, open space that feels like a colossal white cave.
From one end of the building to the other, ceilings rise and fall, and walls shift to create a sense of constant transformation. A striking feature of the architectural design is the zig-zag corridor that leads to an internal courtyard garden. It mirrors the experience of navigating through a forest, where the path twists and turns, revealing surprises along the way.
Bridging Nature and Industry: Factory in the Earth
Kaori Ichikawa | Arch Daily
In the lush landscape of Johor, an extraordinary project is taking shape—an extension of an existing factory that harmonizes industry with the untouched beauty of the nearby jungle. This endeavour exemplifies the delicate balance between progress and preservation.
At the core of this project is a profound commitment to sustainability. This project harnesses the power of natural resources. From rainwater to geothermal heat and vegetation, they become allies in the quest for environmental responsibility.
The building seeks to seamlessly merge nature with manufacturing, creating a sustainable oasis within the confines of a vertical industrial space. With a continuous walking path sloping along its perimeter, a façade adorned with a web of climbing vines, and a natural ventilation system that breathes life into every corner, delivering a harmonious fusion of innovation and ecology.
A Futuristic Landmark: The POD
Mr H Lin Ho Courtesy of PJCC | Arch Daily
Nestled off Jalan PJS2, the POD’s visionary form, with a generous gross floor area of 750 sqm, evokes the gentle curvature of water droplets, embodying sophistication and elegance. Speaking of the design, its distinctive elliptical form draws inspiration from the graceful contours of water droplets, encapsulating the essence of purity.
Internally, it gracefully divides itself into two distinct realms with picturesque landscapes framing both ends: one dedicated to the on-site sales office, while the other serves as the main showroom and sales gallery. In a bustling cityscape, the POD infuses a sense of dynamism and captivation, making it a visual masterpiece against the skyline.
A Victorian Treasure: Penang City Hall
@photogrambyjijoe | penangtoday
The City Hall of George Town is a cherished relic of Penang’s history. With its Victorian-style elegance and pioneering embrace of modernity, it embodies the essence of a city that straddles the past and the future. Constructed in 1903 and inaugurated in 1906, this remarkable structure holds a unique distinction—it was among the first buildings in George Town, Penang, to be adorned with the marvel of electric lights and fans.
As the City Hall continues to stand proudly along Jalan Padang Kota Lama, its walls echo with the voices of history, having witnessed the transformation of George Town from a colonial outpost to a thriving cosmopolitan city.
A Theater by the Straits: Encore Melaka
@YTB Impression | Arch Daily
Nestled along the enchanting Straits of Melaka stands Encore Melaka, a majestic theatre that marries history and modernity. With a sprawling 2,000-person rotating audience seat and four mesmerizing stages, this cultural haven opened its doors in July 2018. Designed to be an iconic structure overlooking the Straits of Melaka, Encore Melaka pays homage to the historical significance of this waterway as a vital trade route connecting East and West.
The Straits of Melaka has long been a nexus of trade, and Encore Melaka symbolizes the lasting trade relationship between Malaysia and China, which dates back to the 1400s. The stunning theatre tells a story that transcends generations—a story of trade, tradition, and the timeless allure of the Straits of Melaka.
