Kwang Ken Ang, Ying Kuan Tan
Malaysia
Attap, a common traditional building material that signified the characteristic of tropical Vernacular houses of Malaysia is being studied in this project. We observed the layering movement and attempted to translate it into a modern architecture language, while delivering the similar aesthetic impact. Through implementing a layer of featured timber façade, we migrate the wavy movement to the envelop of the building, symbolize the evolution of attap. Other than that, the building is facing the magnificent view of Pantai Tengah, responding to the active movement of the ocean and wind, with the gentle wavy movement of the building. Ombak, a noun in Malay Language which means wave, we find it best describe our intention.
The programmes of a traditional Malay house also being adapted and translated into modern architecture language. While we are remaining the traditional, big, functional verandah that serves for communal activities, we transform the traditional spatial sequence by inverting the public and private space upside down, to fit the topography of the site. Clustering the spaces created a central courtyard that enhancing the communal value of a traditional Malay lifestyles. The construction material we appreciated the usage of timber and implement it in 70% of the building, meanwhile we adapted modern construction method that evolved from the traditional joinery system.
Vernacular buildings is typically being perceived as outdated, and the public has always being misled that fancy stylish futuristic modern is the best. Profession in architecture shall take the initiative, to reinvent the vernacular architecture, translating them into modern language, so that their important meaning will not be lost and can be inherited forever.