Sunday, November 8, 2009

PLAY: North Kuching City Council Building 271009!

Dominating the skyscape of Petra Jaya, the North Kuching City Council (DBKU; Dewan Bandaraya Kuching Utara) is set on a pronounced, high ground. Its relative grand scale and elevated setting clearly distinguished its importance as a legislative body that governs its realm. Architecture has always been an art form that can be effectively integrated into the physical environment to regulate the emotions of community who are served.

Its explicit tectonic qualities form a remarkable articulation of Islamic Symbolism in architecture. The eminent dome, forming the uppermost portion of the structure, is a fundamental feature of Islamic origins. The crown of the dome structure is charmingly articulated with Islamic geometrical extruded motifs, which closely resembles the “kerawang” (carved ventilation panel above the windows of traditional Malay house) panel.

Its architectural design also embodies typical vernacular traits like sloping surfaces that serve to dispel rainwater off quickly. Comparatively important is the optimization of natural light penetration into the interiors via the larger surface area achieved through its inclining facets.

The persistence of vernacular tripartite division is again evident in another post-modernist framework. This archetypical composition incorporates roof, main elevated body and ‘kolong’ (space below the main body raised on stilts). This concludes another epitome of a commendable embodiment of tectonic and symbolic values which captures regional integrity and timelessness.

Text by Leong Su Wei (Sheounz)

The DBKU building houses a Cat Museum. The museum exhibits historical facts and old photos of Kuching city. Kuching means Cat in Malay language.

The exhibition also includes collection of cat figurines.
Edited image of the atrium!

RECOLLECTIONS: Habitat for Living Project @ Goebilt Village 12-190806!

Took part in the "Habitat for Living" Project @ Goebilt Village! The project was intended to build house for the needy. Through this charitable project, students were able to obtain hands-on knowledge on the basic construction of a house. Briefing by the construction supervisor on the current progress of construction as well as tasks to be covered that day!
Working on the foundation of the house!

Building the formwork for concrete!

RECOLLECTIONS: Cherating, Pahang 040306 050306!

040306!
050306!