Confluence of Kuala Lumpur

Razak School of Engineering and Advanced Technology

MRSS 1114 Urban Design Theory and Method

CONFLUENCE OF KUALA LUMPUR towscape appraisal - report Jan 2018

Mustafa Mohamed AlKhadragi MRS171005 Dr. Rohaya Che Amat

Contents 1.0 Introduction …………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Page 1 2.0 Aim and Scope of Report ………………………………………………………………………………….... Page 1 3.0 Choice of Case ………………………………………………………………………………………………... Page 1 4.0 The Path ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….... Page 1 5.0 History …………………………………………………………………………………………………………..... Page 2 6.0 Urban Analysis ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Page 4 6.1 Urban Form ……………………………………………………………………………….. Page 4 6.2 Urban Structure Elements …………………………………………………………….... Page 5 6.3 Serial Vision ……………………………………………………………………………….. Page 6 6.4 Building Typology …. …………………………………………………………….……. Page 11 6.5 Behavioral Observations ………………………………………………………….….. Page 17 7.0 Conclusion …………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Page 18 Resources ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….….. Page 19 Appendix ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….….. Page 20

any images used in this report -unless stated- have been taken or created by the conductor of the report

1.0 Introduction

the end would be the main attraction: the Square.

Cities, the centers of our modern lives; they encompass all our human needs, just like modern tech smartphones. The modern human needs everything to exist in one place.

The evolutionary rise from simple hut settlements to high-rise buildings, transportation networks, civic facilities and recreational hubs; has been a true testimony to our race’s rapid evolution.

This phenomenon spurred the desire to study cities, the urban realm.

The studies of the urban world are plenty, and could encompass elements such as social, economic or political issues. However, our concern is to study the design element in cities; How do we feel in a specific place in the city?..

Why are some places successful while others are not?.. How is a certain function achieved through design?..

2.0 Aim and Scope of Report

figure 4.0.1 Malaysia in South-East Asia (source: Google Maps) figure 3.0.1 the initial focus of the path (source: Flickr)

However, in the course of the several visits to the area and the conduction of background studies; there have been several changes in the chosen path for study (refer to Appendix for detailed process of the choice). Eventually, my views shifted from the Square towards the Confluence of Kuala Lumpur (figure 3.0.2); the mergence of two rivers that also hold significant value in the history of Kuala Lumpur.

figure 4.0.2 Kuala Lumpur in Peninsular Malaysia (source: Google Maps)

This report aims to display the study of a specific urban path in the city of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The main focus herein is the study of townscape; the urban image and experience within street level, along with the components that define it.

The scope includes background studies on the area and its history, the study of the physical components that create the urban context, the visual survey of the path, as well as behavioral findings related to the path.

3.0 Choice of Case Being a foreigner to the city of Kuala Lumpur -also referred to as KL- I had an automatic interest in Merdeka Square (figure 3.0.1); one of the most historically significant squares in Kuala Lumpur. This rendered the area potential for the study. The path would start around the Metro Station where I always arrive at to embark on my appraisal, and

figure 3.0.2 the final focus of the path

figure 4.0.3 location in center of Kuala Lumpur (source: Google Maps)

4.0 The Path The location of the path is at the center of the city of Kuala Lumpur (figure 4.0.3); the capital city of Malaysia (figure 4.0.2).

1

5.0 History

3

2

The founding of Kuala Lumpur was at the confluence of the two Rivers Klang and Gombak.

Before it became a world class capital city it was an important tin mining area, which was discovered by 87 miners not very long ago in 1857. This location was extremely important as the two rivers were the major gates to the area at the time. It was also where Kuala Lumpur derived its name; which means “Muddy Confluence”. Rapid growth followed and resulted in a civil war in the years later.

1 7 9 8 4 6

5

Yap Ah Loy (figure 5.0.1), who was Chinese Kapitan since 1869; rebuilt the city after the war was resolved, and paved the way for the development of Kuala Lumpur from a simple mining settlement into a significant town. He brought order to the area and enhanced the political as well as economical status of Kuala Lumpur.

At that time the Chinese, Malays and Indians had settled at the east of the river Klang; the Chinese around the market, and the Malays and Indians around Java Street (now called Jalan Tun Perak).

The British then decided to have their administration at the west of the river, around what is now Merdeka Square.

Another important figure in the history of Kuala Lumpur was Frank Swettenham (figure 5.0.2); appointed British resident in 1882. Swettenham was credited for Kuala Lumpur’s transformation into a major urban center; where roads were widened and properly paved, and houses were rebuilt using brick instead of wood and thatching (figure 5.0.3) - this was following the events of a major fire in 1881.

figure 5.0.3 as shown (source: issuu.com)

In accordance, Yap Ah Loy rebuilt the buildings along the main market using bricks (figure 5.0.4).

However, after Yap’s death; Swettenham relocated the market to where the Central Market now lies and the old market place was transformed into a trading square.

figure 4.0.4 the path at the Confluence (source: Google Maps)

The path (figure 4.0.4) begins next to Masjid Jamek Metro Station and through one of the portals of the River of Life (1) project (a river beautification and revitalization project for the rivers Klang (2) and Gombak (3) that form the Confluence of Kuala Lumpur). It stretches about 150 meters south along the river Klang until it reaches Medan Pasar (4); a historical square. The path continues south through the 100-meter span of the Square until it reaches Leboh Pasar Besar (5); one of the oldest roads in Kuala Lumpur. The path then follows the road about 50 meters west until it reaches the bridge (6) overlooking the Confluence, Masjid Jamek (7); a historical mosque, and the back of Sultan Abdul Samad Building (8); iconic historical building. Not far from the path is Merdeka Square (9).

figure 5.0.1 Yap Ah Loy (source: issuu.com)

figure 5.0.2 Frank Swettenham (source: geographia.com)

Yap also established the main market in the area, which is where Medan Pasar now lies. This was where his residence was located.

In the 1880s Kuala Lumpur became the capital of Selangor (one of the states that would later form the independent country Malaysia) and thus the British colonial administration moved from Klang to Kuala Lumpur.

figure 5.0.4 brick shop houses along the market square

built by Yap Ah Loy (source: malaysiadesignarchive.org)

2

In 1896 the Federated Malay States was formed and Kuala Lumpur became its capital city. It was also during the British occupation that several colonial buildings were built around the area, which now contribute greatly to the heritage of Kuala Lumpur (figure 5.0.5).

In 1907, what is now the oldest mosque in Kuala Lumpur was built upon the confluence of the two rivers, it was officially opened in 1909. The mosque had a stepped platform to the river at the point of confluence (figure 5.0.10) that has been covered by soil early around the 1930s.

figure 5.0.7 image taken in the 1950s showing the clock tower (source: glaringnotebook.com)

figure 5.0.5 Sultan Abdul Samad Building dates back to 1897 (source: image.says.com)

In the 1900s, new eclectic shop house buildings replaced the old ones around the Old Market Square (figure 5.0.6). Later on, a Clock Tower (figure 5.0.7) was built in the center of the square in 1937 in commemoration of the coronation of King George. Around the 1910s, the square had a significant amount of banks such as Honk Kong Bank - now HSBC (figure 5.0.6), the Mercantile Bank (figure 5.0.8), and Bank of China (figure 5.0.9).

figure 5.0.10 old drawing of Masjid Jamek showing the staircase (source: thestar.com.my)

figure 5.0.8 Mercantile Bank across the square from Hong Kong Bank (source: glaringnotebook.com)

Between 1942 and 1945 the city fell under Japanese occupation during the Second World War. After their defeat they surrendered the city back to the British. However, the Malaysian’s had had enough of the oppression and thus began the path towards independence. In 1946 the Federation of Malaya was formed and Kuala Lumpur became its capital city.

In 1957, Malaysia was finally declared independent from British rule in Merdeka Square, and in 1963 took on its current name.

In 1974 Kuala Lumpur became a Federal Territory separated from the State of Selangor. It was around this era that some banks around Medan Pasar were demolished and replaced with modern buildings, still functioning as the same banks (figure 5.0.11).

figure 5.0.6 old postcard showing the eclectic shop houses built around the square and the Hong Kong Bank at the end (source: escapehunter.com)

figure 5.0.9 Bank of China can be seen lit up far right in the image (source: glaringnotebook.com)

From 1981 onwards, Kuala Lumpur has developed rapidly, with modern buildings and the iconic Petronas Towers (1996) dominating the skyline (figure 5.0.12). It has grown to become one of the most vibrant cities in the region.

3

6.0 Urban Analysis In this section we examine the elements of the urban context of which we can record and assess through mapping and visual analysis, along with behavioral observation.

6

6.1 Urban Form

2

figure 5.0.11 modern replacement of the old Mercantile Bank (source: glaringnotebook.com)

figure 5.0.12 modern skyline dominated by th e Petronas Towers (right) and KL Tower (left) (source: wikipedia.org)

In 2011, the River of Life project was launched as a river and riverfront revitalization project for the rivers Klang and Gombak that form the confluence. In 2014, the covered staircase of Masjid Jamek at the confluence was discovered during the works and later incorporated into the design (figure 5.0.13).

The area around the chosen path had been subject to changes that date back to the city’s birth. This led to a variety of responses to the urban context in terms of the natural setting, the built environment and all that is in between. The map on the right (figure 6.1.1) shows the Figure ground analysis of the area; the main concept about this theory is the differentiation between the building blocks or plots and the spaces that are between them, this shows the fabric of the city and the overall quality of the urban spaces.

The buildings are represented by a shaded tint while the open spaces are left un-shaded. The major natural element in this case is the river, which is shaded by a blue tint. The path is represented by a dashed line.

It is clear from the shapes of the buildings (solid) that there have been developments from different eras. Area (1) around Medan Pasar features narrow and long plots that are typical to the shop house style buildings around this region (figure 6.1.2).

4

5

5

3

5 5 3

1 5

5

3

5

3 5

5

3

figure 6.1.1 Figure-ground analysis

These shop houses have a distinguished demarcation of the skyline, with the level yet various- implication of the roof line.

Even though Lau Chung building (2), built in 1921; has a much bigger plot size; it features the same scale in terms of façade treatment (figure 6.1.3).

figure 5.0.13 uncovering the soil from top of the staircase (source: star.my)

figure 6.1.2 sketch of the shop houses in Medan Pasar showing their profile (source: inksalad.net)

figure 6.1.3 Lau Chung building (source:khg.com.my)

4

The colonial buildings (3) have a more calculated regular plot geometry with right angles and are not as narrow as the shop houses. Masjid Jamek (4), built around the colonial era, also features the scale used in the colonial buildings. The level roofline, punctuated by several pointing domes and minarets (figure 6.1.4) and the clock tower of Sultan Abdul Samad Building (figure 6.1.5); has a subtle increase of the scale used around Medan Pasar.

style, and there is a clear contrast between the scale of most modern buildings around Medan Pasar and the shop houses (figure 6.1.6). The clock tower at the center of the square (1) acts as a solid, that is a break in the void which is the square.

The buildings however, still maintain the original form that follows the main roads (linkages) in the area. While the shop houses around the medan form a fine grain, the rest of the area has a course grain, this is reflected in the fact that most of the roads have the approximate width of the square (figure 6.1.1). The path which acts as a pedestrian linkage along the riverfront; provides a different quality than the typical roads around the area.

6.2 Urban Structure Elements Since the study area is limited in size; it would be less feasible and fruitful to conduct a complete urban structure analysis. Therefore, I will only discuss what elements I could define from my several visits.

figure 6.1.6 large modern buildings in the background compared to shop houses

figure 6.1.4 pointed onion domes and vertical minarets add a subtle roof line on top of the level base (source: islam.gov.my)

The Metro station (6) acts as a canopy with its perforations and being open from lots of sides (figure 6.1.7). The river cuts through the buildings and provides a breathing spine that breaks the manmade urban context (figure 6.1.1).

Urban Structure can best be understood using Kevin Lynch’s theory on the Image of the City. He concluded after the conduction of studies in several American cities; that people use certain elements to form their mental map of that area.

These elements will be discussed below.

Paths The spaces in which the observer moves are called paths. Since this study revolves mainly around a path, it has been the strongly emphasized one. However, clear connections from the main path, and actual paths I have ventured through have also been shown (figure 6.2.1). The main paths that are included in the scope are (in order) Jalan Benteng, Medan Pasar, and Leboh Pasar Besar.

Nodes

figure 6.1.5 vertical clock tower rises above the level roof line (source: Wikipedia)

figure 6.1.7 Masjid Jamek Metro station (source: Google Maps)

The modern buildings around the path (5) are mostly clearly distinguished by their square-ish plot

It is clear from the map that the modern buildings have found their way all around the path.

Nodes are points with a high number of people within them. These can be -as the name suggeststhe intersection between paths, but are not limited to that. The main node along the path with the highest concentration of people is Medan Pasar (figure 6.2.1).

5

The metro station acts as a strong place marker, however it will only be identified as a place marker since it is not limited to being observed externally (figure 6.2.1).

Edges These are boundaries that break continuity and demarcate different areas or districts. What would be a clear edge in this case are the rivers.

However, this might not be exclusive; since it seems that the area that holds Masjid Jamek seems quite homogeneous with the area that holds Sultan Abdul Samad Building (Merdeka Square). For this reason, only Klang River is identified herein as an edge.

1 2

3 4

5

Districts Districts are areas where the observes “enters in� and they usually have a unique character that differentiates them from others. Because of the scale of this study, not enough information has been obtained regarding the districts around the area so they have not been demarcated.

6 9

8

7

6.3 Serial Vision figure 6.2.1 urban structure map

Another important node is the bridge; since it is the ending of the studied path. Several other smaller nodes exist along the path and will be mentioned in the next section. It is worth mentioning that Merdeka Square -west of the siteis also a major node in the area.

This section is the main aim of the report; to display the experience at street level and the urban elements that define and influence the context. The method of subsequent views (figure 6.3.1) used by Gordon Cullen in his book The Concise Townscape is the one used to conduct this study.

Landmarks

portal

Landmarks are elements that are experienced externally, they stand out from within the context and therefore act as special components . Since landmarks are likely to be vertical; they have been somewhat overshadowed by the high rise buildings in proximity. Nevertheless, these landmarks are Masjid Jamek, Sultan Abdul Samad Building’s Clock Tower, and Medan Pasar Clock Tower.

The beginning of the journey (1), it is all about the floor. The clearly defined path with Islamic geometry on the concrete pavement, almost lures the observer into the path (figures 6.3.2 and 6.3.3). The escape this path provides from the hectic Jalan Tun Perak is achieved by its void-ness of vehicles and strictly-pedestrian atmosphere. To the right is the first node; the Metro station which is always bustling with people.

figure 6.3.1 serial vision view points (source: Google Maps)

figures 6.3.2 and 6.3.3 beginning of the path

6

revelation

After a few meters, a wonder is revealed (2). The Mughal Architecture Masjid Jamek appears from behind the metro station walls and immediately demands attention. The three sweeping and pointy onion domes of the mosque decorate the skyline with subtle scale (figure 6.3.4).

Along the river Klang is the second node; which is the promenade newly constructed within the River of Life project (figure 6.3.6).

here and there

At this point (4), another place is revealed; Medan Pasar (figure 6.3.9). The clock tower in the square’s center acts as a focal point that is a visual vacuum, and the radial treatment of the square’s pavement helps accentuate this. The unfortunate scale of the two modern buildings; HSBC bank and Am Bank, ironically helps the framing of the square’s view and gives an impression that it is there. The term here and there as used by Cullen in his book, describes the interplay between two different spaces that are connected but visually differentiated.

figure 6.3.6 River of Life promenade (Masjid Jamek on left)

display figure 6.3.4 Masjid Jamek revealed, and the water fountain

In contrast, and to the left is the enormous HSBC Tower; which almost acts as a curtain that provides a less significant surface. This part of the path was under the River of Life project, and one element they had added is a modern, minimalistic, timely water fountain. The water shoots from different parts in a sequential matter, which adds more quality to the simple activity that can accompany it; whether it is playing around the fountain or just simply observing it.

It is clearly the intention of the designer here (3) to provide a display of the vertical clock tower of Sultan Abdul Samad building (figures 6.3.7 and 6.3.8). The pavement and railing both respond to the axis that is pointed towards the subject of the image. This can also be seen implemented towards Masjid Jamek (figure 6.3.5).

figure 6.3.9 there

The third node on the path is a simple platform where an power plant lies (figure 6.3.10). Even though there is a nearby bench area in Medan Pasar; this node witnesses more people when it is shaded by the surrounding tall buildings.

figure 6.3.7 and 6.3.8 Sultan Abdul-Samad building clock tower on display figure 6.3.5 Masjid Jamek revealed, and the water fountain

At this point, there is a continuation of the riverside walk; however it is hidden from view and Medan Pesar seems like the evident continuation of the path.

7

glimpse

At this point (5), a framed glimpse of the landmark KL Tower is revealed (figures 6.3.13 and 6.3.14). The distance between the viewpoint and the tower is approximately one kilometer (figure 6.3.15)

figure 6.3.10 third node by the power plant

enclosure As you enter the medan (5), you feel enclosed and hugged by the shop houses from both sides. And because of the square’s rectangular shape figure 6.3.11 Medan Pasar (logic); it seems as a cross between a square and a boulevard (figures 6.3.11 and 6.3.12). This term, also used by Cullen; does not necessarily mean intimacy.

figure 6.3.16 Maran building housing Am Bank

figure 6.3.17 Hamzah K. H. building

Bentley et al. 1985); Medan Pasar displays a capacity to have different kinds of uses to the space (figures 6.3.18 - 6.3.21). figures 6.3.13 and 6.3.14 glimpse of KL Tower

5

figure 6.3.15 KL Tower one kilometer from the viewpoint (source: Google Maps)

figure 6.3.12 Medan Pasar from opposite side

The Art Deco clock tower, humbly catches all views towards it while responding to the scale of the shop houses surrounding it. This is clearly not the case with the large modern buildings.

An interesting feature; in the glazed façade of Am Bank building, there is a reflection of the golden glazed Hamzah K. H. building (figures 6.3.16 and 6.3.17). robustness As an element of responsive environments (Ian

figure 6.3.18 (top-left) busy and noisy kiosks on work days figure 6.3.19 (top-right) calm on weekends figure 6.3.20 (bottom-left) various seating opportunities figure 6.3.21 (bottom-right) temporarily installed canopies

intricacy The eclectic three-story shop houses along Medan Pasar date around 100 years ago (figure 6.3.22). It is remarkable the ability of architecture to be eternal when we compare it to our human life span. The ornate facades of the shop houses create richness at different levels (figure 6.3.23).

8

figures 6.3.22 (top) and 6.3.23 (right) showing intricacy of shop houses at different levels (source: Google Maps)

This is a clear contrast to most modern buildings, which seem to “stop dead at the obvious, the slab block, the gridiron of curtain walling, the banality of pastel-shaded surfaces giggling down from the sky” (Cullen, 1961). glimpse.. .. again, into a nearby path (6) Kasturi Walk, which is covered by an intricate structure of a pewter wau bulan (a type of Malay kite) which looks like a butterfly (kuala-lumpur.ws). These subtle glimpses not only add interest in the experience, but they also aid mental mapping (figure 6.3.24).

At the meeting point between Medan Pasar and Leboh Pasar Besar (7), there is a very interesting path (figure 6.3.27). I speculate that this path is part of the River of Life project, the image below shows the path before the evident design (figure 6.3.25). What is interesting about this path is that its shape is not a rectangle but an isosceles trapezoid as shown to the right, this distorts the perspective on each sides and creates an illusion that the path is longer or shorter than it really is, depending on which side the observer is standing(figures 6.3.27 and 6.3.28). This term has also been used by Cullen, in the notion of the illusion stating: “This is That” (Cullen, 1961); “the long path is actually short” or “the short path is actually long”.

The open yellow-wooden-window screens add life to the façade with their striking color and playful character (figures 6.3.26 and 6.3.28). sense of welcoming At this point (8), a continuation of the River of Life walk is revealed in a welcoming setting with several wide paths to choose from (figure 6.3.29).

RECTANGLE

illusion

This distortion also aids the feeling of welcoming as the end of the path is not as tight as it would be in the perspective of a normal rectangular path. I am not sure whether this illusion has been intended or coincidental; but its value is certainly interesting.

ISOSCELES TRAPEZOID

It is interesting to mention that the constant view of buses by the end of Medan Pasar and on Leboh Pasar Besar, have sort of become a permanent piece of the image.

figure 6.3.29 welcoming River of Life with several path options

figure 6.3.25 (top-left) path before design (source: Wikipedia) figure 6.3.26 (top right) sketch of open window screens figure 6.3.27 (below-left) illusion of shorter path, welcoming effect figure 6.3.28 (below-right) illusion of longer path, ambiguous destination figure 6.3.24 canopy of Kasturi Walk

9

destination

chxcvh

figure 6.3.31 real life image of the final view

figure 6.3.30 the final view

This is it!.. The final stop in the path (9); the Leboh Pasar Besar bridge overlooking the confluence of the rivers Klang and Gombak, and Masjid Jamek that sits upon it (figure 6.3.30).

This grandiose vista, is loaded with elements that make it such a sight for the observer. This location offers beautiful views of Masjid Jamek and the palm trees that surround it, as well as the staircase that once provided access to the rivers. The National Heritage Department building (formerly the High Court building) also appears gracefully from behind the mosque with its colonial architecture. Sultan Abdul Samad building can be seen from behind the canopying trees to the left (figure 6.3.31). In addition to that, the shop houses on Medan Pasar have their backs on the river to the right, and provide their own touch on the architecture of the whole context. The arching pedestrian bridge over Gombak river also contributes to the overall image The two rivers act as the glue that puts all these elements together to create a whole and coherent image.

Furthermore, this viewpoint exposes several other paths that lead to other areas; - the path to the right goes along the river and back to Jalan Benteng - to the left are several path options that go along the river; one directly along the river and next to the blue pool, one along Sultan Abdul Samad building’s backyard, and one on a raised platform and under wooden canopies - the newly constructed arching pedestrian bridge to the left connects Masjid Jamek with Merdeka Square - not to mention Leboh Pasar Besar that eventually leads to Merdeka Square

What adds to the significance of this view is the fact that this point of confluence commemorates the inception of this prosperous city. As part of the River of Life project, there is an information board on the glass railing that displays the history of the Leboh Pasar Besar bridge (figures 6.3.32) and 6.3.33). It is surprising, however; how it does not point out the importance of the confluence in Kuala Lumpur’s history.

figures 6.3.32 and 6.3.33 information board

figure 6.3.34 (left) water feature that operates at different times figure 6.3.35 (right) nice interplay between water feature and railing figures 6.3.36 and 6.3.37 (left) lighting at night and water feature figure 6.3.38 (right) distant building’s façade glows to display ads at night

10

6.4 Building Typology In this section is the table with the building typology and important information about the buildings that form the urban spaces. This is to be read in accordance with the map.

Image

source: islam.gov.my

Bldg code

1

2

3

4

5

6

Title

Masjid Jamek Metro Station

Wisma Lau Chung

Quill 6

HSBC

Masjid Jamek

Hamzah K. H. building

Height (floors)

2

3

24

20

Style

Modern

Eclectic

Modern

Modern

Concrete Metal Glass Cladding

2

Dome: 21.3m Minaret: 26.8m)

22

Islamic Mughal

Modern

Concrete Metal Glass Stone cladding • Wooden Shaders

Brick

• Cladding • Glass • Metal

• • • •

Materials

• Masonry • Metal • Cladding

Masonry

• • • •

Use

• Metro and LRT station • Grocery shop

Fast food franchise (lower level)

HSBC bank (lower level)

HSBC bank

Congregational mosque

MSC infrastructure

Year

2008

1921

-

-

1907

2008

-

Notice the huge scale in proportion to the clock tower

-

Notable golden glass facade

Notes

-

-

11

Image

Bldg code

7

8

9

10

11

12

Title

-

-

Hotel Everest

Hotel A-One

-

Chap Kim Teck Ree

Height (floors)

4

4

5

5

3

3

Style

Eclectic

Eclectic

Modern

Modern

Eclectic

Eclectic

Materials

Masonry

Masonry

• Glass • Metal • Masonry

Masonry

Masonry

Masonry

Use

• Money exchange (lower floor) • House

• Pharmacy • Beauty house • Hair Salon

• Hotel • Restaurant • Clothes shop • Holiday office

Hotel

• Kolej Gemilang (shut down) • Miscellaneous item shop • House

-

Year

-

-

-

-

College: 1995

-

4th floor seems newly constructed

Modern building in place of previous shop house, complete disregard to context in terms of architectural style

Modern building in place of previous shop house, complete disregard to context in terms of architectural style

Consists of two bays, however; elevation suggests it is one building

Seems like a shut down facility

floor seems newly constructed • Consists of two bays, however; elevation suggests it is one building •

Notes

4th

12

Image

Bldg code

13

14

15

16

17

18

Title

-

-

-

-

-

-

Height (floors)

3

3

2

3

3

3

Style

Eclectic

Eclectic

Eclectic

Eclectic

Eclectic

Eclectic

Materials

Masonry

Masonry

Masonry

Masonry

Masonry

Masonry

Use

• Import/ Export • Restaurant • Telecom • New Nation Int. • Houses

• Money exchange

• Clothes shop • House

• Café • Houses

• Holiday offices • Money services

Bank

Year

-

-

-

-

-

-

Notes

• Consists of three bays, however; elevation suggests it is one building

-

Seems to be a subsidiary for the next two buildings

-

-

-

13

Image

Bldg code

19

20

21

22

23

24

Title

-

-

-

Kolej Gemilang

KH

Wisma Maran

Height (floors)

3

10

3

3

3

25

Style

Eclectic

Art Deco

-

-

Art Deco

Modern

Materials

Masonry

• Masonry • Glass

Masonry

Masonry

Masonry

• Cladding • Glass

• College (shut down) • Restaurant

• Remittance • Money exchange • Airline office

Bank

-

-

-

-

Was previously Bank of China then Bank of Tokyo (figures 6.4.1 and 6.4.2)

Noticeable difference in height compared to adjacent shop houses

Use

Bank

Bank

• Restaurant • Offices

Year

-

-

-

Seems to be a subsidiary for the adjacent two buildings

Seems the previous two buildings are a subsidiary of this bank

Notes

figure 6.4.1 image taken around the 1940s showing Bank of China far right and Mercantile bank at the far end of the square (source: glaringnotebook.com)

-

figure 6.4.2 image taken in the 1960s showing Bank of Tokyo far right and Mercantile bank at the far end of the square (source: glaringnotebook.com)

14

Image

source: flyertalk.com

Bldg code

25

26

27

28

29

30

Title

Medan Pasar Clock Tower

-

Pacific Express Hotel

Majlis Peguam Bar Council

Avenue J Hotel

AGRO Bank

Height (floors)

10 meters

3

10

6

7

25

Style

Art Deco

Art Deco

Modern

Modern

Colonial

Modern

Materials

• Stone • Wood

Masonry

• Concrete • Glass

• Stone cladding • Glass

Masonry

• Concrete • Glass

Use

Clock tower

Ruang (Think City) office

• Hotel • Grocery shop (lower level)

• Bar council • Grocery shop

Hotel

Bank

Year

1937

-

-

-

-

-

Notes

• Seiko Clock replaced old one in 2012 • Plaques were removed after independence

-

This was previously the location of the Mercantile Bank since 1913 (figure 6.4.1) which was replaced in the 1960s (figure 6.4.2)

-

-

-

15

Image

source: Google Maps

source: Google Maps

source: Wikipedia

Bldg code

31

32

33

Title

Loke Yew Building

-

Sultan Abdul Samad Building

Height (floors)

7

3

2

Style

-

Colonial

Moorish

Materials

• Masonry • Glass

• Masonry • Glass

Masonry

Use

• Money services • Offices

Former administrative building

Former administrative building

Year

-

-

1897

Notes

Different style from the colonial buildings in the plot

-

• Iconic building in the history of Kuala Lumpur • Clock Tower was an important landmark in the city before modern development

16

6.5 Behavioral Observations

shade

In this section we take a look at some interesting behaviors expressed by people in response to the environment, the focus will be regarding seating, shade, and shelter.

In the event of intense sunshine, people target shaded areas for comfort, even if those areas are so narrow in comparison to the overall area (figures 6.5.6 and 6.5.7).

seating Humans like to sit in urban spaces, it allows them to rest and stop; whether to chat, eat, or enjoy the surroundings. Seating furniture is available around the path and is frequently used by the people (figures 6.5.1 - 6.5.5).

figures 6.5.10 – 6.5.13 Medan Pasar exposed

figures 6.5.6 and 6.5.7 shaded paths

Images 6.5.8 and 6.5.9 are taken in the same exact time and show the node by the power plant completely shaded and filled with people sitting, while the opposite seating area in Medan Pasar is uninhabited because of the sunshine.

When this area is shaded however, it is occupied by people (figure 6.5.5).

Leboh Pasar Besar bridge is completely shaded by the AGRO Bank building around 3 pm and witnesses lots of people (figure 6.5.14 - 6.5.16). On another day and around 2 pm the sun was not blocked by the building and it witnessed less people (figure 6.5.17 - 6.5.19). However, when the water feature operated in the river, the sound immediately attracted people from all around to come and experience the feature, regardless of the scorching sun (figure 6.5.20).

figures 6.5.14 - 6.5.16 Leboh Pasar Besar Bridge completely shaded from the sun by the AGRO Bank building

figures 6.5.1 - 6.5.5 people sitting

figures 6.5.8 and 6.5.9 shaded vs non-shaded areas

shelter

The Pacific Express Hotel building almost shades a hint of Medan Pasar at peak sunshine time. This leaves the entire Square exposed to sunlight except for the five-foot walkway at both sides, it is clear that people are avoiding direct sun exposure(figure 6.5.10 - 6.5.12).

On Christmas Eve, 2017; it was raining heavily in the evening. With my prior knowledge of the site; the only major shelter was the Masjid Jamek Metro Station. As I took shelter under the covered area I saw that lots of other people were taking shelter and waiting for the rain to stop (figures 6.5.21 - 6.5.23).

17

I also noticed that people waiting tended to use the vending machines provided in the station.

It would be quite a hassle for anyone willing or having to use the path in the event of heavy rain as it is void of any significant shelter. popular kiosks

figures 6.5.17 - 6.5.19 less people on Leboh Pasar Besar Bridge when not shaded

On a minor note, the kiosks selling food and refreshments on working days are quite popular during lunch time and witness queues of people waiting to feed their hunger (figure 6.5.24).

7.0 Conclusion Studying the urban realm is a fruitful and necessary activity, humans have always “lived” outside as much as they did inside. The modern facilitation of indoor lifestyle rendered it preferable than the outdoor urban realm. It is our duty as designers and professionals to first understand how this realm works and then apply our expertise to provide a better environment for our fellow humans.

After conducting this study, it is clear that there are several successful measures taken in the development of the path; like the conversion of Medan Pasar to a fully pedestrianized square, the revitalization of the riverfront in the River of Life project by enhancing walkability, the addition of several water features that enliven the different areas, and the abundant provision of facilities like seating areas with different qualities.

In contrast, some modern development sabotages the context, like the out-of-scale modern towers, and the modern buildings that break the continuity of the shop houses on Medan Pasar. In addition, the lack of adequate shelter along the path would render it difficult to traverse in the event of heavy rain; which is to expected at any day in this region.

figure 6.5.20 people start to come after hearing the water feature’s sound

figure 6.5.24 popular kiosks

figures 6.5.21 6.5.23 heavy rain forced people to take shelter at the Masjid Jamek Metro Station

The urban realm can be understood to serve two main issues; the place and the function. The place involves identity, history, peace of mind, imageability, things that are inherently important but not understood or appreciated by lots who are more occupied with the second issue: function; which is more of a “need” of human life and involves providing paths, places to sit, shelter, facilities, etc.

Any successful urban realm would be the one that considers both these issues, because while we as humans need the function to survive; we need the place to prosper.

18

References 1. “History of Kuala Lumpur” accessed from <http://www.wonderfulmalaysia.com/kuala-lumpurhistory.htm> 2. “History of Kuala Lumpur” (2017) accessed from <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Kuala_Lumpur> 3. Wong Wan Jiuan et al. (March, 2017) “Medan Pasar” Historic Street Essay. Taylor’s University.

4. Choong Mek Zhin. (October, 2014) “Fascinating Historical Find at Masjid Jamek” accessed from <https://www.thestar.com.my/news/community/2014/10/28/fascinating-historical-findconstruction-work-dredges-up-stairs-leading-to-masjid-jamek> 5. “PM Najib Launches ‘River of Life’ Project” (2017) accessed from <http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/pm-najib-launches-river-oflife-project#Y3qso7Fv4ylMP3vR.97> 6. Ben van Wijnen. “Masjid Jamek” accessed from <http://www.malaysiasite.nl/masjidjamekeng.htm> 7. “New Clock, Old Tower” accessed from <http://glaringnotebook.com/?p=1602> 8. Mohd R. Ngesan. “The Great Place of Kuala Lumpur: Medan Pasar” ThinkCity. accessed from <http://www.academia.edu/17329571/The_Great_Place_of_Kuala_Lumpur_Medan_Pasar> 9. Gordon Cullen. (1961) “The Concise Townscape” Architectural Press 10. Ian Bentley et al. (1985) “Responsive Environments: A Manual for Designers” Architectural Press 11. “Kasturi Walk in Kuala Lumpur” accessed from <http://www.kualalumpur.ws/klshopping/kasturi-walk-kl.htm> 12. “Masjid Jamek LRT Station” (2017) accessed from <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masjid_Jamek_LRT_station> 13. “Masjid Jamek” accessed from <https://www.malaysiavacationguide.com/masjidjamek.html> 14. Vasantha Ganesan. (November, 2016) “Quill 6 Close to Being Sold, Will Not be Injected into MQREIT” accessed from <https://www.edgeprop.my/content/961686/quill-6-close-being-sold-willnot-be-injected-mqreit> 15. “Wisma Hamzah Kwong Hing (MSC Cybercentre)” accessed from <http://www.cbdoffice.com.my/office-for-rent2.php?CKey=1&CPro=28> 19

Appendix

CHOOSING the PATH before the visit Along with my initial interest in Merdeka Square (1), I found out about another important square in the area; Medan Pasar Besar (2). This was after seeing images of the square with the clock tower in the center on several occasions during my lectures in university. When I learnt that it was along the same road that lead to Merdeka Square, I decided to chose that road as the path; which is Leboh Pasar Besar (3). This road also crossed the river Klang and overlooked Masjid Jamek (4); which is a historical mosque that stands upon the Confluence of the rivers Klang (5) and Gombak (6). This Confluence is where the history of Kuala Lumpur had actually started and it is where the city derived its name, which added to the value of the path. However, it seemed that the road itself did not have a strong beginning as it had a strong ending (Merdeka Square). This led me to chose my personal starting point to be the beginning of the path; which is the Masjid Jamek Metro Station (7). A series of roads leading to Leboh Pasar Besar were specified through Google Maps and formed the initial path (red path in figure). first visit My first experience in the area had actually started from Merdeka Square since I had not used the train, so I was heading backwards to the Station instead. The path held interest along the way until the point from Leboh Pasar Besar to the Station, which seemed less interesting. As I reached the Station I noticed that there was an alternate path going along the river (green path in figure), which was very welcoming and urged me to venture through it. So I decided to use this path in the next visit.

6

5

8

7

4

This is of course not to say that it is not a worthy place of the study. However, whenever I reached the bridge overlooking the Confluence of the two rivers and Masjid Jamek, I was presented with this feeling of arrival; that THIS was the destination.

The path continuing from the bridge and towards the Square was less interesting, and whenever I reached the Square, I felt overwhelmed by the size, as if it did not belong to the path I had come from. If we compare it to Medan Pasar Besar, it lacks the feeling of enclosure; instead of being hugged by the surrounding buildings in Medan Pasar Besar, you feel exposed and lost in the vast space of Merdeka Square.

Alternatively, I was presented with the point of Confluence at the bridge;

1 9 2 3

where I had a clear and beautiful focal entity that demanded my attention: Masjid Jamek; where I witnessed the natural phenomena that was the point of beginning of this great city: the Confluence of Rivers Klang and Gombak; where I was given multiple interesting paths to chose from that lead to several places:

second visit The path along the river was much more pleasant and rich than the previous one that used the street system. This was because it is part of a river revitalization project; the River of Life. More importantly it connected beautifully to Medan Pasar Besar, which rendered this the better path for the study. after several visits.. .. I had developed a certain lack of interest in Merdeka Square.

- Masjid Jamek through the river walk or through the pedestrian bridge (8) - Sultan Abdul Samad Buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s back garden (9) through the river walk - Medan Pasar Besar through Leboh Pasar Besar - Merdeka Square through Leboh Pasar Besar or through the river walk..

These reasons emphasized the choice of the final path; starting from Masjid Jamek Metro Station, through Medan Pasar Besar finally reaching the point of Confluence.

20