The Libra-tree: Taiping Young People's Library

Acknowledgement Preface Objectives List of Figures

1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 1.2 1.3

Design Brief & Objectives History Of Taiping History Of Site B

4 5 6

2.0 SITE STUDIES 2.1

2.2

Site Features 2.1.1 Location And Environment 2.1.2 Climatic Studies 2.1.3 Demographic Studies 2.1.4 Cultural Factors 2.1.5 Access And Traffic 2.1.6 Existing Natural Elements Site Analysis 2.2.1 Key & Location Plans, Site Plan 2.2.2 Elevational Studies

8 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 14 15

3.0 CONCEPT 3.1

3.2 3.3

Problem Statement 3.1.1 Research Findings & Site Studies 3.1.2 Ideation & Design Intention Concept Taiping Urban Study & Strategies

17 18 19 20 21

4.0 SUSTAINABLE DESIGN STRATEGIES 4.1 4.2

4.3 4.4

Introduction To Sustainable Architecture Sustainable Site Planning And Management 4.2.1 Public Access 4.2.2 Universal Design Strategies Parking Capacity Landscape

23 24 25 28 36 37

4.5

4.6 4.7

Water Efficiency 4.5.1 Water-Efficient Sanitary Fittings 4.5.2 Rainwater Harvesting Facade Design Environmental Sustainability & Passive Design Strategies

39 39 40 41 42

5.0 SITE PLANNING & ZONING 5.1 5.2

Site Planning Building Massing Strategies

45 46

6.0 SERVICE 6.1

Ingress, Egress And Entrances 6.1.1 Ingress 6.1.2 Egress 6.2 Vertical Transportation 6.3 Air Conditioning System 6.3.1 Components Of Hvac Systems 6.3.2 Ahu Location 6.3.3 Ceiling Mounted Air Conditioning Distribution System 6.4 Electrical Distribution System 6.5 Water Distribution System 6.6 Rainwater Harvesting System 6.7 Sewage System 6.8 Fire Protection System 6.9 Refuse Chamber System 6.10 Telecommunications System

48 48 48 50 52 52 52 52 53 55 56 57 58 60 62

7.0 CONSTRUCTION & STRUCTURE 7.1

7.2 7.3

7.4 7.5

Foundation System 7.1.1 Sub-Structure 7.1.2 Bored Piles Construction Floor System 7.2.1 Concrete Floor Columns And Beams 7.3.1 Columns 7.3.2 Beams Walls Roof

64 64 65 66 66 68 68 68 69 70

8.0 FINAL DESIGN PROPOSAL 8.1

Plans 8.1.1 Ground Floor Plan

72 73

8.1.2 8.1.3 8.1.4 8.1.5 8.1.6

Basement Plan & First Floor Plan Second Floor Plan & Third Floor Plan Elevations Sections Presentation Boards

74 74 75 76 77

I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude for being blessed with the opportunity to complete this Building Analysis Report successfully. None of this would have been possible without the guidance and assistance I have received throughout the process of completing this report. First and foremost, I am eternally grateful to the Department of Architecture, University of Malaya for granting me the permission to undertake this analysis, and to carry out necessary research and studies related to the project.

At this delighted moment, I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to the Subject Coordinator of BIA3004 Architectural Design Studio VI, Pn. Ati Rosemary Ariffin for her constant encouragement and outstanding patience in coordinating the studio with great success. Moreover, the completion of this Building Analysis Report would not have been possible without the support and nurturing of my Building Analysis Class Coordinators, Pn. Norizan Abd. Rahim and Dr. Norafida Ab Ghafar. I am also extremely grateful to all my studio lecturers, Pn. Ati Rosemary Ariffin, Dr. Nor Hayati Hussain, Ar. Eddie Choi, AP Hiroyuki Sube, and Pn. Norizan Abd. Rahim, including my studio Landscape Design Advisor, AP Dr Hazreena Hussein who have helped to make my way of the completion of this report with their constant encouragement and have enlightened me with the touch of their knowledge.

With immense gratitude, I would like to convey my thanks to my fellow colleagues for the continuous support and inspiration which have made me more confident, refreshed, and helped me to continue the report with great motivation. It is my pleasure to express heartfelt gratitude to my family for their unconditional blessing and endless support. Thank you all for your contributions in the completion of this report.

For the course BIA3004 Architectural Design Studio VI, third-year students of the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Built Environment, University of Malaya are required to produce an analytical report on the building that they have designed in the course. The final semester of the Bachelor of Science in Architecture is considered as a conclusive product of the knowledge gained in the past 3 years of enrolling in this course. The final project is done with the overall coverage of urban/site analysis, concept development, site planning, zoning strategies, sustainability, services, as well as building construction and structure.

This Building Analysis Report is essentially a comprehensive compilation of the final project that has been in the works for 10 weeks under the course BIA3004 Architectural Design Studio VI, titled Taiping Young People’s Library, a new millennia library which is the first of its kind in the town. The objective of this report is to provide students with a deeper understanding of the building designed and to expose students with the practical aspects of a building such as technical requirements, construction solutions and design factors that are fundamental to the efficiency of the building.

The main objectives of this study are: 1. To study and analysis the design as well as the technical aspect of a design scheme.

2. To conduct a critical analysis of a building which includes the aspect of design, structure, services, and sustainability approach of the building.

3. To write a comprehensive report of the findings and analysis.

Figure 1.2.1: Historical Timeline of Taiping Figure 1.3.1: History of Site B Figure 2.1.1.1: Location of Site B Figure 2.1.1.2: Microclimate Analysis Figure 2.1.4.1: Cultural Factors Figure 2.1.6.1: Existing natural elements around Site B Figure 2.1.6.2: Existing trees on site to be preserved Figure 3.1.1.1: Research Findings & Site Studies Diagrams Figure 3.1.2.1: Ideation Diagrams Figure 3.1.2.2: Concept development sketch Figure 3.2.1: “Tree of Knowledge” conceptual diagram Figure 3.3.1: Conceptual collage of Taiping Lake Gardens Figure 3.3.1: Conceptual collage of Taiping Lake Gardens Figure 3.3.2: Creating an urban oasis as an urban strategy for the site Figure 4.2.1: Diagram showing site responsive strategies Figure 4.2.1.1.1: Site planning diagram showing crosswalk interventions and pedestrian walkways Figure 4.2.1.2.1: Site planning diagram showing vehicular access and circulation Figure 4.2.1.3.1: Site planning diagram showing location of bus layby Figure 4.2.2.1: Accessibility elements in external & internal environments Figure 4.2.2.2: Accessibility elements in internal environments Figure 4.2.2.3: Accessibility elements in external environments Figure 4.2.2.1.1: Site planning diagram showing ramps Figure 4.2.2.2.1: Minimum Dimensions of Elevator Cars Figure 4.2.2.2.2: Dimensions of components in an accessible elevator car Figure 4.2.2.2.1: Site planning diagram showing lifts in the building Figure 4.2.2.3.1: Dimensions of components in an accessible toilet design Figure 4.2.2.3.1: Site planning diagram showing disabled toilet design in the building Figure 4.3.1: Basement parking showing the parking capacity Figure 4.4.1: Site planning diagram showing landscape strategies Figure 4.4.2: 3D perspective view showing frontage square Figure 4.4.2: 3D perspective view showing garden walk Figure 4.4.3: 3D perspective view showing water feature/playscape at children’s plaza Figure 4.5.1.1: Sensor Tap Diagram Figure 4.5.1.2: Dual-flush Toilet Diagram Figure 4.5.2.1: Rainwater Harvesting Diagram Figure 4.4.1: Façade facing Jalan Convent Figure 4.6.1: Sectional Perspective Figure 4.6.2: Perspective view showing the naturally lit atrium Figure 4.6.3: Perspective view showing openings and louvers Figure 4.6.4: Perspective view showing photovoltaic panels Figure 4.6.5: Perspective view showing sunshading system

Figure 4.6.6: Perspective view showing bicycle sheds with solar roof Figure 5.1.1: Proposed site Figure 5.1.3: Potential urban plaza location Figure 5.1.4: Overall site planning Figure 5.2.1: Building Massing Strategies Diagrams Figure 5.2.2: Perspective view showing urban plaza Figure 6.1.1.1: Main entrance from the drop-off Figure 6.1.1.2: Entrance facing Jalan Convent Figure 6.1.1: Ground floor plan showing ingress, egress, and entrances Figure 6.2.1: Vertical transportation system in the building Figure 6.2.2: Ground floor plan showing the vertical transportations provided in the building Figure 6.4.1: Electrical distribution system in the building Figure 6.4.2: Ground floor plan showing the location of the TNB sub-station Figure 6.5.1: Water distribution system in the building Figure 6.6.1: Rainwater harvesting system in the building Figure 6.7.1: Sewage system in the building Figure 6.8.1: Fire protection system in the building Figure 6.8.1: Ground floor plan showing the locations of fire escape staircases Figure 6.9.1: Refuse chamber system in the building Figure 6.9.2: Ground floor plan showing the location of refuse chamber, service lift and service lane Figure 6.10.1: Telecommunications system in the building Figure 7.1.1.1: Section A-A of “Libra-Tree”, the Taiping Young People’s Library Figure 7.1.2.1: Bored Piles Figure 7.2.1.1: Perspective view of “Libra-Tree” showing floor finishes used at the lobby Figure 7.2.1.2: Section B-B of “Libra-Tree”, the Taiping Young People’s Library Figure 7.3.1: Wall Sectional Detail Figure 7.4.1: Walls as Vertical Construction of a Building Figure 7.4.2: Perspective view of “Libra-Tree” showing the reading lounge space enclosed by aluminium glass walls

1.0

1

INTRODUCTION

1.1

DESIGN BRIEF & OBJECTIVES

“The special responsibility of the children's library is to meet the needs of children. If children can be inspired at an early age by the excitement of finding knowledge and by works of the i magination, they are likely to benefit from these vital elements of personal development throughout their lives, both enriching themselves and enhancing their contribution to society. Children can also encourage parents and other adults to make use of the library. It is also important that young people who experience difficulty in learning to read should have access to a library to pro vide them with appropriate material.”

(The Public Library Service – IFLA/UNESCO Guidelines for development, 2001)

In accordance to this semester’s Architectural Design Studio theme, ‘EDUCATION’, the project is to propose a Young People’s Library for the town of Taiping, Perak. This new architectural typology will be the first of its kind in that town. The two largest proportions of the town’s population are the target groups for the library, namely young adults, 20-29 years old (14.6%) and children, 10-19 years old (21.2%). According to World Health Organisation, Young People refers to those who fall within the age group between 10 to 24 years old.

Studies reveal that students spend a considerable amount of their time in the library utilising quiet study spaces and using the computers provided. Other activities include meeting and chatting with friends as well as borrowing books. The brief states that the architectural design proposal must take into account the functions of the library and the space requirements critically to suit its surrounding contexts and target users, consisting of schools, shop lots, a hotel, and a residential area. Aside from practical spaces making up the spaces in the library, it must also offer interesting spaces relevant to the current youth of Taiping. If a library is a learning space, how should a millennia library be designed?

Children and young adult libraries have a particularly vital responsibility in supporting the process of learning to read, as well as in promoting books and other emerging media of reading. The library should offer facilities to host special events for users of the library, s uch as book launches, storytelling, and events related to the library’s services and resources. Children and young adults should be encouraged to use the library from an early age, as this will make them more likely to remain users in future years. The library should provide a wide range of materials and activities, public libraries provide an opportunity for children to experience the enjoyment of reading and the excitement of discovering knowledge and works of the imagination.

PROBLEM STATEMENT Currently, the public library situated near the Taiping Lake is small and further away from most schools and housing area. It is unable to cater for the number and demands of the young populations. According to UNESCO’s Manifesto for Public Libraries, one of the public libraries’ most important tasks is "to support and participate in activities and programmes for the development of reading and writing skills within all age groups". The task at hand is to revitalise the library architectural typology, and redefine the library from a ‘warehouse of books’ into a ‘learning space’ that is relevant to youths and children of today.

2

1.2

HISTORY OF TAIPING

Taiping is a town located in Larut, Matang and Selama District, Perak, Malaysia. Having a population of nearly 250000, this town is located on a coastal plain at the foothills of the Bintang Range. The original name of ‘Taiping’ is curated from two Chinese characters (tai – ‘great’) and (ping – ‘peace’).

Formerly a tin mining town, Taiping is home to many ‘firsts’, including the first museum and the first post office in Malaysia. Attributing to its location under the foothills of Bukit Larut, Taiping is also known as Malaysia’s ‘wettest’ town and is home to beautiful rainforests.

However, Taiping became the city of ‘everlasting peace’ not without the stained image of a paradise.

It was born out of the bloody struggle and strife of communal war over the tin mining area that led to its formation to commemorate the end Larut Wars in 1874 and as a neutral zone for the warning parties. Its history can be traced back to the beginning of tin mining in Larut around 1844.

Figure 1.2.1: Historical Timeline of Taiping Source: Author

Now, Taiping is known for its many historical and cultural wonders. Besides, Taiping is recognised as the top 3 most sustainable city in the world, a ranking based on the cities’ urban sustainability and its avoidance of disruptive over-tourism. This recognition was recently given in the 2019 Sustainable Top 100 Destination Awards at the International Tourismus-Börse (ITB) travel trade show in Berlin, Germany. Its famed Lake Gardens, which is a prominent attraction, shows off nature at its best being integrated with the city.

A news report from NST mentioned many historic monuments with lesser historical value had been restored in other countries, which in turn, had drawn millions of tourists and generated economic wealth for the local community. It was also reported that Taiping needs a bluep rint to develop the tourism assets of the town in order to retain the words “Taiping Bandar Warisan” (Taiping Heritage Town) on the signboard greeting from Changkat Jering.

3

1.3

HISTORY OF SITE B

Figure 1.3.1: History of Site B Source: Sparc Studio Site Analysis

The earliest known history of the proposed site (Site B) in Taiping, Perak dates back to a few years before 1880, when the site used to house traditional shophouses, until a fire broke out in the year 1880. The site was later owned by a Malay local who built a traditional Malay house before being sold to a Chinese owner. The site was then sold to an owner who turned the site into a lorry garage.

Years later, it is left barren. There were future plans for a hotel to be constructed at the proposed site, but it remains barren to this day, with overgrown vegetation .

4

2.0

5

SITE STUDIES

2.1 2.1.1

SITE FEATURES

LOCATION AND ENVIRONMENT

The proposed site (Site B) for this project is situated at a commercial area within the gridiron urban planning system in Taiping. Site B is strategically located along Jalan Kota, one of the major roads in Taiping which passes through the town centre, as well as Jalan Convent which fronts a primary school (SK Convent).

The area surrounding the site is designed in a grid format with small blocks, increasing its physical and visual permeability, concurrently improving the accessibility to the site.

Figure 2.1.1.1: Location of Site B Source: Author

Figure 2.1.1.2: Microclimate Analysis Source: Author

The site is enveloped by three identified districts of land uses, namely commercial district, institutional district and residential district. The architectural typology of this project offers the possibility to link the site as part of the institutional district, while catering to users from the commercial district as well as the housing area.

The total site area is 7993.9 m², and within the area stands five existing large trees on the site which are to be preserved in this project.

6

2.1.2

CLIMATIC STUDIES

Taiping receives some limelight for being the wettest town in Peninsular Malaysia. The average annual rainfall is about 3,000mm in Taiping, with the peninsula’s average being 2,000mm – 2,500mm.

Its unusual rainfall has also led to a fertile collection of flora and century-old rain trees in the Taiping Lake Gardens.

Sun Path & Average Temperature Temperatures that is recorded as 0m/s is a defective value

20 0

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Temperature (°C)

40

2009 2012 2015

2010 2013 2016

2011 2014 2017

Building sides that are facing the East and West will be hotter than the ones fa cing North and South because they will receive more sunlight due to sun’s orientation. Hence, building orientation is preferably facing North or South.

Prevailing Winds 2009

1.5

2010 2011

1

2012

0.5 0

2013

Wind speed that is recorded as 0m/s is a defective value

2014 2015

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Wind Speed (m/s)

2

The wind mostly blows from East-Northeast (ENE) and West directions.

Precipitation 600

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

DEC

NOV

OCT

SEP

AUG

JUL

JUN

0

APR

0

MAY

50

200

FEB

100

400

MAR

150

JAN

200

Rainfall Amount (mm)

Number of Rainy Days

250

October receives the most rain and longest number of rainy days throughout the year, making it the best month to harvest rain. Generally, rainwater is sufficient throughout the year to collect and reuse.

7

2.1.3

DEMOGRAPHIC STUDIES

According to Pejabat Daerah dan Tanah Larut Matang & Selama 2035, as for the 2000s, the population of Area Larut Matang has increased from 273,641 people in 2000 to 326,476 in 2010.

POPULATION BY ETHNICITY IN DAERAH LARUT MATANG & SELAMA

POPULATION BY GENDER IN DAERAH LARUT MATANG & SELAMA

Other Bumiputera 1%

Non Malaysian citizen 3%

Indian 13%

88,643

91,525 Malay 53%

Chinese 30%

49%

Malay Indian Others

51%

Chinese Other Bumiputera Non-Malaysian Citizen

Data source from the record of Pihak Berkuasa Tempatan dan Negeri, Malaysia, 2010.

AGE GROUPS IN DAERAH LARUT MATANG & SELAMA

Age

%

0-9 years

15.9

10-19 years

21.17

20-29 years

14.6

30-39 years

11.10

40-49 years

12.09

50-59 years

11.0

60-69 years

6.94

70 years above

4.75

25 20 15 10 5 0 0-9 years

10-19 years

20-29 years

30-39 years

40-49 years

50-59 years

60-69 years

70+ years

Data source from the record of Department of Statistics Malaysia in 2010

8

2.1.4

CULTURAL FACTORS

Taiping – a town filled with rich historical and cultural wonders. Many tourists today embark on ‘food hunts’, making use of the city’s vast number of hidden restaurants and eateries. According to New Straits Times, the chairman of the Perak Tourism, Arts and Culture committee, Tan Kar Hing said that the state government was set to promote the town to lure more local and foreign tourists into the district as it is known as one of prominent sustainable destinations.

Taiping is set to be the first in Malaysia to implement the “Machineoki” concept, which is about creating a sense of belonging among its people in developing the town together. The concept, first implemented in Japan, is based on the concept of care, harmony and prosperity. Recently, Tai ping had been chosen as the only ‘age-friendly town’ in Southeast Asia, making it an appropriate urban area to study. There were many ‘firsts’ in Taiping that had been ‘carelessly’ ignored by the authorities, who may not know their real value.

PUBLIC PLACES FOOD PLACES RELIGIOUS PLACES LEARNING PLACES

Figure 2.1.4.1: Cultural Factors Source: Sparc Studio Site Analysis

9

2.1.5

ACCESS AND TRAFFIC Travelling Distance and Time 1. Perlis to Taiping • 3 hrs • 239km 2. Johor Bahru to Taiping • 6 hrs 2 min • 600km

CAR / TAXI

ELECTRIC TRAIN SERVICES (ETS)/ COMMUTER TRAIN (KTM)

EXPRESS BUS

KL Sentral

Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS), Kuala Lumpur

North-South Expressway from University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur to Jalan Changkat Jering (Changkat Jering Plaza Toll)

3 hr 20 mins – 263km

3 hrs – 265km

Koperasi Pemandu Sewa Larut Matang

3 hrs – 276km

KTM Taiping / Taiping Railway Station

Walk

Taxi/Car

Kamunting Bus Terminal / Medan Simpang Bus Terminal Rapid Bus

Rapid Kamunting/ Town Bus

PROPOSED SITE B 10

2.1.6

EXISTING NATURAL ELEMENTS

LEGEND: SITE B LANDSCAPE VEGETATION

There is a total of five trees on Site B that are to be preserved in this project to comply with local district requirements.

The existing trees on site include the Indian almond ( Terminalia catappa), the river tamarind (Leucaena leucocephala ), taro (Colocasia esculenta) and banana tree ( Musa acuminate ).

Figure 2.1.6.1: Existing natural elements around Site B Source: Sparc Studio Site Analysis

Figure 2.1.6.2: Existing trees on site to be preserved Source: Sparc Studio Site Analysis

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2.2 2.2.1

SITE ANALYSIS

KEY & LOCATION PLANS, SITE PLAN

KEY PLAN

LOCATION PLAN

SITE PLAN

12

2.2.2

ELEVATIONAL STUDIES

ELEVATION A Elevation along Jalan Kota

ELEVATION B Elevation along Hotel Seri Warisan

ELEVATION C Elevation along Jalan Convent

ELEVATION D Elevation along Chinese Gospel Hall

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3.0

14

CONCEPT

3.1

PROBLEM STATEMENT

In accordance to this semester’s Architectural Design Studio theme, ‘EDUCATION’, the project is to propose a Young People’s Library for the town of Taiping, Perak. This new architectural typology will be the first of its kind in that town. The two largest proportions of the town’s populat ion are the target groups for the library, namely young adults, 20-29 years old (14.6%) and children, 10-19 years old (21.2%). According to World Health Organisation, Young People refers to those who fall within the age group between 10 to 24 years old.

According to studies, it has been shown that students spend a considerable amount of their time in the library utilising quiet study spaces, using the computers provided, meeting and chatting with friends as well as borrowing books. The project brief states that the architectural design proposal must take into account the functions of the library and the space requirements critically to suit its surrounding contexts and target users. Aside from practical spaces making up the spaces in the library, it must also offer interesting spaces relevant to the current youth of Taiping. If a library is a learning space, how should a millennia library be designed?

15

3.1.1

RESEARCH FINDINGS & SITE STUDIES

For this particular project, the concept development phase started from research findings regarding “learning in young people” which involves the relationship between stimulus and response, leading to the statement: “A child’s immediate environment can become a primary medium of learning in young children”. Thus, the initial idea is to explore the possibility of the library acting as a learning stimulus for young people of Taiping, while accommodating for cognitive-based activities, stimulating the fruition of ideas and imagination.

From the site studies, I have observed that there are a variety of educational institutions around the site, which opens opportunities for collaborations with the library. With that, my second idea for the library is to enhance the creation of knowledge with the idea that gaining knowledge in a library is not limited to just reading. Educational institutions are principal centres for the creation of knowledge. It is therefore important that this library facilitates creation of knowledge and enhances it, to allow for the possibility of the library becoming a focal point for the construction of knowledge in Taiping, while serving as a meeting point or hang-out place for young people, which the site severely lacks.

Figure 3.1.1.1: Research Findings & Site Studies Diagrams Source: Author

16

3.1.2 IDEATION & DESIGN INTENTION

Figure 3.1.2.1: Ideation Diagrams Source: Author

Based on the initial ideas which are to explore the possibility of the library acting as a learning stimulus for young people of Taiping while accommodating for cognitive-based activities, stimulating the fruition of ideas and imagination; and to enhance the creation of knowledge with the idea that gaining knowledge in a library is not limited to just reading, my idea for enhancing the creation of knowledge is by adopting the essence of a rain tree familiar to the people of Taiping.

The Taiping Lake Gardens boasts a collection of century-old rain trees, which have become the icon of the town’s sustainability and unusual rainfall. The idea is to combine the learning stimulus provided with the typology of the library, with the environmental stimulus inspired by rain trees to become the “Tree of Knowledge”, which is essentially a library that creates platforms for growth, personal development, discovery, and reflection in young people of Taiping.

Figure 3.1.2.2: Concept development sketch Source: Author

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3.2

CONCEPT

Figure 3.2.1: “Tree of Knowledge” conceptual diagram.

Source: Author

For this project, the concept implemented is “Tree of Knowledge”. The conceptual diagram above depicts how knowledge is created and circulated in the library in order to enhance it, by looking at the knowledge trail through the metaphor of a rain tree and how it responds to its surroundings in the Taiping Lake Gardens.

Firstly, the seed of the tree is nurtured and fostered at the soil to develop a strong trunk that grows upwards. The soil acts as a medium that nurtures the seed, and fertilizers enhance the growth of the seed. I imagine this as a young child being nurtured by his/her environment (the soil), and the fertilizers as older generations whose main role is to mentor the young generation, through intergenerational sharing and interaction that can happen in the library.

The trunk then grows, representing the “growth” phase in which the young people can then experience browsing books, reading, and starting to develop. Later, the trunk craves light for new discoveries, and branches out in desired directions of discoveries. This is the “discovery” phase in the library, in which there are spaces provided for children to spark their excitement and to help in their personal development.

The trail then ends with the knowledge ending up as outputs, as depicted metaphorically by the way the branches of rain trees grow towards the lake and is reflected by the water, creating a meaningful, serene view, and on the right side through blooming of flowers, and fallen leaves. The “reflect” output represents how knowledge gained in the library can be reflected for it to become more meaningful through spaces that offer application and sharing of the knowledge, whereas knowledge can also be passed down through intergenerational sharing that can happen in the library.

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3.3

TAIPING URBAN STUDY & STRATEGIES

Figure 3.3.1: Conceptual collage of Taiping Lake Gardens Source: Author

Based on the site studies, it is observed that the site lacks green areas and recreational spaces offered by the Taiping Lake Gardens, which is situated outside the gridiron urban planning system of Taiping. The Taiping Lake Gardens is a prominent meeting point where young people of Taiping gather and hang out, besides the Taiping Mall.

The strategy for the mundane site is to provide an oasis, defined as “a pleasant area in the midst of a hectic place”, and possibly rejuvenate Taiping’s status as ‘first garden city in the country’ and world’s Top 3 Sustainable Destinations, with the establishment of the iconic Taiping Lake Gardens.

Figure 3.3.2: Creating an urban oasis as an urban strategy for the site.

Source: Author

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4.0

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN STRATEGIES

20

4.1

INTRODUCTION TO SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE

Sustainable architecture is the use of design strategies that reduce the negative environmental impact from a built environment. Architects take the site landscape, energy management, and stormwater management into consideration when planning, and then use environmentally friendly systems and building materials during construction. Sustainable design is no longer the way of the future – it is all-important at present and will reward the communities that embrace it.

How does GBI work?

The GBI certification process starts with an assessment of the building design by a certifier appointed by Greenbuildingindex Sdn. Bhd. A Provisional Certification is then issued, with the final certification issued when the completed building has been verified according to the design.

To maintain the certification, the building is reassessed every three years. Points are given for performance above benchmarks and current industry practice. Depending on the scores achieved, the buildings will be awarded one of four types of ratings: Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum. The assessment of commercial and residential properties under the GBI rating tool is based on six main criteria as follows:

Source: hmcarchitects.com

In the efforts to encourage sustainability in the built environment, Malaysia implements a rating system, which is the Green Building Index (GBI), which is an industry recognised green rating tool that provides an opportunity for developers and building owners to design and construct green, sustainable buildings that can provide energy savings, water savings, a healthier indoor environment, better connectivity to public transport and the adoption of recycling and greenery for their projects and reduce our impact on the environment. GBI is developed specifically for the Malaysian climate, environmental and developmental context, cultural and social needs and is created to: i.

ii.

iii. iv.

v.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Define green buildings by establishing a common language and standard of measurement Promote integrated, whole-building designs that provides a better environment for all Recognise and reward environmental leadership Transform the built environment to reduce its negative environmental impact Ensure new buildings remain relevant in the future and existing buildings are refurbished and upgraded to improve the overall quality of our building stock.

Energy Efficiency (EE) Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ) Sustainable Site Planning Management (SM) Material and Resources (MR) Water Efficiency (WE) Innovation (IN)

&

Source: greenbuildingindex.org

In this particular project, the GBI is only applied in grounded theory, and only as a reference in the efforts to achieving sustainability in the library design.

21

4.2

SUSTAINABLE SITE PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT

Following the concept development phase in which the design concept is established, the next step in the design is the planning of the site, to ensure the design is effective in carrying out its purpose.

Particularly for a public building such as a library, site planning is significant in determining whether the building works for occupants in relation to its surrounding contexts. Site planning indicates the accessibility, zoning, and circulation of the building design.

The site responsive strategy for “Libra-Tree” is based on the “Tree of Knowledge” concept, which is to have the site act as a “root” of a tree, extending towards the surrounding contexts. As the site is in the middle of 3 identified districts of land use, namely commercial, residential and institutional, linkages are established from the site to surrounding buildings through crosswalk interventions and the continuity of activities from the buildings into the spaces within the site.

Figure 4.2.1: Diagram showing site responsive strategies Source: Author

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4.2.1 PUBLIC ACCESS 4.2.1.1

PEDESTRIAN

A perimeter walkway with the integration of landscape was introdu ced around the site with the purpose of establishing pedestrian linkage which helps in attracting people to come to the Taiping Young People’s Library. Crosswalk interventions are done on three areas of the site to increase connectivity, enhancing the “root” concept of the site responsive strategies.

LEGEND Crosswalk interventions Pedestrian walkways

Figure 4.2.1.1.1: Site planning diagram showing crosswalk interventions and pedestrian walkways Source: Author

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4.2.1.2

VEHICULAR

The vehicular circulation is concentrated beside the petrol station located at the north of the site which functions as a buffer between the building and the petrol station. Public ingress and egress are situated along Convent Lane opposite Taiping Regency Hotel Seri Warisan, which is the least congested road compared to Jalan Kota and Jalan Convent, whereas service egress is separated from public egress, which is along Jalan Kota.

JALAN KOTA

EGRESS INGRESS STAFF & PWD CARPARK

CONVENT LANE

TO BASEMENT CARPARK

SERVICE LANE

CARPARK

Figure 4.2.1.2.1: Site planning diagram showing vehicular access and circulation Source: Author

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4.2.1.3

BUS LAYBY

The bus layby is located at Jalan Convent, in which the bus door for passengers to get off the bus is not facing the road to ensure the passengers’ safety. Moreover, the layby is situated near the frontage square, the café outdoor seating and children’s plaza where activities such as performances and exhibitions will be held, welcoming visitors with lively surroundings and atmosphere.

Figure 4.2.1.3.1: Site planning diagram showing location of bus layby Source: Author

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4.2.2 UNIVERSAL DESIGN STRATEGIES Universal design is an inclusive philosophy that says all spaces should be inherently accessible for all users. Rather than focusing on users with specific disabilities, universal design creates solutions that will work for everyone, regardless of age, mobility, visual, auditory, or mental ability. The range of human capability throughout the life span is the driving force of universal design philosophy.

The implementation of the universal design principle can be seen through the provision of platform that works for everyone despite the age, mobility, visual, auditory, or mental ability. For instance: a) Ramps b) Lifts c) Disabled Toilet Design

Figure 4.2.2.1: Accessibility elements in external & internal environments Source: 4th AUN-DPPnet Accessibility and Universal Design Training Course

Figure 4.2.2.2: Accessibility elements in internal environments Source: 4th AUN-DPPnet Accessibility and Universal Design Training Course

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Figure 4.2.2.3: Accessibility elements in external environments Source: 4th AUN-DPPnet Accessibility and Universal Design Training Course

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4.2.2.1

RAMPS

Due to the elevated level of ground floor from the road surface level, ramps are applied in designing the library to enable the access of persons with disabilities (PWDs) into the building. Based on the requirement proposed by the Malaysian Standards, the gradient for any external slope that is more than the gradient of 1:20 should be regarded a ramp. The design of the ramp should be complied to the following: a) Part of the ramps should not be steeper than the gradient of 1:15 b) Be provided with rest areas not less than 1200mm in length at intervals of not more than 6000mm, measured clear of any rest area c) Be provided in each side with a handrail; and d) The width of every part should not be less than 1200mm

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Figure 4.2.2.1.1: Site planning diagram showing ramps Source: Author

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4.2.2.2

LIFT DESIGN

The usage of lifts is essential with the purpose of evacuation for disabled people in continui ng the operation of building to a reasonable degree of safety if there is a fire. The lifts in the library abide by the MS 13331:2003 which the standards say; a) Within the range of 1800 mm, there should not be any obstructions in front of the vertical access provided for the disabled people. b) The floor level should be maintained within the tolerance of 10mm. c) The position of the handrail inside the lift car should not be higher than 600mm and 100 mm above the finished floor level and should be fixed adjacently to the control panel.

Figure 4.2.2.2.1: Minimum Dimensions of Elevator Cars Source: ada.gov

Figure 4.2.2.2.2: Dimensions of components in an accessible elevator car Source: un.org

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Figure 4.2.2.2.1: Site planning diagram showing lifts in the building Source: Author

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4.2.2.3

DISABLED TOILET DESIGN

The design requirements for person with disabilities are governed by Malaysian Standards, a standard for accessible design, which ensures that disabled bathroom facilities will be available an d useable for whoever may need them. These requirements are applied throughout the design.

The toilet for disabled in this building is located inside the other common toilet on the ground floor.

On top of the standards requirement like stated in Malaysian Standards, the toilet for disabled person in this library also equipped with assistive technology.

Figure 4.2.2.3.1: Dimensions of components in an accessible toilet design Source: Author

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Figure 4.2.2.3.1: Site planning diagram showing disabled toilet design in the building Source: Author

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4.3

PARKING CAPACITY

Figure 4.3.1: Basement parking showing the parking capacity Source: Author

The capacity of parking in the basement carpark is 20 in total, including 4 PWD parking and 16 motorcycle parking.

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4.4

LANDSCAPE

Landscape is fundamental in the design of the building, especially in the outdoor surroundings. In the interior environment, landscape can be implemented to create a natural atmosphere. Landscape strategies is crucial in the design of this library to strengthen the idea of creating an urban oasis.

The objectives of the landscape include natural shading, creating a buffer to filter undesirable views, noise, and smell, to contribute to the openness of an area, provide natural shading, and to direct the flow of pedestrian traffic.

URBAN INTERVENTION: Garden walkway

ENTRANCE PLAZA

CHILDRENS’ PLAZA

FRONTAGE SQUARE

Figure 4.4.1: Site planning diagram showing landscape strategies Source: Author

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Figure 4.4.2: 3D perspective view showing frontage square Source: Author

Figure 4.4.2: 3D perspective view showing garden walk Source: Author

Figure 4.4.3: 3D perspective view showing water feature/playscape at children’s plaza Source: Author

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4.5

WATER EFFICIENCY

The types of vegetation selected at the landscaping area are mostly native and dry-climate plants which helps in reducing the amount of water used for irrigation purposes. For toilets, water-efficient sanitary fittings are used, such as low-flow tap ware, and censored flushing system. Toilets consume approximately 27% of the water supply in the building, more than any other appliances or plumbing.

It is therefore important to use water-efficient sanitary fittings to ensure practical usage of water supply in the building.

4.5.1 WATER-EFFICIENT SANITARY FITTINGS A. SENSOR TAP Automatic taps contribute to a more sustainable world in two main ways: i. Water conservation: Finding ways to save water is very important. Electronic taps are usually designed with a low flow rate, an aerator in the spout and system or materials that prevent leakage. For instance, while traditional basin taps pour between 10 and 15 litres per minute, Giampieri sensor taps would not use more than 6 litres and their solenoid valve is closed by default (and placed before the hose, which in this case supports up to 15 bar). Bear in mind that a dripping tap can waste between 300 ml and 1 litre per hour. ii. A small office of just 7 people could save 12378.60 litres of water a year installing automatic taps, the equivalent of 155 full baths!

Source: intelligenthanddryers.com

Figure 4.5.1.1: Sensor Tap Diagram Source: intelligenthanddryers.com

B. DUAL-FLUSH TOILETS A dual-flush toilet is a variation of the flush toilet that uses two buttons or a handle mechanism to flush different amounts of water.

This toilet has a dual flush delivering either 1.28 gallons of water per full flush or 1.1 gallons on a partial flush. On a full 1.28-gallon flush, this toilet will clear up to four times the volume of waste that the average adult needs. This efficiency in clearing waste is due to a combination of the siphon action, giving additional power to the water entering the bowl, the way that the water enters the bowl around the full circumference of the rim, and the design and shape of the toilet bowl.

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Figure 4.5.1.2: Dual-flush Toilet Diagram Source: dualflushtoiletsarecool.weebly.com

4.5.2 RAINWATER HARVESTING Malaysia is known for its geographical location in which it experiences rainfall throughout the year.

Moreover, Taiping receives some limelight for being the wettest town in Peninsul ar Malaysia. The average annual rainfall is about 3,000mm in Taiping, with the peninsula’s average being 2,000mm – 2,500mm, making it vital to implement rainwater harvesting system in the Taiping Young People’s Library. Additionally, Taiping’s unusual rainfall has also led to a fertile collection of flora and centuryold rain trees in the Taiping Lake Gardens.

Hence, the initiative to implement rainwater harvesting system in “Libra-Tree” is to be used for the following functions; i. ii.

Toilet flushing Landscape irrigation

Figure 4.5.2.1: Rainwater Harvesting Diagram Source: https://www.next.cc/journey/design/rain-water-harvesting

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4.6

FACADE DESIGN

The sustainability strategies implemented in the design of the building faรงade are: i.

The implementation of high performance low-e glass which helps in reducing 25% of the solar heat gained by the building

ii.

Sun-shading device providing 60% shading from the heat of the sun

The faรงade is designed to mimic tree branches, giving the overall look of the building the appearance alike trees. In addition, the material used for the faรงade is recycled timber panels for added sustainability.

Figure 4.4.1: Faรงade facing Jalan Convent Source: Author

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4.7

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY & PASSIVE DESIGN STRATEGIES

Figure 4.6.1: Sectional Perspective (Source: Author)

A.

NATURAL DAYLIGHTING

One of the passive design strategies implemented in the design of this library is natural daylighting in order to reduce the usage of artificial lighting during daytime.

Figure 4.6.2: Perspective view showing the naturally lit atrium space (Source: Author)

B.

NATURAL VENTILATION

The building is designed to have openings and louvers to allow natural ventilation into the building for passive cooling.

Figure 4.6.3: Perspective view showing openings and louvers allowing natural ventilation (Source: Author)

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C.

PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS

Timber canopies with photovoltaic panels to generate electricity in the building, reflecting how trees absorb sunlight.

Figure 4.6.4: Perspective view showing photovoltaic panels Source: Author

D.

SUNSHADING FAร ADE SYSTEM

Low-e glass faรงade integrated with sunshading devices to prevent from solar heat gain in the building.

Figure 4.6.5: Perspective view showing sunshading system Source: Author

E.

BICYCLE SHEDS WITH SOLAR ROOF

Providing bicycle sheds equipped with solar roof as a means to generate additional electricity, and to reduce the need for cars.

Figure 4.6.6: Perspective view showing bicycle sheds with solar roof (Source: Author)

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5.0

SITE PLANNING & ZONING 42

5.1

SITE PLANNING

1.

PROPOSED SITE

The total site area of the proposed site is 7993.9 m², and within the area stands five existing large trees on the site which are to be preserved in this project.

Figure 5.1.1: Proposed site (Source: Author)

2.

LINKAGE CONTEXT

WITH

SURROUNDING

Based on the site responsive strategies, linkages are established from the site to its surrounding contexts by the implementation of crosswalks.

Figure 5.1.2: Linkage with surrounding context (Source: Author)

3.

POTENTIAL URBAN PLAZA

The potential location for the urban plaza is determined, which acts as an urban junction facing Jalan Convent.

Figure 5.1.3: Potential urban plaza location (Source: Author)

4.

OVERALL SITE PLANNING

From the urban plaza location, the landscape area is determined along the perimeter of the site to attract visitors to the library. A children’s plaza is situated opposite SK Convent, and the space dedicated for vehicles is located beside the petrol station.

Figure 5.1.4: Overall site planning (Source: Author)

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5.2

BUILDING MASSING STRATEGIES

Figure 5.2.1: Building Massing Strategies Diagrams (Source: Author)

Figure 5.2.2: Perspective view showing urban plaza (Source: Author)

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6.0 45

SERVICE

6.1

INGRESS, EGRESS AND ENTRANCES 6.1.1

INGRESS

The main vehicular ingress is along the Convent Lane opposite the The Regency Hotel Seri Warisan, Taiping, leading to public, staff and PWD carparks, and the basement carpark. As a site responsive strategy, there are 3 entrances for this building attracting the source of crowds from different directions, namely; i.

Main entrance from the drop-off

Figure 6.1.1.1: Main entrance from the drop-off Source: Author

ii.

Facing The Regency Hotel Seri Warisan, attracting visitors from the hotel

iii.

Opposite Jalan Convent and the institutional district, catering to schoolchildren

Figure 6.1.1.2: Entrance facing Jalan Convent Source: Author

6.1.2 EGRESS There are two main exits for vehicles in the building. One is located along the Convent Lane intended for the public, whereas another exit mainly serves the purpose of services, which is situated along Jalan Kota.

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EGRESS INGRESS

Figure 6.1.1: Ground floor plan showing ingress, egress, and entrances Source: Author

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6.2

VERTICAL TRANSPORTATION

To ensure the effectiveness of circulation in the Taiping Young People’s Library, there are two types of lifts provided, namely guest lift to cater to the public, and service lifts intended for service purposes and maintenance activities during operational hours.

In terms of quantity, there are a total of two guest lifts and one service lift provided in the building.

Figure 6.2.1: Vertical transportation system in the building Source: Author

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Figure 6.2.2: Ground floor plan showing the vertical transportations provided in the building Source: Author

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6.3

AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM

Air conditioning is the process of removing heat and moisture from the interior of an occupied space to improve the comfort of occupants of the building. Air conditioning systems are equipped with Air Handling Units (AHU) which are integrated pieces consisting of a few important equipment, such as fans, heating and cooling coils, air control dampers, filters, and silencers. AHU is significant in filtering outdoor air into the building.

The ducting in the air conditioning system consisting of 5-feet diameter pipes plays a vital role in sustaining the mixture of air which are cooled and heated, which will then be discharged into the building interior. The AHU which is normally implemented with HVAC (heating, cooling & air conditioning) is a large system moving at a rate of 2,000CFM (cubic feet per minute) to 10,000CFM. It also consists of an economizer, which is also known as inlet dampers. The function of an economizer is to allow a small amount of air from the outside through the air handlers. This system is generally utilised in offices, modern residences as well as public buildings.

6.3.1 COMPONENTS OF HVAC SYSTEMS There are important elements and components found in a HVAC system, consisting of a heating source, a cooling source, a medium for transporting, and sensors to detect the nature of the thermal environment. Components including cooling units, air handling unit and cooling tower make up a single, stand-alone unit. This may exist as a series of individual components separately placed in different locations throughout a building.

6.3.2 AHU LOCATION For the AHU, there are a total of 3 types of spaces in the building namely the mechanical room, the service core as well as the ceiling plenum. The service core locates the vertical shafts, whereas the ceiling plenum is where the horizontal ducts are located. The cooling tower is usually placed at the rooftop.

6.3.3 CEILING MOUNTED AIR CONDITIONING DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM Filtered air is supplied through air conditioning distribution systems mounted in the ceiling. This method enables uniform temperature distributed within the interior spaces.

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6.4

ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

For this building, the electrical distribution is supplied through the TNB sub-station located at the ground floor, ensuring easy maintenance in the case of malfunctions in the electrical system. A power genset room is provided at the basement level as a precaution step.

The TNB sub-station type used in this building is the single-chamber type.

Electric is supplied and tapped from the existing Power Plant Unit (PPU), whereas the Direct Board (DB) is the main electrical distribution in the building which is located in the electric room.

An electrical meter is placed in the main switch room which functions as a tool to measure the total electricity consumed by building occupants.

Figure 6.4.1: Electrical distribution system in the building Source: Author

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Figure 6.4.2: Ground floor plan showing the location of the TNB sub-station Source: Author

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6.5

WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

Water supply in the Taiping Young People’s Library can be divided into two functions; i.

Portable water supply (which is used for drinking)

ii.

Domestic water supply (used for other purposes)

WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM Water is channelled from the water tank located at the basement level to the firefighting tank before being pumped up to the domestic water tank on the roof. From the domestic water tank, water is then distributed downwards to each floor through gravitational pull, for the use of spaces such as toilets, prayer rooms and book cafe.

Figure 6.5.1: Water distribution system in the building Source: Author

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6.6

RAINWATER HARVESTING SYSTEM

Malaysia is known for its geographical location in which it experiences rainfall throughout the year. Moreover, Taiping receives some limelight for being the wettest town in Peninsular Malaysia. The average annual rainfall is about 3,000mm in Taiping, with the peninsula’s average being 2,000mm – 2,500mm, making it vital to implement rainwater harvesting system in the Taiping Young People’s Library. Additionally, Taiping’s unusual rainfall has also led to a fertile collection of flora and century-old rain trees in the Taiping Lake Gardens.

RAINWATER HARVESTING SYSTEM The roofs act as catchment mediums for rainwater, allowing it to flow from rainwater downpipes located at roof gutters to be collected at the rainwater harvesting tank located at the basement level. Rainwater is then pumped from the basement to each floor for the use of landscape irrigation and flushing.

Figure 6.6.1: Rainwater harvesting system in the building Source: Author

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6.7

SEWAGE SYSTEM

The sewage system is used for the toilets in each floor, utilising the simple configuration of single stack system. A single stack system groups appliance around the stack with a separate branch pipe serving each appliance.

Figure 6.7.1: Sewage system in the building Source: Author

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6.8

FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM

The fire protection system is one of the most vital systems in the building. The function of this system is to ensure the safety of building occupants as well as minimizing the damage on the building in case of fire.

A total of 3 fire escape staircases are provided in the building, located near pedestrian walkways and open spaces for efficient evacuation.

Figure 6.8.1: Fire protection system in the building Source: Author

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Figure 6.8.1: Ground floor plan showing the locations of fire escape staircases Source: Author

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6.9

REFUSE CHAMBER SYSTEM

As an effort to achieve sustainability and integrate efficient waste management into the building services, the Taiping Young People’s Library utilises the refuse chamber system for solid waste disposal.

Factors such as environmental and hygiene aspects play important roles in determining the location of the refuse chambers through careful considerations. The refuse chamber in this building is located at the loading bay, part of the private zoning in the building, and is situated near a service lift in order to ease the disposal of waste and to conceal the waste management operations from the public.

To create a healthier and sustainable building environment, recycling bins are provided beside the refuse chamber to allow for materials to be recycled, as the library consists mainly of recycled materials including books and papers.

Figure 6.9.1: Refuse chamber system in the building Source: Author

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Figure 6.9.2: Ground floor plan showing the location of refuse chamber, service lift and service lane Source: Author

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6.10

TELECOMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM

The telecommunications system line is tapped from existing telecommunications line and distributed throughout the building. The telecommunications distribution system is equipped with telecommunications room located next to the 3 lift cores. Routers and plug-in cables for internet/Wi-Fi connections are located in spaces in need of these equipment.

Figure 6.10.1: Telecommunications system in the building Source: Author

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7.0

CONSTRUCTION & STRUCTURE

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7.1

FOUNDATION SYSTEM

The foundation of a building is the part of a structural system that supports and anchors the superstructure of a building, and transmits its loads directly to the earth. In any structural configuration, the basic framework functions as the casing of the structure, which enables the building to resist forces that act upon it. It is therefore necessary for the structural frame to be designed in the most economical way possible to withstand forces upon it throughout its expected lifespan.

The structural system of a building can be classified into two parts, namely; i. ii.

Sub-structure Super-structure

“Libra-Tree” is made up of 4 level of floors which are the super-structures, and 1 basement-level structure.

7.1.1

SUB-STRUCTURE

The Building Cost Information Service (BCIS), Elemental Standard Form of Cost Analys is Principles, Instructions, Elements and Definitions 4th (NRM) Edition published by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) in 2012, describes the rules for preparing an elemental cost analysis in standard BCIS format.

It defines the term substructure as: “All work below underside of screed or, where no screed exists, to underside of lowest floor finishes including damp-proof membrane, together with relevant excavations and foundations (includes walls to basements designed as retaining walls).” It suggests that the function of the substructure is to, “… transfer the load of the building to the ground and to isolate it horizontally from the ground. ” According to BCIS, the substructure includes: i. ii. iii. iv.

Foundations up to and including the damp proof course.

Lowest floor assembly below the underside of the screed or the lowest floor finish.

Basement excavation.

Basement retaining walls up to and including the damp proof course.

Source: Substructure. Designingbuildings.co.uk. (2020). Retrieved 4 July 2020, from https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Substructure Determining the connection of a structure to the earth is one of the most vital parts in the process of constructing or designing a building. In making the selection of the foundation type, there are two relevant information that need careful consideration, namely the type of soil and the bearing capacity. After examining the earth underneath the proposed site, it will be up to the engineers to make their selections on the type of footings that would be proper for the site, with a reasonable expense.

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The selection of the type of foundation for this building will be made based on the following considerations; i.

Subsurface soil and groundwater conditions ii.

Topography of site iii.

Pattern and magnitude of loads iv.

Construction methods and risk

Figure 7.1.1.1: Section A-A of “Libra-Tree”, the Taiping Young People’s LibrarySource: Author

7.1.2

BORED PILES CONSTRUCTION

A bored pile is a gadget which gets the combine in the procedure of boring a circular hole deeper inside the ground while installing the steel reinforcement and filling the borehole along with the concretes. Additionally, the Bored Piles is another form of the reinforced concrete pile which gets absorbed to help and support the tall buildings carrying the heavy vertical loads. B ored Piles is a cast in place concrete pile where it becomes compulsory for them to be a case on the construction site.

Figure 7.1.2.1: Bored Piles (Source: https://groundengineering.wordpress.com/category/bored-piles/)

Source: Bored Piles – Ground Engineering Ltd . Ground Engineering Ltd. (2020). Retrieved 4 July 2020, from https://groundengineering.wordpress.com/category/bored-piles/

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7.2

FLOOR SYSTEM

A floor is a rigid building assembly that divides space horizontally into stories. It forms the bottom of a room. It may consist of joist-supported wood planks or panels, decking or panels supported by wood or steel beams, a slab of stone or concrete on the ground, or a reinforced-concrete slab carried by concrete beams and columns. The floor assembly must support its own dead load plus furnishings and the live load of occupants engaged in any variety of activities. The horizontal supports beneath its top surface—and the vertical supports with which they intersect to form a frame—must be sufficiently large and spaced closely enough to prevent sagging of the assembly.

Source: Floor | construction. Encyclopedia Britannica. (2020). Retrieved 4 July 2020, from https://www.britannica.com/technology/floor.

To ensure the adequate support of the elevated floor in this building, the beams, columns, and loadbearing walls are designed to be strong enough to support loads without excessive deflection of the floor system, to provide an appropriate degree of fire resistance, as well as to sustain the overall shape of the building. A ceiling may be suspended from the structural floor slab above, becoming a finish surface for the spaces below it.

7.2.1

CONCRETE FLOOR

Horizontal concrete floor slabs of 100mm thickness are used in the design of the floor system in “Libra-Tree”, this Taiping Young People’s Library. As for the floor finishes, recycled timber is mainly used to achieve sustainability in the design and to provide a cozy ambience for the library’s occupants to enjoy. For the public spaces namely lobby and main entrance, granite finish is selected as it is aesthetically appealing and durable.

Figure 7.2.1.1: Perspective view of “Libra-Tree” showing floor finishes used at the lobby.

Source: Author

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SUSTAINABLE CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION METHODS & PRACTICES Concrete is the most commonly used man-made material on earth, which is an important construction material used extensively in modern buildings. Therefore, it is relevant to look into sustainable concrete construction, which is a step towards eco-friendly and green concrete construction practices in the efforts of solving global environmental problems. The effect of concrete is taking place in different stages from extraction of the raw material until the end of structure life. Global warming due to emission of CO2, increasing landfill sizes, and pollutions is the result of these impacts. Rising population density and increasing demand for concrete have exacerbated the situation. Thus, it is required to go for sustainable concrete construction practices.

The following are methods for achieving sustainable concrete construction: Use of Blended Cements Most of CO2 is being released during clinker production due to calcium calcinations and energy consumption. This emission can be reduced by using blended cement in which industrial by product like slag that replaces part of clinker. Not only does the blended cement reduce greenhouse gas emission in calcinations, but also decrease energy consumption.

Recycling Water It is estimated that 1 trillion L of water is used for concrete industry which most of it is drinkable.

About 3% water on earth is fresh and it going to be rare in most of continents, so recycling water could be an answer for that problem.

Low Carbon instead of High Carbon Fuel Using fuel which has lower CO2 content is a method to reduce emission. Therefore, using waste derived fuel or natural gas instead of coal fuel decrease amount of CO2 and minimizing waste disposal. There are numbers of alternative fuels that could be used for that purpose such as refinery gases, mineral oil, and waste wood.

Source: Sustainable Concrete Construction - Methods and Practices . The Constructor. (2020).

Retrieved 4 July 2020, from https://theconstructor.org/concrete/sustainable-concreteconstruction/13513/.

Figure 7.2.1.2: Section B-B of “Libra-Tree”, the Taiping Young People’s Library Source: Author

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7.3

COLUMNS AND BEAMS 7.3.1

COLUMNS

A column is a vertical structural member intended to transfer a compressive load.

For example, a column might transfer loads from a ceiling, floor, or roof slab or from a beam, to a floor or foundations.

The concrete used for the construction of the column is determined by civil and structural engineer to provide enough strength to support the load of the whole building, including the live loads, dead loads, and lateral forces. The higher of column are, the higher its tendency to bend caused by its slenderness and excessive loads. The strength is also required to prevent and minimize the column from buckling, squashed, bending, and collapsing. (D.K. Ching, 2001) The main structure system of this building is constructed from reinforced concrete, wrapped with recycled timber panels at some parts of the building to create a natural ambience.

7.3.2 BEAMS Beams are the horizontal member of the structural framework which helps in transferring the load from the floor to column and then to the foundation. Beams are designed to act together with longitude and web reinforcement in resisting applied forces.

In this building, reinforced concrete beams of 500mm depth and 300mm width are used.

Figure 7.3.1: Wall Sectional Detail Source: Author

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7.4

WALLS

Walls represent the continuous surface of the building which functions in enveloping the building structure which providing entry of daylight, natural ventilation, fire resistance, thermal insulation, and sound insulation. Additionally, the wall must also be able to transfer building loads to structural frames to prevent excessive deflection or collapsing. There are several types of walls which are determined according to the functions of a space, which can be loadbearing structures of homogeneous or composite construction or consist of a framework of columns and beams with non-structural panels attached to or filling in between them.

The wall system for “Libra-Tree” composed of the following: i. ii. iii.

are

Aluminium glass walls Brick masonry walls Concrete walls

Figure 7.4.1: Walls as Vertical Construction of a Building Source: D.K. Ching

Figure 7.4.2: Perspective view of “Libra-Tree” showing the reading lounge space enclosed by aluminium glass walls. (Source: Author)

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7.5

ROOF

A roof is a structure forming the upper covering of a building or other shelter. Its primary purpose is generally to provide protection from the elements, but it may also contribute to safety, security, privacy, insulation, and so on. Roofs may have openings or windows within them to allow light into the buildings, as well as providing, access, ventilation, views, and so on. They also fre quently include other features such as chimneys, communications infrastructure, building service s, drainage, lighting, access routes, and so on.

Roofs can be constructed from a wide variety of materials and in a wide variety of shapes depending on the requirements they have to satisfy, the local climate, the availability of materials and skills, the span to be covered, and so on.

Source: Types of roof. Designingbuildings.co.uk. (2020). Retrieved 4 July 2020, from https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Types_of_roof.

For “Libra-Tree”, the roof system in the building consists of the following: i.

Pitched roof The pitched roofs in this building comprises of timber structural members, and metal tiles. Large overhangs are implemented in the design of the mono pitch roofs to shelter the library occupants from rain, heat, and glare.

ii.

Skylight This type of roof is positioned above the central atrium space in the library which allows natural light deep into the atrium space. The roof is made from architectural grade aluminium and stainless-steel fixtures that have been developed to ensure smooth operation and high durability. The glass coverings are laminated glass and provides protection from UV.

iii.

Double roof Double roof system namely timber deck roof is implemented above the skylight to reflect tree canopies. Patterns are integrated on the roof panels in order to cast shadows underneath. Moreover, photovoltaic panels are placed on the roof to generate electricity.

Figure 7.5.1: Perspective view of “Libra-Tree” showing the naturally lit atrium.

Source: Author

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8.0

FINAL DESIGN PROPOSAL

69

8.1

PLANS

Figure 8.1.1: Site Plan showing Roof Plan Source: Author

70

8.1.1

GROUND FLOOR PLAN

Figure 8.1.1.1: Ground Floor Plan Source: Author

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8.1.2 BASEMENT PLAN & FIRST FLOOR PLAN

Figure 8.1.2.1: Basement Plan Source: Author

Figure 8.1.2.2: First Floor Plan Source: Author

8.1.3 SECOND FLOOR PLAN & THIRD FLOOR PLAN

Figure 8.1.3.1: Second Floor Plan Source: Author

Figure 8.1.3.2: Third Floor Plan Source: Author

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8.1.4 ELEVATIONS

Figure 8.1.4.1: Front Elevation (Source: Author)

Figure 8.1.4.2: Left Elevation (Source: Author)

Figure 8.1.4.3: Right Elevation (Source: Author)

Figure 8.1.4.4: Back Elevation (Source: Author)

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8.1.5 SECTIONS

Figure 8.1.5.1: Section A-A Source: Author

Figure 8.1.5.1: Section B-B Source: Author

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8.1.6 PRESENTATION BOARDS

Figure 8.1.6.1: Presentation Board 1 Source: Author

Figure 8.1.6.2: Presentation Board 2 Source: Author

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Figure 8.1.6.3: Presentation Board 3 Source: Author

Figure 8.1.6.4: Presentation Board 4 Source: Author

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In conclusion, many consideration and research have been made and discussed throughout the completion of “Libra-Tree”, the Taiping Young People’s Library. At the early stages of this project, an extensive research was conducted such as studies on the microclimate of the site, surrounding context, as well as demographic and cultural factors. These studies have been carefully considered and applied into the design of the project.

After gathering information from the extensive research on the site, the design strategies, design intentions, and the objectives are deduced, followed by concept development. Next, the programme and activities to be inserted into the library which is related to the concept and design intentions are then determined.

Moreover, in order to achieve sustainability in the design, studies regarding sustainable architecture and the ground theory of GBI have been conducted. These factors contribute to sustainable choices such as implementation of daylighting, natural ventilation, as well as façade design, in order to achieve an environmentally friendly building and provide building occupants with high comfort through the passive design strategies applied.

Last but not least, research and studies have been made on services in the building, and in determining the selection of construction materials in the efforts of ensuring that the library is buildable, which is a vital step in designing a building.

This allows for the building to efficiently conduct functions it is intended to, for the benefit of building occupants.

Consequently, the implementation and completion of this report, as well as the Taiping Young People’s Library project has provided me with plenty of insight on the steps required in the design process and the considerations needed.

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