final report, tzu ji charity house (ipoh)

BACHELORS OF HONOURS ARCHITECTUREMETHOD 1215 METHODS OF DOCUMENTATION AND MEASURED DRAWINGS

TZE CHI BUDDHIST MERITS SOCIETY HOUSENO. 47, JALAN RAJA DR NAZRIN SHAH, 30250 IPOH, PERAK

TAYLOR’ S UNIVERISTYSCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE, BUILDING AND DESIGN

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ABSTRACT

The purpose of this project was to identify the types of architectural historical structure and the importance of conserving the historical heritage. This report contains the overall research and information, some of which was ob-tained from the site at No. 47, Jalan Raja Dr. Nazrin Shah (Jalan Gopeng), 30250 Ipoh, Perak, while others from arti-cles, interviews, photos and etc.

Built since the British colonization around the turn of 19th century, the design and concept of the house was in-fluenced by both the ‘Malay kampong’ houses and British style architecture. The design of the house was a fusion of vernacular and western neoclassical styles. The architec-tural influence was one of Ipoh’s architectural style icons during the British and Japanese colonization. However, due to the rising development of different foreign architec-tural styles of malls, shop lots etc. In the late 20th century, the House that was once an architectural icon has been declining in it’s influence over Ipoh today.

Although renovations and different changes were made to the house to suit the different owners over the years, the house no longer holds value in its architectural influence to-day. Hence, in order to conserve the architectural and histor-ical value of the house, different methods of documentation were used. As a non-renewable resource, Cultural Heritage should be conserve so that the image of humanity is defined for now and for the future.


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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Our group would like to acknowledge and express our ap-preciation to the following people and organizations that have helped in contributing the information, support and help needed to complete this project. Below are the lists of people to whom we owe our deepest gratitude for.

Mr. Hoi Jung Wai, our lecturer for his patience in guiding and providing us with feedbacks throughout the execution of the measured drawings and report.

Mr. Lim, current owner of the Gopeng Road Old house for his permission in allowing us to measure the historical building on site as well as documenting it.

Mr.Wong Chong Win, the current president of Tzu-Chi Bud-dhist Charity House In Ipoh as well as a contractor, who did all the construction work for the House and providing us with information through the interviews.

Mr. Lee Teik Huat, Vice president of Tzu-Chi Buddhist Charity house of Ipoh for providing us with information and also vre-sponsible for finding the current owner, Mr. Lim to buy over the property of the house.

Ms. Hu Yoke Wan and Mr. Sim Kuan Hin, residents and mem-bers from the Tzu-Chi Buddhist Charity house of Ipoh who provided us with the information needed through the interview as well.

Other members of the Tzu-Chi Buddhist Charity house of Ipoh, current residents of the house for extending their hopitality to-wards us during our measurement activity on site as well as providing us with lunch on the last day.

Mr. Kenny Chan, the son of the previous owner, Mr. Chan Chee Keong for allowing us the time to interview him as well as providing us with information needed to complete the re-port.


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DECLARATION

Name of the house: Tze Chi Merit HouseAddress: No. 47, Jalan Raja Dr Nazrin Shah, 30250 Ipoh, Perak.

This report is submitted for the subject ARC 1215 Methods of Documentation and Measured Drawings to the School of Architecture, Building and Design Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus to obtain 5 credits in Praticum 1.

A Group Work by:

Name Student I.D.Johan Syahriz bin Muhaiyar (Leader) 0316115 Meera A/P B. Satheesh (Leader) 0317062 Chia Wee Min 0315186Einas Adel Ahmed Maizran 0316350Farah Farhanah binti Kassim Kushairi 0317534Gennieve Lee Phick Choo 0311622 Ibrahim Adhnan 0314694 Imran Suhaimi bin Muhammad Ali 0311624 Ivan Ling Chyi Rui 0313583 Joshua Ting Sing Rong 0311461 Kelvin Ng 0315081 Khor Xin Suan 0316230

Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Architecture)January 2015Taylor’s University

Lee Yi Feng 0315750Lee Yi Na 0318211 Nicholas Lai Ken Hong 0317435 Nicolas Wong Xiao En 0314377 Nur Aiman Mohamad Shakir 0311759 Nur Syazleen Sies 0321260 Poh Ziyang 0807P68823 Ricky Wong Yii 0313785 Tan Shing Yeou 0314850 Tan Wei How 0310707 Visagan A/L P. Arudeselvan 0313710 Yap Zhi Jun 0310738

Supervised by:Mr. Hoi Jung Wai


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

ABSTRACT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT DECLARATION TABLE OF CONTENTSLIST OF FIGURES

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH1 . 1 OBJECTIVES OR AIMS1 . 2 SCOOP1 . 3 LIMITATION1 . 4 METHODOLOGY1 . 5 SIGNIFICANCE OF STUDY1 . 6 EQUIPMENT

CHAPTER 2: INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH2 . 1 SITE CONTEXT

CHAPTER 3: HISTORICAL BACKGROUND3 . 1 IPOH, PERAK 3 . 1 . 1 BRITISH COLONIZATION 3 . 1 . 2 JAPANESE COLONIZATION 3 . 1 . 3 INDEPENDENCE 3 . 1 . 4 HISTORY TIMELINE

3 . 2 TZE CHI BUDDHIST MERIT SOCIETY HOUSE 3 . 2 .1 TZE CHI BUDDHIST MERIT SOCIETY HOUSE OWNERSHIP TIMELINE

CHAPTER 4: ARCHITECTURAL DEVELOPMENT4 . 1 ARCHITECTURAL INFLUENCES 4 . 1 . 1 VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE 4 . 1 . 2 NEW STRAITS ECLECTIC STYLE4 . 2 BUILDING EXTENSION4 . 3 BUILDING RENOVATION4 . 4 BUIDLING CHRONOLOGY

CHAPTER 5: CULTURE AND ACTIVITY5 . 1 SPACE PLANNING 5 . 1 . 1 FAMILY STRUCTURE 5 . 1 . 2 ASSOCIATION STRUCTURE

CHAPTER 6: BUILDING SUSTAINABILITY 6 . 1 BUILDING ORIENTATION6 . 2 CLIMATE 6 . 2 . 1 TEMPERTURE AND HUMIDITY 6 . 2 . 2 SUN PATH 6 . 2 . 3 WIND ANALYSIS


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CHAPTER 7: MATERIAL AND CONSTRUCTION DETAILS7 . 1 MATERIALS7 . 2 SKELETAL FRAMING 7 . 2 . 1 COLUMN AND BEAM 7 . 2 . 2 FOOTING

7 . 3 BUILDING 7 . 3 .1 SLAB 7 . 3 . 2 JOINTS 7 . 3 . 3 FLOOR, WALL AND ROOF JUNCTION

7 . 4 BUILDING 7 . 4 . 1 ROOF 7 . 4 . 2 DOORS 7 . 4 . 3 WINDOWS 7 . 4 . 4 STAIRCASE AND HANDRAIL 7 . 4 . 5 FINISHES

CHAPTER 8: CONCLUSION

REFERENCEAPPENDIXGLOSSARYSCALE DRAWINGS


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LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.1 Measuring TapeFigure 1.2 Open ReelFigure 1.3 Digital Laser Measuring TapeFigure 1.4 Steel RulerFigure 1.5 Adjustable Set SquareFigure 1.6 LadderFigure 1.7 DSLR CameraFigure 1.8 Butter PaperFigure 1.9 LaptopFigure 1.10 Printer

Figure 2.1 Key plan of the site

Figure 3.1 New Town and Old Town with Kinta Valley in the middleFigure 3.2 Tin Mine (1906)Figure 3.3 Standard Chartered Bank of IndiaFigure 3.4 Ipoh Railway Station c. 1930Figure 3.5 St. Michael’s Institution (Clayton Road)Figure 3.6 Bridge at the Kinta River

Figure 4.1.1 Malay Kampong HouseFigure 4.1.2 Top view of the Traditional Malay Kampong Figure 4.1.3 Spatial Organization of Malay Kampong houseFigure 4.1.4 The Front Entrance of the Main BuidingFigure 4.1.5 Timber Embelishment on the ‘Anjung’Figure 4.1.6 ‘Anjung’ of the Main Building Figure 4.1.7 Vents on Timber WallFigure 4.1.8 Open Vents on the Roof Figure 4.1.9 Greek and Roman columnsFigure 4.1.10 Footings of the House


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Figure 4.1.11 The Roof of the HouseFigure 4.1.12 The Front Elevation of the HouseFigure 4.1.13 Traditional Fanlight WindowFigure 4.1.14 Arch Windows and Jalousie WindowsFigure 4.1.15 Jalousie Window and Geometical Figure 4.1.16 Chinese Influence Airholes Figure 4.1.17 Retractable Security DoorFigure 4.1.18 Geometrical Colored Floor TilesFigure 4.1.19 Ceramic Tiles for Kitchen Table TopFigure 4.1.20 Geometrical Patterned Grilles Figure 4.1.21 Back View of the HouseFigure 4.1.22 Bedroom in the Extended buildingFigure 4.2.1 Layout of the Building Before RenovationFigure 4.2.2 Services Block in the Primary BuildingFigure 4.2.3 Storage under the Elevated Figure 4.2.4 Services Pipes and Junks in the Store RoomFigure 4.2.5 Living Room Connecting all the BedroomsFigure 4.2.6 Kitchen in the Extended BuildingFigure 4.2.7 Bedroom in the Extended BuildingFigure 4.2.8 Rear Court and Services BlocksFigure 4.2.9 The Living Hall Connecting from the Primary Building to Secondary BuildingFigure 4.2.10 The Storage Room Near the CourtyardFigure 4.2.11 The Storage Room Near the KitchenFigure 4.3.1 Old Concrete Staircase used by Mr. Chan’s FamilyFigure 4.3.2 New Timber Staircase Built by Tze Chi Figure 4.3.3 The Old Carpet Floor in the Main BuildingFigure 4.3.4 The New Timber FlooringFigure 4.3.5 The Old Wall with Vents on TopFigure 4.3.6 The Newly Painted Plasterboard wall


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Figure 4.3.7 The Foldable Timber Door with Metal GrilleFigure 4.3.8 Double Hung Timber Door Figure 4.3.8 Double Hung Timber DoorFigure 4.3.9 Casement Window with Metal Mesh used in Primary BuildingFigure 4.3.10 Jalousie Window with Metal GrilleFigure 4.4.1 Front Elevation of the Old House Figure 4.4.2 Side Elevation of the Secondary BuildingFigure 4.4.3 Front Elevation of the HouseFigure 4.4.4 Meeting RoomFigure 4.4.5 Front Elevation of the Newly Renovated HouseFigure 4.4.6 Exterior Hallway Leading to the Kitchen

Figure 5.1.1 Typical Spatial Layout of Malay Figure 5.1.2 Spatial Layout of Old Building PlanFigure 5.1.3 Front Porch of the HouseFigure 5.1.4 The Courtyard Figure 5.1.5 Rear Entrance of the HouseFigure 5.1.6 The Well Figure 5.1.7 The Main Common Room Figure 5.1.8 The Hallway Leading to the BackFigure 5.1.9 The Hall in the Secondary BuildingFigure 5.1.10 The Storage Area Figure 5.1.11 The Rear CourtFigure 5.1.12 ToiletFigure 5.1.13 The Bedroom in Secondary BuildingFigure 5.1.14 The Common Room in the Secondary BuildingFigure 5.1.15 The Association Structure Figure 5.1.16 The Recycle Centre for Collecting Recyclable ItemsFigure 5.1.17 The Old Folks Segregating the Recyclable ItemsFigure 5.1.18 Semi Open Storage area


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Figure 5.1.19 Kichen Area near to the CourtyardFigure 5.1.20 The Main Hall for Religious ActivitiesFigure 5.1.21 The Main Hall used as part of a Temporary Storage Area Figure 5.1.22 The Meeting RoomFigure 5.1.23 The Entrance to the OfficeFigure 5.1.24 The OfficeFigure 5.1.25 The Cafe

Figure 6.1.1 Building OrientationFigure 6.2.1 Temperature Line ChartFigure 6.2.2 Humidity Line ChartFigure 6.2.3 The Open Airholes for VentilationFigure 6.2.4 The Open Vents on the Roof Figure 6.2.5 The East Sun PathFigure 6.2.6 The West Sun PathFigure 6.2.7 The ‘Anjung’ to help Shade the ‘Serambi’Figure 6.2.8 Awning Use to block Excessive SunlightFigure 6.2.9 The Wind Analysis

Figure 7.1 Plan of The HouseFigure 7.1.1 Timber Deck at the Front PorchFigure 7.1.2 Timber Facade, Columns, Louvers etc.Figure 7.1.3 Red Ceramic TilesFigure 7.1.3 Red Ceramic TilesFigure 7.1.5 Geometry Glazed Tiles on the Kitchen Table TopFigure 7.1.6 Glazed Wall TilesFigure 7.1.7 Masonry Structure in the FootingsFigure 7.1.8 Clay Roof TilesFigure 7.1.9 Zinc Corrugated Roof


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Figure 7.1.10 Geometry Steel Grille Figure 7.1.11 RetractableSteelGateFigure 7.1.12 Concrete Footing at the Front PorchFigure 7.1.13 Concrete Footing under the HouseFigure 7.1.14 Mortar Tiles on the RoofFigure 7.1.15 Old Asbestos CeilingFigure 7.1.16 New Asbestos CeilingFigure 7.1.17 Plasterboard Partition WallFigure 7.2.1 Column and beam Figure 7.2.3 Mitered Slip JointFigure 7.2.4 FootingsFigure 7.2.5 Construction Details of FootingFigure 7.3.1 Overlapping Joists Supporting the Timber FloorFigure 7.3.2 Construction Details of Floor JoistFigure 7.3.3 The Beam Set on Top of the Masonry Wall and FootingFigure 7.3.4 Timber Flooring in the Main Hall Figure 7.3.5 Three Members Joined by Tenon and MortiseFigure 7.3.6 Construction Details of Column and FootingFigure 7.3.7 The Shape of Interlocking Scarf JointFigure 7.3.8 Construction Details of Interlocking Scarf JointFigure 7.3.9 Half Lap Joint used at the the Corner of the BuildingFigure 7.3.10 Construction Details of the Half Lap JointFigure 7.3.11 Construction Details of Interior WallFigure 7.3.12 Timber Louver Wall on the Exterior of the BuildingFigure 7.3.13 The Grooves on the Wall FrameFigure 7.4.1 Construction Details of RoofFigure 7.4.2 Construction Details of Queen Post Roof TrussFigure 7.4.3 Queen Post Roof TrussFigure 7.4.4 Construction Details of Collar Roof


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Figure 7.4.5 Collar Roof in the Storage RoomFigure 7.4.6 Construction Details of JointsFigure 7.4.7 The Joints in the Internal RoofFigure 7.4.8 Construction Details of Ceiling Joist and Rafter ConnectionFigure 7.4.9 Ceiling Joist and Rafter ConnectionFigure 7.4.10 Construction Details of QueenPost to Ceiling Joist Figure 7.4.11 QueenPost to Ceiling Joist ConnnectionFigure 7.4.12 Corrugated Galvanized Zinc Roof from the Interior ViewFigure 7.4.13 Construction Details of the Zinc Roof StructureFigure 7.4.14 Construction Details of Predrill holes with ScrewsFigure 7.4.15 Zoom in Details of the Screw ConnectionFigure 7.4.16 Gutter at the back of the HouseFigure 7.4.17 Construction Details of the DownpipeFigure 7.4.18 Ridge Cap View of the House RoofFigure 7.4.19 Ridge Cap Line Connected to the ApexFigure 7.4.20 Construction Details of Ridge CapFigure 7.4.21 Construction Details of Ridge CapFigure 7.4.22 Bedding Cement Applied on Ridge CapFigure 7.4.23 Bedding Cement Applied on Ridge CapFigure 7.4.24 Timber Door Leading to the Storage RoomFigure 7.4.25 Butt Hinges installed on Door PanelFigure 7.4.26 Retractable Security Door DetailsFigure 7.4.27 Retractable Security Door at StorageFigure 7.4.28 Construction Details of the Retractable Security DoorFigure 7.4.29 Pocket Sliding Door for the OfficeFigure 7.4.30 Construction Details of the Pocket Sliding DoorFigure 7.4.31 By Pass Sliding Door in the Secondary BuildingFigure 7.4.32 Jalousie Window and Grille on the Main BuildingFigure 7.4.33 Construction Details of The Jalousie Windows


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Figure 7.4.34 Timber Staircase at the Entrance of the Main BuildingFigure 7.4.35 Axonometric of the Staircase at the Main EntranceFigure 7.4.36 Staircase DetailingFigure 7.4.37 Side View of the Staircase Details Figure 7.4.38 Construction Details of StaircaseFigure 7.4.39 Timber Open Riser Staircase in the Hall of the Secondary BuildingFigure 7.4.40 Steel Open Riser Staircase in the Storage roomFigure 7.4.41 Construction Details of Open Riser StaircaseFigure 7.4.42 Open Riser Staircase DetailsFigure 7.4.43 Concrete Staircase at the Back of the HouseFigure 7.4.44 Concrete Staircase at the Main Entrance of the House from the 60’s to 90’sFigure 7.4.45 Concrete Staircase DetailsFigure 7.4.46 Section of Concrete StaircaseFigure 7.4.47 Section of Concrete HandrailsFigure 7.4.48 Adding Timber Riser and Thread on Concrete StaircaseFigure 7.4.49 Crown Moulding Figure 7.4.50 Crown MouldingFigure 7.4.51 Applying the Compound using a Putty Knife Figure 7.4.52 Zoom in of the ApplicationFigure 7.4.53 Butt JointFigure 7.4.54 Timber Skirting in the Main HallFigure 7.4.55 Sawing the Timber FloorPlankFigure 7.4.56 Placing the Skirting on the FloorFigure 7.4.57 Asbestos Ceiling Wall DetailsFigure 7.4.58 Asbestos Ceiling Wall in the Main HallFigure 7.4.59 Applying the glueFigure 7.4.60 Screwing Up the Drywall piece Figure 7.4.61 Suspended Ceiling in the Meeting RoomFigure 7.4.62 Construction Details of Suspended CeilingFigure 7.4.63 Construction Details of Cover BattenFigure 7.4.64 Cover Batten in the Main Hall

1.0 INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH


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1 . 1 OBJECTIVES AND AIMS

The objectives and aim of this project are as follow:• To identify the Architectural style and influence of the building• To obtain precise measurement of the whole building and site • To provides documentary, graphic, and physical information about the building history and existing condition.• To provide information for possible changes – repair, rehabilitation, or restoration of the building over the years• To record the findings of research and investigation, as well as the process of physical work.• To produce scale drawings according to the existing heritage building on site

The overall outcome of this project is to be a source of information about the building and the methods ofconservation.

1 . 2 SCOOP

The study focus on the chosen building which is located at No. 47, Jalan Raja Dr. Nazrin Shah (Jalan Gopeng), 30250 Ipoh, Perak. The building contains it’s own uniqueness in terms of style, aesthetic value, purpose and history.

The key components of this report is to give a better understanding of the historical timeline of the cultural heritage, the construction methods and elements used to build it as well as the conservation methods used to maintain the heritage to this day.



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1 . 3 LIMITATION

Our site is located along the Gopeng Road in Ipoh town. The location of the hotel that we were staying at in Ipoh was slightly far from the site as the roads to access it are mainly for the use of traffics. Hence, traveling by bus was more convenient.

During the measurement on site, we were faced with different challenges and obstacle. For instance, the condition of the landscape on site was mostly covered with weeds and tall grasses. Due to the low number of workers and limited budget, Tzu Chi was not able to completely maintain the whole area of the site. Hence, it was challenging when measuring the whole perimeter of the site plan, especially towards the back part of the house.

Another limitation that we had to face was during the mea-surement of the whole house. Built for more than half a centu-ry ago during the British colonization, the house was not in the best of condition even when it was renovated over the years. Many of the paint, concrete walls and floor were chipping off. Hence, we were not able to achieve an exact measure-ments of the building especially for the detailing parts. For instance, the length, height and width of the footings were all differed by an approximate of 0.1 to 0.5 cm.

It was a challenge to synchronize all the measurements. Given that the building was very old and fragile, we were not able to access the entire roof area because the roof condition would not be able to withstand the load of heavy objects and people.



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1 . 4 METHODOLOGY

To complete our research and documentation of the heritage building at No. 47, Jalan Raja Dr. Nazrin Shah (Jalan Gopeng), a variety of methods were used to collect the information and data needed.

Before going to the site, in a group consisting of 26 members, we had to divide our task and the number of group members evenly according to the respective measurement groups, which consist of floor plans, elevations, sections and detailing group.

After that, we had to further segregate ourselves into process teams, in charge of AutoCAD, Research, Report, and Model making. It took us a few days of group discussion before we could properly organize and arrange ourselves in a proper table chart. Each group was lead by a sub-group leader, who was in charge of giving the other team members guidance and measuring task.



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1 . 4 . 1 MEASURING METHODS

To achieve a more exact measurement, we used different measuring tools on site, which are measuring tapes, digital laser measuring devices, rulers and Set Square. These tools were used to measure the dimension of floors, walls, columns etc.

For the high walls and column, the digital laser device was mostly used to measure the height and areas that we could not reach. As for the roof and column pinna-cles, we had to use the measuring tape with the help of a ladder to access it. Most of the detailing was mea-sured with measuring tape and ruler, which was later on photographed as reference for the AutoCAD team.

Our measurements on site were jotted down on barter papers or white papers using hand-drawn sketches or photos taken on site. The measurement process was repeated two to four times before the final compilation of the measurement to min-imize errors.



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1 . 4 . 2 PRODUCTION OF DRAWINGS

After compiling the measurements on site, the AutoCAD team will Cad the building plans, elevations and so on to ensure that every part of the house was measured and corresponds to one another.

Discussion sessions were held every night to further discuss the measurements and drawings of the building to achieve a more precise work.

1 . 4 . 3 RESEARCH PROCEDURES

To document the research data collected, the team members will jot down the information into papers, and later on compiled in the laptop. Besides, photographs and videos were taken to record the house and interviews.

At night, subgroup discussions were held after every general meeting. The topics would cover the compile research data from interviews, books, articles etc.



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1 . 5 SIGNIFICANCE OF STUDY

The purpose of this project was to understand better the significance of the historical heritage, while relating it back to the architectural style as well as the social, economical, political and other influences to the design and concept of the building in the past.

The measurements, photography and videography ev-idence were the methods of documenting the heritage building on site. This was to evoke a sense of appreci-ation to the cultural heritage and architectural style of the building. The house was once an icon of architec-ture in Ipoh. Today it allows the younger generation to see a glimpse of the past.

Researching the functions and history of the building provides the students with a different perspective view of the western colonization that has influence greatly not just the style of ar-chitecture, but also the economic, social and political status of the country. Overall, students will gain a better understanding of the cultural history and learn to appreciate the importance of conserving architectural heritage.



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1 . 6 EQUIPMENT

To carry out the task of the methods of measurement, drawings and recording, a number of equipment and tools were needed on site.

1. Measuring TapesThe measuring tapes consist from 10 to 30 meters in length. They were mostly used to measure the dimensions of building structures and details.

2. Open Reel TapeThe longer version of measuring tapes that was used to measure the floor plans and site plan.

3. Digital Laser Measuring DeviceLaser measuring device was used to measure the height of walls, columns and roof as well as large spaces that cannot be measured using the measuring tape.

4. Steel RulerSteel Ruler was used to measure the intricate or very small details on the footings, cap and etc.

5. Adjustable Set SquareAdjustable Set Square was used to measure angles of certain parts of the house. This tool is helpful in measuring an accurate angle of a small part of the building that is not joined at a 90 degree.

Figure 1.1 Measuring Tape Figure 1.2 Open Reel

Figure 1.3 Digital Laser Measuring Tape

Figure 1.4 Steel Ruler

Figure 1.5 Adjustable Set Square



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6. LadderLadder is used to access the higher parts of the building like roof, ceiling, pinnacles of the columns, doors and windows.

7. Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) camerasThe DSLR camera was used to photograph pictures of the building and recording videos of the interviews and activities on site.

8. Butter PaperButter papers were used as medium to sketch the layout of the building in order to record the measurements before transferring them to AutoCAD.

9. LaptopsLaptops were brought to site to produce AutoCAD drawings right after measurement. It was also use to record down the data and information collected on site.

10. PrintersPrinters were used to scan old photographs found on site and to print the finished AutoCAD floor plan drawings.

Figure 1.6 Ladder Figure 1.7 DSLR Camera

Figure 1.8 Butter Paper Figure 1.9 Laptop

Figure 1.10 Printer

2.0 INTRODUCTION TO BUILDING


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2 . 1 SITE CONTEXT

The house is located at No. 47, Jalan Raja Dr. Nazrin Shah (Jalan Gopeng), 30250 Ipoh, Perak. A British officer originally constructed it during the British colonization in between the late 19th and early 20th century. The location of the house was strategic and convenient to the British owner, as it is place near to the mining areas and mining administration depart-ment, where he worked back then. Gopeng road used to be one of the earliest mining towns in Perak.

In 1892, the mining town of Gopeng was the booming area during the British colonization. However, after the great fire, the Gopeng town was rebuilt again and it slowly became less prominent. In the early 20th century, more British tin-mining companies were set up in the city. Hence, Ipoh continues to grow greater in prominence and was soon made to be the capital of Perak, replacing Taiping.

Today, the Gopeng area is mostly occupied with more laid back architecture buildings, such as homes and other cultural heritage buildings. The Royal Palace is also placed just opposite of the house.

Figure 2.1 Key plan of the siteSource: District Office Ipoh

3.0 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND


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3 . 1 IPOH, PERAK

Perak State is one of the largest cities in the country. It is approximately 200 km (125 miles) north of Kuala Lumpur and 130 km (81 miles) south of Penang on the North-South Expressway. Today, Ipoh is the capital city of Perak state. Until the 1820s, this inland city in the center of the Malay-sia Peninsula was little more than thick jungle surrounded by limestone cliffs. Ipoh is located at the highest navigable stretch on the Kinta River. Like many other areas in Malay-sia, the arrival of the British here changed the history of Ipoh forever.

Figure 3.1 New Town and Old Town with Kinta Valley in the middleSource: http://www.perak.info/Perak_Photo_Gallery/Ipoh_Town.htm



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3 . 1 . 1 BRITISH COLONIZATION

During the British colonial era, Ipoh was Malaysia’s second city for administrative purposes. Ipoh developed from a Ma-lay village of Palau along the banks of Kinta River to what it is today. In 1880’s, the tin rush caused the town to boom caused rise in population.

Unfortunately on 1st June 1892, a great fire broke out and destroyed over half the town. After the fire, the town was re-built, in time with the second tin rush and the vast numbers of people, especially the Chinese miners that descended upon Ipoh, transforming Ipoh into a business and social Centre.

Figure 3.2 Tin Mine (1906)Source: http://www.rsmurthi.com/OldPerakPhotos1.html



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In 1902, The Chartered Bank of India, Australia and China Limited opened offices in Ipoh. Between 1905 and 1914, a wealthy Hakka miner from Southern China, Yau Tet-Shin started to spend millions developing a large tract of the city today known as the ‘New Town’ section. The town continued to grow rapidly, as a result of the tin mining and rubber production.

In 1935, the British built the first new railway station near the Kinta River, which overall adds to the prosperity. Nicknamed as the ‘Taj Mahal’ of Ipoh, this striking colonial structure looks similar to that in the capital of Kuala Lumpur.

Even after the Japanese surrendered in 1945, the British colonization did not end and prolonged until 1948. Violence was caused everywhere in Perak by the Communist Party of Malaya.

Figure 3.3 Standard Chartered Bank of IndiaSource: https://www.google.com.my/search?q=standard+char-

Figure 3.4 Ipoh Railway Station c. 1930Source: http://www.rsmurthi.com/OldPerakPhotos1.html



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3 . 1 . 2 JAPANESE COLONIZATION

The destruction of World War II was equally felt by the people in the Federated states of Tanah Melayu with the landing of the Japanese army. The Japanese officially invaded Ipoh on 15th

December 1941. Perak felt into the hands of the Japanese on 1st January 1942. During the Japanese Occupation, Ipoh was made the capital of Perak in place of Taiping. In March 1942, St. Michael’s Institution became the Japanese Civil Administration Headquarters. St. Michael was originally built in 1923. It was used to serve as a school even till today.

Figure 3.5 St. Michael’s Institution (Clayton Road)Source: http://www.rsmurthi.com/OldPerakPhotos1.html



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3 . 1 . 3 INDEPENDENCE

After liberation in 1945, Ipoh remained the capital of Perak and gained its Municipal status. In 1970s, the economic of tin-mining industry pricing collapse and the city’s growth stagnated. As a result the booming tin mining industry of Ipoh story was brought to a close.

On 27th May 1988, Ipoh was granted the City status by the Sultan of Perak. The Sultan divided the town into Ipoh Old Town and Ipoh New Town. The old town contains older and pre-war architectures comprising of government buildings, shop lots, residences and historical landmarks. Even until today, many of the historical buildings are still in existence and functioning well.

Figure 3.6 Bridge at the Kinta RiverSource: http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=305688



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3 . 1 . 4 HISTORY TIMELINE

1820’s - Ipoh, an inland city in the center of the Malaysia Peninsula was little more than thick jungle surrounded by limestone cliffs, at the highest navigable stretch on the Kinta River

1880’s – Booming Tin mining industry

1892 – Great fire broke out and destroyed half the town

1902 – Chartered Bank of India, Australia and China Limited opened offices in Ipoh

1905 - 1914 – Wealthy Hakka Miner, Yau Tet-Shin develop a large part of the city known as the ‘New Town’ today

1920’s - 1930’s – Town continue to grow rapidly due to the tin mining industries and rubber production.



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1941 – World War II and Japanese invasion

1942 – Japanese colonization and Ipoh made as the Capital replacing Taiping

1945 – Ipoh was liberated and remains the capital of Perak and the Japanese Surrendered.

1946 – British introduced Malayan Union

1957 – Malaysia gain Independence

1962 – Ipoh gained Municipal Status

1970’s – Economic of tin mining industry pricing collapse

1988 – Ipoh was granted the city status by the Sultan of Perak



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3 . 2 TZE CHI BUDDHIST MERIT SOCIETY HOUSE

The Tze Chi Merit house originally belongs to a British Officer during the British colonization. The officer was working in the Mining Department and lived in Malaya for quite some time be-fore he bought the plot of land along Gopeng Road in Ipoh, Per-ak. The house was built on this land soon after. After World War II and the Japanese took over Malaya, the British officer went back to his homeland. The house was then sold to an Indian guy who stayed there for years before it was bought over by Mr. Chan Chee Kheong, one of the richest men in Ipoh back then.

In 1940’s to 50’s, Mr. Chan Chee Kheong bought the house and renovated some part of it. He even extended the house by building another block behind the main house as there were not enough rooms for his family of eight, which consisted of him-self, his wife, his three sons and three daughters. After the renovation, he and his whole family moved into the house. After living in the house for nearly fifty years, Mr. Chan passed away in the 90’s. Back then; all of his children had already migrated to Singapore and Australia.



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After the death of her husband, the wife of Mr. Chan, known as Mrs. Chan was still unwilling to let go of the house even after she went abroad to live with her children from 1990’s to 2013. How-ever, in between the years of living abroad, Mrs. Chan came back to Ipoh twice a year and stayed at the House for every three months until her visa expires before going back living with her children.

In 2001, the main block of the house was rented out to a Bud-dhist organization, known as ‘Ju Shi Lin’. The extended rooms behind the house was used as Mrs. Chan’s bedroom whenever she came back to visit Ipoh. The house was renovated again in 2002 after it was rented out to Tze Chi Charity Association.

In 2013, Mrs. Chan passed away leaving all of her properties be-hind for her children including the house in Ipoh. However, due to living in overseas and unable to keep watch over the house, they finally decided to sell off the house. The house was bought over for 6.5 million by Mr. Lim, a wealthy man from Ipoh who owns the ‘Lim Kopi’ company. The house is still rented out and occupied by the Tze Chi organization to this day.



19

3 . 2 . 1 TZE CHI BUDDHIST MERIT SOCIETY HOUSE OWNERSHIP TIMELINE

4.0 ARCHITECTURAL DEVELOPMENT


20

4 . 1 . 1 VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE

Vernacular style is also known as Traditional Malay Style. There are several varieties of traditional Malay houses ac-cording to regions. The differences of each house are most-ly evident in the roof design. The form, plan and structures remain constant across the varieties of Traditional Malay Houses.

The design concept of traditional Malay houses owe little to none self-conscious design. It was evolved through the many generations of the Malay society. It was designed and built by the user themselves.

The Malay houses are built to meet the daily needs of the occupants and to suit the natural environment. It incorpo-rates and reflects their way of life and culture. Thus, the Ma-lay houses is a natural expression of the social and cultural ways of life of the family unit and community.

Figure 4.1.1 Malay Kampong House Air Ventilation Flow Source: http://mygreentech.blogspot.com/2013/06/green-design-fea-tures-in-malay-kampung.html



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INFLUENCE FROM BUMBUNG LIMA HOUSE

Also known as ‘ five ridge roof’, it is a hipped roof comprising of one main ridge across the top of the rectangular floor plan and four descending corner ridges.

The roof, which covers the main area of the house including the ‘rumah ibu’ and the ‘serambi’, provides protection and shelter. An ‘anjung’, protruding from the ‘serambi’, forms another hipped roof and built at the same elevation as the main house.

Believed to be influenced by the British and Dutch style of archi-tecture, the roof’s great height allows the introduction of furniture and explains its popularity among less traditional and more urban families. The concrete staircase and masonry columns shows further evidence of the Malay response to the foreign influence.

Besides, the shuttered full length windows contribute to the stur-dy appearance of the house. The ‘Bumbung Lima’ house and its varieties are mostly found in the states of Penang, Perak, Selan-gor and Johor.

Figure 4.1.2 Top view of the Traditional Malay Kampong houseSource: http://fooartdm-fyp.blogspot.com/2009/11/re-search-analysis.html



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SPATIAL ORGANISATION

Traditional Malay house are normally built on big plots of land and free standing. During the construction process of the house, care was taken in not clearing the whole site and only a few trees are removed. The Malay house merge naturally with the environment.

A Traditional Malay house is raised on stilts, mainly to be safe from animals and flood. The space under the house is normally used as a working area or storage for rearing animals.

INTERIOR

The Traditional Malay house can be divided into the front and back portion centered around the core house (rumah ibu) and the kitchen (dapur).

Figure 4.1.3 Spatial Organization of Malay Kampong houseSource: http://dekampunglife.blogspot.com/



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ELEMENTS OF VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE

ENTRANCE

At the entrance of most Traditional Malay houses, stairs lead-ing up to the covered porch, acts as a transition space be-tween the public and the private domain. Unfamiliar visitors or guests would be entertained in this area. It also acts as a place for the family to relax and watch the passers-by in the village.

Figure 4.1.4 The Front Entrance of the Main Buiding Source: Author



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EMBELLISHMENTS

The amount and quality of embellishments depends on the ability of the owner. Most of the embellishments found are done by the craftsmen who built the house. Carvings can be seen on the wooden panels and grilles of the house such as the fascia board staircases, balustrades, etc. Design of the embellishments are not figurative. Common motives found are floral design, geometric design, inspiration from na-ture and calligraphy of Islamic scripts. Carvings are mainly bas-reliefs done on wooden panels, which are sometimes cut through, leading fenestration in them. This creates a good visual interest as well as allowing ventilation and reduces glare.

Figure 4.1.5 Timber Embelishment on the ‘Anjung’Source: Author



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VENTILATION AIR HOLES

Ventilation grilles at the gable end of the roof allows good ventilation of interior space. In order to keep the house cool in the warm and humid climate, direct sunlight is minimized. Instead, the interior lighted up by indirect sunlight.

Large roof, overhangs, grilles and carved wooden panels become a practice in most of the Traditional Ma-lay houses. Metaphorically, the house breathes through the doors, windows, grilles, floors and walls.

ANJUNG

‘Anjung’, is an additional structure protruding from the ‘serambi’ (main house), which forms another hipped roof. It is built at the same elevation as the main house.

Figure 4.1.6 ‘Anjung’ of the Main Building Source: Author

Figure 4.1.7 Vents on Timber Wall

Figure 4.1.8 Open Vents on the Roof

Source: AuthorSource: Author



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STILT

Stilts are known as footings, raise the building above ground level. The raised building catches winds of higher velocity. Besides, the space beneath the building is used as a stor-age chamber.

Most of the them are made out of timber with plain design during the early stages. However, timber stilts were replaced with concrete stilts during the colonial era. The design of the stilts is mainly influenced by the elements of colonial bunga-low. The concrete stilts was believed to be influenced by the design of greek column, which vastly practiced in colonial architecture.

Figure 4.1.9 Greek and Roman columns

Figure 4.1.10 Footings of the HouseSource: Author



27

BUMBUNG LIMA

Also known as the five ridge roof, effectively prevents the rain water to sip in and reduces direct sunlight from enter-ing the interior space. However, one of the down-side of the roof is that it tends to trap heat with the absence of ‘tibar la-yar’ in the roofing system. The main function of ‘tibar Layar’ is to channel air in and out the roof structure.

COLOUR

The Traditional Malay house is seldom painted. Instead, the house is painted with termite repellent varnish which turns the timber dark brown. Most of the timber members, partically the structural ones, are treated this way. Through this treatment, the natural colours of the house change with age. The timber in the interior are also varnished, especially the floors.

Apart from the colourful timber members, colours are also found with the use of tiles, which were originally influenced by the Traditional Chinese Houses.

Figure 4.1.11 The Roof of the HouseSource: Author

Figure 4.1.12 The Front Elevation of the HouseSource: Author



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4 . 1 . 2 “NEW STRAIT” ECLECTIC STYLE

In the early 20th century , shophouses in the Straits Settle-ments began to adopt Western architectural styles, which mainly emphasized on the full-length French windows with full-length timber shutters and pilasters of classical orders. In the early 1900’s, reinforced concrete was used to allow wid-er roof overhangs and more elaborated cantilevered brack-ets, which sprung from above the pilasters. The ‘Peranakan Cina’ shophouse uses coloured tiles on either the walls or floors. The Malays use them to decorate staircase. Coloured floor tiles made of terra-cotta are also commonly seen in the Straits Eclectic style.

Most of the shophouses were built with a series of gable and pitch roofs. Some shophouses has a Jackroof which is like a raised mini-roof locating at the peak of the main roof. The spaces between the two roofs is filled with patterned grilles or timber louvres. It provides both cross and stack ventilation, which reduces the build-up internal heat especially during day time. Load-bearing walls at both sides of the shophouse support the roof load through timber purlins, which span hori-zontally across the width of the building.

Figure 4.1.13 Shophouses in the Straits SettlementSource: https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.aka-maihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t34.0-12/11015324_10205097357966022_659795039_n.jpg?oh=69f501e3c06ac8d055c37b27847b9d-f8&oe=54F572BE&__gda__=1425341450_477ef245e-f1aa82d35104d341fee9532



29

COLONIAL BUNGALOW

The Colonial Bungalow was built using load-bearing brick-walls. The upper floors of Colonial Bungalows were usually made of tim-ber, while the ground floors were made of either brick, concrete or Portland cement finished with red Malacca clay floor tiles. In some bungalows, marble slabs or patterned mosaic tiles were laid in-stead. Furthermore, unpolished granite slabs were used sparingly either as the trimming to floor egdes, airwells and verandas or as pavings in airwells, courtyards and patios. Both external and inter-nal walls were made of brick, which were rendered with lime plaster prior to lime-wash painting of white, pale yellow or light green col-our. Before reinforced concrete was introduced, many bungalows had timber staircases with timber handrails and cast-iron or timber balustrades. Balusters of green glazed earthenware were usually found on the first floor verandahs.

The Colonial Bungalows were usually owned by the Straits Chinese families. The bungalows were distinguishable from the European residences in terms of their architectural details and uses of the internal spaces reflecting the social customs. The Chinese owned bungalows mostly used the application of security bars to the win-dows, and the use of ‘pintu pagar’ or fence door around the house.Chinese families need more rooms to accommodate the big family. The front hall or sitting room area of the Chinese bungalow func-tioned as the reception hall, while the dining room, rear verandah and side rooms formed the private family area.



30

SEMI-CIRCULAR CLERESTORY

It provides better ventilation and additional lighting to theinterior space. Besides, its unique appearance also enhance the overall aesthetic quality of the façade. The design is be-lieved to have inspiration of fanlight windows found in colo-nial bungalow. The architect of this building obey the common practice of placing fanlight window over another window or a doorway.

The installation of semi-circular clerestory creates harmony and interesting fusion of elements of vernacular and colonial architecture.

Figure 4.1.14 Traditional Fanlight WindowSource: http://www.ukworkshop.co.uk/forums/help-with-fanlight-win-

Figure 4.1.15 Arch Windows and Jalousie WindowsSource: Author



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JALOUSIE WINDOW

The application of jalousie window was influenced by the Colonial Bungalow during the 70s. Materials such as frost-ed-glass and Iron bars were vastly used for the window constructions during the early 70’s.

CHINESE INFLUENCED AIRHOLES

Airholes found around the extended house, covering part of the walls provide ventilation as well as allowing natural light into the interior space.

Figure 4.1.16 Jalousie Window and Geometrical GrilleSource: Author

Figure 4.1.17 Chinese Influence Airholes Source: Author



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RETRACTABLE SECURITY DOOR

Retractable security door is mainly found and used in Chinese shoplots. Hence, the same design was also used for the main doors of the Colonial Bunga-low architecture.

COLOURED TILES

The application of coloured tiles on the walls and floors provide easy cleaning and maintenance, be-sides contributing to the bungalow’s aesthetic val-ue. Coloured tiles can be classified into ceramic and mosaic tiles. Both tiles can be found on the walls and floors of secondary house as well.

Figure 4.1.18 Retractable Security DoorSource: Author

Figure 4.1.19 Geometrical Colored Floor TilesSource: Author

Figure 4.1.20 Ceramic Tiles for Kitchen Table TopSource: Author



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PATTERNED GRILLES

Patterned grilles found on most of the windows pro-vide aesthetic properties and safety security to the house.

COLOURS

Both external and internal walls were made of brick, rendered with lime plaster prior to the lime-wash paint of white.

Figure 4.1.21 Geometrical Patterned Grilles Source: Author

Figure 4.1.22 Back View of the HouseSource: Author

Figure 4.1.22 Bedroom in the Extended buildingSource: Author



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4 . 2 BUILDING EXTENSION

The building plan contains influence from the flexible plan of the Malay Vernacular house, which allows the internal space to be extended. There are four phases of ex-tensions that were constructed to the orig-inal building.

Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 Phase 4

v

Figure 4.2.1 Layout of the Building Before RenovationSource: Author



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PHASE ONE

Due to the introduction of Services block in the house, two toilets were added to the main building and the bedrooms were also enlarged. Storage space was added below the elevated floor to store large equipments, tools, and other junks as well as to locate services pipes.

Figure 4.2.2 Services Block in the Primary BuildingSource: Author

Figure 4.2.3 Storage under the Elevated FloorSource: Author

Figure 4.2.4 Services Pipes and Junks in the Store RoomSource: Author



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PHASE TWO

A secondary building is built be-hind the main building due to the increased number of family mem-bers and allowing larger mobility around the house by the family members.

The kitchen and dining room were shifted to the secondary building. Living room, bedrooms and ser-vices blocks were added to the building. The extended secondary building function as the main living space for the family.

Figure 4.2.5 Living Room Connecting all the BedroomsSource: Author

Figure 4.2.6 Kitchen in the Extended BuildingSource: Author

Figure 4.2.7 Bedroom in the Extended BuildingSource: Author

Figure 4.2.8 Rear Court and Services BlocksSource: Author



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PHASE THREE

A space was built in between the main building and secondary building to act as a connection between both buildings. The space was used as a common living hall by the family. The secondary building consist of signif-icant differences compared to the main building in terms of construction, building materials and architectural style.

PHASE FOUR

Spaces at both side of the living hall are built as storage rooms. Kitchen utilities, grocery and furnitures are stored inside these rooms.

Figure 4.2.9 The Living Hall Connecting from the Primary Building to Secondary BuildingSource: Author

Figure 4.2.10 The Storage Room Near the CourtyardSource: Author

Figure 4.2.11 The Storage Room Near the KitchenSource: Author



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4 . 3 BUILDING RENOVATION

Renovations were mainly done to the main build-ing. Tze Chi Association wanted to maintain the structure of the building as much as possible to how it was originally.

STAIRCASEThe staircase at the main entrance of the house were made of bricks and cement. After Tze Chi Association occupied the building, they add-ed another layer of timber flooring on top of the old staircase. However, the cement handrail re-mained as how it was buit originally. Besides, timber handrails were also added at both sides of the staircase during the renovation. The timber deck below the staircase was also added to the front porch during renovation by Tze Chi.

Figure 4.3.1 Old Concrete Staircase used by Mr. Chan’s FamilySource: Owner

Figure 4.3.2 New Timber Flooring Added on Concrete Staircase by Tze ChiSource: Author



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FLOOR

Before Tze Chi came in, the old timber floor was laminated by plastic laminating flooring. After the newly constructed staircase increased the floor level of the house, Tze Chi added another new layer of timber flooring at the front porch of the house. Skirting was used to cover the joints on the floor connecting it to the columns and wall.

From Top to BottomFigure 4.3.3 The Old Carpet Floor in the Main BuildingFigure 4.3.4 The New Timber FlooringSource: Author



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WALL

The old walls had vents near the roof for ven-tilation purposes. In addition, the walls were covered with plasterboard to block the exces-sive sun light from entering the house. During the renovation by Tze Chi, some of the old walls in the main house were removed and new wall partitions were added instead to create more spaces.

From Top to BottomFigure 4.3.5 The Old Wall with Vents on TopSource: OwnerFigure 4.3.6 The Newly Painted Plasterboard wallSource: Author



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DOOR

At the main entrance of the house, the original foldable door was removed and was replaced with a new double hung timber door. A few of the interior doors remained the same while others were repainted or replaced with a new design to make it similar with the front door.

Figure 4.3.7 The Foldable Timber Door with Metal GrilleSource: Owner

Figure 4.3.8 Double Hung Timber DoorSource: Author



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WINDOW

Casement windows were used originally in the house. After renovation, the casement windows were re-placed with Jalousie windows due to the influence of the ‘new straits’ style. Metal grilles were also added as part of the decoration as well as for security purposes.

Figure 4.3.9 Casement Window with Metal Mesh used in Primary BuildingSource: Owner

Figure 4.3.10 Jalousie Window with Metal GrilleSource: Author



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4 . 4 BUIDLING CHRONOLOGY

Early 20th Century

The building was built in the early 20th century. It was constructed mainly us-ing timber.

1950’s - 1962

Secondary building was built behind the main building to accomodate larger family members. The building was influenced by the New Straits style.

1950’s - 1962

Renovation was also done to the windows and doors.



44

2001

After the Buddist Association moved in, the interior spaces were renovated again and divided accodingly to each respective function using wall partitions.

2002 - 2003

External spaces such as the kitchen, storage area and Recycle Centre were added for Tze Chi to execute their daily activities.

2002 - 2003

Tze Chi Association repainted the main building with a cooler hue color to match the Tze Chi logo.A new building for the cafe and office were constructed adjacent to the main building. The floors, walls and front deck of the house were also renovated.

5.0 CULTURE AND ACTIVITY


45

5 . 1 SPACE PLANNING

5 . 1 . 1 FAMILY STRUCTURE

The interior organization and spatial layout of the family structure is determined by the activities that took place in the interior spaces. The space organization depends on the type, quality and time of activity done by the family. The layout design of the house is somewhat similar to the typical layout of a Malay house. It comprises of two main zones, which are the public and private space. The public space is allocated at the front part of the building while the private space is at the back part of the building.

Public Space Private Space

Figure 5.1.1 Typical Spatial Layout of Malay Kampong House planSource: Author

Figure 5.1.2 Spatial Layout of Old Building PlanSource: Author



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A) EXTERIOR

FRONT PORCH

The front porch is a small, open space area located in front of the main entrance. It is a public space where the guests are being greeted before entering the house. The timber deck below the staicase is built for the family members to relax and be entertain.

Figure 5.1.3 Front Porch of the HouseSource: Author



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COURTYARD

A courtyard is an open space area located before the entrance of the rear building. It has the same function as the front porch. It is a more private space compare to the front porch as it is normal-ly used by the family members only. They usually play badminton or hang out in the garden. The lay-out of the garden and plantation at the are mostly influence by the Chinese garden.

Figure 5.1.4 The Courtyard Behind the Main HouseSource: Owner



48

REAR ENTRANCE

According to Malay tradition, the rear entrance is normally for the woman and children, which leads directly to the kitchen.

Female visitors are able to join the womenfolk in the kitchen from the rear entrance.

Figure 5.1.5 Rear Entrance of the HouseSource: Author



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WELL

The well is located at the garden near to the kitchen and services blocks.

Water can be easily collected from the well for the use of cooking, bathing and washing.

Figure 5.1.6 The Well Located Next to the Main HouseSource: Author



50

B) INTERIOR

MAIN COMMON ROOM/ VERANDA

The main common room is a reception area where social and religious activities are being held. It is a public area where the guest will be entertained.

There is an absence of partition wall or known as solid ceiling height wall separating the different ar-eas in the room.

Figure 5.1.7 The Main Common Room Source: Owner



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HALL WAY

The hall way is a semi-public space located be-tween the two bedrooms in the main house. It al-lows access from the public space to the private space at the back of the house. The hall way also acts as a connection link between the veranda and bedrooms.

Figure 5.1.8 The Hall way Leading to the Back HouseSource: Owner



52

HALL

The hall has a staircase that acts as a linkage between the primary building and the secondary building.It functions as the dining hall, located near to the kitchen. At the same time, it is also used as a living space for the family members to study or relax.

Figure 5.1.9 The Hall in the Secondary BuildingSource: Author



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STORAGE

The storage areas are the extended spaces located at both sides of the building to store large equipment, tools, junks and furnitures as well as groceries. It is located near to the kitchen area and hall way.

Figure 5.1.10 The Storage Area Source: Author



54

REAR COURT AND SERVICE BLOCK

The Rear Court is a semi open space area located at the back of the building. It acts as an access space to the services.

The court is reserved as a place for the families to do the washing and drying of their clothes. Water is easily accessible from the well outside.

Figure 5.1.11 The Rear Court Source: Author

Figure 5.1.12 ToiletSource: Author



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BEDROOM

COMMON ROOM

Figure 5.1.13 The Bedroom in Secondary BuildingSource: Author

Figure 5.1.14 The Common Room in the Secondary BuildingSource: Author



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5 . 1 . 2 ASSOCIATION STRUCTURE

After the family moved out, the front part of the building is rented out to Tze Chi Asssociation. The secondary building has closed for Mrs Cheng’s use only. The spatial layout has divid-ed into public, semi-public and private spaces. The semi-public zone is used by the volunteers and officer for event preparation.

Public Semi-public Private

Figure 5.1.15 The Association Structure Source: Author



57

A) EXTERIOR

RECYCLE CENTRE

The Recycle Centre collects recyclable materi-als such as unwanted plactics, papers, clothes, aluminium tin cans and old furnitures from the public. The recyclable items are segregated based on the type of materials by the old folks who works at Tze Chi as volunteers.

Figure 5.1.16 The Recycle Centre for Collecting Recyclable ItemsSource: Author

Figure 5.1.17 The Old Folks Segregating the Recyclable ItemsSource: Author



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COURTYARD

The courtyard functions as a temporary storage for the volunteers to store the kitchen utilities and food. The volunteers uses the space as a kitchen area to cook and wash the dishes. They usually conduct the preparation for an event or function in the courtyard.

Figure 5.1.18 Semi Open Storage area Source: Author

Figure 5.1.19 Kichen Area near to the CourtyardSource: Author



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B) INTERIOR

MAIN HALL

The main hall is a big and open space area with-out any partition or solid wall located at the front part of the building. It can accommodate a large amount of people. Thus, it is often used to cater activities like seminars, talks, meetings and so on. Sometimes, the space is also used for the preparation of an event. For example, packag-ing of small gifts and hampers.

Figure 5.1.20 The Main Hall for Religious ActivitiesSource: Author

Figure 5.1.21 The Main Hall used as part of a Temporary Storage AreaSource: Author



60

MEETING ROOM

The meeting room is a small space adjacent to the main hall where the private meetings are usually held at. It is a space that is used as a preparation room or waiting area for any particular event. The room is also an access way to one of the storage areas and bathroom.

Figure 5.1.22 The Meeting Room Source: Author



61

OFFICE

The office is an enclosed space that was added by Tze Chi during the renovation of the house. Before the renovation, it was originally a hall way that could be used to access the extended building at the back of the house. The office is a space that was parti-tioned by walls to store important documents and doing paperworks.

Figure 5.1.23 The Entrance to the OfficeSource: Author

Figure 5.1.24 The OfficeSource: Author



62

CAFE

The building for the Cafe was built by Tze Chi As-sociation when they renovated the house. It is lo-cated next to the old main building. Besides, food and drinks are also available in the cafe. It is a quiet place ideal for reading and relaxation.

At noon, the officers and workers in Tze Chi will chant Buddhist scripture in the Cafe.

Figure 5.1.25 The CafeSource: Owner

6.0 BUILDING SUSTAINABILITY


63

6 . 1 BUILDING ORIENTATION

The House is oriented towards the north-east direction. Hence, the front elevation of the house, where the main hall or living space is located, will face the morning sun. In Chinese beliefs, the house orientation is consider to have a good feng shui. Besides, most of the day activi-tes will also be conducted in the living area. Thus, having sufficient supply of natural lighting is important especially in the past, when there were no electricity for lightings or fan.

In the evening, the sun will set at the back of the House. Thus, the front hall of the building will not be as hot. In the past, family members living in the Malay Kampong Houses often relax in the ‘Serambi’ area to see passer-by in the evening. Therefore, the orientation of the building is significant as it is also relatable to the daily lives of the occupant.

Figure 6.1.1 Site Plan of the HouseSource: Author



64

6 . 2 CLIMATE

6 . 2 . 1 TEMPERTURE AND HUMIDITY

The annual temperature in ipoh is fluctuates between 24 - 33 degree celcius. The humid-ity of ipoh is higher at the end of the year as there are higher rainfalls and high tempera-ture at the same time.

Hence, the building has architecture ele-ments in adaption to the local climate. Firstly, the primary building is elevated in order for cross ventilation below the floor level. Roof vents are added to cool the interior via stack effect. Air holes in the secondary building are vital to remove heat and moisture from the interior. In addition, there are vents at the top of the wall for ventiltion.

Figure 6.2.1 Temperature Line Chart Figure 6.2.2 Humidity Line Chart

Figure 6.2.3 The Open Airholes for VentilationSource: Author

Figure 6.2.4 The Open Vents on the Roof Source: Author



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6 . 2 . 2 SUN PATH

In the morning, the west side of the building is shaded by the building. The living spaces and courtyard, which is located in the secondary building will be cooler. Heat gain in the cafe is reduced as well as the a.c. usage in the space.

The east side of the building is shaded in the evening, where the kitchen and dining room are located.

Louver ornamentation at the main entrance helps to shade the front porch. Awning is placed to block excessive sunlight into the building. Jalousie windows are adjustable to shade the interior from the large amount of sunlight. How-ever, the placement of the air holes at the east and west side of the building are not efficient to reduce heat gain from the sunlight.

Figure 6.2.5 The Sun Path of the Building facing North East on MARCH 4THSource: Author

Figure 6.2.6 The ‘Anjung’ to help Shade the ‘Serambi’Source: Author

Figure 6.2.7 Awning Use to block Excessive SunlightSource: Author

7AM

12PM

6PM

N



66

6 . 2 . 3 WIND ANALYSIS

The characteristic features of the climate in Ipoh are uniform temperature, has high humidity and copious rainfall. Winds are generally light in the morning and afternoon from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. In the evening, around 4 p.m. the wind starts to become a little stronger.

Over the course of the year typical wind speeds vary from 0 m/s to 4 m/s (calm to gentle breeze), rarely exceeding 6 m/s (moderate breeze).

The wind is most often out of the north east (29% of the time), north (15% of the time), and south (13% of the time). The wind is least often out of the north west (2% of the time), west (2% of the time), and south east (5% of the time). Figure 6.2.8 The Wind Analysis

Source: Author

N

7.0 MATERIAL AND CONSTRUCTION DETAILS


67

7 . 1 MATERIALS

Figure 7.1 Plan of The HouseSource: Author

M1 - TIMBER

M2 - CERAMIC QUARRY TILES

M3 - GLAZED TILES

M4 - BRICK

M7 - STEEL GRILLE

M8 - CONCRETE WALL

M11 - PLASTERBOARD WALL



68

M1 - TIMBER

Timber is used as the material for the floors, walls, staircase and skeletal frame. It is the main con-struction material for the building to suit the hot tropical weather in Malaysia. Timber is easy to in-stall and aesthetically attractive even after a long term. It has low thermal capacity, which is able to cool down the house. Figure 7.1.1 Timber Deck at the Front Porch

Source: Author

Figure 7.1.2 Timber Facade, Columns, Louvers etc.Source: Author



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M2 - CERAMIC QUARRY TILES

The red tiles are used in the kitchen area. It is du-rable and easy to clean. It is resistant to scratch and is non-slip, which is vital at wet area. In the living hall, geometry tiles are used as they have a wide variety of colors. They are attractive and can create a vibrant space.

M3 - GLAZED TILES

Glazed tiles are used on the kitchen walls and counter top as they are easy to clean and main-tain, as the kitchen space is often expose to greasy and oily air due to cooking and washing.

Figure 7.1.3 Red Ceramic TilesSource: Author

Figure 7.1.4 Geometric TilesSource: Author

Figure 7.1.5 Geometry Glazed Tiles on the Kitchen Table TopSource: Author

Figure 7.1.6 Glazed Wall Tiles Source: Author



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M4 - BRICK

The brick is influenced by the Traditional Chinese houses. It is strong and durable and has a high fire resistance. Bricks can withstand heavy loads because they are strong and highly durable.

M5 - CLAY ROOF TILES

Clay roof tiles have a long life span and are very durable. They have the ability to reflect heat from the sun. Hence, they are suitable for the hot tropical weather like Malaysia. Clay tiles are also fireproof and only requires low mainte-nance. Besides, they can maintain their aesthetic value due to their long lasting color and are environmentally friendly.

Figure 7.1.7 Masonry Structure in the FootingsSource: Author

Figure 7.1.8 Clay Roof TilesSource: Author



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M6 - ZINC

Zinc corrugated roof is introduced during the British colonization. It is a new building tech-nique that replaces the ‘Atap’ roof.

M7 - STEEL

Steel grille are used on doors and windows. The material has high strength that provides good security and protection. Besides, steel has Low maintainance and is recyclable.

Figure 7.1.10 Geometry Steel Grille Source: Author

Figure 7.1.9Zinc Corrugated RoofSource: Author

Figure 7.1.11 RetractableSteelGateSource: Author



72

M8 - CONCRETE Concrete is used in the structural framing of the second-ary building and staircases. It is a new building material, that is strong in compression. Concrete has a high du-rability and is weatherproof. Unlike wood that has to be carved, concrete is moulded and can be handled by un-skilled worker as well. It conforms to the shape of each block. In addition, the building time using concrete is faster as well.

M9 - MORTAR

Mortar is used as a mould for the shape of the footing. It is easy to use and is quick in setting. It is a new building material with high compressive strength and does not slide easily. Hence, it is suitable for a structure like the roof that is constantly expose to the sun and rain.

Figure 7.1.14 Mortar Tiles on the RoofSource: Author

Figure 7.1.12 Concrete Footing at the Front PorchSource: Author

Figure 7.1.13 Concrete Foot-ing under the HouseSource: Author



73

M10 - ASBESTOS

Aebestos is widely used during the 60’s to 80’s. The asbestos ceiling is a flat sheet slate placed at the ceiling level to cover electrical lines and construction joints. It allows noise reduction and prevent water leakage into the interior.

M11 - PLASTERBOARD

Plasterboards are used for partition walls in the building. It is an excellent heat insulation that reduces energy loss. Plasterboard is also able to reduce unwanted noises and sound transmission.

Figure 7.1.15 Old Asbestos CeilingSource: Author

Figure 7.1.16 New Asbestos CeilingSource: Author

Figure 7.1.17 Plasterboard Partition WallSource: Author



74

7 . 2 . 1 COLUMN AND BEAM

The Traditional Malay house relies on the complex Joining system made rigid by the use of timber wedg-es for it’s stability. Timber wedges provide structur-al flexibility, which inhibits the use of nailing. Without nails, a timber house could be easily dismantled and reconstructed in a new location.

The Traditional Malay house is primarily a timber structure, built off the ground using post-and-beam method by the local carpenters or by the owner them-selves.

The“corner rail to levg” mortis and tenon joints are common construction techniques used and practiced in most of the Traditional Malay houses. This struc-ture has a ‘bare-faced’ which allows the cheek of the beam to line up. As a result, it enables the structure with good strength in compression and is fairly resis-tant to stacking.

7 . 2 SKELETAL FRAMING

Figure 7.2.1 Column and beam Source: Author

post

beam



75

MITERED SLIP JOINT

The mitered slip joint is a slip joint with the appearance of a mitered joint, that can be made by mitering the slot of the slip joint first. Then, cutting the tenon on an angle to match the miter so the shoulders have a mitered ap-pearance.

A blind mitered slip joint can be constructed by stopping the mortise before becoming a complete slot and trim-ming the tenon to match it.

Figure 7.2.3 Mitered Slip JointSource: Author



76

7 . 2 . 2 FOOTING

Figure 7.2.5 Construction Details of FootingSource: Author

There are three types of footings that can be found be-low the main building, which are the plain footing, sin-gle ornamented footing and triple ornamented footing. Timber beam rest on top of the brick footing and mor-tar helps to join them firmly together. Besides, plaster-ing is also applied on the surface of the brick footings to protect them from being expose to the weather.

Besides, plastering also provides a neat and attractive aesthetic appearance. Brick footings provide excel-lent strength to resist compression from the mass of the whole building. Lastly, the arrangement of footings are constructed in a systematic grid system.

Figure 7.2.4 FootingsSource: Author

column

clay brick



77

7 . 3 BUILDING

7 . 3 .1 SLAB

FLOOR JOIST

The joist are spaced 685mm based on the magnitude of applied loads. The cavities are used for piping and electrical lines of the air-conditioning system. The joist are supported by the beam and in turn supported by brick footing.To avoid deflection of the joist under the floor load, the joist is placed in an overlapping meth-od.Two joist are set over the beam. The connection is done by overlaping them at 150mm and nailed togeth-er with galvanized nails .

Figure 7.3.1 Overlapping Joists Supporting the Timber FloorSource: Author

overlapping joistcolumn

beam

Figure 7.3.2 Construction Details of Floor JoistSource: Author



78

FLOOR BEAM SYSTEM

The grid of the floor beams are integrated with the placement of interior partitions. Most of the parti-tions in the primary building are non-load bearing. The load is transferred to beam and joist subse-quently to the load bearing foundation wall or ma-sonry footings via two way load distribution meth-od.

Figure 7.3.3 The Beam Set on Top of the Masonry Wall and FootingSource: Author



79

TIMBER FLOOR

Timber planks are laid perpendicular to the joist. Then the load of partition wall is distributed evenly across the planks via a one way load distribution method. A new layer of timber floor laid above the old following the same pattern. A layer of syelek is painted onto thehardwood plank to increase the strength.

Figure 7.3.4 Timber Flooring in the Main Hall Source: Author



80

7 . 3 . 2 JOINTS

MORTISE AND TENON JOINT

Joints are used frequently to connect floor beams and column. The joint is able to resist twisting, bending and breaking. They are strengthened by the interlocking system.

In order to join column to beam, the mitered tenon is installed into the mortise for maximum strength. Tenon is not visible once the joint has been assem-bled .

Some part of the footing, column and beam are connected, whereby the mortise on column re-ceives tenon on the beam.

Figure 7.3.5 Three Members Joined by Tenon and Mortise Source: Author

Tenon

Mortise

Column

Beam

Figure 7.3.6 Construction Details of Column and FootingSource: Author



81

INTERLOCKING SCARF JOINT

Due to insufficient spannning of the beams, intelock-ing scarf joints is used to connect two beams.The joints are able to withstand high compression and tensile stresses to support horizontal planes. The joints is further secured by screwing both beams with metal plate.

It is placed directly on top of the masonry footing for support and the opposing members will also push them tight into one another.

Figure 7.3.7 The Shape of Interlocking Scarf JointSource: Author

beam

beam

Figure 7.3.8 Construction Details of Interlocking Scarf JointSource: Author



82

HALF LAP JOINT

The beams are notched out and the remaining por-tion are intersected in a right angle. The notches prevent each other from moving and twisting. The hole between the half lap joints enable the installa-tion of the column. It connects to the joint by using a mortise and tenon joints.

Figure 7.3.9 Half Lap Joint used at the the Corner of the BuildingSource: Author

Half Lap

Figure 7.3.10 Construction Details of the Half Lap JointSource: Author



83

7 . 3 . 3 FLOOR, WALL AND ROOF JUNCTION

INTERIOR WALL

A timber plate with 80 x 50 mm is nailed to the floor plank and the beam between the column. Then 25mm thick plasterboards are fixed and fastened onto the plate on both sides. Flat beading is installed at the side of the plasterboard to cover the edge.

Plasterboard

Plate

Skirting

Column

Nail

Figure 7.3.11 Construction Details of Interior Wall

Old wall



84

LOUVER WALL

517 mm long timber louver panels are inserted into the grooves on the wall frame that have been trimmed according to the proposed dimension. The louver panels are placed in an angle to prevent di-rect sunlight and rainwater from entering into the building.

Figure 7.3.12 Timber Louver Wall on the Exterior of the BuildingSource: Author

Figure 7.3.13 The Grooves on the Wall FrameSource: Author



85

7 . 4 . 1 ROOF

7 . 4 BUILDING

Corrugated galvanized zinc roof

Timber roof truss

Aesbestos ceiling

Post and beam

Figure 7.4.1 Construction Details of RoofSource: Author



86

ROOF

The roof is constructed by two types of roof trusses, the queen post truss and collar truss.

QUEEN POST ROOF TRUSS

The truss has two rafters that attach to a tie beam and a straining beam through two vertical queen posts.

This arrangement imposes a greater load. It gives a clean, open space feel without the use of inter-nal post while maintaining its structural stability and strength. Besides, it is also made to fit almost any size or shape of a roof.

Tie Beam

Queen Post

Straining Beam

Rafter

Figure 7.4.2 Construction Details of Queen Post Roof Truss

Figure 7.4.3 Queen Post Roof TrussSource: Author



87

COLLAR ROOF

The roof pitch of a collar roof can be more than 45 degrees. The arrangement of collar ties are able to re-duce the bowing of the rafters. A greater span can be bridged. The collar holds the rafters together to pre-vent the roof spread.

Collar ties are usually arranged in pairs, as horizontal ties and are fixed to the middle of the rafters. They are best positioned statically in the middle of the rafter to give a greater ceiling height so that the roof space can be made accesible to and provide more headroom. Collar Ties

Figure 7.4.4 Construction Details of Collar Roof

Figure 7.4.5 Collar Roof in the Storage RoomSource: Author



88

JOINTS

RAFTER TO TIE BEAM CONNECTION

This strong and simple connection joins a rafter to a tie beam in a wide variety of truss combinations. The notch is strengthen by the strength of the connection.

Rafter

PlateTie beam

Figure 7.4.6 Construction Details of Joints

Figure 7.4.7 The Joints in the Internal RoofSource: Author



89

CEILING JOIST AND RAFTER CONNECTION

The rafters are mortised over the queen post and tenon to the ends of the tie beam. The queen post helps to hold up the straining beam rather than bearing upon it.

Queen post

Straining beam

Rafter

Figure 7.4.8 Construction Details of Ceiling Joist and Rafter Connection

Figure 7.4.9 Ceiling Joist and Rafter ConnectionSource: Author



90

QUEENPOST TO CEILING JOIST CONNECTION

The load from the purlins act perpendicularly to the plane of the roof, when the load is applied on top of the queen post and along the rafter.

Queen post

Purlin

Figure 7.4.10 Construction Details of QueenPost to Ceiling Joist

Figure 7.4.11 QueenPost to Ceiling Joist ConnnectionSource: Author



91

CORRUGATED GALVANIZED ZINC ROOF

An iron sheet with zinc coating formed into corrugated sheets to allow precipitation on the roof to drain away.It is waterproof and fireproof to protect the structural elements underneath.

The roof covering has a high heat conductivity and requires the incorporation of insulation into the roof structure. Seal off the ends with a wood or plastic strip under the panel at both end to prevent the entry of rain, wind and pest.

The coverings should place directly onto the purlins, which are attached to the roof trusses. Pre-drill the holes with screws. The lapping sheet shoud be ad-justed so that the last panel completes the coverage without making a cut lengthwise.

Figure 7.4.12 Corrugated Galvanized Zinc Roof from the Interior ViewSource: Author

Figure 7.4.13 Construction Details of the Zinc Roof Structure

Figure 7.4.14 Construction Details of Predrill holes with Screws

Figure 7.4.15 Zoom in De-tails of the Screw Connec-tion



92

GUTTERS

The function of a rain gutter is to direct water from the roof to the ground. It protects the painted surface of the wall by reducing it’s exposure to water.

Water is either collected or discharged by a rain gut-ter via downpipe from the roof edge to the base of the building.

DOWNPIPES

The pipes are attached to the building by brackets. The pipes should have a distance from the building so that water will not easily penetrate into the wall. Gutters and pipes can be either angled or rounded.

Figure 7.4.16 Gutter at the back of the HouseSource: Author

Figure 7.4.17 Construction Details of the Downpipe



93

RIDGE CAP

A ridge cap is installed along the ridge line of a slope roof. The ridge line points that meet will form the apex of the roof. A ridge cap keeps the rain out of the home. It also helps to finish off the look of the roof by creating a tightly sealed joint.

Ridge cap is strong and cannot be remove easi-ly after bedding cement is applied. Pointing is ap-plied to cover the junction. It is a thin layer of oxide coloured sand or cement. It has a good chance of sticking onto the bedding without cracking.

Figure 7.4.18 Ridge Cap View of the House RoofSource: Author

Figure 7.4.19 Ridge Cap Line Connected to the Apex

Figure 7.4.20 Construction De-tails of Ridge Cap

Figure 7.4.21 Construction Details of Ridge Cap

Figure 7.4.22 Bedding Cement Applied on Ridge Cap

Figure 7.4.23 Bedding CementApplied on Ridge Cap



94

7 . 4 . 2 DOORS

The doors are categorised into three group, the timber door, retractable security door and sliding door.

TIMBER DOOR

A rough opening on the wall is cut out for the timber door frame to be fitted. The door panel is installed with butt hinges.Then, the joint between the door frame and the opening are covered with timber casing.

Figure 7.4.24 Timber Door Leading to the Storage RoomSource: Author

Figure 7.4.25 Butt Hinges installed on Door Panel



95

Lattice

Sash

RETRACTABLE SECURITY DOOR

The retractable security door is installed using “re-veal fitting installation”, where the security door is fitted within the opening on the wall. First, place the bottom track of the gate at the bottom of the rough opening and assemble the gate. After that, place the gate within the door opening. Then, mark the fix-ing holes and position the gate back into the rough opening and fix it with screws.

Figure 7.4.26 Retractable Security Door Details

Figure 7.4.27 Retractable Security Door at StorageSource: Author

Figure 7.4.28 Construction Details of the Retractable Security Door



96

POCKET SLIDING DOOR

A rough opening is cut to fit the door jamb. Then, install the header and track to the top jamb and nail the end plate to the wall studs. The split jamb stiffeners are nailed to the floor and the header. Slide the wheel hangers into the track. Next, install the drywall over the door pocket. Coat the joints with a drywall compound and hang the door. After that, install the door track on the inside and outside of the door. Lastly, install the door casing and nail it to the jamb and door studs. Header-and-jamb

Split Jamb stiffener

Wall stud

Figure 7.4.29 Pocket Sliding Door for the OfficeSource: Author

Figure 7.4.30 Construction Details of the Pocket Sliding Door



97

BY PASS SLIDING DOOR

First, the door frame of the sliding door are installed into the rough opening in one piece. The door slides that run on an overhead track, is screwed to the top jamb. The rollers are secured to the doors. The floor tracks are screwed to the floor after the doors are hung.

Figure 7.4.31 By Pass Sliding Door in the Secondary BuildingSource: Author

Top jamb Overhead track

Floor track



98

7 . 4 . 3 WINDOWS

The type of windows used for both buildings are known as the Jalousie windows. Grilles are also attached to the windows.

JALOUSIE WINDOW CONSTRUCTION

The top and bottom channel of the window frame is pressed using a screw. The operating mechanism is placed against the side of the window frame and screwed. The slat holders are pushed at a 45-degree angle and frosted glass is then slided into the slat hold-ers.

SECURITY GRILL CONSTRUCTION

Holes are marked and drilled on the window frame. Then, the grille is screwed in place using a long screw.

Slat holder

Figure 7.4.32 Jalousie Window and Grille on the Main BuildingSource: Author

Figure 7.4.33 Construction Details of The Jalousie Windows



99

7 . 4 . 4 STAIRCASE AND HANDRAIL

Figure 7.4.34 Timber Staircase at the Entrance of the Main BuildingSource: Author



100

Riser

Thread

Timber deck

Concrete staircase

Timber deck joist

Stringer

Figure 7.4.35 Axonometric of the Staircase at the Main EntranceSource: Author



101

Carriages or stringers are the incline beams supporting the treads and risers of a flight of stairs.The numbers and spacing of carriages required depend on the spanning capability of the tread.

Figure 7.4.36 Staircase Detailing

Stringers are the sloping finish members running alongside a staircase, against which the risers and treads terminate.

Carriages may be attached to their supporting beam, header or wall framing with metal hangers or a ledger.

Kick-plate anchors and absorb the load of aninclined carriage.



102

Finish timber flooring over treads and risers

Riser

Thread

Chamfer edges of plywood treads for carpeting

Carriage

Spacer

Figure 7.4.37 Side View of the Staircase Details



103

Balusters assemble into treads

Face stringer receives riser at a mitered joint.

Housed stringer is routed to receive the ends of treads and risers.

Figure 7.4.38 Construction Details of Staircase



104

OPEN RISER STAIRCASE

Open Raiser

Figure 7.4.39 Timber Open Riser Staircase in the Hall of the Secondary BuildingSource: Author

Figure 7.4.40 Steel Open Riser Staircase in the Storage roomSource: Author



105

Figure 7.4.41 Construction Details of Open Riser Staircase

Treads may be supported either by steel angles let into the treads or by letting the planks into the carriage.

Steel anglebolted to carriage and floor structure

Balusters bolted to carriage.

1” to 1-1/2” (25 to 38) overlap.



106

OPEN RISER STAIRCASE

• Shop-fabricated handrail of metal pipe

• Bar grating treads• Nosing may consist of a checkered plate,

closely spaced bars, or an angle with an abrasive strip

• Flat plate treads with textured top surfaces

• Clip angle with anchor bolts secure each stringer to the

floor structure

Field weld

Figure 7.4.42 Open Riser Staircase Details



107

CONCRETE STAIRCASE

Figure 7.4.43 Concrete Staircase at the Back of the HouseSource: Author

Figure 7.4.44 Concrete Staircase at the Main Entrance of the House from the 60’s to 90’sSource: Owner



108

Edge of stair slab may be turned up to form railing.

Span is equal to the horizontal distance between the slab supports.

Nosing bars

Horizontal bars extend into side wall

Steel reinforcement as required

Figure 7.4.46 Section of Concrete StaircaseFigure 7.4.45 Concrete Staircase Details



109

• Handrail supports anchored to the top of the stair slab.

Cast-in-place sleeve

Escutcheon

Post supports for handrail

Figure 7.4.47 Section of Concrete Handrails



110

PROCESS OF MAKING CONCRETE STAIRCASE

1. Build the form. The form can be made of plywood or framing lumber.

2. Pour the concrete.

3. Add the finishing touches.

4. Wait and dampen once you have to smoothe the surface. Keep the concrete wet or damp for up to one week while it cures.



111

INSERTING TREADS AND RISERS

Concrete staircase

Inserting timber tread onto the concrete staircase

Inserting timber riser onto the concrete staricase

Figure 7.4.48 Adding Timber Riser and Thread on Concrete Staircase



112

7 . 4 . 5 FINISHES

SKIRTING - CROWN MOULDING

Crown moulding is installed at the junction of the floor, wall and the ceiling. They are relatively thin material and are installed on the diagonal between the wall and ceiling.

Hold the molding at an angle. Apply sand-able joint compound to the top and bottom edges of the crown. Butt joint is used to join two pieces in a straight run. After the compound dries, smooth the joints with a fine-grit sanding sponge. Dab in joint com-pound to fill any gaps.

From Left to Right

Figure 7.4.49 Crown Moulding Source: Author

Figure 7.4.50 Crown MouldingSource: Author

Figure 7.4.51 Applying the Compound using a Putty Knife

Figure 7.4.52 Zoom in of the Applica-tion

Figure 7.4.53 Butt Joint



113

FLAT BEADING

Flat strip are suitable for covering the gaps between the wall, skirting board and nosing and timber floor planks.

Measure and cut the length of beading. Cut the joining ends at 45 degrees using the chop saw to join two pieces of beading together. Fix the flat bead down by hammering small panel pins through in order to grip the floor below. As the beading is not very wide or thick, it can be cut at an angle to fit it neatly whatever the shape of the wall is.

To join a straight run of bead, it is wise to do a scarf joint to the bead to hide the seam.

Figure 7.4.54 Timber Skirting in the Main Hall Source: Author

Figure 7.4.55 Sawing the Timber FloorPlank

Figure 7.4.56 Placing the Skirting on the Floor



114

AEBESTOS CEILING

First, measure the drywall from the corner to ceiling joist. Run a bead of glue down each ceiling joist (Figure 7.4.59) and hoist the dry-wall panel up onto the ceiling. Drive the screws across the middle of the drywall piece into the joist. (Figure 7.4.60) Figure 7.4.57 Asbestos Ceiling Wall

DetailsFigure 7.4.58 Asbestos Ceiling Wall in the Main Hall

Figure 7.4.59 Applying the glue

Figure 7.4.60 Screwing Up the Drywall piece



115

SUSPENDED CEILING

A suspended ceiling is a framed panel which appears to float away from the walls. A suspended ceiling is able to make utility lines accessible to install light fix-tures and provide sound insulation.

Plasterboard or ceiling tile is installed onto the panel and securely screwed in position to the joist. Timber batten used as covering is cut to suit the spacing in order to support the board or tiles.

Figure 7.4.61 Suspended Ceiling in the Meeting RoomSource: Author

Figure 7.4.62 Construction Details of Suspended Ceiling



116

COVER BATTEN

Batten is a narrow strip of wood nailed over the vertical joints of plasterboard to form board-and-batten siding. A flat moulding can be used to cover the joints.

Cover batten can also be used to cover wall joints.

Figure 7.4.63 Construction Details of Cover Batten

Figure 7.4.64 Cover Batten in the Main HallSource: Author

8.0 CONCLUSION


117

The Gopeng Road old House have always stood out in terms of it’s architectural style. Be it now or even in the past, the Gopeng House is an ideal cultural heritage that has been passed on since the early 20th century during the British Colonization. It holds alot of history and has undergone many changes over the decades due to renovations. Consequently, the house structure and details is now slighly different compare to the way of how it was originally built in the early days. Due to not properly conserving and maintaning the house in the right way, the condition of the building structures have now slowly deteriorate. The ornament details are also slowly losing its original form and design.

The House was once a proud heritage that uses thefusion of styles between a Malay Kampong House and a British style Architecture. The House is also an evidence to the involvement of the British in Ipoh in the past.

Conserving the House is important as it not only contributes to the country’s economy but also in the future of the younger generations. Conserving a heritage can offer so much possibilities for the younger ones to develop new skills, knowledge, creativity and innovation. It can be an effective educational tool for life-long learning and training. As a result, this will help to cultivate the deep feeling of appreciation towards not only the new but also the old architecture in our country.

The Gopeng Road old House is part of a very important cultural heritage in Ipoh. It plays a vital role in portraying Ipoh’s historical architecture. Therefore, I believe in conserving the House in the best way possibe as it is an important part of our history and culture because it now gives an opportunity to the younger ones to take a glimpse of the past.


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APPENDIX

Q: What can you recall most of this House from your childhood memory?A: When I was small, I did not observe and care much about this house although I passed by it every day. What I remem-bered most was that there were many bungalows around this place. There wasnt any particular distinctive memory from my childhood.

Q: Tell me the impression the building gives you?A: I never thought a rumah tinggi would be situated in a Chinese residential area. Before the renovation was done, there was no timber deck at the entrance. The timber deck gives a very antique and vintage feeling of the building. I did not appreciate the architecture of the building before this for instance the ceiling, the columns and footings. However, I did not put in too much effort to discover the reason behind the design. Nevertheless, the architecture is unique and special to me.

Q: Who usually come to visit Tzu Chi House? A: Basically they are Tzu Chi volunteers, people who come to donate and recycle. The volunteers work in the book café, if there were grand activities holding in a few days afterwards, we will invite and request more volunteers to come over to help to tidy and prepare for it. They will be around 30 to 50 of them. For those who come for donation, I think it is about 20 people: for the recycling center there, I am not so sure about it as many of them just passed by and recycle the items, hence I did not really calculate how many of them came by.

Q: How about the extension done on the right of this building?A: We extend a space and used as a kitchen and dining space besides the cafe. The Tzu Chi’s volunteers and members will use the space for grand festivals.


Q: Can you talk about the extensions of the book café and the office behind?A: Starting from the entrance of this book café till the end of it, it looks like a rectangular-shaped room. The main function of this book café is to provide a space for relaxing and relieving stress. It is open for public and whoever can come in. At the back of it, it is our office where we manage our work and business. There is a donation and charity counter and finance counter which work as financial department. As one table act as one department, so there are around 3 to 4 department in the office

Q: How about the renovation of the interior floor?A: As this building had already existed quite a long time, the dust had already grasped into the plastic carpet, hence showed a very old appearance. We hardly remove the stain and dust regardless we had used lots of method. In the end, we decided to add on another layer of timber plank to it.

Q: How about the construction of the wall? A: Previously the wall of the building was built of cardboard and were destroyed by the thermite. Hence we removed the old cardboard wall and replace it with plasterboards. Besides we consider to add in the air conditioner, hence it was one of the reason we chose to replace it with the plasterboards.

Q : How about the timber deck in front of the entrance? What changes had make to it?A : Previously the staircase of the building is too short to use, hence an additional timber deck is built in front in order to pro-vide convenience to us. The previous stairs were also old and very slanted. In addition we thought of the position of the pillars in front were applicable to construct a deck, which can function as a performance stage when we were having activities.


Q: How about the construction of the door? Does the design of the door relate to any religion or beliefs? A: As the old door was old-fashioned and plain, hence we decided to add on grid patterns. It did not relate to any religion issues and beliefs.

Q: Can you tell us about the A.V control room?A: We need a sound system control room, hence we set up a room on the left of the building.

Q: Was there any changes to the floor besides the main hall of the building?A: There are three toilets in the main building. The floor were built of concrete. Days after days, mold started to grow. There-fore, we installed ceramic tiles on it without removing the concrete floor.

Q: How about the ceiling? Any changes make to it previously?A: The building is about 17ft tall. Hence we decided to lower the height of the ceiling at the back of the building by setting up room partition in order to save and reduce the amount of air conditioner.

Q: What changes did you make on the exterior of the building?A: We repainted the exterior of the building following the theme color of Tzu Chi, which is grey and white. Besides that, we also build the café book store and office. Originally, the space besides the building was a desolate field. Due to insufficient space for our activities, we built a metal roof, and the book café and office, which I mentioned previously. The size we had extend is around 60ft X 110ft. For this book café, we use the concept of Taiwan Tzu Chi, ‘ren’ which means human to design the exterior part of the book café.

Q : How about the timber deck in front of the entrance? What changes had make to it?A : Previously the staircase of the building is too short to use, hence an additional timber deck is built in front in order to provide convenience to us. The previous stairs were also old and very slanted. In addition we thought of the position of the pillars in front were applicable to construct a deck, which can function as a performance stage when we were having activities.


APEX -The top or highest part of something, especially one forming a point

CANTILEVER - A long bracket or beam projecting from a wall to support a balcony, cornice, etc

CAST IRON - A hard, relatively brittle alloy of iron and carbon which can be readily cast in a mould and contains a higher proportion of carbon than steel (typically 2-4.3 per cent).

COLONIZE - Send settlers to (a place) and establish political control over it

CORRUGATED – Material or surface shaped into a series of parallel ridges and grooves so as to give added rigidity and strength

CRAWL SPACE - An area of limited height under a floor or roof, giving access to wiring and plumbing.

DISMANTLE - Take (a machine or structure) to pieces

DOOR JAMB -Each of the two upright parts of a doorframe, on one of which the door is hung.

EARTHENWARE - Pottery made of clay fired to a porous state which can be made impervious to liquidsby the use of a glaze

EMBELLISHMENT - A decorative detail or feature added to something to make it more attractive

FENESTRATION -The arrangement of windows in a building

GLOSSARY


FOOTING -The foundations of a wall, usually with a course of brickwork widerthan the base of the wall

FUSION - The process or result of joining two or more things together to form a single entity

GALVANIZED NAIL –A special type of nail used in construction with a zinc coating to form a protective barrier.

GYPSUM -A soft white or grey mineral consisting of hydrated calcium sulphate.

HEADROOM -The space between the top of a vehicle and the underside of a bridge or other structure above it.

HERITAGE -Valued objects and qualities such as historic buildings and cultural traditions that have been passed down from previous generations

JALOUSIE -A blind or shutter made of a row of angled slats

JOIST -A length of timber or steel supporting part of the structure of a building, typicallyarranged in parallel series to sup-port a floor or ceiling

LOAD-BEARING WALL – wall supporting much of the weight of the overlying parts of abuilding or other structure

LOUVER -Each of a set of angled slats fixed or hung at regular intervals in a door, shutter, or screen to allow air or light to pass through

MORTISED-AND-TENON JOINTS -strongest joints in woodworking, and are used for projects that have frame construction and need to be strong.


PILASTER -A rectangular column, especially one projecting from a wall.

PINNACLE -A small pointed turret built as an ornament on a roof

PORTLAND CEMENT -Cement manufactured from chalk and clay which hardens under water and whenhard resem-bles Portland stone in colour

PURLIN -A horizontal beam along the length of a roof, resting on principals and supporting thecommon rafters or boards.

QUEEN POST -Either of two upright timbers between the tie beam and principal rafters of a rooftruss.

RAFTER -A beam forming part of the internal framework of a roof

REHABILITATION -Return something, especially a building or environmental feature) to its former condition

SHOPHOUSE – in south east asia a shop opening on to the pavement and also used as the owner’sresidence.

SIGNIFICANCE -The quality of being worthy of attention; importance

SKIRTING -A wooden board running along the base of an interior wall

SLAB -A large, thick, flat piece of stone or concrete, typically square or rectangular inshape

SPAN -The full extent of something from end to end

STRAINING BEAM -A horizontal tie beam connecting two queen posts in a roof truss. Also called straining piece.

SUBSIDENCE -The gradual caving in or sinking of an area of land


TENSILE STRESS -When equal and opposite forces are applied on a body, then the stress due to this force is called ten-sile stress.

TRANSITION SPACE -that space of experiencing, between the inner and outer worlds

TRANSOM -A strengthening crossbar, in particular one set above a window or door.

VELOCITY -The speed of something in a given direction

VENTILATION -The provision of fresh air to a room, building

VERANDAH -A roofed platform along the outside of a house, level with the ground floor

VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE -architecture concerned with domestic and functional rather than public buildings

WEDGE -A piece of wood, metal, etc. having one thick end and tapering to a thin edge

final report, tzu ji charity house (ipoh)

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