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Asian Architecture [ARC 6043/2234]

PROJECT 1: CASE STUDY

Occupant Satisfaction of Nature Incorporated Space at PJ

Trade Centre

NAME: KIMBERLEY EE SZE ANN

STUDENT ID: 0315319

LECTURER: NORHAYATI BINTI RAMLI

SUBMISSION DATE: 28/6/2016

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Contents

Abstract ...................................................................................................................... 3

1.0 Introduction .......................................................................................................... 4

1.1 Methodology ..................................................................................................... 6

2.0 Design Response of PJ Trade Centre to the Surrounding Context ...................... 7

2.1 Building Orientation ........................................................................................... 8

2.2 Materiality ...................................................................................................... 9

2.3 Facade ..................................................................................................... 10

2.4 Conclusion ............................................................................................ 11

3.0 Nature Incorporated Space at PJ Trade Centre ................................................. 12

3.1 Exterior Green Spaces .................................................................................... 13

3.2 Naturally Ventilated Spaces ......................................................................... 13

3.3 Interior Green Spaces .................................................................................. 15

3.4 Naturally Lit Spaces .................................................................................. 16

3.5 Conclusion ............................................................................................ 16

4.0 Occupant Satisfaction of Nature Incorporated at PJ Trade Centre .................... 17

4.1 Questionnaire .................................................................................................. 17

4.2 Short interviews ........................................................................................... 19

4.3 Conclusion ................................................................................................ 20

5.0 Conclusion ......................................................................................................... 21

6.0 References ......................................................................................................... 23

7.0 Appendix ............................................................................................................ 24

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Abstract

This paper presents a study of the nature incorporated space at PJ Trade Centre and its influence on the satisfaction felt by the occupants. The sensitivity of the architect to the natural context and implementation of nature oriented design shines light on new opportunities of increasing building sustainability in contemporary architecture and it is important to study the relationship of these factors with occupant satisfaction. In assisting the validation of this research, literature reviews of vernacular Malay architecture were conducted to analyse the vernacular techniques used by the architect in PJ Trade Centre. Furthermore, literature reviews of various sources relating to occupant satisfaction were also conducted to enhance the process of the research. Lastly, on site data collection such as distribution of questionnaires, short interviews and on site observation was conducted at PJ Trade Centre. The use of nature incorporated space is first understood from the perspective of the architect and the effectiveness of these techniques are later analysed based on observations as well the response of the building occupants. Thus, it is seen that PJ Trade Centre diverges from conventional office buildings in its response to the natural site context as well as material sensitivity to increase sustainability. The design of the building succeeds in creating a unique experience for occupants as they are able to enjoy the greenery used to enhance the aesthetic of the building as well as the naturally ventilated and naturally lit green spaces. Hence, it can be concluded that that the use of nature incorporated spaces at PJ Trade Centre allows for the design of a sustainable building that is appreciated by occupants. The sensitivity toward natural context, material selection and occupant satisfaction should be exemplified in contemporary architecture.

(286 words)

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1.0 Introduction

Nature is an invaluable tool in the design of contemporary architecture. A designer is often

influenced by the surrounding context and as of such the environment itself in many ways

provides its own design (Carlson, 2002). Thus, when an architect chooses to design by

complementing the environment he will be able to generate a design that conveys

aesthetic appreciation and genuine understanding of surrounding elements.

In the design of PJ Trade Centre, Kevin Mark Low was given a design brief where he was

required to design an office building that would be suitable for the Malaysian climate,

sustainable and self-maintaining. However, the bigger challenge was the demand from

the client to design an office building that was unlike any in the country and would be

bold, different and impactful (Jones, 2012). Thus, this paper will focus on the use of nature

incorporated space to generate creativity in a design and explore the way in which the

architect was able to carry out his design intention through the study of natural elements

and respond to them through the application of traditional building techniques such as

building orientation and also contextual observation in cases such as material selection.

A deeper analysis will also capture the important connection between human and nature

and explore the ways in which nature incorporated space can answer the need for

occupant satisfaction through the correct application of ventilation, natural light and green

spaces.

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The research questions that will be answered in this research are how the application of

nature incorporated space in relation to the contextual climate, is able to solve the need

for a sustainable and self-maintaining building. Also, the importance of nature

incorporated space in contemporary architecture and how it improves a building’s design

as well as how natural elements are adopted in nature incorporated space and how they

affect occupant satisfaction.

The objectives of the research are to show how buildings that consider the surrounding

context and design to complement existing natural features are more effective examples

of sustainable architecture. Furthermore, to show that nature oriented design is a better

alternative for contemporary architecture and to prove that nature incorporated space

improves an architectural design and increases occupant satisfaction.

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1.1 Methodology

The research methods conducted were literature reviews and on site data collection such

as distribution of questionnaires, short interviews and on site observation at PJ Trade

Centre. These methods are seen in the concept mapping diagram (Figure 1.1) below.

Nature

incorporated

space

Occupant

satisfaction

PJ Trade Centre

DESIGN BRIEF - suitable for

Malaysian context

-sustainable

-self-maintaining

DESIGN RESPONSE BY ARCHITECT

Natural elements

Ventilation Natural light

Green spaces

Orientation

Materiality SATISFACTION FELT BY OCCUPANTS

Research method:

Literature review + Observation

Research method: Interview + Questionnaire

Figure 1.1: Research concept mapping

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2.0 Design Response of PJ Trade Centre to the Surrounding Context

When the architect, Kevin Mark Low designed PJ Trade Centre, there were many issues

that had to be addressed. After, conducting analysis of his design responses it was

identified that his design techniques were chosen in relation to the surrounding context

and by designing with consideration to the environment he was able to answer the design

brief that called for a sustainable and self-maintaining office building. Table 1.1 below

analyses the obstacles faced and the design responses by the architect.

Obstacles Design response Implementation Project benefit

Building should face east to catch soft morning light. However, this would mean that the building would face a major highway artery.

Building took form of a thin mass with north to south alignment.

Building is oriented to receive soft morning light with design implementations such as the design of the building facade used to protect from noise and sound pollution of the highway.

The design is able to optimise natural lighting while having its front elevation facing toward the highway.

Exposure of building facade to Malaysian climate and pollution from highway.

Choice of concrete vent blocks and over burnt brick used as main building materials.

The materials give the building a raw character and are able to weather the Malaysian climate with low maintenance cost.

The building is able to meet the requirements to be low cost and self-maintaining.

The building is required to provide shelter from strong winds and sunlight while also protecting from the noise and sound pollution from the highway.

Use of concrete vent block facade and placement of vegetation behind the vent walls.

The concrete vent blocks protect from strong winds and sunlight while allowing sufficient amounts to enter the building. The vegetation placed behind the vent wall act as a buffer for the highway pollution.

The building is able to optimise natural ventilation and sunlight which also reduces costs while the placement of vegetation has an added benefit of beautifying the building.

Table 2.1: Analysis of the obstacles faced and the design responses by the architect in the design of PJ Trade Centre.

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2.1 Building Orientation

The first obstacle that had to be addressed in the design of PJ Trade Centre was the

building orientation. It had been identified that the north to south orientation of the

elongated five-acre site, as seen in Figure 2.1, gave rise to a conflicting set of issues

(Low, 2010).

On one hand, it was desirable for the building to face east such that it would catch the

soft morning light. However, on the other hand, this would also cause the building to face

a major highway artery and would lead to sound and automobile pollution. Thus, the

building took the form of a thin mass with north to south alignment as seen in Figure 2.2.

Figure 2.1: Site plan of PJ Trade Centre (Adapted from: Low, 2010)

Figure 2.2: Diagram showing the east-to-west sun-path in relation to the site, with the arterial highway up against the east boundary. (Adapted from: Low, 2010)

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2.2 Materiality

In designing to suit the surrounding context, the architect was also sensitive in his choice

of materials for the building. The building was envisioned as a garden shell building where

it would be predominantly self-maintaining and aesthetically elegant as it weathered in

the Malaysian climate (Low, 2010). Thus, to achieve this result, concrete vent blocks

(Figure 2.3) and over burnt bricks (Figure 2.4) were chosen to give a raw character to the

external faces of the building. These materials are also commonly used in Malaysian

building context as they age with minimal maintenance in the monsoon tropics and were

ideal in fulfilling the project budget.

Figure 2.3: Concrete vent blocks (Source: Low, 2010)

Figure 2.4: Over burnt bricks (Source: Low, 2010)

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2.3 Facade

Furthermore, another contextual demand that was met by the architect was also the

design of the building facade. As shown in Figure 2.5 and 2.6, concrete vent blocks were

used on the exterior of building to provide shade against heavy wind while allowing

sufficient amounts of sunlight to enter the building (Figure 2.7). Vegetation was also

placed behind the vent wall to act as a sound barrier (Figure 2.8).

Figure 2.5: Elevation showing the concrete vent blocks used on the facade of PJ Trade Centre. (Source: Low, 2010)

Figure 2.6: Concrete vent block facade of PJ Trade Centre. (Source: Low, 2010)

Figure 2.7: Vent blocks provide shade against heavy wind while allowing sufficient sunlight to enter.

Figure 2.8: Vegetation behind vent wall acts as a sound barrier

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2.4 Conclusion

After completing the analysis of the design responses of PJ Trade Centre it can be clearly

observed that the building was designed with respect to the surrounding context. The

architect chose to adapt his design to the surrounding context through the building

orientation, material selection and design of the building facade. Thus, by doing so he

was able to meet the design brief for a sustainable and self-maintaining building.

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3.0 Nature Incorporated Space at PJ Trade Centre

PJ Trade Centre is situated in a hillside area and is surrounded by a forest context. Thus,

the architect chose to design PJ Trade Centre, to complement the surrounding site

context and implemented nature incorporated spaces in many parts of the building. Table

1.2 analyses the nature incorporated spaces incorporated by the architect and also the

benefits of these spaces to the project.

Nature incorporated space Implementation Project benefit

Exterior green spaces. Green spaces are incorporated at the exterior spaces of the building through the use of landscaping.

The incorporation of green spaces creates a continuity of the design with the surrounding context. The green spaces buffer the functional spaces and create a natural atmosphere.

Naturally ventilated spaces. Vernacular techniques such as random arrangement of office blocks and the planting of tall trees are implemented.

The naturally ventilated spaces are cost effective and create a comfortable atmosphere.

Interior green spaces Upper floors are interspersed with green areas.

The green spaces aid in natural ventilation, sun penetration and are also ideal relaxation spaces for office workers.

Naturally lit spaces Naturally lighting is optimised with full height glass windows at the entrance and lobbies.

Artificial lighting is minimised within the building.

Table 3.1: Analysis of the nature incorporated spaces incorporated by the architect at PJ Trade Centre and also the benefits of these spaces to the project.

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3.1 Exterior Green Spaces

PJ Trade Centre is also integrated to the surrounding forest context by the implementation

of landscaping and nature incorporated space (Figure 3.1). The 2.5-acre forest plaza on

the ground floor (Figure 3.2) creates a continuity of the design with the surrounding hills

(Figure 3.3). The functional spaces are almost buffered by green spaces, creating a

natural atmosphere.

3.2 Naturally Ventilated Spaces

Furthermore, PJ Trade Centre also exemplifies vernacular techniques in its design to

improve ventilation through the incorporation of nature incorporated space. The random

arrangement of the office blocks allows for wind to pass through the spaces (Figure 3.4).

Also, by only planting tall trees around the building the passage of wind is left

unobstructed (Figure 3.5).

Figure 3.1: Ground floor plan showing the contextual greenery

and landscaping of PJ Trade Centre. (Adapted from: Low, 2010)

Figure 3.2: Forest plaza at PJ Trade Centre.

Figure 3.3: Landscaping of PJ Trade Centre showing continuity with

surrounding hills.

Figure 3.4: Random arrangement of Malay

houses. (Adapted from: Kamal, 2004)

Figure 3.5: Tall coconut trees planted in kampong

area. (Adapted from: Kamal, 2004)

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Openings between office blocks (Figure 3.6) also create a wind tunnel effect for stack

ventilation in the building. At the same time, the building is also elevated (Figure 3.7) to

allow for cross ventilation and the creation of unique spaces below the building (Figure

3.8). Figure 3.9 and 3.10 shows the comparison of cross and stack ventilation in a

traditional Malay house with that of PJ Trade Centre.

Figure 3.6: Opening between office blocks. (Source: Jones, 2012)

Figure 3.7: Elevation of building on concrete ‘stilts’. (Source: Low, 2010)

Figure 3.8: Unique space for access.

(Source: Low, 2010)

Figure 3.9: Cross and stack ventilation in a traditional Malay house (Adapted from:

Kamal, 2004)

Figure 3.10: Cross and stack ventilation in PJ Trade Centre

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3.3 Interior Green Spaces

Nature incorporated spaces in PJ Trade Centre can also be seen in the building interior,

as in Figure 3.11. Upper floor levels are interspersed with green spaces (Figure 3.12) that

aid in ventilation, sun penetration and also serve as ideal relaxation areas (Figure 3.13

and 3.14)

Figure 3.11: Upper floor plan showing green

spaces between offices.

Figure 3.12: Section showing green spaces in the building.

Figure 3.13: Green space between office blocks

Figure 3.14: Green space between office blocks

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3.4 Naturally Lit Spaces

The design of PJ Trade Centre also maximizes natural sunlight with full height ceiling to

floor glass being used at the entrance (Figure 3.15) and lobbies (Figure 3.16) of the

building thus minimising the use of artificial lighting. Trees are also planted inside and

outside the building to soften the direct heat penetration.

3.5 Conclusion

This section of the report discusses the nature incorporated spaces implemented by the

architect at PJ Trade Centre and after completing the analysis of these spaces they were

found to provide numerous benefits to the project. PJ Trade Centre is an example of

contemporary architecture that was able to execute nature incorporated spaces to

improve the building’s design. The green spaces incorporated in the design enhance the

overall beauty and the also provide a soothing atmosphere for the office workers.

Furthermore, the use of vernacular architecture techniques to incorporate naturally

ventilated and naturally lit spaces improve the sustainability of the design.

Figure 3.15: Space near entrance stairs Figure 3.16: Upper corridors

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4.0 Occupant Satisfaction of Nature Incorporated at PJ Trade Centre

In order to gauge the satisfaction of occupants with the design of PJ Trade Centre and its

incorporation of nature incorporated space, a questionnaire was conducted along with

short interviews with the participants.

4.1 Questionnaire

The results of Question 1 and 2 shown in Graph 4.1 show that most occupants rather

spend their time at naturally ventilated open spaces at PJ Trade Centre than enclosed

air-conditioned spaces. Furthermore, most occupants often frequent the garden plaza at

ground floor level followed by the green spaces between office units. Thus, this proves

that occupants appreciate the nature incorporated spaces at PJ Trade Centre and enjoy

spending time in these spaces.

Graph 4.1: Question 1 and 2

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The results of Question 3-10 are shown in Graph 4.2. Based on the results it can be said

that occupants like the design of PJ Trade Centre although not all occupants agree that

the design is different from conventional office designs. Furthermore, occupants do feel

that the architect succeeded in incorporating nature in the design and feel that the green

spaces provide them a place to relax and recharge. Also, the majority of occupants agree

that the architect made a wise decision to save cost through the use of natural ventilation

and lighting. However, although most occupants do find that the naturally ventilated

spaces are cooling some find that the naturally lighted spaces are not sufficiently lit.

Lastly, occupants agree that the use of greenery in PJ Trade Centre enhances the beauty

of the building.

Q3: Do you like the design of PJ Trade Centre?

Q4: Do you feel that PJ Trade Centre is different from conventional office building designs?

Q5: Do you feel that the architect succeeded in incorporating nature (green spaces) in the

design?

Q6: Do you feel that the green spaces provide you a place to relax and recharge?

Q7: Many office buildings have enclosed air conditioned and artificially lighted entrances and

foyers. Do you feel that the architect made a wise decision by replacing these with open spaces

that utilise natural ventilation and natural lighting to save cost?

Q8: Do you feel that these naturally ventilated spaces are cooling?

Q9: Do you feel that these naturally lighted spaces are well lit?

Q10: Do you feel that the use of greenery enhances the beauty of the building?

Graph 4.2: Question 3-10

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4.2 Short interviews

Questions 11 and 12 of the questionnaire were conducted as short interviews as shown below:

The answers show that occupants although occupants appreciate the translucency of the awning

at PJ Trade Centre, they found fault in the design as it does not fully prevent rain from coming

into the building. This can be observed in Figure 4.1 and 4.2.

Q11: As an occupant, is there anything that you would improve about the building?

Answer: Improve sheltering from rain as awning is not long enough.

Q12: Are there any faults with this building that you would like to address?

Answer: The natural ventilation of the open space and the use of translucent awning create a nice

atmosphere however rain comes in.

Figure 4.1: Awning viewed at first floor level Figure 4.2: Awning viewed at ground floor level

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4.3 Conclusion

After completing the questionnaires and short interviews at PJ Trade Centre, it was found

that the majority of the building’s occupants are satisfied with the building’s design. It is

interesting to note that occupants were aware of the efforts made by the architect to

incorporate nature into the design and enjoy the nature incorporated spaces within the

building. The natural elements adopted in the design set PJ Trade Centre apart from

conventional office building designs and allow occupants to have an enjoyable working

environment. Many occupants also feel that the nature incorporated spaces enhance the

beauty of the design and also create comfortable spaces for them to relax and recharge.

Furthermore, the naturally ventilated and lit spaces allow occupants to feel closer to

nature while increasing sustainability.

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5.0 Conclusion

PJ Trade Centre began simply as an office building project to configure close to a million

square feet of rentable space. However, with the design brief calling for an alternative

proposal to a typical office block development, the architect began to question the

commonly held beliefs regarding office blocks. The response was to design an office

building that was inspired by what nature had given it. Thus, resulting in a more

sustainable, suitable and responsible design.

PJ Trade Centre presents a new paradigm in a resource scarce world. The inspiration

from the surrounding context resulted in a design approach that adopted simplicity and

made use of local building blocks that work with the nature of the land. This enabled the

birth of a design that was able to connect man and nature while also being able to weather

the elements beautifully, requiring little maintenance. While, to the occupants of PJ Trade

Centre, the design is simply an unpretentious, inclusive and humane space that inspires

through its connection with nature.

PJ Trade Centre is also the recipient of numerous awards such as FIABCI World Prix

D’EXCELLENCE award 2013 (Gold) - Office Category, FIABCI Malaysia Property Award

2012 - Office Category, ARCASIA Awards for Architecture 2015, PAM Awards 2011-

Commercial Design (Gold) and Malaysia Landscape Architecture Awards MLAA 2010

Award of Excellence.

Hence, it can be concluded that the use of nature incorporated spaces at PJ Trade Centre

allows for the design of a sustainable building that is appreciated by occupants. The

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sensitivity toward natural context, material selection and occupant satisfaction should be

exemplified in contemporary architecture.

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6.0 References

Al horr, Y., Arif, M., Katafygiotou, M., Mazroei, A., Kaushik, A., & Elsarrag, E. (2016).

Impact of indoor environmental quality on occupant well-being and comfort: A

review of the literature. International Journal of Sustainable Built Environment, 2-

11.

Carlson, A. (2002). Aesthetics and the environment: The appreciation of nature, art and

architecture. Psychology Press.

Hashim, W., & Nasir, A. H. (2011). The Traditional Malay House. Kuala Lumpur: Institut

Terjemahan Negara Malaysia.

Hassan, A. S., & Ramli, M. (2010). Natural Ventilation of Indoor Air Temperature: A

Case Study of the Traditional Malay House in Penang. American J. of

Engineering and Applied Sciences, 3(3), 521-528.

Hong, T., Taylor-Lange, S. C., D'Oca, S., Yan, D., & Corgnati, S. P. (2015). Advances in

research and applications of energy-related occupant behavior in buildings.

Energy and Buildings, 605-702.

Jones, H. (2012). Unconventional Office Design Works Better, Says Architects-And So

Do The People Inside It. The Wall Street Journal, 16.

Kamal, K. S., Wahab, L. A., & Ahmad, A. C. (2004). Climatic design of the traditional

Malay house to meet the requirements of modern living. The 38th International

Conference of Architectural Science Association, 175-179.

Low, K. M. (2010). Small Projects. China: Adaptus.

PJ Trade Centre. (2012). Retrieved June 28, 2016, from seksan.com:

http://www.seksan.com/pjtc.html

PJ Trade Centre. (2013). Retrieved June 28, 2016, from pjtradecentre.com:

http://www.pjtradecentre.com/news.html

PJ Trade Centre. (2016, June 28). Retrieved from tujuangemilang.com:

http://www.tujuangemilang.com/pj-trade-centre

Ramli, N. H. (2012). Re-adaptation of Malay House Thermal Comfort Design Elements

into Modern building Elements– Case Study of Selangor Traditional Malay House

& Low Energy Building in Malaysia. Iranica Journal of Energy & Environment, 3,

19-23.

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Siewa, C. C., Che-Anib, A. I., Tawilb, N. M., Goh-Abdullahb, N. A., & Utaberta, N.

(2011). Efffectiveness of Thermal Comfort Models to Evaluate Occupants’

Satisfaction Levels in Office Building. The 2nd International Building Control

Conference, 373-379.

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7.0 Appendix

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Permission Letter

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Questionnaires

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Plagiarism Check

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