WLA MAGAZINE | 20

Universiti Teknologi PetronasSASAKI ASSOCIATES

WLA MAGAZINE | 20

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI PETRONASSASAKI ASSOCIATES

WLA MAGAZINE | 20

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI PETRONASSASAKI ASSOCIATES

Master Plan Goals and ObjectivesIn response to the vision of the Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP), the new research cluster provides a lively, dynamic, and sustainable new place that integrates education, research, and entrepreneurship to drive university exploration and discovery in new businesses, products, ongoing cutting-edge research, and new strategic partnerships between UTP and private industry. Now in its first phase of implementation, the research cluster provides a visionary yet feasible foundation that will achieve UTP’s vision in the immediate future.

Urban ContextCentered on the iconic star formation of the existing UTP academic core, the research cluster forms a natural new place between the existing UTP campus and future commercial, academic, and residential development zones to the south of the campus. Particular attention is paid to the preservation of the dramatic topography and nationally recognized endangered tree species that characterize the site. All areas of the new cluster are within a 10-minute walk of the existing campus academic core, reducing reliance on private transportation and promoting a walkable environment.

Research Ecosystems and Integrated PlacemakingThe research cluster is strategically programmed and structured to foster collaboration and innovation, with active and social uses situated at strategic locations to nurture a symbiotic research ecosystem and create a distinctive and active sense of place. The mixed-use Nexus Hub supports the research cluster through its business centers, hotel, exhibition and event center, recreation, retail, and restaurants.

Sustainable ElementsThe research cluster is underpinned by a comprehensive sustainability strategy that encompasses all aspects of the master plan. This enhances the existing environment and provides sustainable design solutions that anticipate the impact of buildings and infrastructure. The master plan provides a holistic approach for a sustainable built and natural environment through a combination of design considerations, including the conservation of endangered trees, the management of stormwater through retention of natural drainage corridors and provision of bioswales, the development of the mobility connector, and the adoption of passive microclimate strategies. The realization of these strategies is supported by the provision of design guidelines.

Accessibility and MobilityThe new research cluster is centered on providing the most viable solution for people working and visiting the region. The mobility connector supplements the road network with an integrated system of pedestrian links, cycle routes, and mobility lanes that promote alternatives to private vehicular transport. Mobility stations are strategically located throughout the cluster to provide convenient passenger drop-off and pick-up. This strategy also allows for a reduction in parking, lowering environmental impacts and construction costs. The mobility connector also provides a flexible platform to accommodate future mobility, and an opportunity to showcase UTP’s new developments in technology.

Integrated PlanningThe master plan is a direct result of close and ongoing engagement, from the project outset, with potential private industry partners and UTP

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI PETRONAS | SASAKI ASSOCIATES

WLA MAGAZINE | 20 UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI PETRONAS | SASAKI ASSOCIATES

WLA MAGAZINE | 20 UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI PETRONAS | SASAKI ASSOCIATES

WLA MAGAZINE | 20

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI PETRONASSASAKI ASSOCIATES

leadership and faculty. The master plan was further driven by best practices derived from studies of successful research clusters globally. Investment for the new cluster was secured from key industry partners prior to the completion of the master plan, which is testament to this integrated approach and best practice master planning principles.

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI PETRONASSERI ISKANDAR, MALAYSIA

Lead Design Firm | Sasaki Associates

Consultants | Dolma Fund

Client | Universiti Teknologi Petronas

Image Credit | Sasaki Associates & Hartness Vision RenderingsText Credit | Sasaki Associates