Ent 2A

SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE, BUILDING & DESIGN
MASTER OF ARCHITECTURE
ENVIRONMENT AND TECHNOLOGY 1 (ARC 70903)
A Case Study and Building Analysis based on the Green Building
Index (GBI)
Case Study: Gembira Residen (G Residence)
GROUP MEMBERS:
CHIU ZHENG YI (0340067)
KONG XHIANG LYNN (0317730)
LEONG YU SHI (0322586)
LYDIA KOW YI LING (0341285)
NG KE NING (0323015)
YANG JING LOO (0323066)

A Case Study and Building Analysis on Gembira Residen (G Residence) based on the Green Building Index (GBI)
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABSTRACT
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.0 Introduction of Kuchai Lama
2.0 SITE FINDINGS AND ANALYSIS
2.1 SITE ANALYSIS
2.1.0 Site Plan
2.1.1 Site Overview
2.1.2 Table of Project Profile
2.2 Macro Climate Analysis
2.3 Micro Climate Analysis
2.3.1 Sun Path Analysis
2.3.2 Wind Analysis
2.3.4 Topography
2.3.5 Neighbourhood Context
3.0 BUILDING INTRODUCTION
3.1 Case Study Building Information
3.2 Building Layout
3.2.1 Ground Floor Plan
3.2.2 Typical Floor Plan
3.2.3 Elevation
3.2.4 Section
3.3 Spatial Arrangement
3.3.1 Unit Plan
4.0 CONSTRUCTION METHOD
5.0 BUILDING ANALYSIS
5.1 ROOF ANALYSIS
5.1.1 Design and Type of Roof
5.1.2 Roof Construction
5.1.3 Services
5.1.3.1 Water Tanks
5.1.3.2 Lift Motor Room
5.1.4 Maintenance and Issue
5.2 WALL ANALYSIS
5.2.1 Design and Type of Wall/Facade
5.2.2 Solar Control and Shading
5.2.3 Maintenance and Issues
5.3 OPENING ANALYSIS
5.3.1 Ventilation Study
5.3.2 Design, type, issues of openings
5.3.3 Window to wall ratio
5.3.4 Daylighting Study
6.0 PROPOSALS
6.1 Construction
6.1.1 IBS of structural system

2
6.2 Roof
6.2.1 TPO roofing membrane
6.2.2 Solar Panels
6.2.3 Rainwater Harvesting
6.2.4 Green Roof
6.2.5 Wind Turbines
6.2.6 Roof Lights
6.3 Wall
6.3.1 Vertical Green wall
6.3.2 AAC Block wall
6.3.3 Self-cleaning Facade System
6.4 Opening
6.4.1 Automatic Sun Shade System
6.4.2 Sliding Wooden Facade
6.4.3 Creeper System
6.4.4 Light Shelves
6.5 Proposal Overview
7.0 CONCLUSION
8.0 REFERENCES
9.0 APPENDIX

3
Abstract
This research studies an assessment for an existing building, Gembira Residence in Malaysia
based on the Green Building Index (GBI). This research is an effort to propose passive design
strategies which includes innovative construction material for building envelope design and
use of suitable types or methods of construction in the context of green technology. The study
analyses on three aspects of green building sustainability which are: (i) site planning and
building layout; (ii) building envelope design; (iii) construction method. The three major building
envelope issues that need to be addressed are material of the walls and finishes, window
selection, and roof strategy. The objective of this research is to understand the knowledge on
the different approaches of Green Building technology in local context and identify the current
available green technologies and apply them in the case study building. This study will also
discuss the advantages and disadvantages of building with and without green building
technologies. The method that uses to achieve this objective is by qualitative method through
site observations and analysis of findings. These proposed green building technologies aim to
enhance the studied building design from the energy efficiency aspect.

4
1.0 Introduction
Kuchai Lama is a suburb in Seputeh constituency in south-western Kuala Lumpur, the
coordinates of 3.0839° N, 101.6883° E, located along the Old Klang Road, about 8km west
from the city of Kuala Lumpur. Kuchai Lama is a collection of old housing developments and
low-cost flats, along with a number of new condominiums. The homes in Kuchai Lama consists
mainly of single storey terrace houses, which were middle cost just a few years back but have
raised dramatically with time and the property boom. The business hub of the area, Kuchai
Entrepreneurs Park was given a facelift recently and now boasts the most popular food chains.
With the majority of the population being of the Chinese race, the area is busy at all times with
many restaurant, pubs, bars and 24-hour eateries. Traffic is also usually chaotic during peak
hours, especially heading towards the city. Prices of property in the area has risen fairly
sharply with many new upcoming developments, causing property investor to cast their eyes
on the area. The area also has a minority group of Malays who mostly occupy the low-cost
flats in the area, along with many migrants who work in NSK and Ajinomoto.
Figure 1. Google Map displaying Kuchai Lama

5
2.0 Site Findings and Analysis
2.1 Site Analysis
2.1.0 Site Plan
Figure 2. Site Plan of Gembira Residen
2.1.1 Site Overview
Figure 3. 3D Rendering Overview of Gembira Residen. From Tri Pacific Enginering by Ensignia Construction
Sdn Bhd, n.d (http://tripacific.com.my/portfolio/g-residence/)
Copyright 2011 by Ensignia Construction Sdn Bhd.

6
2.1.2 Table of Project Profile
Items Description
Project Name Gembira Residen (G-Residen)
Type of Project High-rise Residential Condominium
Tenure Freehold Residential
Project Address Jalan Senang Ria, Taman Gembira, 58200 Kuala Lumpur
Project Profile 3 blocks of 24 floors condominium with 544 units,
5 floors of car park podium
Unit Area 1168 sf to 3068 sf
Land Area 21640 m²
Date of Completion August 2013
Developer Kelang Lama Sdn Bhd (Subsidiary of Chin Hin Group)
Local Authority Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL)
Table 1. Project Profile Details
2.2 Macro Climate Analysis
In Malaysia, an Asian country located just north of the equator, the climate is hot, humid and
rainy throughout the year. The average temperature in Kuchai Lama (Kuala Lumpur) is
27.1°C whereas the average rainfall throughout the year is 2367mm. The climatic data in
Table 2 is by Weather Atlas.
Table 2. Annual Climatic Data of Kuchai Lama (Kuala Lumpur). From Weather Atlas, 2019.
(https://www.weather-my.com/en/malaysia/kuala-lumpur-climate#temperature)
Copyright 2019 by Weather Atlas.
Based on Table 2 above, the average temperature varies by 1.5°C. April the warmest months
with an average of 28 °C whereas January, November and December with an average
temperature of 26.5°C which is the lowest temperature throughout a year. The precipitation
varies 137 mm between the wettest month - November (278mm) with the highest rainfall and
the driest month is June (130mm) with the lowest rainfall.
2.3 Micro Climate Analysis
2.3.1 Sun-Path Analysis
Based on site inspection, observations and climatic data references of Kuchai Lama, the
residential towers frontage are facing west that all units get exposed from direct sunlight.
Gembira Residen (our case study) is between two other high-rise blocks at the left and right
which both symmetrically orientated facing east and west axis of the sun path without blocking
each other. In order to reduce heat gain, existing design strategies applied is by minimizing
the openings and windows facing both East and West. Figure 4 shows the 2D sun path
diagram of the site on November 2, 2019.

7
Figure 4. 2D Sun Path Diagram of Gembira Residence on November 2, 2019. From ‘andrewmarsh.com’, 2019.
(http://andrewmarsh.com/apps/releases/sunpath2d.html)
Copyright 2015 by andrewmarsh.
2.3.2 Wind Analysis
Prevailing winds are winds that blow constantly in a given direction which is important for a
building to get maximum natural ventilation in order to enhance cross ventilation which
consider both inlet and outlet in order to reduce energy consumption by mechanical ventilation
and improve indoor air quality. As we observed and based on the Wind rose diagram, the
prevailing wind comes mostly from South towards the North which is 23.5 % of the wind. 1
block facing West and another block facing South of our case study receive the most cross
ventilation. As the other 2 blocks are oriented North and East receive plenty of prevailing wind.
Figure 5 below shows the wind flows in wind rose diagram.
Figure 5. Wind Rose Diagram of Case Study Building. From World Weather by Highcharts.com.
(https://world-weather.info/archive/malaysia/kuala_lumpur/)
Copyright 2019 by World Weather.

8
2.3.4 Topography
Slope and topography can be defined as a shape and physical features of an area of land.
Topography variation may affect wind direction and orientation of the building. In this area of
the site, our case study block is located in the rear part of the site which is the highest area as
shown in Figure 6. The slope is gradually sloping down from both sides of case study block
until site boundary. Lowest point is found at the entrance of site which is guard house and
drop off area.
Figure 6. Slopping on side direction
2.3.5 Neighbourhood Context
The case study building is located in a residential area between different types of dwellings
like double story landed housing and 5 story apartments is adjacent to the site. Basic
community amenities like recreational area and surau can be found near the site. Recreational
and educational area is rarely to be found nearby the site. The selection of site is under a big
residential area which air quality will be cleaner rather than in/nearby in commercial and
industrial areas. Besides, the selection of site where not much of high-rise building nearby is
beneficial to the case study building to have more opportunity on natural ventilation. Gembira
Residence satisfies one of the GBI criteria in Sustainable Site Planning & Management (SM)
whereby public transportation, community facilities and services, open spaces and landscape
are provided in the building (Green Building Index Sdn Bhd, 2009).
Figure 7. Location plan of case study building

9
3.0 Building Introduction
A case study and improvements on sustainability of a non-green high-rise residential building,
a medium class condominium, located at Kuchai Lama. Gembira Residence (formerly known
as G Residence) is a new modern condominium sitting in Kuchai Lama. It is built by a
subsidiary of Chin Hin Developer Group, named as Kelang Lama Sdn Bhd. It is located within
the established Kuchai Lama enclave, near the ingress and egress of Kuala Lumpur-Putrajaya
Expressway (MEX) Highway. It is completed in August, 2013. Gembira Residence is a mid-
rise condominium located beside a Chinese primary school and another luxurious service
apartment.
3.1 Case Study Building Information
Figure 8. 3D Rendering Overview of Gembira Residen. From Tri Pacific Enginering by Ensignia Construction
Sdn Bhd, n.d (http://tripacific.com.my/portfolio/g-residence/)
Copyright 2011 by Ensignia Construction Sdn Bhd.
The building consists of three tower blocks, whereby the main block with all the services sits
on a five levels of car park podium. In this main block (Block B) is where all the services and
facilities located at. All the blocks consist of 24 storeys with a maximum of 8 units per floor.
These residential blocks are designed in a “C” shape which captures optimum daylight into
every unit and maximum prevailing wind for cross ventilation. Each block there are 184 units
including typical and penthouse units with 1 retail shop on the ground floor for every block.
There are 4 typical unit layout designs from 1168 sf to 1578 sf which comes with 2 car park
each and 3 types of penthouse unit layout designs varies from 2338 sf to 3068 sf.
The concept of this building is based on 3 ‘G’s, which is green living, great scenery and grand
facilities. Gembira Residence comes with different facilities, such as: community hall, shop
lots, kindergarten, spa room, gymnasium, lap pool, playground. BBQ deck and futsal. The site
can be accessed by private transportation only as shown in Figure 7 the location plan of the
building.

10
3.2 Building Layout
Under the GBI assessment framework, Gembira Residence has contributed to the “Energy
Efficiency (EE)” aspect as it has reduced energy consumption by optimizing building
orientation, minimizing solar heat gain through building envelope design and harvesting
natural lighting (Green Building Index Sdn Bhd, 2009).
3.2.1 Ground Floor Plan
Figure 9. Ground Floor Plan of Gembira Residen
3.2.2 Typical Floor Plan
Figure 10. Typical Floor Plan of Gembira Residen

11
3.2.3 Elevation
Figure 11. Elevations of Gembira Residen

12
3.2.4 Section
Figure 12. Sectional drawing showing Gembira Residen’s building programmes.

13
3.3 Spatial Arrangement
3.3.1 Unit Plan
Unit Type A Unit Type B
Unit Type C Unit Type D
Figure 13. Unit Layout Plans (Typical Unit A, B, C, D)
Typical Unit Layout (Type A, B, C and D)
Gembira Residen has luxury units with A, B, C and D with a range from RM640,000 to RM
880,000:
a) Type A: 1578 sf (comes with 2 car parks)
b) Type B: 1488 sf (comes with 2 car parks)
c) Type C: 1168 sf (comes with 2 car parks)
d) Type D: 1392 sf (comes with 2 car parks)

14
Figure 14. Unit Layout Planning Principle (by Leong Yu Shi)
All the units come with 3 bedrooms with private bathrooms. All the units planned as the
principle shown in Figure 14.
All the private rooms are placed on the left as they are obtaining a scenic view whereas the
public areas are on the right utilising the balcony allowing cross ventilation to ventilate living
areas. Hence, the wet areas or service areas are linked to the next unit.
4.0 Construction Method
G residence main construction method is Concrete Post and beam Structure, cast-in-situ.
Concrete structural frame comprising a network of columns and connecting beams that forms
the structural ‘skeleton’ of a building. This grid of beams and columns is constructed on a
concrete foundation and is used to support the building’s floors, roof, walls, cladding and so
on. The concrete frame rests on foundations, which transfers the forces of the building to the
ground which resist various loads that act on a building during its life such as gravity loads
such as self-weight, dead loads, live loads and superimposed weight. Lateral loads which
consist of wind loads, seismic loads, accidental loads and unbalanced earth pressure.
The main beams, the load bearing members transmitting floor and secondary beam loads to
the columns. The secondary beams transmitting floor loads to the main beams. Columns are
the vertical members of the frame, and are the building’s primary load-bearing element which
transmit the beam loads down to the foundations. The concrete posts and beams are
reinforced with reinforcement steel, used to strengthen and hold the concrete in tension to
improve the quality of the bond with the concrete. The materials that are used as walls for
concrete frame structures including heavyweight masonry such as brick, blockwork and
lightweight material, drywall. Concrete frame uses cladding materials such as glass,
aluminium panels, concrete facades. These structures are designed for heavy loading, it can
be clad as solid masonry walls of brick.

15
Figure 15. Post and Beam concrete casting
Roofing on the highest level of penthouse uses concrete slab flat roof which is made up of a
structural layer of concrete finished with a smooth screed onto which a waterproof layer such
as a membrane is laid. The roof incorporates insulation and vapour control layer to protect
from interstitial condensation.
Figure 16. Roofing components (by Yang Jing Loo)

16
5.0 BUILDING ANALYSIS
5.1 Roof Analysis
5.1.1 Design and Type of Roof
Figure 17. Panoramic View of Roof Top.
The design and type of roof used for G Residence is reinforced concrete (RC) flat roofing. Flat
roofing is commonly installed in warm climates. Flat roofing has several advantages, the
biggest being costs. Flat roofs are affordable for both installation, upkeep and maintenance.
Labour is cheaper due to less risks involved while installing a flat roof.
Flat roof installations are quicker and easier. There are fewer damage and repair costs
incurred over the lifespan of the roof. In addition, installing technology like solar panels, which
saves electricity- carrying out repairs and cleaning gutters are less expensive and easier to
accomplish on flat roofs.
The second advantage is that the space enclosed by the flat roof can be converted into a plant
room floor to house essential building services equipment such as elevator motor rooms, water
tanks and others. Air conditioning units can be placed on the roof instead of the ground. From
an aesthetic side, flat roof solar racking installed on a flat roof is less evident from the ground
than a sloped roof. Flat roofs are more accessible than sloped roofs. They are easier to climb
upon for inspection. Flat roofs avoid exerting excessive weight on the building frame.
Draining is one of the major disadvantages for flat roofs. Flat roofs do not drain as efficiently
as roofs with a pitch and water tends to puddle and remain on the roof. The standing water
can lead to the breakdown of roofing material and leaks, especially along the seams, as
evidenced in our stormwater analysis. A flat roof contractor would have to be engaged to install
added mechanisms to address proper drainage. Water removal options are time-consuming
and can be expensive.
Hence, proper sealing of both the top coat and underlayer are critical to the roof’s integrity.
The coating must be subject to regular roof leak testing to ensure there are no leaks.
5.1.2 Roof Construction
The reinforced concrete flat roof was constructed using formwork cast concrete on-site.
Formwork is first build by construction labourers for the intended roof. These frames are either
removable concrete forms or stay-in-place insulating concrete forms, which later become a
part of the finished flat roof.

17
The concrete mixture is poured, spread through the framework and reinforced with steel bars,
serving as a skeleton for the cured concrete. A concrete roof requires more support than a
typical timber roof. Concrete roof requires the exterior walls to be capable of supporting the
giant slab. Interior support beams can help, but RC flat roof construction works best when
concrete wall, floor and roof combined to form a solid shell.
Figure 18. RC Flat Roof Slab, Scupper Drain & Upturn Area Sketch.
5.1.3 Services
5.1.3.1 Water Tanks
Figure 19. Location of Tanks on a Roof Plan in Gembira Residen

18
Roof tanks are fresh water tanks, they are placed at the top-most floor in Gembira Residence.
Water is provided to roof tanks via direct main water supply as the building height is only 24
floors, there is no need for a transfer pump. Water tanks can be found in all 3 blocks of
Gembira Residence but Block B particularly with additional tanks as all of the facilities, such
as swimming pool, tennis court, management office, community hall, gym room, BBQ deck,
futsal court and shop lots, are located in Block B level 5.
Figure 20. Photo of Services on Rooftop
As there are limited space for services, most of the human circulation spaces are being
occupied by pipes as shown in Figure 20. The difficulty in accessing these areas has affected
the inefficiency of maintenance for technician or inspector.
5.1.3.2 Lift Motor Room
Figure 21. Location of Lift Motor Room on Roof Plan in Gembira Residen

19
The lift motor room is located in the center of the building and in between 2 voids. There are
3 lifts, whereby one of them is contractor lift or bomba lift, serving each block of residents. As
the lift motor room is not well-maintained, reported by the residents, the lifts often flooded after
a heavy rain, especially during the rainy seasons in October 2019. It is affecting the usage of
the lift as sometimes only 1 lift could work. The management, too, has reported that quite a
major issue for accessibility and financially to fix this issue after a heavy downpour.
5.1.4 Maintenance and Issue
Maintenance including routing maintenance, construction of building systems and utility
infrastructure comes in 6 different levels, which is emergency-dispatch, high-immediate,
normal, low, slight and deferred (Illinois Facilities & Services, 2018). Maintenance which is
done in Gembira Residence is lawn maintenance, sprinkler repair, electrical systems, trash
disposal and plumbing. Gembira Residence falls on a normal building maintenance service
level as the technicians and inspectors repair and maintain the services around 1-5 weeks
interval. As shown in Figure 22 and Figure 23, the mechanical services are well-maintained
but the building maintenance is low. Corrosive patches can be easily seen on the surface of
the roof. Furthermore, cracks can be found on the floor and wall on the rooftop which affects
the lower penthouse units have leaking issues.
Severe symptoms have appeared on roof level and the immediate floor below. Water leakage
issue is damaging the door and the surface of the wall. The surface of fire staircase has white
patches on them as the overflowed water did not clean by the janitor in Gembira Residence.
Figure 23. Effect of Storm Water
Leakage in Gembira Residen
Figure 22. Lack of Maintenance on the
Surface of Rooftop

20
Figure 24. Stormwater Drainage on Roof Top
The roof consists of 2 parts which is the servicing area and individual rooftop balcony for all
the pent house owners. The services area has a drain with 300mm width and 25mm depth
(highlighted in red shown in Figure 25) comes with 1:2° fall connected to rainwater downpipe.
Figure 25. Flow of Storm Water on Roof Top (by Leong Yu Shi)
Storm water is not well-treated by the developer, after rain, the rainwater will overflow to the
Ground Floor (shown in Figure 25) as most of the roof are flat roofs and the drain is not deep
enough to hold the heavy downpour of rain. Hence. The rainwater is overflowing to the Ground
Floor affecting pedestrian convenience when they are walking to their visitor’s parking which
is uncovered.
Besides that, as most of the rooftop spaces are sold to penthouse owners, there are limited
spaces to do improvements or maintenance. The building is over designed for the unit owners
as the building maintenance and sustainability have been put aside. Inefficiency and
insufficiency of maintenance has affected the occupant’s living qualities. Hence, this report is
proposing innovations to improve the building quality as well as enhancing occupants’ living
qualities.

21
5.2 Walls and Finishes Analysis
5.2.1 Design and Type of Wall/Facade
The type of wall used extensively in this building is reinforced concrete wall, cast-in-situ. It
widely used to provide the lateral strength, stiffness and energy dissipation capacity required
to resist lateral loads arising from wind or earthquakes. The properties of concrete wall include
strength and durability, concrete does not harbour insects and rot that can cause frame houses
to deteriorate, able to withstand longer building life. Energy efficiency as thermal mass of the
walls and the tight seals at joints enable concrete homes to excel at keeping conditioned air
in and extreme temperatures out. Concrete walls able to act as noise control to filter out noise
from the occupants in the building. Fire resistance is also the main important aspects in fire-
rated walls. Besides that, concrete wall is considered as green construction which require less
energy for heating and cooling, concrete-walled units able to conserve resources by using
fewer wood products. Although concrete houses usually cost more to build, once constructed,
they are veritable saving machines due to lower utility costs, leads to economic value.
5.2.2 Solar Control and Shading Device
Based on the sun path analysis as mentioned in 2.3.1, the case study building’s residential
towers frontage and rear are directly exposed to sunlight. Figure 28 shows the typical unit of
the three residential tower and its orientation in response to the sun path.
Figure 28. Typical unit of the three residential tower and its orientation in response to the sun path.
Figure 26. Exterior wall with
waterproofing layer.
Figure 27. Interior walls with typical
wall finishes

22
Solar radiation is an important factor of thermal comfort, therefore sun shading devices are
essential in ensuring the thermal comfort of the occupants. It also helps to reduce the energy
consumption of the units, thus improving the building energy performance. Solar control is
especially important on the west and east facing facade as it coincides with the hottest part of
the day. Horizontal screen louvers are used as the external shading device in the case study
building due to its high shading efficiency in hot climate, Figure 29. Despite for its shading
properties, the horizontal screen louvers are mainly used for aesthetic purposes in the case
study building to hide the air condenser units from view, Figure 30.
Figure 29. Elevation of the residential tower facade which utilizes the horizontal screen louver.

23
Figure 30. Facade of the case study residential tower
In addition, the vertical reinforced concrete louvers around the car park does not benefit the
thermal comfort of the space as it does not provide any shading properties. It was used merely
as a facade treatment to continue the architectural language of the building design.
Figure 31. Facade of the case study building’s car park

24
5.2.4 Maintenance and Issues
Based on the site visit, there are some issues on the facade wall and interior corridor wall that
can be seen visually. The case study building is designed in a way in which it requires large
amount of labour in maintaining the cleanliness of the facade. As shown in Table 3, stains and
watermarks started to accumulate on the walls which are exposed to the weather and also
due to the poor system of waterproofing layer. Furthermore, the difficulty in accessing the area
makes it even more inefficient for maintenance. These results in larger cost on re-painting
work as there are no protective treatment to maintain and protect it from being worn off.
Location Photo Type Issues/condition Maintenance
Corridor Exterior
Concrete
wall
Watermarks and
stains accumulated
on the surface of
the wall due to the
exposure to the
weather.
Large costs on
Repainting
work and deep
cleaning.
Staircase Interior
Concrete
wall with
finishes
Water leakage on
the edge of wall
due to poor
waterproofing
system.
Protective
treatment to
maintain and
protect it from
being worn off.
Atrium Exterior
Concrete
wall
Wall cracks due to
the tropical
climate.
Re-painting
work.
Table 3. Overall Maintenance and Issues on wall in G Residence

25
5.3 OPENING ANALYSIS
5.3.1 Ventilation Study
As Malaysia has seasonal monsoons known as the northeast monsoon, southwest monsoon
and two shorter periods of inter-monsoon seasons, the wind flow pattern is generally light and
inconsistent with uniform intermittent changes (Jamaludin & Mohammed & Khamidi & Abdul
Wahab, 2014). The building layout shows the residential units with window openings facing
the south and north directions have advantage of the prevailing wind conditions that enhance
indoor thermal comfort. The unit with openings facing the west and east receive the least
prevailing wind.
Figure 32. Arrangement of building layout to encourage maximum cross ventilation
Ventilation is an essential element contributing to good thermal comfort. In the residential units,
types of ventilation that can be found in building are cross ventilation (CV) and single-sided
ventilation (SSV). CV is generally the most effective form of wind ventilation. CV across the
functional spaces are well-achieved in this case study building. Some rooms in the unit does
not facilitate true cross ventilation such as in some bedrooms and kitchen area. The unit types
that create promising CV if assuming the internal windows and doors are opened are those
units that have lanai as the open balconies which is unit type A, B and C. Unit type D with no
open balconies has poorer CV effect whereas the other three-unit types are well-ventilated.

26
Unit Type A Unit Type B
Unit Type C Unit Type D
Figure 33. Example of residential units in the case study building achieving cross ventilation
Where natural ventilation is provided by CV the underlying mechanisms are well understood.
However, there are many circumstances in which cross-ventilation is restricted, for instance
when the ventilated space is relatively well-sealed from the remainder of the building. It can
be happened in which internal doors to central corridors are kept closed for reasons of privacy
or noise and in which openable windows are situated in one external wall. In such spaces
ventilation is achieved by the exchange of air through the windows on one side of the space
rather than by CV, this is where the SSV occurs.

27
5.3.2 Design, type, issues of openings
Window type
Window Photo Type Location Issues/ conditions
W1 Casement
window
Bedroom
No enough
sunlight
W2 Fixed window Fire
Staircase
Less opening
staircase air is not
ventilated
W3 Louvered glass
window Fire
Staircase
Not well
maintained, water
overflow the fire
staircase
W4 Single
casement
window
Toilet Raining water will
slip into the user
space

28
W5 No window/
self-installed
sliding window
Open
kitchen
No window will
cause rain splash
in
Door type
Door Photo Type Location Issues
D1 Sliding
door
Living
room
Living room no window
but sliding door
D2
Sliding
door &
window
Master
bedroom
The opening is placed
too close to the furniture
and cause the rain water
slip in easily
D3 Room
entrance
Corridor Plywood flush door
Increasing the size or amount of ventilation openings will further reduce reliance on those air
conditioning systems. The ventilation rates are affected by different window types. An
important consideration is how the windows operate, because some operating types have
lower air leakage rates than others, which will improve units’ energy efficiency.

29
Sliding windows, also known as gliding windows, these are a window style designed for
maximum ventilation. Their versatile design allows them to mesh with large, fixed units to
provide welcome ventilation. This window style also has a strong airtight seal that can have a
positive impact on the energy efficiency of the unit space. However, sliding doors in the living
area of unit type A,B and C act as a huge balcony opening with 6m width and 2.4m of height.
This big opening allows good ventilation but also causes rainwater slip in easily.
Sliding windows with fixed pane of glass further reduce ventilation though at least one third of
the window at the sizes in the bedroom of the unit. The opening is placed too close to the
furniture and cause the rain water slip in easily.
A casement window opens perpendicularly to the window so allows ventilation through the
entire window area. This design allows them to direct and control drafts effectively, as 100%
of the window opening is utilised to expel stale indoor air. Casement windows are used in
bedroom and they provide excellent cross ventilation.
Fixed windows no matter what size offer no ventilation at all the chain. In the fire staircase
area, the corridors are not properly ventilated due to the installation of fixed glass windows to
prevent rainwater from coming in. The residential unit block with the core designed in the
middle allows the unit to provide maximum opening through nearly every room and create
good ventilation throughout the whole living spaces.
Figure 36. Casement window in the
bedroom.
Figure 37. Fixed glass windows installed
at the fire staircase
Figure 34. Sliding door in the living room
area.
Figure 35. Sliding door and fixed window
in bedroom.

30
Figure 38. Typical unit layout showing the facade opening
The facilities level at the upper ground floor is naturally ventilated at the open terrace and
pavilion, which act as communal voids. Landscaping at the facilities floor and provision of trees
at the entrance allows prevailing wind to cross-ventilate as illustrated in Figure 39. The
covered decks are also naturally cooling due to the high floor-to-floor height and abundance
of voids.
Figure 39. Prevailing wind from south to north makes the facilities spaces cooling due to the open area and
abundance of landscaping
The building design took advantage of the sloping site from the main road down to the rear
side of the building to create well-ventilated car park podium at all the lower ground floors as
illustrated in Figure 41. The podium does not have any obstructing facade system, making
the space porous, bright and cooling to natural air.

31
‘Stack Ventilation’ occurs due to the “movement of cold and warm air into and out of the
building driven by buoyancy”. In G Residence, open lobbies and podiums allow sufficient
space for stack ventilation to take place. In the meantime, the open and podiums function very
well as a passive cooling strategy as the heat from direct solar radiation could be driven away
from the internal space through effective stack ventilation. There are two voids placed at the
center of the 3 residential tower and this void is where the stack ventilation occurs. The stack
effect occurs throughout the 23-storey towers and creates a huge volume of air entering the
building through the balconies. On the whole, the stack devices and ventilation shaft strategies
into three main categories which are fitting structure, adjacency structure and overlapping
structure.
Figure 42. Typical unit layout showing the void
Figure 43. Section showing the stack ventilation
Figure 40. Naturally lit and ventilated
common facilities spaces
Figure 41. Open car park podium at the
lower ground floors

32
5.3.3 Window to wall ratio
For an average, typically single-glazed window has a heat transfer coefficient of 5.0 W/m2C
or 6.0 when it is metal-framed.
Window to Wall Ratio is calculated using the following formula:
In most case, the building energy consumption are usually affected by the window design as
it is one of the factors.
In that case, we should provide more consideration on the window design where it is vital in
providing room ventilation, lighting system.
The controlling or filtering of traffic noise in urban areas is seen to be one of the challenges
in the designing of windows and openings. Window to Wall ratio is one of the key
determining factors for window in transmitting solar radiation into interior space. Therefore,
the percentage area of exterior envelope consists of glazing (such as windows) and doors is
defined as the window to wall ratio. As established by ASHRAE 90.1-2007, the ideal
condition of adequate and sufficient indoor natural ventilation and daylight being a Window
to Wall Ratio of 0.24. However, the higher the value of WWR doesn't promise a better
window performance. In most cases, glare and overheating issue are often presented when
a window (where WWR is more than 0.30) is large where there is penetration of extra heat
and light into the interior.
Table 4. Summary of standard requirement for WWR.
Figure 44. Floor plan G Residence

33
POOR
WWR<0.24
GOOD
WWR = 0.24
OVERHEAT
WWR > 0.30
E S W N E S W N E S W N
W1 1
W2 1
W3 1
W4 1
W5 1
W6 1 1
W7 1
Total 3 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0
Grand Total 5 1 3
Table 5. Summary of window to wall ratio for unit A
Table 5 shows there are 3 windows which have Window to Wall Ratio that exceeded 0.30 and
considered as allowing too much heat into the room. The overheated rooms are located on
the East and North walls. The reason it caused oversupplied ventilation and daylighting is
perhaps of the position and oversized opening (sliding door in living room). This building has
only one window allowed optimum ventilation and daylighting into the room.
According to WWR per exposure as explained, WWR at North and South sides should be
maximized as to allow sufficient daylight in and WWR at East and West sides should be
minimized to prevent too much direct light into a space which can cause glare and contribute
to heat gain.
Five windows allowed insufficient ventilation and daylight into the rooms. Due to the central
core design, some units with majority of the windows in G Residence are directly facing East
and West and some are not. The Unit Type A has majority windows facing the west facade.
From the results, it is noted that 5 out of 9 of windows in G Residence allowed insufficient
ventilation and daylighting into the room.
5.3.4 Daylighting Study
As Malaysia is a tropical country, day lighting which is known as passive design which
regulated allowance of natural light, uninterrupted sunlight and distributed skylight into a
building in order to decrease artificial lighting, save energy and cost. Many researches have
proven that daylighting is an effective way to provide energy efficiency for electric lighting, as
well as visual comfort for users (Othman, 2012).
Amount of daylight that enters a room depends on the window location and its dimensions.
Typically, adequate daylight will penetrate one- and one-half times the height of the window
head (Gregg, 2016). In this case study, daylighting is widely achieved in living rooms, dining
areas and bedrooms of each unit types. One of the bedrooms in unit Type A & B is slightly
smaller as might affect the nature lighting and visual connection.
North-facing windows provide consistent indirect light with minimal heat gains. Minimize
eastern and western exposure when the sun is lowest and most likely causes glare and

34
overheating. Hence, we found out that the proportion of North-facing windows in unit type A
and B is higher while lesser windows for unit Type D.
TYPE A TYPE B
TYPE C TYPE D
Figure 45. Example of residential units in the case study building achieving day lighting
The design process for day lighting in building should take into consideration some factors in
the building, window, room or day lighting framework. Windows play a huge role on the
quantity of daylight penetration. The chosen type of windows must suit the lighting needs of
the building. Within the dwelling units, there are some window types that can enhance
daylighting penetrated inside dwelling units which are stated as below: -
1. Sliding Windows
Floor-to-ceiling sliding windows enhance better viewing and daylighting experience especially
in the living room. Their unobstructed glass surface allows a lot of sunlight in, creating a bright,
airy room. In this case study, unit A, B and D has incorporated this window type to provide a
wide view and allows a good amount of light into unit itself. However, opening in living room
area is slightly over provided.
2. Casement Windows
In this case study, unit type A, B, C and D both used casement window as a bedroom’s window.
This window style usually uses in bedroom and kitchen area which allows cross ventilation

35
like it's sliding counterpart. For example, with vinyl-framed casement windows, you can get
the daylight you need to illuminate your home and increase energy efficiency. Regardless of
style, it’s a good idea to get windows with less frame and more glass for maximum daylighting.
5.3.4 External opening
Larger and taller buildings should have thinner profiles to maximize daylighting potential from
side windows. Hence, large buildings can get daylight into more spaces such as having central
courtyards or atria, or having other cut-outs in the building form.
In our case study, as most of the transitional spaces have combined with large opening and
naturally ventilated, sufficient daylighting is obtained in these areas without using artificial
lighting during the daytime. The corridor in all floors are designed with opening on both sides
at the end of corridors which allow natural lighting to penetrate in as shown in Figure 46.
Figure 46. Corridor opening with both sides

36
6.0 PROPOSALS
6.1 Construction System
Current global issue is about energy conservation and climate changes which is the “Climate
Action” in Sustainable Development Goals, in architecture field, a project strives to reduce
carbon footprint and reduce impact on climate change by decreasing GHG emissions and
improving energy efficiency stated by the Malaysia Economic Planning Unit Department,
(2017).
After our case study, the suitable construction system proposed is IBS structural system. IBS
System is the commonly used of technologies and practice for sustainability in Malaysia
Industrialised Building System (IBS). The structural components of a structure are mass
produced either in a factory or at site under strict quality control and minimal on-site activities.
It is not affected by adverse weather conditions and is shortened, thus reduces interest
payment or capital outlays.
Besides, IBS produces higher quality structural components through careful selection of
materials, use of advanced technology and for labour remains the same and the supply
decreases, construction cost will increase. IBS in construction reduces the cost of labour up
to 70% when compared to that of the projects using conventional construction method. There
are successful projects of IBS buildings in Malaysia which are Brickfields Secondary School
and Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in Kuala Lumpur, Subang Square in Subang Jaya,
Selangor, and Millennium Hall in Seberang Prai, Pulau Pinang. The Malaysian government
encouraged the adoption of IBS in the construction industry through the effort of CIDB.
Figure 47. IBS structural system (by Yang Jing Loo)

37
6.2 Roof Proposals
6.2.1 Low Maintenance Materials and Insulation (TPO Membrane)
Figure 48. Layering of TPO Membrane onto Built Flat Concrete. By Northern Virginia Roofing, 2019.
(http://www.nvroofs.com/residential/roofing/roof-types/tpo-roof-pros-and-cons-of-tpo-roofing/)
Copyright 2019 by Northern Virginia Roofing.
Due to lack of moisture maintenance, a layer of membrane could be implied on the surface of
the roof to reduce the cost of maintenance as well as benefiting the indoor environment
qualities. TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin), a single ply roofing membrane that covers the
surface of the roof. TPO is composed of a few different types of rubber, a blend of
polypropylene and ethylene-propylene, rubber and reinforcing filler (calcium carbonate and
carbon fibre). This mixture of materials creates a strong, highly durable thermoplastic that can
be scratch-resistance and impact-resistance. It comes in white colour but it could be painted
and mounted onto different materials. White surface to reflect the sunlight and reduces solar
radiation into building and stop the building from heating up. TPO eases cooling costs due to
UV resistance and reduces carbon emissions.
Figure 49. Annotation of the application of TPO Membrane.
There are 3 types of TPO manufacture: vacuum forming, pressure forming and twin-sheet
forming, which caters to different requirements of TPO on site. In Gembira Residence, we are
proposing to use vacuum form manufacture as it is the cheapest and it does not require a
sharp corners and high level of details. Application of TPO membrane could minimize the
carbon footprint and consume as little energy as possible in the end-application as less

38
material is used for maintenance on the later stage (Malaysia Economic Planning Unit
Department, 2017). Development of new and innovative products to help in new energy-saving
applications is an important role for industry, innovation and infrastructure in SGD Goals
(Malaysia Economic Planning Unit Department, 2017).
A layer of TPO membrane can be equally applied to the flat surface of concrete roof in Gembira
Residence. The cost of TPO roofing is relatively low compared to other sustainable
mechanical devices as it is around RM20-25/sq ft including installation fees. Due to TPO’s
lightweight and flexible properties, it is easy to install, less work and time spent on installing
hence the technician cost will be saved.
Figure 52. Section of Parapet Wall when TPO is applied (by Leong Yu Shi)
TPO membrane can be bent or fold when it is applied onto parapet wall which is used by
Gembira Residence. TPO roofing has high durability as it is resisting bacteria, debris, algae
and dirt as well as ultraviolet and chemical exposure. In addition to its high resistance to debris
build-up, TPO’s flexible membrane allows it to withstand punctures, tears and impact damage.
TPO has been researched and experimented by a lot of western residential as it efficiently
reduces cooling fees and it does not harm the environment. The seams are welded, rather
than glued, so they are less prone to separation or tear apart once the heat shines on it, hence
the maintenance fee can be low. The disadvantage is manufacturer’s warranty is only 15-20
years as it is still fairly new to the construction market and improvements on the material are
still being discovered. Besides that, contractors must calibrate welding machine correctly as
the membrane might be loose and lead to water infiltration hence professionals are hired to
do the installation.
Figure 50. Installation of TPO Membrane.
By 1st Class Roofing Inc, 2019.
(https://www.1stclassroofingincfl.com/comm
ercial-roofing/tpo/)
Copyright 2019 by 1st Class Roofing Inc.
Figure 51. Layers of TPO Membrane
with RC Flat Roof (by Leong Yu Shi)

39
6.2.2 Solar Panels
Figure 53. Implication of Solar Panels on Roof Top. By Tile Energy, 2016. (https://www.tileenergy.uk/solar-
panels-for-new-build-housing)
Copyright 2016 by Tile Energy.
As reported by The Star, Malaysia can generate 1.4 times more electricity if all the roofs in
Malaysia are fitted with solar panels, compared to the conventional electricity generation of
fossil fuel (Chu, 2019). As the cost of electricity has been rising over the years, the majority of
the residential housing have installed solar system in their houses. Although the mechanical
device is expensive but it saves a lot of money in a long usage. Besides that, to promote
sustainability in Malaysia, for property with these devices could pay less property tax which is
FiT Rate incentives offered by the government.
Malaysia is a hot tropical climatic country hence we experience sunlight all year long. Solar
energy is a renewable energy hence we should fully utilise the ‘given’ free energy in order to
achieve energy efficiency according to sustainability. Hence, double facing photovoltaic (PV)
solar panel is proposed for Gembira Residence as shown in Figure 53.
Figure 54. The Proposed Location for Solar Panels.

40
The proposed location to install solar panels is above the lift motor room as shown in Figure.
It is chosen because this is rather a flat surface which solar panels can be faced both east and
west. The type of solar power system chosen is grid connected solar with energy storage,
which is known as hybrid solar. This system consists of a photovoltaic array, a charge
controller, a battery bank and inverter. This solar power system is complex hence a high-level
expertise needs to be hired to design and install in this building. This system is proposed
because it can store excess energy collected by the solar system. Hence, even if there is a
power outage, the building will still have power for hours.
There is limited space provided on the rooftop in Gembira Residence, hence roof top of lift
motor room is the most suitable place to install the photovoltaic solar panels. As shown by the
resident, every month with minimal air-conditioning usage, since the family only coming back
at night, the average monthly bill of electricity is RM200-250. By installing solar panels, electric
bills can be drastically reduced not only for individual units but for the overall building as well.
Figure 57. Usage of Solar Energy in Gembira Residen (by Leong Yu Shi)
These solar energies collected could be used for hot water and pumping (shown in Figure 57)
as these services have produced 30% of the total greenhouse gases in households. A solar
panel system has typically a 25-35 year lifespan, which a residential can reduce electricity
costs for decades. Solar reduces carbon emissions and protects the environment while
helping Malaysia move towards energy independence. As Malaysia is moving towards a
sustainability country, solar is the cheapest option as transitioning towards renewables and
away from fossil fuels such as coal and oil. Solar is one of the most scalable, consumer-
friendly solutions available for the clean energy landscape.
Figure 55. Installation of Double-Sided
Solar above Lift Motor Room (by Leong
Yu Shi)
Figure 56. Section of Solar Panel Panels
Installation (by Leong Yu Shi)

41
6.2.3 Rainwater Harvesting
Figure 58. Traditional Rainwater Harvesting in Rural Areas. From UN Environment Programme by Mohamed
Atani, 2019. (https://www.unenvironment.org/news-and-stories/story/innovative-smart-phone-app-improve-
rainwater-harvesting)
Copyright 2019 by Mohamed Atani.
In a country with high average annual rainfall like Malaysia, especially when there are some
serious issues such as global warming, changes in weather patterns and increasing water
consumption due to overpopulation. There is limitation of clean water supply to the citizens.
Therefore, city planners, architects and designers are finding new ways on how to reduce,
reuse and retain water, where rainwater harvesting and recycling are being used by the
architects. Rainwater harvesting has been practicing in a rural area in Malaysia as shown in
Figure 58 due to lack of water supply to these areas. As we are moving to a new era, high-
rise building can no longer practice the technique above to collect rainwater. Hence, we are
proposing rainwater harvesting system for Gembira Residence as there are heavy usage of
water on the garden in front of car park podium as well as all unit’s toilet flushing and urinals.
Figure 59. The Proposed Location for Rainwater Catchment Area.
Water is not a renewable, thus we should reduce the wastage. Through studies, the best
rainwater catchment areas are roof area, podium and surface runoff. The proposed location
of rainwater catchment area for rainwater harvesting system is on top of each penthouse’s
rooftop balcony as shown in Figure 59. Currently, the roof is rather a flat concrete which
overflow stormwater to the Ground Floor with no beneficial usage.

42
Figure 60. Section of Rainwater Harvesting Catchment Area in Gembira Residence (by Leong Yu Shi)
Rainwater harvesting systems allow us to achieve a sustainable future with a better
environment. Collected and filtered rainwater can be safely used for toilet flushing and urinals,
irrigation, laundry, vehicle washing and general cleaning as well as commercial application.
Hence, by raising the 4 edges of the roof creating an enclosed and cemented catchment area,
we are able to direct the collected storm water to rainwater storage tank as shown in Figure
60. Rainwater harvesting could improve water efficiency by reducing the consumption,
recycling more and reinforcing efforts in water scarcity areas in clean water and sanitation
aspects of SDG Goals (Malaysia Economic Planning Unit Department, 2017). Rainwater
harvesting has also contributed to GBI criterias in water efficiency whereby they are water
recycling and water-saving (Green Building Index Sdn Bhd, 2009).
Figure 61. Utilizing Rainwater Harvesting System for Planting and Toilet Flushing in Gembira Residence (by
Leong Yu Shi)
Through the process shown in Figure 61, rainwater harvesting can help to cut the cost to
supply mains and overall water services which can be substantially reduced when many
people in one community use rainwater, hence it will not only help individuals save on their
water bills but can cut costs for the entire residential communities. Having a source of water
can also reduce dependence on municipal sources in case the water becomes contaminated.

43
Rainwater harvesting can reduce erosion around downspouts and in gardens. Besides that, it
is now in a beneficial usage rather than destroying the surface of materials of the building.
Since Gembira Residence has a lot of greeneries, rainwater harvesting can also be used to
improve plants and gardens. Harvested water can flush the salt build-up from plants and soil,
it is beneficial for plants as rainwater is free from pollutants and man-made contaminants. As
for the maintenance, it is rather cheap compared to purifying or pumping water systems.
Collection of water can be used in substantial ways even without purification.
6.2.4 Green Roof
Green roof strategy could be implemented on the current RC flat roofs above the residential
blocks. Installing green roofs reduces both the heat island effect and excessive runoff as well
as improve the aesthetics of the building.
Under the Green Building Index (GBI) standards - SM 13 ‘Heat Island Effect – Roof’,
integrating a vegetated roof to at least 50% of a roof area can reduce the heat island effect
and is awarded a maximum of 1 point.
Figure 62. The Proposed Location for Green Roof Area.
Figure 63. Elmich MEP® Tray as Green Roof Strategy for Gembira Residence (by Lydia Kow)

44
The Elmich MEP®
Tray (Modular Extensive Planting) system is suitably designed for extensive
green roofs. It consists of a lightweight and robust planting tray with water storage
compartments made from high-strength UV-stabilised polypropylene.
The system includes a support plate with anti-root overflow outlet covers, capillary wicks,
geotextile filter, erosion guard, joining and fastening pegs, rodent barriers, base connector and
drainage pipes. The water reservoir in each MEP®
Tray supports long term plant sustainability
with minimal maintenance. The modular tray design allows sustained plant growth and its light
weight facilitates easy creation of desired designs and patterns. Each MEP®
Tray including
accessories, saturated planting media, plants and stored water weighs less than 30 kg.
The self-contained MEP®
Tray can be pre-planted in a nursery prior to installation to achieve
instant greening of rooftops. MEP®
Tray components are manufactured primarily from re-
cycled plastics and has achieved several international Green Building certifications.
6.2.5 Integrated Solar Light Pipe and Wind Turbines with Exhaust Plenum
The Solar Light Pipe is a device which introduces daylight deep into the building through its
voids. A rooftop heliostat (computer-controlled, powered mirror) tracks the sun and re-directs
light down the middle of the Solar Light Pipe. The pipe has a double-skin construction, with an
outer layer of tensioned synthetic-fibre fabric and a core consisting of glass prisms – fixed in
steel frames and held in position by radial rods. The structure is suspended from the roof and
fixed by cables at regular intervals to the side façades.
When the sky is overcast, artificial light from spotlights on the roof is reflected into the pipe
and at night, lights of changing colour temperature lend the column a sculptural character.
Figure 64. Utilizing integrated Solar Light Pipe and Wind Turbine in Gembira Residence (by Lydia Kow)
Exterior sunlight is channelled into the interior through the process of reflection within the
pipes, and thus the light ray supply becomes the source of lighting inside the building. The
light is guided through these pipes can either be through internal reflection or with the use of
mirrors to transmit the light ray into the interior.

45
The table below shows the sizes and lighting value of the light pipe and lumen equivalences
(Kiyak and Gökmen, 2013). Light pipes can be divided as the horizontal and vertical types.
They are considered a renewable source as they do not require any supply of electricity.
Light pipe diameter Light Output (Lumen) Equal as Electric Lamp
250mm 3000 - 4600 lm 3,350 lm T8 lamp (1-2 unit)
350mm 6000 - 9100 lm 3,350 lm T8 lamp (2-3 unit)
530mm 13,900 - 20,800 lm 3,350 lm T8 lamp (4-6 unit)
Table 6. Solar Light Pipe Lumen Equivalences
The Solar Light Pipe also functions as an exhaust plenum. The exhaust plenum is at slightly
negative pressure, induced by north flues’ ‘stack effect’ and wind-powered turbines at the top.
Wind driven cowls aid in heat extraction.
In Malaysia’s Green Building Index (GBI), natural lighting falls under the area of of assessment
for EQ4 on ‘Daylighting’ with 1 point for having all public and circulation spaces being naturally
lit, and IN1 on ‘Innovation in Design’ with 1 point for light pipes.
Advantages of Wind Turbines
Ventilation: Hot, humid air build up in the roof needs to be released to the outdoors so that
humidity doesn’t build up and cause mold, rot or other moisture. Wind turbines can also help
siphon away moist air effectively.
• Less dependent on energy source: Turbines are passive vents, meaning they do
not need an energy source to run. With just a little bit of wind, which is usually present
on rooftops, wind turbines can move a lot of air without incurring any electric costs.
The only disadvantage here is the high installation cost.
• Reliable: Due to their simple rounded design, wind turbines are rarely disturbed by
anything other than large debris. They are able to keep running for several years into
the future with regular, simple maintenance.

46
6.3 Wall
6.3.1 Vertical Green Wall (VersiWall Green Wall system)
The integration of green walls is synonymous with green building development. The green
component is similar in nature as both are based on the concept of vegetation coverage on
buildings. Vegetation is well-known as the natural medium that performs the photosynthesis
process, where it releases molecular oxygen and removes carbon dioxide from the
atmosphere. It able to provide energy savings on buildings. Incorporation of plants into the
building envelopes is a part of environment sustainability movement. Suitable to locate on
exterior walls, as these elements cover a large portion of the building structure.
Figure 65. The Proposed Location for Vertical green wall.
Improvement of building energy efficiency: façade plants have multiple positive effects on
building thermal performance, which include increased wall insulation, façade shading, air
cooling through evapotranspiration and reduction of wind near the façade and reduce indoor
air temperature under the hot and humid climate. The Green wall system works with the main
structural system that are constructed adjacent to the wall, and provide an interlocking system
to attach the VersiWall green wall panels to the structural frame.
Figure 66. Mesh brackets installed on the structural system adjacent to the wall
(https://www.hy-tex.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/P_VersiWallGP_Guide_01.pdf )

47
Figure 67. VersiWall Green Wall system (by Yang Jing Loo)
The methods of installing VersiWall GP Mesh Bracket can be adjusted horizontally and
vertically for easy alignment of individual welded mesh panels and to avoid obstacles like re-
bars embedded in the wall. This enables the quick positioning and installation of the mesh
panels on the wall. VersiWall GP Mesh Bracket is engineered to facilitate the use of fewer
anchor points compared to conventional fastening systems using bolts of similar size with
sleeves. The position of the bracket on the welded mesh does not interfere with installation
of the VGP trays. VGP Mesh Bracket provides a constant 30 mm gap between the mesh and
wall for ventilation and allows services like irrigation lines to be conveniently secured at the
back of the mesh away from view. VGP Mesh Bracket has integrated flexible Anti-Lift Arms
on each of its side wings to prevent the mesh from inadvertent dislodgement.

48
6.3.2 AAC Block Wall
The case study building uses reinforced concrete wall extensively throughout due to the
strength and thermal properties that it provides. Though that may be the case, it requires a
large amount of energy to produce concrete. Therefore, it is suggested that all the non-load
bearing walls of the units can be replaced with Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Blocks as
shown in Figure 68.
Figure 68. Proposed location of non-load bearing walls in residential tower to use AAC Blocks
Figure 69. Properties comparison between brick wall and AAC block wall (by Kong Xhiang Lynn)
AAC blocks contains a pore content of approximately 45% as the consumption of raw
materials and the total energy consumed during the production is 2 to 3 times lower than that
of other building materials such as burnt bricks. Furthermore, emissions of toxic gases such
as CO2, CO and NOx are relatively lower. It is also a greener building material choice as the
by-products of AAC production such as condensate from the autoclaving, hardened AAC

49
waste and unhardened AAC mixture can be recycled back into the production of AAC. Besides
that, other industrial waste like fly ash and slag can be utilised as main raw materials too.
AAC blocks has excellent thermal insulation properties, and less energy is required to cool an
AAC building. It is breathable and effective in moderating the moisture levels and maintaining
the correct relative humidity. Hence, the energy consumption of the building is reduced and
simultaneously improving the energy performance of the building. It is an environmental-
friendly material from sustainable sources, it has widely improved indoor environment quality
with cross ventilation hence it has contributed to the materials and resources (MR) aspect of
GBI assessment criteria (Green Building Index Sdn Bhd, 2009).
6.3.3 Self-cleaning Facade System
As mentioned in 5.2.4, the walls which are constantly exposed to the harsh weather are
gradually worn out and stains also starts to form. Self-cleaning coatings are recommended to
be applied at areas which are difficult to reach, such as the wall beside the void, and areas
which are exposed to the harsh weather, Figure 70. The self-cleaning coating can be applied
on window glass, cement, and textiles. It is labour-saving and therefore help to save the
management cost of the building and solve the issues of stained external walls in the case
study building.
Figure 70. Proposed external walls and window to use self-cleaning coating
Figure 71. Photocatalysis property of the proposed self-cleaning system (by Kong Xhiang Lynn)

50
The Nanotechnology Self Cleaning Solution (NanoSCS) has several properties which
helps to keep pollutants and bacteria off of the facade. One of it is the photocatalysis property
as shown in Figure 71, the NanoSCS coating is activated when exposed to UV light which will
cause a chain of strong oxidation and deoxidation, resulting in decomposition of the organic
particles on the surface into water and carbon dioxide. The organic materials that will be
decomposed by the photocatalysts are dirt (soot, grime, oil and particulates), biological
organisms (mould, algae, bacteria and allergens), air-borne pollutants (VOCs including
formaldehyde and benzene; tobacco smoke; and nitrous oxides (NOx) and sulfuric oxides
(SOx) that are significant factors in smog), and chemicals that cause odours.
Figure 72. Super Hydrophilic property of the proposed self-cleaning system (by Kong Xhiang Lynn)
At the same time, NanoSCS will react with water in the air when exposed under UV light,
forming an OH radical, as shown in Figure 72. The contact angle of water on the coated
surface is less than 30, in which it forms a thin sheet of water that creates the super hydrophilic
effect on the surface, which also provides anti-fogging property. During heavy rain,
decomposed particles and balance of inorganic particles on the surface are easily removed
from rain farce and flow rate. When the rain stops, the hydrophilic property allows the surface
to dry quickly without leaving any water marks which encompasses dust and dirt from staining
the surface.
The effect of Nanotechnology Self Cleaning Solution is permanently conserved and activated
by light again and again, therefore making it a sustainable and renewable solution towards
maintaining a perfectly clean facade in the long term without effort, as the sun and rain perform
the active cleaning. Furthermore, the titanium dioxide in the NanoSCS is non-toxic as well as
free of irritants which can even be added to food for consumption. In SDG Goals, they strive
for zero waste in landfills, reduce consumption of chemicals and eliminate hazardous materials,
by using self-cleaning solution, less waste and chemicals are used for further maintenance
stage which is affordable and clean energy (Malaysia Economic Planning Unit Department,
2017).

51
6.4 Opening
6.4.1 Automatic Sun Shade System
Figure 73. Sun Shade System by NBBJ
(https://www.archdaily.com/540327/nbbj-creates-high-tech-shading-system-for-buildings)
Active shading is trying to achieve in a balance between few points, which is sufficient
amount of daylighting, providing solar protection, energy efficiency and enabling the users
with the flexibility to control the shading devices according to their needs.
Based on current technology in automatically regulating solar gains, users always complain
do not have enough control over their environment for example cloudy outside or if users
want natural light in a room. In this sun shade system, it takes advantage of folding
geometry, and a movable track system vertically which controlled by sensors and a mobile
app. There are few benefits that provided by proposed automatic sun shade system as
following: -
1. By using sensor, sun shading device will automatically raise or lower shades and
save energy during periods when there is no one in the room.
2. This system is incorporated with a program to measure solar radiation in order to
determine whether need to adjust the shades coverage. This is unlike other current
sunshade systems which is only deal with visible light.
3. If user is in the room, the shades will open automatically to provide users with
daylighting.
4. Sensors will also detect the proximity of clouds and adjust the shades accordingly to
provide suitable amount natural lighting.
5. This shading system can be control with an app for iPhone and Android.

52
Figure 74. Implication of Automatic Sun shade system at Normal Bedroom & Gym
In this case study, normal bedroom in front elevation which facing west is has bigger
opening which received more daylight. Due to room size consideration, we proposed an
automatic sunshade system in front of bedroom window to deal with the over provided
daylighting. In order to reduce glare and thermal comfort in facility area, this proposal is also
provided in the gym room.
By using this system, in order to achieve indoor environment quality, energy efficiency is
also under consideration. By using smart sensor to control shading device which can
improve living quality like shading device can better adjust to the best status than manually.
For example, we won’t adjust the shading device while we are resting or sleeping which
helps users to meet their needs.
6.4.2 Sliding Wooden Façade
Figure 75. Implication of sliding louvers on facade
(https://www.ehret.com/en/news/ehret-sliding-shutters-modern-new-build-centre-berlin)

53
Daylighting creates a more responsive and comfortable indoor experience to occupants. But
while natural daylighting’s benefits to occupants are most apparent, it also presents significant
opportunities for energy savings and productivity improvements. Daylight have a greater
probability chances of maximizing visual performance than most forms of artificial lighting
because daylighting tends to provide and delivered in large amount.
In this case study, living room has provided a full height opening of sliding window in order to
receive daylighting. Based on occupants’ feedback, opening for living room is too huge that
allowed too much of daylighting. According to Peter & Claudia (2013), too much of daylighting
can cause discomfort for occupants through glare and distraction. Hence, we are proposing a
sliding wood louver at the living balcony.
Sliding wooden louvers are an attractive alternative to traditional blinds or other window
treatments. Sliding wooden louvers protect against sun and heat in tropical climate and they
can be adjusted horizontally in order to block certain amount of sunlight in different time zone.
Even a few sliding louvers panels are close to each other, they still allow varying amounts of
daylight enter the inner part of a unit. Wooden louvers have improved in GBI’s indoor
environment quality (EQ) as it will achieve good quality performance in indoor air quality, visual
and thermal comfort through the conscious use of low volatile organic compound materials
(Green Building Index Sdn Bhd, 2009).
.
Figure 76. Section & Location of Sliding Wooden Louvers at balcony (by Chiu Zheng Yi)

54
Figure 77. Plan view at Living Room’s Balcony Proposal (by Chiu Zheng Yi)
Besides, sliding wooden louvers are neat, and plain wood matches indoor condition and
outdoor facade. The louvers slide on horizontal guides, giving a strong line to the facade.
These solar protections are located on wall façade which assist certain distance from sliding
windows, creating a shaded balcony while providing cross ventilation in the same time. The
louvers slide on horizontal guides, giving a strong line to the facade. The shadow created by
the filters is also an important element in the composition. Sliding wooden louvers are
commonly used in tropical countries nowadays, it has vastly contributed to the SDG Goals in
sustainable Technology aspect as it reduces energy consumption and affordable production
(Malaysia Economic Planning Unit Department, 2017).
6.4.3 Creeper system
The environmental sustainability movement has brought a new wave of interest in buildings
incorporating plants into their construction. Integration of plants into vertical elements of
architecture has developed into the concept of green walls, which has become well-known in
recent years through the “vertical gardens”. Hence, we are proposing creeper system for
Gembira Residence at the carpark area as highlighted in the Figure 78. The vertical reinforced
concrete louvers around the car park does not benefit the thermal comfort of the space as it
does not provide any shading properties.
Figure 78. Front elevation annotating the carpark and podium for creeper system proposal
A creeper system could be implemented as illustrated in Figure 79. Creeper systems are a
different way of green walling, it is a cost-effective way of planting and there is very little
maintenance with these systems. They are environmentally friendly and are light in weight.
Creeper systems are suitable for all areas: (i) Large buildings 20 - 30 m high; (ii) Open car
parking, excellent for dust absorption; (iii) boundary fencing, ground fencing. Creepers are
flexible shading devices for verandas and interior spaces. Depending on the seasonal growth
patterns of creepers and timely manual pruning, these can be used effectively for controlling
sun penetration. The provision of covered walkway could also contribute to storm water runoff
from the roof. An external pipe system could be installed where the rainwater will be carried

55
down through the pipe which will then either replenish the water body or serve as irrigation for
the low planters along the facade.
Figure 79. Creeper system sketch (by Ng Ke Ning)
The energy efficiency of green walls lies in their ability to affect heat transfer between a
building’s interior and exterior environments. The main exterior factors affecting heat transfer
through a building’s façade are (i) solar and thermal radiation from the atmosphere and the
ground, (ii) air temperature, (iii) relative humidity, and (iv) wind speed.
Creeper system decreases the effects of these climatic factors on the exterior wall surface,
which results in a reduction in heat transfer through the façade and, as a result, a decrease in
heating and cooling energy consumption.
Figure 80. Creeper system

56
In general, the plant layer acts as an additional layer of thermal insulation and helps improve
thermal performance of a building façade through:
• Shading of the exterior wall from incoming solar radiation
• Protection of the exterior wall from wind exposure
• Temperature cooling of the air adjacent to the exterior wall
Increasing the exterior wall’s thermal insulation value if the vegetated façade includes a layer
of planting medium (soil or inorganic media) placed along the façade; as seen in living walls.
Figure 81. Green wall of creeper plants (https://verticalplanting.eu/groene-gevels-en-groene-wanden/klimplant-
systemen)
6.4.4 Light shelves
Visual comfort is important for the building occupants’ wellbeing. Visual comfort can be filled
with natural lighting (daylighting) and artificial lighting. Daylighting regulates allowance of
natural light, uninterrupted sunlight and distributed skylight into a building in order to decrease
artificial lighting, save energy and cost as an effective strategy to provide energy saving for
electric lighting, as well as visual comfort for users. However, the opening in master bedroom
is placed too close to the furniture and cause the rain water slip in easily. The opening which
direct exposed to the sunlight also causes overheated problem.
Efforts to optimize natural lighting can be achieved through façade design, and percentage
area of window. However, the problem of the visual comfort is high light intensity and glare at
some places. Light Shelf is a horizontal reflective surface that functions extend indirect lighting
from the outdoor to indoor. It is a passive strategy to minimize glare, expanding the area of
daylighting and increase the time that meet the visual comfort. Hence, we are proposing light
shelves for bedroom opening as shown in the Figure 82. This device has improved on the
innovation (IN) aspect of Green Building Index

57
Figure 82. Site photo and typical plan annotating the bedroom window for light shelves
Glare from direct sunlight can be prevented by using light shelves. These shelves redirect the
light rays toward the ceilings which in turn reflect uniform, indirect light. Reflection of the light
that flowing deeper into the room will expand the area of daylighting that meets the standards
of office occupant’s visual comfort. In addition, variable, we can consider solar sell as material
light shelves. Which serves not only reduce glare but also produce renewable energy source.
Light shelf design can meet optimal visual comfort and save energy for artificial lighting. Deep
structural grid for building shading also can fit the integrated planting. The window wall with
dual glazed, low-e and heat mirror further minimize the amount of infrared and ultraviolet light
that comes through the glass, without minimizing the amount of light that enters the room.
With right design of light shelves, we can expand daylighting area that meet visual comfort,
minimize glare and increasing energy saving in the room.
Figure 83. Bedroom opening proposal sketch (by Ng Ke Ning)

58
6.5 Proposal Overview
Figure 84. Proposal Overview on G Residence

59
7.0 CONCLUSION
An analysis and assessment based on the Green Building Index (GBI) was carried out in the
Gembira Residence, Kuchai Lama. As the case study building is not a GBI certified building
and was built in 2013, the design intention did not strictly follow the GBI criteria.
However, even passive design strategies have been adopted in this building, there are over-
sufficient cross ventilation and lack of sun shading devices to promote thermal comfort for the
building occupants. This study analysed on three aspects of green building sustainability which
is : (i) site planning and building layout; (ii) building envelope design; (iii) construction method.
In each aspect of green building sustainability, innovative green technology proposals with the
application of GBI as guidelines have been studied and made. The benefits of each proposal
to be implemented onto the case study building are discussed.
By having green technologies in the building, they provide a few advantages including: -
1. Potential for higher occupancy rates than non-green buildings due to the improved quality
of life and comfort living in these spaces among the building occupants. The indoor quality
promotes the liveability of these occupants in physical and psychological aspects. This creates
a higher level of satisfaction while residing in the building.
2. The public will consider in living in greener buildings through the lower operating costs over
the life of the building. While the implementation of new environmentally-friendly technologies
may sound expensive, green buildings yield great savings every year.
3. The community in the green building will collaborate together to manage and sustain these
green technologies, and at the same time raise awareness about renewable energy and
energy efficiency practices. This benefit both the well-being of the community and the building
itself.
4. The application of green technologies minimises the need of non-renewable energy which
in turn reduces climate change and air pollution. The use of clean energy benefits to the
environment as energy efficient technologies for electricity, heating, cooling and lighting utilise
less fuel for the building’s systems. Therefore, the provision of environmentally-friendly
technologies in buildings could be the key driving force for a much greener future.
However, green building technologies can pose certain drawbacks if they were to be
implemented: -
1. Green building features are relatively expensive to build by project developers. Developers
often are not confident that these features will add any value to that project, especially when
it is perceived invisibly by a casual individual or to even sophisticate clients. Such
implementation of green features will also result in higher property values in the market,
making them hard to be sold or rented out.
2. Product information and sourcing for green building consultants, materials and human
resources are limited. As Malaysia is not progressing in a fast pace towards a green built
environment, hence it becomes a complication as information and sourcing is limited locally.
3. Uncertainty arises on the impact of the sustainable technology performance to the building.
The performance risks include uncertainty revolving the longevity of new products in the
market, the use of untested materials and impact of post-construction or building finishes on
sustainability.

60
All objectives for the research study are being achieved by qualitative implications such as
interviews, analysing and observation from site.
The knowledge on the parameters of GBI are fully understood where the present green
technologies are identified and implied on the case study building as the main objectives of
research. Lastly, the table below (Table 7) shows a summarized proposal of green building
technology that is implemented in the case study building followed with GBI point
contribution.
No. Non-green item Green item GBI Points
1. TPO roofing membrane
2. Solar Panels EE3 5
3. - Rainwater Harvesting WE1 4
4. RC flat roof Green Roof SM13 1
5. - Wind Turbines IN1 1
6. - Roof Lights IN1 1
7. Normal paint wall Vertical Green wall IN1 1
8. Non load bearing walls AAC Block wall IN1 1
9. Normal glass opening Self-cleaning Facade System IN1 1
10. - Automatic Sun Shade System IN1 1
11. Open Carpark Creeper system SM8 2
12. Bedroom window Light shelves EE4 1
13. Cast in situ IBS system SM7 2
Table 7. Summary of green building technology proposals and their respective GBI point
contribution

61
8.0 REFERENCES
Ander, G. D. (2016). Daylighting. Retrieved November 15, 2019, from WBDG website:
https://www.wbdg.org/resources/daylighting
Boyce, P. R., Hunter, C. M., & Howlett, O. (2003). The Benefits of Daylight through
Windows. Retrieved from
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/241089667_The_Benefits_of_Daylight_thro
ugh_Windows
Chu, M. M. (2019). Malaysia can generate more electricity if all roofs use solar panels, says
Yeo | The Star Online. Retrieved from
https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2019/05/14/malaysia-can-generate-more-
electricity-if-all-roofs-use-solar-panels-says-yeo
Elmich. (n.d.). MEP Tray- Intensive and Extensive Green Roof Module. Retrieved
November 16, 2019, from http://elmich.com/asia/products/mep-tray/.
Elmich. (n.d.). Vertical Gardens, Greenwall Planted Wall, Green Facade. Retrieved
November 15, 2019, from http://elmich.com/global/products/vgm-greenwall/
Green Building Index Sdn Bhd. (2009). GBI Assessment Criteria for Non-Residential New
Construction (NRNC). Retrieved from www.greenbuildingindex.org
Happho. (2017). Comparison of AAC Blocks vs CLC blocks vs Red Clay Bricks. Retrieved
November 15, 2019, from https://happho.com/comparision-aac-blocks-vs-clc-blocks-
vs-red-clay-bricks/
Illinois Facilities & Services. (2018). Building Maintenance - Services - Facilities & Services -
Illinois. Retrieved November 13, 2019, from
https://www.fs.illinois.edu/services/building-maintenance
Kıyak, İ., & Gökmen, G. (2013). Increase Energy Savings with Lighting Automation Using
Light Pipes and Power LEDs . World Academy of Science, Engineering and
Technology International Journal of Energy and Power Engineering, 7(7). Retrieved
from https://publications.waset.org/16431/pdf
Kumar, R. (2016). Sun Shading Devices. Retrieved November 15, 2019, from
https://www.slideshare.net/RohitKumar79/7-shading-devices
Lim, S. V. (2011). THE USE OF GREEN BUILDING MATERIALS IN THE CONSTRUCTION
INDUSTRY IN MALAYSIA.
Malaysia Economic Planning Unit Department. (2017). MALAYSIA: Sustainable
Development Goals Voluntary National Review 2017.
Nanoart Technology (M) Sdn Bhd. (n.d.). Features of Self Cleaning Solution. Retrieved
November 15, 2019, from http://www.nanoart.my/building-facade-cleaning-
solution/nanoscs/
Othman, A. R., & Mazli, M. A. M. (2012). Influences of Daylighting towards Readers’
Satisfaction at Raja Tun Uda Public Library, Shah Alam. Procedia - Social and
Behavioral Sciences, 68, 244–257. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2012.12.224
Solar Light Pipe. (n.d.). Retrieved November 16, 2019, from
https://carpenterlowings.com/portfolio_page/solar-light-pipe/.

62
9.0 APPENDIX
Appendix 1. Summary of the GBI Assessment Criteria for Residential New Construction
(RNC).

63

64

Ent 2A

Recommended

Recommended

More Related Content

What's hot

What's hot (9)

Similar to Ent 2A

Similar to Ent 2A (20)

More from Lynnstyles

More from Lynnstyles (20)

Recently uploaded

Recently uploaded (20)

Ent 2A