Johor Bahru Jalan Wong Ah Fook site analysis

1. Group 6 Ar.Alina
Amirah Batrisyia Azman
Benjamin Lew En Pin
Chalaka Wijenayake
Elisa Hiew Chen Min
Loh Shu Wei
0326467
0331583
0332067
0328166
0331016
Natasha Labitoria
Neo On E
Poh Jia Yen
Tang Soon Foo
Wan Hanees Sabri
Yeoh Han Joo
0327012
0326727
0331197
0330958
0331307
0330959

2. UNFOLD
LOADING . . . CITY CENTRE IN PROGRESS

3. Urban Morphology
History of Jalan Wong Ah Fook

4. 1855-1920
1855 - Early settlement of
Malay and Orang Laut along
the beach and river. Originally
known as fishing village
Urban Morphology
1910 - Commercial plantation
of coffee and rubber are
brought in by the Javanese .
1866 - Bandar Iskandar Puteri
re-named as Johor Bahru by
Sultan Abu Bakar
1919 - Johor causeway
construction
1860 - Named as Johor’s
administrative centre and was
then known as Iskandar Puteri.

5. 1921 - New main roads were
erected, eg:
Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Jalan Wong
Ah Fook, Jalan Segget.
Urban Morphology
1920-1940
Urban Morphology
1924 - Causeway link
construction is completed.
1921 - Shophouses built along
the roads, for merchants from
the middle East, India and China
to trade spices and tobacco.
1940 - Religious buildings such as
Hindu temple and Sikh Temple
were built.
Local Indian community built
their homes around the temple.

6. 1940 - Sultan Ibrahim building
is completed.
Urban Morphology
1940-1980
Urban Morphology
Increase of government buildings
such as Post offices, MBJB.
Increase of Public Facilities like police
station and courthouse
1958 - Opening of
educational institutes such as
High schools and Universities.
More flats were built.
1962 - Plaza Seni opens at
Jalan Trus
1946 - UMNO founded in JB

7. Half of Sungai Segget closed
Urban Morphology
1980-1990
Urban Morphology
1991 - Plaza Kotaraya was
built.
Urban design begins to
change in proportion and
scale.
JB market is built at Jalan
Wong Ah Fook.
Demolition of flats for other
developments
1999 - JBCS built

8. Modernization of facilities
and infrastructures
Urban Morphology
2000-now
Urban Morphology
Development of new
business centers
2008 - CIQ is completed
2009 - Pasar Karat appeared
2014 - Komtar was built
JBCS undergo renovation

9. Urban Morphology
2000-now
Urban Morphology
Centralisation of customs at CIQ diverted
the original population out of the town,
resulting people to bypassing this area.
This, along with the demolition of a number
of flats in the city caused the population of
the city to dramatically drop as the
younger generations gradually emigrated
the city centre. Resulted it to be a ghost
town in a short period of time.
Johor Bahru City Council intervened by
coming up with Pasar Karat, which was
originally intended to acted as an
attraction point, thus bringing in more
people to the area.
This lead to the revitalisation of the city
centre by CDP. Young people began to
open new establishments such as trendy
cafes and retail outlets. This directly
contributes to the rise of tourism and
creative activities in the area, as well as
attracting foreign direct investments

10. Urban Morphology
2000-now
Urban Morphology
IIBD future development,
what will happen next?
Local’s perception on the development
Johor Bahru city undergoes the fastest
rate of development in Malaysia. This
causes a rapid change of function within
the city itself.
The city centre lacks a central focal
point, which would help emphasize the
city’s importance as a major business
centre. Establishment of such an urban
core would directly raise real estate
values in the area.
A better linkage between malls and
commercial buildings in the later phases
of development could be observed.
(IIBD)

13. The Johor Bharu-Singapore
Rapid Transit System (RTS Link)
predicted to be 30 minutes.

14. The Johor Bharu-Singapore
Rapid Transit System (RTS Link)
predicted to be 30 minutes.

15. The Johor Bharu-Singapore
Rapid Transit System (RTS Link)
predicted to be 30 minutes.

16. Development
In progress..
Let’s see how the site is right now?

17. The developing urban grain
Built Environment
Road
Negative space

18. Clear district planning

19. A transforming landuse

20. Increasingly prominent
street markers
Landmark

21. Increasingly prominent
street markers
Landmark

22. The refurbished accessibility & walkability
Of Jalan Wong Ah Fook
Walkable streets make connections A walkable environment
plays an important role in supporting vibrant and sustainable
urban communities.

23. In 2017, the bus lane
provided changed into a
bicycle lane along with
the rerouting of bus routes.
This has greatly reduced
traffic congestion.
The Revamped Vehicular System

24. The enhanced walkability: Serial Vision

25. Pond acts as a unique water feature
plus secondary seating for pedestrians. Bollards act as a barrier that prevent a
car or motorcycle from entering a
pedestrian-only zone
The enhanced walkability: Serial Vision
Clean Safe Experience

26. The enhanced walkability: Serial Vision

27. Delineated walkway（Zebra Line)
across a narrowed driveway neck.
Strategically located dustbin
help keep an area clean and
attractive.
The enhanced walkability: Serial Vision
Clean Safe Experience

28. The enhanced walkability: Serial Vision

29. Continuous pedestrian routes with
pavement throughout Jalan Wong
Ah Fook.
Ramp for motorcycles or
disabled
Minimize pedestrian crossings in vehicle
circulation zones by providing proper
zebra lines along the sites.
The enhanced walkability: Serial Vision
Clean Safe Experience

30. The enhanced walkability: Serial Vision

31. Active storefronts that provide
site interest.
Water features can masking
any unwanted noise and
soften the edge.
The enhanced walkability: Serial Vision

32. Architectural Morphology
The macro site is lined with a fusion of shophouses from
different eras, and contemporary buildings that proves the
development of the city. Shophouses is of respect to the
history of the site, the past, whereas the contemporary
exhibits the ever-evolving scene of Johor Bahru.
Tokens of the past, moving for the future

33. How relevant will the architecture be in
years to come?
How does the architecture respond to the change?

34. Utilitarian
Evolution of buildings
Traditional shophouses > Contemporary buildings
Characterised by its
plastered masonry wall
with no ornamentation

35. Utilitarian
Traditional shophouses > Contemporary buildings
Characterised by its
plastered masonry wall
with no ornamentation
Early Straits Eclectic
With two to three windows on the
upper floor facade and
possessing more decorations and
ornamentations
Evolution of buildings

36. Traditional shophouses > Contemporary buildings
Characterised by its
plastered masonry wall
with no ornamentation
Neo-Classical
Incorporates straits eclectic
design: symmetry as the main
principle of ornamentation and
plaster renderings
Utilitarian Early Straits Eclectic
With two to three windows on the
upper floor facade and
possessing more decorations and
ornamentations
Evolution of buildings

37. Early Modern Shophouse
Concrete materials on
facade, elements from
earlier styles begin to be
omitted
Traditional shophouses > Contemporary buildings
Evolution of buildings

38. Early Modern Shophouse
Concrete materials on
facade, elements from
earlier styles begin to be
omitted
Built to be more functional and
more austere, with mild steel
windows and flat roof
Late Modernism
Traditional shophouses > Contemporary buildings
Evolution of buildings

39. Early Modern Shophouse
Concrete materials on
facade, elements from
earlier styles begin to be
omitted
Built to be more functional and
more austere, with mild steel
windows and flat roof
Wide usage of glass on facade, a
more sleek and modernised look.
Late Modernism Contemporary
Traditional shophouses > Contemporary buildings
Evolution of buildings

40. The city is transitioning..
How does the architecture respond to the change?

41. DIVERSITY
Diversity lines the street; exhibiting
different elements and different
relationships, offering multiple
choices of experiences, with a
taste of early modern shophouse
architecture parading the street
and contemporary architecture
reflected across the site.

42. Visual harmony is balanced
through similar elements and
different relationships of
buildings as cues. This
enriches the site with vibrant
and colourful architecture.
DIVERSITY

43. Despite the subtle architectural
contrast along Jalan Wong Ah
Fook, the site harnesses a
uniformed visual by utilising
recurring elements in its design.
Disharmony is eradicated by
conforming to horizontal lines
and repetitive mannerism,
easing the eyes of the viewers
while forming a prominent
architectural character.
REPETITION

44. Architectural Language
Contrary to the juxtaposition of architectural styles, Jalan
Wong Ah Fook is a seamless blend of tradition and
development; transition and adaptation, proven through
its variety of texture and materiality.
Textures and Materiality

46. Architectural Language
The development of Johor Bahru City imprints itself
through its ever-changing urban walls; enveloping its
character with more contemporary buildings amidst the
existing traditional shophouses.
Embracing the Change

47. DIVERSITY
TRANSITION

48. Ongoing Development of
Johor Bahru

49. Johor Bharu City Centre
1124.97ac
Johor Bahru New CDP Plan

50. Johor Bahru City Centre
1124.97ac
Johor Bahru New CBD
Johor Bahru New CDP Plan

51. Site B
Conservation and Heritage Zone
Heritage Park Zone 1
New Emerging Communities
Areas Potential for Redevelopment
Royal Heritage Cemetery Zone
Existing and In-fill Development Zone
Integrated New Development
New Coastal Development
CDP: Concept Development Plan Johor Bahru City

52. CDP: Concept Development Plan Johor Bahru City

54. The Ibrahim International Business District
(IIBD) is a transformation plan
developed by Johor Corporation
(JCorp) to turn Johor Bahru into a
“metropolis of international standard”.
JCorp is the state investment
corporation of the Johor government.
The Ibrahim International
Business District (IIBD)
is a transformation plan developed by
Johor Corporation (JCorp) to turn Johor
Bahru into a “metropolis of international
standard”. JCorp is the state investment
corporation of the Johor government.

55. The Ibrahim International
Business District (IIBD)
is a transformation plan developed by
Johor Corporation (JCorp) to turn Johor
Bahru into a “metropolis of international
standard”. JCorp is the state investment
corporation of the Johor government.
51%
Commerci
al Use
24% Open
Spaces
14% Institutional
9% Residential
2% Parking

56. How IIBD will impact the site
Positive Improvements

57. IIBD MASTERPLAN 2025
Preservation and
conservation of
natural and cultural
heritage to bring
sense of belonging to
the people who live,
visit and do business.
Generating higher
commercial value
and raising a sense of
pride and
encourages social
interaction.
HERITAGE

58. IIBD MASTERPLAN 2025
Preservation and
conservation of
natural and cultural
heritage to bring
sense of belonging to
the people who live,
visit and do business.
Generating higher
commercial value
and raising a sense of
pride and
encourages social
interaction.
To create an
enabling
environment for
businesses and
investments within this
business-friendly
community.
The diverse economy
and strategic
location provide
ample access to the
important markets.
HERITAGE
BUSINESS

59. IIBD MASTERPLAN 2025
Preservation and
conservation of
natural and cultural
heritage to bring
sense of belonging to
the people who live,
visit and do business.
Generating higher
commercial value
and raising a sense of
pride and
encourages social
interaction.
To create an
enabling
environment for
businesses and
investments within this
business-friendly
community.
The diverse economy
and strategic
location provide
ample access to the
important markets.
To reduce carbon
footprint by
emphasising the
green landscapes
and to achieve a
sustainable business
district.
Encourages
walkability,
increasing
community footfall in
public spaces and
promoting healthier
lifestyles.
HERITAGE
BUSINESS
GREEN

60. IIBD MASTERPLAN 2025
Preservation and
conservation of
natural and cultural
heritage to bring
sense of belonging to
the people who live,
visit and do business.
Generating higher
commercial value
and raising a sense of
pride and
encourages social
interaction.
To create an
enabling
environment for
businesses and
investments within this
business-friendly
community.
The diverse economy
and strategic
location provide
ample access to the
important markets.
To reduce carbon
footprint by
emphasising the
green landscapes
and to achieve a
sustainable business
district.
Encourages
walkability,
increasing
community footfall in
public spaces and
promoting healthier
lifestyles.
Proposal of public
infrastructure
components will be
carried out to
strengthen the
business district and
link facets of
communities.It aims
to enhance traffic
and pedestrian
management while
promoting walkability
within the business
district.
HERITAGE
BUSINESS
GREEN CONNECTED

61. IIBD MASTERPLAN 2025
CORONATION
SQUARE
First Project of IIBD
As Johor Bahru is envisioned as the
second Kuala Lumpur, IIBD is akin to
the Golden Triangle of the capital
city of Johor Bahru.

62. IIBD MASTERPLAN 2025
CORONATION
SQUARE
First Project of IIBD
As Johor Bahru is envisioned as the
second Kuala Lumpur, IIBD is akin to
the Golden Triangle of the capital
city of Johor Bahru.
SITE B

63. IIBD MASTERPLAN 2025
CORONATION
SQUARE
First Project of IIBD
As Johor Bahru is envisioned as the
second Kuala Lumpur, IIBD is akin to
the Golden Triangle of the capital
city of Johor Bahru.
SITE B

64. IIBD MASTERPLAN 2025
“Coronation Square to give
Johor Bahru a ‘World City’ status. ”
CORONATION
SQUARE
First Project of IIBD
As Johor Bahru is envisioned as the
second Kuala Lumpur, IIBD is akin to
the Golden Triangle of the capital
city of Johor Bahru.
SITE B

65. IIBD MASTERPLAN 2025
“Coronation Square to give
Johor Bahru a ‘World City’ status. ”
CORONATION
SQUARE
First Project of IIBD
Office
Tower
Medical
Blocks
Hotel Shopping
Facilities
Serviced
Apartment
As Johor Bahru is envisioned as the
second Kuala Lumpur, IIBD is akin to
the Golden Triangle of the capital
city of Johor Bahru.

66. IIBD MASTERPLAN 2025
“Coronation Square to give
Johor Bahru a ‘World City’ status. ”
CORONATION
SQUARE
First Project of IIBD
Office
Tower
Medical
Blocks
Hotel Shopping
Facilities
Serviced
Apartment
As Johor Bahru is envisioned as the
second Kuala Lumpur, IIBD is akin to
the Golden Triangle of the capital
city of Johor Bahru.
NEW TARGET USER GROUP

67. IIBD MASTERPLAN 2025
“Coronation Square to give
Johor Bahru a ‘World City’ status. ”
CORONATION
SQUARE
First Project of IIBD
Office
Tower
Medical
Blocks
Hotel Shopping
Facilities
Serviced
Apartment
As Johor Bahru is envisioned as the
second Kuala Lumpur, IIBD is akin to
the Golden Triangle of the capital
city of Johor Bahru.
Medical Staff
NEW TARGET USER GROUP

68. IIBD MASTERPLAN 2025
“Coronation Square to give
Johor Bahru a ‘World City’ status. ”
CORONATION
SQUARE
First Project of IIBD
Office
Tower
Medical
Blocks
Hotel Shopping
Facilities
Serviced
Apartment
As Johor Bahru is envisioned as the
second Kuala Lumpur, IIBD is akin to
the Golden Triangle of the capital
city of Johor Bahru.
Increased no.
of Residents
NEW TARGET USER GROUP
Medical Staff

69. There seems to be so much
seemingly positive changes to
the site. But is it all positive?
With all city development situations, they all share
similar negative effects of urbanism has already taken
effect.

70. …...Take a look into the amount of foot traffic of our site
There seems to be so much
seemingly positive changes to
the site. But is it all positive?
With all city development situations, they all share
similar negative effects of urbanism has already taken
effect.

71. The site which people won’t come. The
southeastern
portion of the
site
consistently
has higher
amounts of
human density
no matter the
time of day
Morning Afternoon
Evening Night
Low Human Density

72. As a city center of Johor Bahru, one would expect it to be beaming with
vibrancy and activity
Being the center of attention, Jalan Wong Ah Fook is supposed to be eye-
catching, and be swarmed with public life
However, Jalan Wong Ah Fook and Jalan Trus consistently has lower
densities of people than the other streets
“ There’s almost nothing to do here in the day, night time is when
things get lively and i rarely lepak here, we usually hang around
Bazar Karat”
-Daniel Faris, local, 22

73. The built environment is in
progress, while the public life
of the street regresses.
With the rapid urbanisation of the street, the privatisation of public
realm spaces + the neglect of its public realm space has taken a toll
on the vibrancy of Jalan Wong Ah Fook

74. Inactive Ground Level Design
Human Interaction and behaviour at ground level
Inactive frontages, empty walkways, a
diminishing public realm

75. The Public Bank’s closed off frontage acts as a contact point and visual cue along Jalan
Wong Ah Fook, the canopy walk that link Jalan Wong Ah Fook and Jalan Trus become the
main transitional space.
Jalan Wong Ah Fook (Public Bank)
INACTIVE
Canopy
walk
Jalan Wong Ah Fook (Public Bank)

76. The frontage of Komtar lacks seatings and shading devices, and the unornamented
facade design offers a monotonous view. These drive the people to use the pedestrian
walkway as a transitional path.
INACTIVE
Jalan Wong Ah Fook (KOMTAR)

77. The frontage of JBCS includes planters that are suitable as seatings. Most passerby would sit and
converse or smoke at the public space, allowing passive visual contact at the frontage.
ACTIVE
Jalan Wong Ah Fook (JBCS)

78. Jalan Trus (Shophouses)
Shophouses of varying functions, with comfortable pedestrian walkway -
mostly retail and accommodation.
MIXTURE

79. Jalan Wong Ah Fook (Shophouses)
Frontage with varying functions, wide pedestrian walkway that
accommodates to the high foot traffic and optional activities such as sitting,
standing, window shopping, eating(foreigner).
MIXTURE

80. The difference in level of the walkway throughout the front of the shophouses
creates an edge which discourages direct interaction with the shopfronts.
The height difference of the walkways allows users to use it as
secondary seating, which is a desirable quality to have around site.
Jalan Wong Ah Fook (Shophouses)

81. Section A-A’
Site B
JBCS
Jalan Trus
Jalan Wong Ah Fook
Pedestrian Walkway Pedestrian Walkway Pedestrian WalkwayAlley
Lack of greeneries & seating area
Wide walkway
Well shaded
Active storefront
Wide Pedestrian walkways
decorate the site. However,
even with good walkability, the
inactive storefronts/lack of
greenery as soft shading do not
invite people to linger around
the site.
A
A

82. Section A-A’
Site B
JBCS
Jalan Trus
Jalan Wong Ah Fook
Pedestrian Walkway Pedestrian Walkway Pedestrian WalkwayAlley
Lack of greeneries & seating area
Wide walkway
Well shaded
Active storefront
Wide Pedestrian walkways
decorate the site. However,
even with good walkability, the
inactive storefronts/lack of
greenery as soft shading do not
invite people to linger around
the site.
The shophouses along Jalan Trus provide
the active interaction that the site needs.
However, IIBD development suggests that
this area is going to be demolished to
make way for new development.

83. The demographic of JBCC:
Concluding the situation of the diminishing public realm
Users involved in:
Necessary Activity Optional & Necessary Activity
Working class
Shoppers
Locals & Tourists who visit
the site

84. The Working Class
User Interaction: The Public Life
Users involved in Necessary activity
White collar workers
(from the mall/offices around
site)
Pink collar workers
(around site)
Loose behaviourRoutine behaviour
The dominant user
group:
This user group goes to the city center for work, and are constantly the
dominant user group for the city center.

85. Work
White Collar Workers
Blue Collar Workers
Go out for lunch
Work
Leave the area to go
home
White collar workers
Site Behaviour:
Site Behaviour:
The white collar workers travel
around site only to look for
cheaper food alternatives
around the site/for other
necessary tasks
Fast paced directional approach
to intended destinations. Nothing
to see, nothing to stop for.
User Behaviour

86. White Collar Workers
Blue Collar Workers
White collar workers
Jalan Trus
Site Behaviour:
User Behaviour
The white collar workers travel
around site only to look for
cheaper food alternatives
around the site/for other
necessary tasks
Jalan Meldrum

87. Wander around the
shop lots near their
post
White Collar Workers
Blue Collar Workers
Pink collar workers
Hang around the site
even outside work
hours
Site Behaviour:
The pink collar workers who
work on site; normally hang
around on site, and exhibit a
more random and aimless
behaviour
Site Behaviour:
User Behaviour
Both working classes do
not carry out active and
engaging activities on-site
other than to go to their
intended
destinations/remain
stationary as there is
nothing of interest.

88. The tourists
Tourists
Users involved in Necessary & Optional Activity
The sightseers The shoppers
“ Jalan Wong Ah Fook is a great place to
conduct business, the high amount of tourist
really help to generate revenue!”
-Mr Rizal, street cobbler, 44
“ Yeah, i’m from Singapore. We come by
every so often to shop, things here are way
cheaper than back home!”
-Joshua, Singaporean, 19

89. User Behaviour
White Collar Workers
Blue Collar Workers
Sightseers
Site Behaviour:
The tourists who come to JBCC for
sightseeing normally do not linger
around Jalan Wong Ah Fook, and
prefer to wander around the
cultural district with cultural
landmarks.
Shoppers
Site Behaviour:
The shoppers directly go to
Komtar and City Square for
shopping and do not linger
outside the malls.
This user group forms an
integral part in boosting
Johor Bahru’s economy, and
comprise mainly of
Singaporeans.
The street is unable to
attract tourists.

90. The locals
The transitioned locals: an effect of the privatisation of public space
Users involved in Optional Activity
The Elderly
Families
Students
Teenagers

91. Local Landmark (Fine Grain)
Global Landmark (Coarse Grain)
The Middle Aged &
Elderly
Families
Students
Teenagers
Families/Teenagers or Students
alike will be seen on site but
only to enter the malls as their
intended destination.
The majority of middle aged
and elderly normally hang out
at the local eateries for
majority of the day.
User Behaviour
Jalan Wong Ah Fook and Jalan
Trus do not provide sufficient
placemaking qualities to
attract even the locals, even
though it lies in close proximity
to huge crowd gathering
buildings.
The transitioned locals
Users do not actively
engage with the site.

92. A summary of Jalan Wong Ah Fook & Jalan Trus: A street with nothing of
interest
MIXED
Near to City
Square & En route
to Jalan Meldrum
(The privatisation
of public space
attracts locals
and tourists
PINK COLLAR WORKERS &
THE MIDDLE-AGED &
ELDERLY
The absence of a successful
public realm to attract
pedestrians
The edge formed outside
the shop lots also deters
potential interaction with the
shophouses facing Jalan
Wong Ah Fook
The people who stay
on-site just hang
around on-site
without a particular
activity, the people
who visit the site
don’t come to the site.

93. Visitors’ primary destination is City Square/Komtar JBCC
Minimal contact within site proximity
Small number of pedestrians will pass by the site to go to City
Square / Head towards the southern part of Jalan Trus/Jalan
Wong Ah Fook for other activities
The site is mainly used as a transitional path
A placemaking locale…..in progress?
JBCC: A public realm space in regress
A place with minimal consideration for optional activity
The placemaking quality of the site does not allow for sufficient stimulus &
interest, and is poorly managed.
The users who come to the site for optional activity just enter the malls for
more recreational leisure.

94. How does our city lobby fit in this
context?

95. Aerial View
of the Site

96. Site Boundary

97. Site Set Back

98. Site Area

99. Jalan Trus
Sense of enclosure
Jalan Trus is much smaller compared to Jalan Wong Ah
Fook, the walkways dedicated for low human density.
Shadow /shading
Shadow casts on pedestrian in the morning, making it windy
and comfortable to walk.
Views of neighbouring context
Variety of facade design makes the visual more pleasing.
The long horizontal line makes the path seems more distant..
Interesting skyline can be seen at pedestrian level from the
renovating site.
Design Strategy
Main entrance for users passing through the site to go for
lunch at JBCS or around the site. May also be a good
vehicular entrance/ drop off point.
Site B
Jalan Trus

100. Jalan Wong Ah Fook
Site B
Sense of Place
The distance between pedestrian walkway and
buildings is relatively wide. The spacious walkway
enhances the comfort level and walking
experience.
Shadow/shading
Morning shadow covers the pedestrian
walkways, making it more comfortable to walk
along Jalan Wong Ah Fook. However, the lack of
trees causes insufficient shading, especially in
the afternoon
View of neighbouring context
The linear path makes the journey seems
directed and allows user to see movement
further out their field of vision, allowing them to
enjoy the skyline.
Design strategy
The site can be accessed mainly from the
footpath. Besides the passive ground level design
also make the pedestrian more welcoming
which make the site a strategic contact point.
Jalan Wong Ah Fook

101. Sunpath & Sun-shading

102. Site B Jalan Wong Ah Fook
Summer Solstice 9am

103. Site B Jalan Wong Ah Fook
Summer Solstice 1pm

104. Site B Jalan Wong Ah Fook
Summer Solstice 5pm

105. Site B Jalan Wong Ah Fook
Fall Equinox 9am

106. Site B Jalan Wong Ah Fook
Fall Equinox 1pm

107. Site B Jalan Wong Ah Fook
Fall Equinox 5pm

108. Site B Jalan Wong Ah Fook
Climate

109. SWOT: Strength
Walkability
Sky bridge from JB
Sentral provides safe and
convenient passageway
for pedestrians.
Pathfinding Landmarks
Public Bank, JBCC, JBCS &
JB Sentral (in blue) serve as
path finding elements due to
sheer scale.
Cleanliness
Well maintained
environment due to
provision of sufficient
dustbins.
Comfy Climate
The site benefits
from coastal wind
and shading from
malls.
JB Sentral
JBCC
JBCS
Public
Bank
SITE 2

110. SWOT: Weakness
Cultural Void
Lack of cultural
activities lead
to poor social
cohesion.
SITE 2
Hectic Setting
Susceptible to noise
pollution due to proximity
to main road especially
during peak hours.
Deprived Values
Prostitution rings and the
homeless create unsafe
and unsightly
environment.
Grey City
Lack of green
public spaces
for communal
use.

111. SWOT: Opportunity
Cross-border
Dynamics
Daily travellers from
Singapore serve as
potential target user
group.
Connectivity
Frequently travelled
covered walkway
adjacent to site
channels potential
users.

112. SWOT: Threat
Petty Theft
Pickpockets lurking
in the area cause
security issues.
Misused Sidewalk
Drivers abuse
pedestrian walkways
for parking.

113. Architectural Position

114. Addressing the main question:
“Why do we need a city lobby?”
There are a number of possibilities,
depending on the intended focus.

115. Economic Boom
•••
Johor Bahru’s rising economy
is a result of its cross-border
relationship with Singapore
and the positive spillover
from its global market
economy.
Poor Land Use
•••
Rapid economic growth
spurred unplanned
expansion and
demolition of existing
communities.
Rapid Gentrification
•••
Unhindered growth fueled exclusively by
economic interests, gentrifies and force
communities to outer peripheries.
Urban Issues
•••
Pockets of undeveloped areas attract
migrants and breed new complications.
● Prostitution
● Homeless
● Safety / Crime
Obscure Future
•••
At this rate, Johor’s future holds
great economic promise;
however, at the expense of
social degradation.
Brighter Future:
City Lobby
•••
The first step to
ensuring Johor
Bahru’s identity
and sustainability,
is to capitalize on
its unique cross-
border dynamic
with new
directions.
Economic Interest
•••
Persistent interest in
growing the city’s
economic standing,
overshadows other
aspects which are key to
achieving a healthy city.
1
2
3
4
5
6

116. Johor Bahru
Culture Exchange
Ibrahim International
Business District (IIDB)
Community Culture
Unique Traditions Rich History
City Lobby
Emphasis
Transformation
Plan
Architectural
Position
Key Aspects
Platform
Community Commitment
• • •
People
Meeting Point between Generations
Artist
Networking
Space
International
Culture
Exchange
Place
Incorporating Past with Present
MakerspaceGreen TradeApprenticeship
Programme
Time
Promote Creative Potential
Artist Training
Programme
Performing Art
Space
Interactive
Public Space

117. Precedent: Helensvale
Branch Library and CCYC
Helensvale, Australia
Complete Urban & Lahznimmo architects
• • •
The Project
•••
The project was aimed at pumping
blood into the old library and making it
relevant to the community and to
comfortably accommodate a wide
range of communal and youth
activities.
The Site
•••
The site is in a residential district in
Helensvale, Australia and is located next
to a shopping complex and car park.
The immediate vicinity includes a public
park, religious and other communal
buildings.

118. Bringing the Community Together
•••
The design extends the outdoor plaza
into the indoors, as a space called the
‘Neighbourhood Room’.
This foyer like gathering space allows the
community to escape the hot sun and links the
three levels and their functions, thus promoting
the variety of activities, be it passive or active.
As a sign of its success, the attendance at the
library has gone up 40% since moving into the
new building.
Ground Floor Plan (NTS)
Public Plaza
Neighbourhood Room

119. The Programme
•••
The programme combines both a library and youth
centre in a single project, along with a regional
Council shop front and Councillor’s offices.
The community hub provides not only important
public space, but acts as a business and creative
incubator, with facilities including 200 seat-
auditorium, dance hall, recording studio, 3D printer,
meeting spaces, recreational classes, and
organised activities for children and families.

120. Why is it relevant?
•••
This precedent shows how culture can be made relevant to a
community that is gradually losing grip of its identity in an increasingly
commercially driven world.

121. Johor Bahru
Economic Beacon
Ibrahim International
Business District (IIDB)
Sustainable Developments
Exchange of
Innovative Ideas
Establishment of
Green Spaces
City Lobby
Vision
Transformation
Plan
Architectural
Position
Key Aspects
Platform
People
Exchange of Ideas
Social Cultural
Exchange
Space
Child Learning
Center
Public Library
Place
Urban Green
Strategies
Community
Garden/
Playground
Outdoor
Recreational
Space
Public Park
Time
Opportunities for Social Improvement
Youth ProjectHealthcare
Service
Community
Kitchen
Strengthening Sustainability
• • •

122. Precedent: Enabling Village
Lengkok Bahru, Singapore
WOHA
• • •
Precedent: Enabling Village
Lengkok Bahru, Singapore
WOHA
• • •
The Project
•••
Enabling Village is the first community
space in Singapore dedicated to
support people with disabilities through
a range of services and facilities. The
project re-purposed the Bukit Merah
Vocational Institute into a inclusive
community building.
The Site
•••
The site is in a residential district in
Lengkok Bahru, Singapore and is
surrounded by large buildings such
as Bukit Merah Secondary School,
Gan Eng Seng Primary School and
high rise apartments.

123. Community Friendly
•••
Enabling Village consist of multiple entry
& exit making the building more
community friendly. This draws different
user group into the building which
promotes interaction among the
community.

124. Green Spaces
•••
Enabling Village is known for its dense native
plants all over the site which not only draws
people closer to nature, it also is a lush
paradise that attracts dragonflies, frogs and
hornbills. Enabling Village also uses no water
filter for the ponds as it uses
phytoremediation system to cleanse the
pond.
Vegetation

125. Non-centralized gathering space
•••
Multiple soothing gathering space not
only encourages users to interact with
others but also offer different comfort to
different user group. This increases the
opportunity for the local residents to
mingle around sharing the moment
together.
Gathering Spaces

126. Precedent: Enabling Village
Lengkok Bahru, Singapore
WOHA
• • •
Retail Art Gallery
•••
Artworks and merchandise
designed by people with
autism are displayed here.
1
2 3
1
2
3
FairPrice Supermarket
•••
Users can attach the special
trolley to their wheelchair
while shopping. Lower
checkout counters for
wheelchair users and
magnifying glass for people
with poor vision.
Training Facilities
•••
The facilities include seminar
rooms, training kitchen and
mock hotel rooms to teach
housekeeping work.

127. Precedent: Enabling Village
Lengkok Bahru, Singapore
WOHA
• • •
Playground and pre-
school
•••
The inclusive playground has
ramps and swing seats to
give more stability to children
with mobility difficulties.
4
5
Outdoor Amphitheatre
•••
The multi-tiered seating area
integrated with ramps for
wheelchair users. Movie
screening and performances
were held in this space.
4
5

128. Johor Bahru
Transitioning City
Changes to Current Setting
Demo-
graphics
Connectivity
&
Landscaping
Needs
Needs of a
Younger
Crowd
Catalysing
the Transition
Porous
Design to
Enhance
Movement
Connecting
Space to
Reduce
Social
Barriers
A Futuristic Outlook
• • •
Place
Porous Design
Engaging the
Overhead Linkages
Walkability within
Site
Time
A Connecting Space
Social Cultural
Exchange Space
Centralized Public
Space
People
Needs of the younger crowd
Social Media
Attraction
Fitness
Facilities
Coworking
SpaceVision
Transformation
Plan
Architectural
Position
Key Aspects
Platform
City Lobby
Ibrahim International
Business District (IIDB)

129. Precedent: Magok Central Plaza
Seoul, South Korea
Wooridongin Architects
• • •
The Site
•••
The Central plaza sits in the junction of
three important Subway lines. The
plaza is the meeting point for the
passengers exiting the subway stations.
The Seoul Botanical Garden are to the
northeast cross the Mangok Jungang
street.
To the west is a large residential zone
and the immediate vicinity has a large
number of services such as restaurants,
hospitals, hotels, shopping malls, offices
and research centers that serve and
support the residential block.
RESIDENTIAL
BOTANICAL
GARDENS
COMMERCIAL

130. Connectivity
•••
A key function of the plaza is to act
as a buffer that receives and
disperses the flow of people to and
from a variety of directions.
The plaza connects to the three
subway lines via underground passes
and the circular design of the acts
the connection point while the open
design allows people to gain a sense
of direction as they emerge from
below the ground level and look for
their prefered route.

131. Promotion
•••
Instead of having a fixed
programme, the plaza responds
to the movement of people. And
in doing so creates a central
space that receives high amounts
of public attention, making it an
idea spot for events,
performances or exhibitions.
The subway entrances are
located in such a way that

132. Why is it relevant?
•••
This precedent reveals how the flow of people in different directions in
multiple levels can be comfortably accommodated and channelled to
support cultural activity at site.

133. THANK YOU