asian architecture case study paper

TAYLORS UNIVERSITY
ASIAN ARCHITECTURE
PROJECT PART B
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Adaptation of vernacular Malay architecture into
contemporary design of the Telegraph Pole House, Langkawi
Tutor: Ms. Shahrianne
Student name and ID:
1. Ang Wei Yi 0317885
2. Foo Shi-Ko 0318262
3. Neoh Jia Wen 0318228
4. Wong Carol 0317742
5. Tang Ju Yi 0317335

Adaptation of vernacular Malay architecture into contemporary design of the Telegraph Pole House, Langkawi
Table of Contents
Page
1.0 Abstract……………………………………………………………………………………………… 2
2.0 Objectives & Concept mapping…………………………………………………………………… 3
3.0 Questions……………………………………………………………………………………………. 4
4.0 Adaptation of Malay Architecture features
4.1 Significant features of vernacular Malay houses……………………… 5
4.2 Climatic and contextual features of Telegraph Pole House……….... 12
4.3 Form and Layout of Telegraph Pole House……………………………… 19
4.4 Building Materials of Telegraph Pole House……………………………. 30
4.5 Construction Method of Telegraph Pole House………………………. 35
5.0 Conclusion…………………………………………………………………………………...…… 40
6.0 Reference…………………………………………………………………………………...…..… 41
7.0 Annotated Bibliography…………………………………………………………………...…..… 43
8.0 Appendix……………………………………………………………...…..……...…..……...…... 45
ARC 2213/2234 Asian Architecture 1

CHAPTER 1 Abstract In the recent years, the numerous studies have undertaken by scholars,
architects, and professions unfold how significance of traditional architecture can resolve the issues of
contemporary architecture. The findings will expect to reveal the richness of traditional architectural design
values by the means of preserving the originality of contemporary architecture through consideration of
traditional values and attributes. The paper will conclude to implicate a framework of cultural context in
relation to regional contemporary architecture, which will perform based on the values of traditional
architecture.
Chosen the site, the Telegraph Pole House in Langkawi, it is aimed to address the new approach in
adopting traditional malay architecture into the contemporary architecture. The house has alter and convert
the abandoned materials into a unfamiliar yet unique additional feature to the design. The house is unique
as it is sitting atop a little hillock, surrounded by lush tropical greenery and kampong houses in the valley
below. Thus, this paper will focus on the adaptation of Malay Architecture with historical context as a way of
achieving the continuity in cultivate this soon forgotten traditional heritage of this country. As having this hot
and humid environment in a tropical climate, the choice of construction method and materials used of its
design concept is highlighted to explore on this issue in comply its design within the old built context
surrounding. Fundamental aspects such as materials and texture, form and layout, construction method,
climate and neighbourhood context which adopted in the house are taken into consideration to discuss in
this topic. A deeper scrutiny will capture the visual harmony establishment between Kampung Lubok Buaya
and Telegraph Pole House.

CHAPTER 3 QUESTION
This paper will investigate the Telegraph Pole house in Langkawi by responding to the following research
questions:
Question 1:

What are the significant features of vernacular Malay houses?
Question 2:
How does the site climate affect the climatic control features of Telegraph Pole House?
Question 3:
How does the vernacular Malay House affect the architectural form and layout of Telegraph Pole House?
Question 4:
How does the traditional construction material integrated into the Telegraph Pole House?
Question 5:
How does the construction methods applied in the Telegraph Pole House result in a unique and eccentric
design compared to the typical traditional vernacular house ?

CHAPTER 4 Adaptation of Malay Architecture features
4.1 Introduction of Vernacular Architecture
As one of the richest components of Malay’s cultural heritage, vernacular Malay houses have exist
over the years in Malaysia and normally can be found in rural area. Climate, context based building
materials, culture and local craft had give a high influence on the vernacular built form. The built form tends
to evolve over the years to show an image of the environmental, technological, cultural, economic and
historical context in which it exists. Nowadays, we can see there are a lot of buildings that have the similar
design approach with vernacular Malay house. Telegraph Pole house, as one of the modern days building,
has included some significant features of the vernacular Malay house.
Figure 1: Basic form of vernacular Malay houses
4.1.1 Significant features of vernacular Malay houses
4.1.2 Thermal comfort
The main characteristic of Vernacular Malay architecture is greatly affected by climate and
weather. Other than the needs of shelter, the vernacular Malay house is namely built to achieve climatic
comfort with consideration on three main climatic factors which is wind, rain and sun. The climate of

Malaysia is characterized by high rainfall and high humidity. The temperature range is fairly high at around
30-35°C during the day and throughout the year.
Due to the minimum fluctuation of temperature in Malaysia, it is not possible to achieve much
cooling by utilizing the thermodynamic properties of building components. The main goal is, on the one
hand to store as little heat as possible in the structure in order to attain the maximum benefit of the cooler
night temperatures. (Fislisbach and Zollikon, 1993)
Most traditional Malay Houses are using the same strategies to obtain optimal climatic control
which include:

Figure 3: Climatic response of traditional Malay house

4.1.3 Materials
Since Malaysia has a tropical climate, natural building materials such as timber, rattan, tree roots,
bamboo and leaves are easily available from the tropical forests. The basic building materials of a
traditional Malay house are usually timber as the main structure. Rattan and tree roots are used for tying up
joints whereas bamboo and leaves are used for floors and walls. These materials actually promote
coolness in the house due to its low thermal capacity as it only holds minimum heat and cools effectively at
night. Except timber, the attap roof is also considered as a good thermal insulator whereby it is rarely used
these days.
Figure 4: The honest state of material of Malay Vernacular Architecture
(Sabrizaa & Najib, 2005)
4.1.3 The combination of natural building materials and modern building materials
As we can see, contemporary houses today have been developed to masonry and reinforced
concrete with air conditioning system. It is actually not the best architecture that designed considered in this
warm and humid Malaysia climate. However, due to the availability of electricity and piped water from the
main, it subsequently changed the appearance of the traditional malay house. Kitchen and toilet with
concrete floors were preferred since timber rot from constant soaking by water within the house. Some

traditional Malay houses were modified or extended to accommodate the kitchen and bathroom on the
ground floor, with concrete flooring.
In designing modern buildings, most often than not,
mainly the roof forms are followed. However, the
facade treatment and the proportion of the whole
house are often ignored. Due to the introduction of
new building materials, some of the old traditional
Malay house are renovated by closing the stilted
bottom of the house with bricks and cement. (Lim
J.Y,n.d.) The space is then being used as a hall which
is reluctant because of the very low ceiling height.
The use of these materials often caused the change of
scale and proportions of the house. It is transforming
the light and airy traditional Malay house into
solid-looking house.
Figure 5: Example of house where adapt vernacular
Malay architecture into contemporary design without
proper consideration (google maps, 2015)

4.1.4 Construction Method
4.1.4 Construction Method
As a lightweight timber structure, a traditional Malay house regularly uses posts and lintel timber structure. The
posts rest on concrete or stone footings without any foundation required (Yuan, 1987). The craft and art of Malay
architecture can be shown through the use of dowels and grooves which is used to fit the timber elements into one another
and even more effectively making it a prefabricated house. Dismantled and reassembled of house on site are allowed as it
use prefabricated construction methods. The roof structure is strengthen by the use of bracing although longhouse
construction considered a temporary structure. Compared to other building materials, the structure of wood itself has
suitable rigidity and strength, for this type of construction.
Although nails had been invented, it is minimally to found a nail on the main structure. It is only used for
non-structural elements such as windows or panels in traditional Malay house.
Figure 6: The structural framework for the house consists of posts braced by floor joists and roof girders.
(Anonymous, 2016)

4.1.5 Vernacular design and contemporary design
In the 21st
century, the vernacular traditional architecture and contemporary architecture are
augmenting to generate theory to describe the product as the collective notions of different ideology.
Modern transition was found from traditional vernacular Malay house into contemporary design. Telegraph
Pole House is one of the building that successfully adopt the elements of traditional Malay house in this
modern days.
Referring to Lim and Tan (1998), “the notion of contemporary vernacular” is defined as a “self
conscious commitment” to reveal a specific tradition’s distinctive responses to site and climate, and later to
give reality into inspired new forms through an artist’s eye which is very much related to the human values
and contemporary realities. The vernacular Malay houses, which defined and described the Malaysian
peninsula are derived from different context. As a result, the underlying principle that formulated the house
is laid based on culturally environmental, belief and ideology that scatter in Malaysian context. ( Elham h.,
2014 )
Traditional Malay house, the most significant architecture in Malaysia was said perfectly
constructed for the physical condition of Malaysia. Their proper spatial planning and orientation site have a
strong basis which is derived from and responsive to the environment. While in the new era, contemporary
concrete house seems as a more preferable home for the people, as it is more convenient and durable in
structure compared to the Traditional Malay house.
Figure 7: Evolution of vernacular Malay architecture.
(Carol W., 2016)

4.2 Climatic and Contextual Features of the Telegraph Pole House
4.2.1 Introduction
When talking about tropical countries with amazing clear blue sea with white powdery sand and not to
mention comes with its outstanding sunny and humid climate which is one of the reason that Malaysia is
vastly different from the rest of the countries of in the west exclusively in terms of its people, culture,
topography and climatic considerations. All buildings in Malaysia had been designed in mind to put
regarding the local hot and humid climatic conditions before the invention of air conditioning was
introduced. Before designing the house in mind, houses in Malaysia are tightly incorrelated with a deep
understanding of condition, context and climate of the site. This topic intends merely to focus on how the
traditional vernacular Malay house features are designed in order to meet the requirements of the current
climate and context. Moreover, these vernacular Malay house is best emulated by the passive design and
its local authentic materiality of the house itself which is its selling point. Furthermore, this style has
evidently became a classic exemplary and an essential source for the local architects to set as their
precedent study when designing. In result, this has successfully created the unique Malaysian
distinctiveness character principally through architecture at one glance of the city view.

4.2.2 Tropical Climate and Topography
4.2.2.1 Site Context and Topography
The site is located on a small hillock (approximately 466 ft above sea level, second highest point in Pulau
Langkawi) in the midst of vast green field filled with paddy nearby a traditional country village context. The
site itself is a combination of a large vacant paddy field site and a meager countryside neighbourhood,
where there is not a single existing household nearby within 40 to 60 metres of its site radius parameter
which makes it very serene and peaceful. In order to access the house, one must hike or drive up to the
house on top of the hill.
(Figure 4.2.2.1) Topography of Telegraph Pole House

(Figure 4.2.2.2) Location of Telegraph Pole House situated on small hillock viewing across paddy field
The original proposal from the architect is to have a road zig-zagged all the way up to the hill and that
means clearing a large portion of at least 2.5 acre forested land. The architect also design such that the
path is steeper to retain as much as the original vegetation and maintain the existing topography of
the site. Then there is a short walk up a layer of stairs and the house slowly unfolds itself at the peak of the
hillock. The layout of the house is simple, very much similar to a long house (rumah panjang) on stilts with
the rooms on the upper floor and an open ground floor.
(Figure 4.2.2.3) Site Context of Telegraph Pole House

To the North of the site is a mixture between area of residential dwellings and street hawkers, whilst to
the East there is large coverage of agricultural land including paddy fields. The site itself is a classic
example of a regular Malay country village which is a harmonious and neutral environment compare to
the busyness of the Kuala Lumpur city.
(Figure 4.2.2.4) Neighbouring Malay Country Village
4.2.2.2 Site Climatic Analysis
Located near the equatorial region, Malaysia is one of the infamous tropical climate country which is
popular especially among the tourist being hot and humid throughout the year. Although Langkawi falls
into the tropical weather zone, but unlike many other parts of Malaysia, it enjoys extra more sunny warmth
compare to the other parts of the country.
(i.) Temperature
As the site is resided nearby the sea, temperature and weather remains constant as it is always hot and
humid throughout the year. There may be stormweather especially during the monsoon season. The
average temperature in Langkawi, Malaysia is usually between 30°C to 34°C and the average lowest
temperature is 23°C to 24°C especially during the monsoon season, temperature remains constant as it is
always warm and mostly the same throughout the year. Because of this, most houses in Langkawi are

mostly use materials with high thermal mass to insulate the users from the hot climate and thus providing
optimal internal thermal comfort.
(ii.) Rainfall
Rain is generally one of the main factor that resolves whether it is high or low season on the site. The dry
season is generally approximately from January to March when rainfall is minimal and nearly to
non-occurring. However, thunderstorms are also quite trivial in Langkawi specially notably between April to
October which appear during rainy season when it rains, there is over 50% opportunity of thunderstorm
conducting alongside with the rain according to a research made. This factor became one of the major
contribution consideration when building houses in Malaysia such as the vernacular house with long stilts to
prevent flood and wild animals from trespassing from the jungle.

(iii.) Humidity
Nevertheless, humidity in Langkawi is higher all through the year because of its geographical location and
sometimes it can become very distressing to the local villagers sometimes. Humidity in Langkawi fluctuates
temperature in between 52° (mildly humid) to 95° (very humid) which is relatively higher compared to the
other countries. Humidity usually spreads to its vertex during the month of August and inclines to the lowest
between January to February. You will likely sweat a lot and this will cause uncomfortable environment and
climate to the people especially in addition to the hot sun when you go outdoor during the daytime.
(iv.) Sunshine
The daylight persists almost for 12 hours a day and additionally the humidity adds on makes it even hotter
than it is already. Sunrise is usually present from 7am and the earliest sunset takes place at 7pm. Features
of the houses such as large overhangs, high thermal mass building materials, cross and stack ventilation
and spatial arrangement of the house must be integrated when designing in order to minimise the solar
radiation acting upon the house.

(v.) Wind
Through the course of the year, the wind speed varies from calm (3 m/s) to gentle breeze (5 m/s).It again
starts picking up from November. Most often the wind flows from the North East and also from East as well
as West. The orientation and position of the house may determine the amount of air flow into each spaces
without the need to rely on electricity and power supply to provide cooling effect to the house.

4.2.3 Adaptation of Vernacular Design of Telegraph Pole House in
response to Tropical Climate and Contextual Consideration
4.2.3.1 Orientation and Positioning of the Building
(Figure 4.2.3.1) Site Plan of Telegraph Pole House
The position of the Telegraph Pole House is orientated such that it is facing NorthWest of the site facing the
paddy field to maximise the sun path from east in the morning. Moreover, the orientation and position of the
Telegraph Pole House is situated for religious purpose.
This is to prevent extreme direct sun exposure onto the facade and increases the high internal temperature of
solar radiation due to the hot and humid tropical climate of Malaysia throughout the year. The surrounding existing
vegetation also acts as a medium to create a natural cooling environment.
The orientation of the house is also located according to the direction of wind flow such that it allows cool
breeze to cross ventilated the entire house with further enhance its structure by introducing open floor plan.

(Figure 4.2.3.2) Views and Vista of Telegraph Pole House
(Figure 4.2.3.3) Sea Breeze of Telegraph Pole House
Sitting atop a little hillock in the Malaysian island of Langkawi, the Telegraph Pole House is surrounded with lush
tropical greenery which acts as a cooling element and Malay village houses across the visual horizon. The
Telegraph Pole House are located on the top of the hills beside the sea. Sea breezes play the role to naturally
ventilate and chill the house, in such a way to reduce the use of air conditioning in the warm tropical climate. Sea
breeze flowing from the lowlands act as a consideration when designing the house to have an open balcony to
cool the entire households without using up electrical energy even during the hottest days.

4.3 Form and Layout of Telegraph Pole House
The form and layout of the Traditional Malay House has been influenced by adapting to local conditions
such as religion, climate and materials. There exist four distinct regions within the peninsula of Malaysia
where the Traditional Malay House differs in ornamental details and in styles. Thus, houses which are
constructed within the regions share common shapes or built-forms due to integration into same site
conditions. Thus, the scope of study is currently limited to the original Traditional Malay House of the long
roof (Bumbung Panjang) type in which the key features of the houses are easily to be understood from the
side view.
4.3.1 Features Related to the Form of the Building
Representation of built form in Traditional Malay House is basically geometrical shape made up of two
lines, a square and a triangle. A general reference on the form of the Traditional Malay House is described
in relation to the form a human with the roof structure representing the head, the core space representing
the body and the timber posts representing the legs (S. Said & M. R. Embi).
4.3.1.1 Roof
Figure 4.1: The Roof Structure in Traditional Malay Houses (Yuan, 1987).

Roof structure is the significant feature of the Traditional Malay House. It is built with timber beam and post
structures to sustain a high-pitched, gabled roof called the Bumbung Panjang. Air flow is directed into the
roof space after being blocked by the sail-like gable end of the roof. Meanwhile, steep angle of roof ranges
from 30° to 60°(Lee, 2003:251). This house form became very popular among the villagers with less
income and those who have experience in constructing their own houses due to its simple and easy roof
construction. The original triangular roof form is very efficient for making additions to the house due
to its simplicity.
Figure 4.2: The Roof Angles and Length of the Overhangs in Traditional Malay Houses (Images by the Author).
Figure 4.3: Gable Ends Designs of Traditional Malay House (Yuan, 1987). Figure 4.4: Roof form influenced by additions to core (S. Said & M. R. Embi).

Figure 4.5: Indication of Roof Feature in Section Drawing of Telegraph Pole House.
In Telegraph Pole House, roof feature dominates the low walls and the open stilted bottom of the house.
The juxtaposition of the supersized roof at various size of core space creates an interesting visual form. In
adapting the key feature of the traditional Malay house, the built form of Telegraph Poles House is also
characterised by a long gable roof. “Malaysian Timber Council” (n.d.) describes on its extensive roof
assumes a commanding position overlooking the valley below which looks like an eagle poised to take off
in flight. Meanwhile, the large roof overhangs do an important job, in keeping out rain water and serve as a
good shading device. They also allow the windows to be left open most of the time for ventilation even
during the rain.
4.3.1.2 Stilts
Figure 4.6: The Stilt Design in Traditional Malay Houses (Yuan, 1987).

Compared to modern housing, the Traditional Malay House is best designed to suit the tropical climate in
Malaysia. Stilt design in the Traditional Malay House is a unique feature that can allow the building to catch
higher velocity of winds to attain maximum ventilation. Traditional stilted Malay House is designed to
elevate the house from flood surface too. Besides, the space of open stilted bottom is used as the function
of storage.
Figure 4.7: The Height Difference of Stilts in Traditional Malay Houses (Images by the Author).
Figure 4.8: Indication of Stilts in Section Drawing of Telegraph Pole House.
In Telegraph Pole House, stilts act as columns by dividing the building into two levels. Traditional design
elements has been integrated in this modern architecture. Four of the telegraph poles are connected
together to form a column (Stilt). The upper level of the building looks like a typical Traditional Malay House
raised on stilts. Besides, open floor plan are generated from the stilted design. The open stilted space are
designed to become an open ground floor that contain spaces such as living and kitchen area. The space
allow people to enjoy good view towards the sea and the panoramic kampong views beyond.

4.3.1.3 Openings
Figure 4.9: The Walls and Openings in Traditional Malay Houses (Yuan, 1987).
Openings of the traditional Malay house are designed in elements such as windows, ventilation frames and
panels; the open stilted space; and its open interiors with minimum partitions. Traditional Malay house offer
windows and ventilation panels and grilles as ventilation and solar radiation devices so that climatic comfort
can be achieved in the house. The full-length fully openable windows are widely used because the body
level of the house is extremely important for ventilation. Large openings on Malay house walls create high
air intakes outside to reduce the performance of the stack effect.
Figure 4.10: Indications of the openings used in Traditional Malay House (KALAM, 1996).

Figure 4.11: Indication of Openings in Section Drawing of Telegraph Pole House.
In Telegraph Pole House, full-length openable windows and doors are being placed at body level to allow
cross ventilation. Louvred windows with horizontal slats that are angled to admit light and air but avoid rain,
direct sunlight and noise. Casement windows can be easily operate but limited in size. Sliding doors slide
horizontally to allow more airflow into the kitchen between indoor and outdoor besides improving indoor air
quality. Folding doors can be opened up a room to the outside and also flexible in terms that they could
have customisable levels ventilation. The wooden panels and grilles in the house are designed in a
decorative way to achieve thermal comfort and enhance ventilation.

4.3.2 Spatial Arrangement
The first step in designing a house is to determine where its spaces fall on the spatial hierarchy scale from
“public” to “private” (M Saatci & D Onder, 2015). Spatial hierarchy can be described as the interrelation
between spaces. It provides understanding of a cultural identity. The principle of spatial hierarchy applied
in traditional Malay house enables the ranking of spaces from public to private, is obtained
horizontally.
Figure 4.12: The Internal Layout of Andak Endah House, 1920 (Image by the Author).
The entire spatial layout of traditional Malay house which the core house (Rumah Ibu) and the
kitchen (Dapur) are divided into the front and back portions respectively. The stair located at the entrances
of the traditional Malay house leads up to a covered porch called the Anjung. The porch acts as a
significant transition space between the public and the private domains. Unfamiliar visitors and guests are
entertained at the porch which also serves as an essential focal point for the entrance.
From the entrance porch, one enters from a public space into the hanging verandah (Serambi
Gantung), a semi-public space where most guests are entertained. Good ventilation and good views to the
exterior are allowed there. From the hanging verandah, one enters into the core house which is the largest
area in the house. Different kinds of activities based on Malays culture are all conducted in this private

space. The importance of the core house is expressed by its floor level being the highest in the house to
show that it is owned and protected.
The Selang is a closed walkway used to connect the kitchen and the core house together. The
position of the side entrance to the kitchen makes it a circulation space in the house. The women in the
family often use the area to chat and socialise. The closed walkway seems potentially effective as a
semi-private linking device between the semi-public and private spaces. The kitchen (Dapur) is always
situated at the back of the house, and is on the lowest floor level. Modern kitchens in new Malay houses
are often dropped to the ground level where floors are cemented.
Figure 4.13: The Location of Rumah Ibu in Traditional Malay Houses (KALAM, 1986; 1996).

Figure 4.14: The Location of Dapur in Traditional Malay Houses (KALAM, 1996).
The importance of cultural adaptation on spatial configuration is emphasised in Telegraph Pole
House. However, hierarchy of space is achieved vertically where the core house and the kitchen are
separated into a ground and first floor. The layout of the house is simple, very much similar to a
traditional Malay house on stilts with the rooms on the upper floor and ground floor. On the ground floor,
minimal interior partitions are encouraged as design elements in the Telegraph Pole House to offer a large
public area which acts as the living area. The full length of the open ground floor is almost occupied by the
spacious living area. Deck areas with the same timber poles echoing throughout the spaces on each side of
the pool. The kitchen is the only semi-public area can be closed off using full-height glazed sliding doors to
emphasise different spatial scale within a hierarchy.

Figure 4.15: Indications of the Core House and the Kitchen in First Floor Plan and Ground Floor Plan Drawings of Telegraph Pole House.
Spaces within the upper floor are those that meet the maximum level of privacy individuals need
and whose accessibility is determined by small group or individual agreement. Thus, they are categorised
as private spaces that can be isolated and guarded at night by locking the staircase gate. The entire upper
floor has open balconies running the full length on the two long sides of the house which also serve as
spots overlooking the pool below and the countryside beyond. The family area features semi-private space
are centered around private sleeping quarters. On either end of the family area are occupied by a huge
master bedroom and two smaller but still spacious rooms sharing the remaining of the floor. Each bedroom
has its own en-suite, located at the extreme ends of the floor.

Figure 4.16: Indications of the Core House and the Kitchen in Cross Section Drawing of Telegraph Pole House.
Figure 4.17: Indications of the Core House and the Kitchen in Long Section Drawing of Telegraph Pole House.

Chapter 4.4 Building Materials of Telegraph Pole House
As stated by Ar. BC. Ang, “When we used the materials, we liked to think about where it comes from, how
heavy, how it feels, how it can be worked, how much it costs, how it was formed, how it ages, how it
weathers”.Construction material found in The Telegraph Pole House can be categorise into two groups:
Recycled material and modern material. The selection of these material definitely affect the whole
ambience and feeling of the house.
Reason of utilising reclaimed building material as main construction material
The Telegraph Pole House make use of wooden telegraph poles and timber which are made from quality
tropical hardwoods such as Cengal Petaling, Tempinis and Jati. These woods are commonly used in the
construction of traditional vernacular Malay houses.These hardwoods are traditionally prized as
house-building timber due to their degree of toughness and strength,as well as their inherent
imperviousness to fungi and insects, the two main threats to timber houses in a tropical surrounding.
Figure 4A: Reclaimed hardwoods
Since it do not require further weather and vermin protection,the timbers are deliberately left in their natural
wood texture to give own unique characteristics to each piece.
However , the over exploitation of the above mentioned quality hardwoods causes them to decrease in
numbers and no longer abundantly and freely available material as they were in the past. In the same time,

the architect idea is to design a house which is environmentally conscious and eco-friendly as possible.
Consequently, they decided to work with merely reclaimed timber, the clients and the construction team
embarked on a journey of looking for reclaimed timbers.
The architect was not intent to cut down new tree as a source of building material, not only because of the
fact that it is not a sustainable approach , freshly cut timber may be ticklish if they are not dried
appropriately. The challenging part is to find out an alternatives material eventually led architect to the
utilisation of the old timber utility poles instead of concrete poles .
Reclaimed timber
Located at Tropical climate area, lightweight construction material such as timber is the best building
material for its low thermal capacity characteristic which hold little heat and give out quickly at night. During
the last time, for easier accessibility, Malay villages usually look for timber from nearby to build their house
and it was a main characteristic of a vernacular house.Therefore, the construction team seek for reclaimed
timber from local.Floor and wall boards in Telegraph Pole House were from jetty in Penang and Berlin roof
shingles were from an old airport hotel in Penang.
Figure 4B:Roof shingles flooring and trusses built from reclaimed timber

Reclaimed telegraph pole
To enhance the unique identity of the house, the main structural frame and roof trusses were all build with 5
by 5 telegraph poles restored from a timber yard in Kedah. Each column were made of 4 telegraph poles.
The telegraph poles proved to be a particularly useful building material as they are both strong enough to
pass structural performance tests, but old enough to develop a thick patina that gives each piece its own
unique characteristics.
Figure 4C :Telegraph Pole as main column of the house

Significance of old and traditional Building material to the contemporary house
The usage of recycled material fits into contemporary trends have magnify the characteristic of the house.
Especially the telegraph poles, it become the icon of the house. A gentle peace and harmonious feeling is
created by the the combination of weathered timbers and modern architecture layout. The old and
traditional building materials meet the aesthetic, artistic and formal requirements in the same time maintain
the ecological, economic and energetic feasibility. Recycled timbers create a visual connection to the house
with the nature and context. Making use of old timber and telegraph poles reflect the protection and
continuity of Malay architectural heritage in the modern world.
The tendency to preserve the regional characteristics of architecture is an important, almost strategically
important element of national expression from the viewpoint of the correct and rational use of land,
preservation of the identity and particularity, the formation of high-quality environment in the natural or
already built scenery, energy saving and conservation of natural resources and improvement of life
conditions (Krunić et al, 2009).
Figure 4D: Vernacular Malay House form

Modern Construction Material
Steel and concrete is used to enhance the aesthetic and artistic value of the house by integrating and
embellishing the structural detailing of the staircase, window and door frames. Worn timber texture is
highlighted by the modern construction material because having stark contrast between timber, glass and
steel which gives a dash of modernity to the house, engaging the architecture with contemporary lifestyle
and ideals. Blending of concrete and timber create a great rustic and friendly feeling for a building’s
interiors.
Figure 4E: Combination of modern building material with traditional building material
Conclusion
The construction material of Telegraph Pole House is similar to the traditional vernacular Malay houses,
both using timber as the main constructing material. There is a small range of material present on the
context. They are timber, concrete and steel. The buildings have a contextual basis in terms of materials
and it bring a unifying language to the area.
Selection of the building material of telegraph pole house is one of the key factor which causes it to merge
naturally into the context.

CHAPTER 4.5 Construction Methods
Various methods of construction were applied on different building materials, with the final result of a
combination of traditional and modern construction methods applied in the Telegraph pole house.
Figure 5A: Ground Floor Plan of the telegraph pole house
The construction of the telegraph pole house is highly systemized. The house components are made on the
ground and later assembled on the building site. The load of the house is transferred to the timber columns
and to the ground.
Columns are placed at regular intervals in an organised grid pattern and act as the main support of the
house. By having the main columns as the main structure on the ground level, it omits the need of load

bearing walls. Thus, an open ground floor plan is created with unobstructed views of the surrounding
scenary. In addition. it allows the main body of the building to be elevated off the ground just like the
traditional Malay houses and frame different views. The upper horizontal beam consist of full length glass
windows.This results in a lightweight construction with minimum mass and much voids.
Figure 5B : Skeletal structure of the telegraph pole house

4.5.1 Construction of Columns
The design details incorporated into the construction of the column are the results from critical thoughts on
problem solving. They were derived from the situation and function that the house needs.
The column of the house is the main feature of the house. 4 columns were used to create a main column,
for each column the 4 poles are bolted and elevated above the ground with a dark steel pin base.
Figure 5C & 5D: New construction method of column in the Telegraph Pole House

4.5.2 Construction of Beams
In the telegraph pole house, timber columns carry beams supporting floor and the roof above. A joint
method of traditional and conventional timber construction was used in connecting the beams. Each beam
that go across the house is made up of 3 telegraph poles joined by traditional scarf joints and bolted in the
sections.This is to create the correct length for the framework to support the roof.
Scarf joint, a traditional timber construction method is used in the Telegraph pole house to transfer loads
through the structure to the foundation from one member to another. The structure balances its large
overhang roof on the sturdy sets of columns. Meanwhile, the mass of the structure is carried by the steel
pin base that elevates the columns from the ground, making the structure stable and enhances the visual
experience.
Figure 5E: Scarf Joint construction
Scarf joint/scarph joint is a way of combining two different members end to end in woodworking or
metalworking. In the case of the Telegraph Pole House,it is used for joining the beams. This is because
the available timber does not have the sufficient length to support the structure. These joinery yields a

barely visible glue line, hence the scarf joint is favoured over other available joint methods.
(The folk art instrument builders reference, 2014)
Figure 5F: Scarf Joints of Telegraph Pole House
Figure 5G: Scarf Joints Construction Details

Conclusion
The construction of the Telegraph Pole House stuck with the traditional methods of kampong house
building with a few improvisations which was practical. Hence it was not just the typical traditional long
house but rather a contemporary design that fits seamlessly into the context of traditional Malay village.

CHAPTER 5 Conclusion
To sum up, after completed the analysis in the case study of Telegraph Pole house, we can
concluded the house has done a great outcome to include the significant features of traditional Malay
house into contemporary design of Telegraph Pole house. In this modern days, the traditional Malay house
form has been brought down to the most basic and vulgarized form. It is just an ornate piece without the
understanding of deeper uses and significance, which preventing it from blending into the context. This will
not only be a superficial but vulgar attempt to form a ‘Malaysian’ architecture.
The traditional Malay houses might become deformed with inefficient adaptations and designs
without a proper understanding of both traditional and modem design principles. Vernacular Malay house
should not be use as mere cultural symbols, instead, the architecture nowadays should adapt the qualities
of Telegraph Pole house in order to promote the traditional Malay house, precisely for housing purposes.

CHAPTER 6 References
1. Wahab, I. A., & Ismail, L. H. (2011). Natural Ventilation Approach in Designing Urban Tropical
House. Retrieved November 13, 2016, from
http://eprints.uthm.edu.my/2538/1/Natural_Ventilation_Approach_in_Designing_Urban_Tropical_H
ouse.pdf
2. (H. (2015). Reclaimed Telegraph Poles House, Malaysia / WHBC Architects - Architecture Lab.
Retrieved October 28, 2016, from
http://architecturelab.net/reclaimed-telegraph-poles-house-malaysia-whbc-architects
3. Rasdi, M. T. (2010). Rethinking Islamic architecture. Petaling Jaya: Strategic Information and
Research Development Centre.
4. H. (n.d.). Chapter 2: Malaysian Vernacular Architecture and Its Relationship to Climate. Retrieved
October 28, 2016, from
https://www.academia.edu/2377416/Chapter_2_Malaysian_Vernacular_Architecture_and_Its_Rela
tionship_to_Climate
5. MALAY VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE. (n.d.). Retrieved October 28, 2016, from
http://www.hbp.usm.my/conservation/malayvernacular.htm
6. Langkawi: Live Weather Reports. (n.d.). Retrieved October 28, 2016, from
http://www.holiday-weather.com/langkawi/
7. R. (n.d.). Langkawi Weather & Climate. Retrieved October 28, 2016, from
https://www.langkawi-insight.com/langkawi_0000e0.htm
8. Read more at: http://www.langkawi-info.com/info/weather.htm?cid=ch:OTH:001
9. Gut, P., & Ackerknecht, D. (1993). Climate responsive building. St. Gallen, Switzerland: SKAT.
10. Reclaimed Telegraph Poles House / WHBC Architects. (2014, September 16). Retrieved
November 28, 2016, from http://www.gooood.hk/telegraph-poles-house.htm

11. Nasir, A. H., & Teh, H. H. (1996). The traditional Malay house. Shah Alam: Fajar Bakti.
12. Essays, UK. (November 2013). The Traditional Malay House Construction Essay. Retrieved from
https://www.ukessays.com/essays/construction/the-traditional-malay-house-construction-essay.php
?cref=1
13. Lim, J. Y. (1987). The Malay house: Rediscovering Malaysia's indigenous shelter system. , Pulau
Pinang, Malaysia: Institut Masyarakat.
14. Said, Suzana, & M. R. Embi. (2008). A Parametric Shape Grammar of the Traditional Malay
Long-Roof Type Houses. International Journal of Architectural Computing, Vol. 6(2), 121-144.
Retrieved from http://cumincad.architexturez.net/doc/oai-cumincadworks-id-ijac20076201

CHAPTER 7 Annotated Bibliography
1. Nasir, A. H., & Teh, H. H. (1996). The traditional Malay house. Shah Alam: Fajar
Bakti.
This book deals with the concept, structure and function of the traditional Malay house. It is an
introduction to the architecture of the two basic types of traditional Malay house--the long-roofed and
pyramidal-roofed house. A remarkable feature of these two types of house was that they were built without
a single nail. They were built in harmony with their natural environment
2. Essays, UK. (November 2013). The Traditional Malay House Construction
Essay. Retrieved from
https://www.ukessays.com/essays/construction/the-traditional-malay-house-cons
truction-essay.php?cref=1
This study is to analyze the modern traditional vernacular Malay house. It is about the origin Malay
house being transformed into modern vernacular houses and what is the effect of contemporary materials.
3. Ismail, H. W. (2005). Houses in Malaysia: Fusion of the East and the West.
Skudai, Johor Darul Ta'zim: Penerbit Universiti Teknologi Malaysia.
This book provides an introduction to the theory of climate responsive design and defines its
principles. It also explores a number of strategies that can be used in design to improve the fit between
use, building and climate. A focus is placed on moderate and hot-humid climates.
4. Ng, V. (july 2015). Theories of Malaysian Architecture. Subang Jaya, Selangor:
School of Architecture, Building and Design.
This book provides case studies that can educate and inform architectural design knowledge of
contemporary Malaysian Architecture.
5. A. (2015, June 01). Reclaimed Telegraph Poles House, Malaysia / WHBC Architects - Architecture Lab.
Retrieved October 07, 2016, from
http://architecturelab.net/reclaimed-telegraph-poles-house-malaysia-whbc-architects/

This website provides an introduction of Telegraph Poles House, Malaysia.
6. W.S.Wong. (march 1995). Timber Structures in Malaysia Architecture and
Buildings. Launceston, Australia. University of Tasmania at Launceston.
The thesis examines the cultural background of factors that have influenced the use of timber in
structures on- the Malaysian Peninsular. It traces the historical development of the use of timber as building
material from the early indigenous timber structure to contemporary architecture. The detailing in timber
jointing was different in each state due to the different cultural backgrounds of the local craftsman.

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