Malaysian weather is a formidable force.
With its year-round warmth and blinding amounts of sunshine that turn locals crispy, Malaysia may appear to be an architect's dream come true. Nevertheless, under the surface of an unending summer, there is a reality that many local architects neglect to fully acknowledge, which is that Malaysian weather is a formidable force. Monsoons result in a yearly average of 2,500mm of rain that falls during these seasonal downpours, turning the landscape into a tropical flood. Combine this with oppressive heat and soul-sapping humidity, that is a recipe for a barrage of property problems.
Burning more than walls
Malaysia, specifically Kuala Lumpur (KL) enjoys an annual 2,220 hours of sun on average and not the beneficial kind that soaks your skin with Vitamin D. Architects who fail to factor in solar radiation create properties that become scorching ovens during the day. Imagine entering your living room and feeling the air hit you like a furnace. For many Malaysians who reside in contemporary high-rises with expansive glass facades, this is their everyday reality.
According to research conducted by the Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM), insufficient solar control measures cause major heat discomfort in more than 40% of newly constructed high-rise units. There are extensive repercussions. People turn on their air conditioners, which raises their electricity costs and puts pressure on the national grid. Furthermore, extreme heat speeds up wear and tear on interiors and furniture.
Leaky roofs, leaky wallets
About 2,500mm of rain falls on average each year, with even higher amounts recorded in some areas. Unfortunately, some contemporary architectural styles fall short of addressing the problems posed by this monsoon climate because they place too much emphasis on open spaces and flat roofs.
For property owners, leaky roofs and musty interiors become a recurrent nightmare. Fighting water damage all the time not only causes annoyance and frustration but also poses health risks due to the growth of mould and mildew. A 2021 study by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) revealed that close to 20% of complaints filed against property developers in the past decade were related to water leakage issues. This highlights the significant impact that weather-inconsiderate design choices have on the livability and value of properties.
Possible solutions
With its focus on open floor plans, lofty roof overhangs and stilted dwellings, traditional Malaysian architecture provides insightful insights. Architects can design homes that are not only aesthetically beautiful but also climate-adapted for Malaysia by reinterpreting these vernacular elements in a modern setting.
Several studies have also found that adopting the concepts of bioclimatic design is a good solution. The goal of this strategy is to design structures that blend in with the surrounding environment. The need for artificial cooling can be greatly decreased by choosing well-placed louvres, deep window reveals and overhangs.
Speaking of cooling, what about some good old natural ventilation? By maximising cross-breezes and strategically placing windows and lightwells, natural ventilation techniques can reduce the need for air conditioning. In a similar vein, adding vertical gardens and green roofs to buildings can insulate them, lowering heat absorption and promoting a more environmentally friendly built environment.
Fun fact
Malaysia is a pioneer in ecological architecture. Malaysian architect Datuk Ken Yeang pioneered ecology-based architecture back in 1971, working on the theory and practice of sustainable design. In some of his latest work, he investigates the idea of eco-mimicry, or creating artificial ecosystems in the built environment that mimic the characteristics, functions and structure of natural ecosystems. He introduced the idea of eco-mimicry in his papers on the application of biological analogies in design. The Guardian newspaper named him one of the 50 people who could save the planet.
Shared responsibility
Architects and developers are not the only ones burdened with climate-responsive designs. While they are in charge of it during the initial phases, informing the prospective buyers who will reside in the property about the value of climate-responsive design is just as essential. As such, the buyers can make well-informed decisions to prioritise functionality over aesthetics by being aware of how design decisions affect their comfort and budget.
Developers may adopt ethical practices if they receive government incentives for using sustainable and climate-responsive design elements. Architect education programmes can also guarantee that the upcoming generation of design experts consider Malaysian climate conditions when designing buildings.
It is only through a shared effort that will ultimately render this issue of architectural blindness moot. The cosy, energy-efficient homes that property owners enjoy. In addition to creating aesthetically beautiful buildings, developers also make properties that stand the test of time. In the long run, this change opens the door to a more sustainable future in which structures and the people who live in them coexist peacefully with Malaysia's distinct climate.
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