Rsc full report group 12

SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE, BUILDING AND DESIGN

BACHELOR OF (HONOURS) ARCHITECTURE

METHODS OF DOCUMENTATION AND MEASURED DRAWINGS 2017 (ARC60305) (ARC1215)

BUILDING REPORT

ROYAL SELANGOR CLUB, JALAN RAJA, KUALA LUMPUR

JANUARY – MARCH 2017

DECLARATION OF SUBMISSION

THIS PROJECT IS SUBMITTED UNDER THE SUBJECT METHODS OF DOCUMENTATION AND MEASURED DRAWINGS (ARC1215/ ARC60305)

TO SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE, BUILDING AND DESIGN TAYLOR’S UNIVERSITY TO OBTAIN 5 CREDITS OF PRACTICUM.

BUILDING: ROYAL SELANGOR CLUB, JALAN RAJA, KUALA LUMPUR

LEADER: LEE YET YEE 0322328

LAI TZEXIUAN 0318056

RENEE TEOH YEN QIN 0322438

NURUL SHAHIRA BINTI MUHAMMAD ALI KUAN 0326500

MOHAMAD ANWAR BIN FAUZI 0320213

ERICA CHIN CHING 0320460

YEW WING KEE 0323555

ESTHER OO PUI YING 0326915

TANG FU HONG 0323092

MELANIE SOON YU XIN 0322327

CHONG ZHAO LUN 0320408

ANITH SYAZLIN BINTI RAMLI 0325737

NG KHENG SOON 0318946

TAN JEE KHIUM 0324827

ALISON TANG ING EE 0323705

CHANG JING JUN 0326762

TAN KAH INN 032202

AIDAN HO WEI SUAN 0326021

MUHAMMAD ASHROFF BIN ABD WAHAB 0325736

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS) ARCHITECTURE

MARCH 2017

TAYLOR’S UNIVERSITY

SUPERVISED BY: NORMAH SULAIMAN

LIST OF FIGURES/ PLATES/ ILLUSTRATIONS

INTRODUCTION

Figure 1 Group photo during site visit

Figure 2 Variety of measuring tools

Figure 3 Sketching

Figure 4 Digital drawings using AutoCAD program

Figure 5 Interview with Mr. Sashi during site visit

Figure 6 First tour of the building

Figure 7 Camera set to capture photos around the site

Figure 8 Model making in progress

PAGE

1 - 9

CHAPTER ONE

Figure 1.1.9 Yap Ah Loy, the third Capitan China of Kuala Lumpur

7 – 14

Figure 1.1.2 Panoramic view of Kuala Lumpur, 1884

Figure 1.1.3 Dataran Merdeka during Malaya days

Figure 1.2.1 A map indicating the key locations surrounding the Club in the 20th century

Figure 1.2.2 A map indicating the Dataran Merdeka area and the Golden Triangle

Figure 1.2.3 Dataran Merdeka today

Figure 1.4.1 Exercise session with the staff of the Ministry of Information on Dataran

Merdeka

CHAPTER TWO

Figure 2.1.1 Site plan

Figure 2.2.1 Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad

Figure 2.2.2 Perpustakaan Kuala Lumpur

Figure 2.2.3 St. Mary's Cathedral

Figure 2.2.4 Kuala Lumpur Gallery by A.C. Norman

Figure 2.2.5 Central Market by T.Y. Lee

Figure 2.3.1 Old Malaya

Figure 2.3.2 Malaysia today

15 – 20

CHAPTER THREE

Figure 3.1.1 Captain Harry Charles Syers

Figure 3.1.2 Alfred Reid Venning

Figure 3.1.3 Kayaroganam Thamboosamy Pillay

Figure 3.2.1 Tan Sri Harun Mahmud Hashim, the 39th President

21 – 23

CHAPTER FOUR

Figure 4.1.1 The first structure of the Club

Figure 4.1.2 The two-storey structure of the Royal Selangor Club

Figure 4.1.3 The fire

Figure 4.1.4 The massive flood

Figure 4.2.1 Division of old and new wing (ground floor)

Figure 4.2.2 Division of old and new wing (1st floor)

Figure 4.3.1 Timeline of occupants’ activities

25 - 33

CHAPTER FIVE 34 - 51

Figure 5.1.1 RSC signifies Tudor style

Figure 5.1.2 Comparison of Tudor style architecture

Figure 5.2.1 Half-timbered framing method

Figure 5.2.2 Wooden brackets and the jettied roof they support

Figure 5.2.3 Cross gable roof

Figure 5.2.4 Roof of the gazebo's walkway

Figure 5.2.5 Step pitched roofs of the Long Bar

Figure 5.2.6 The dormer located above Long Bar

Figure 5.3.1 Sun path diagram

Figure 5.3.2 Shadow diagram of the Royal Selangor Club at different times of the day

Figure 5.4.1 Ventilation diagram of the Long Bar area

Figure 5.4.1 Natural lighting diagram at Long Bar

Figure 5.5.1 Private-Public Hierarchy ( Ground floor)

Figure 5.5.2 Private-Public Hierarchy (1st Floor)

Figure 5.5.3 Circulation (Ground Floor)

Figure 5.5.4 Circulation (1st Floor)

Figure 5.5.5 Transition Area

Figure 5.5.6 Cocktail Lounge

Figure 5.5.6 Long Bar

Figure 5.6.1 Separation of New and Old wing

CHAPTER SIX

Figure 6.1.1 Components of half-timbered wall

Figure 6.1.2 Long Bar floor tiles

Figure 6.1.3 Glazed ceramic

Figure 6.1.4 Dull ceramic

Figure 6.1.5 Ridged tiles

Figure 6.1.6 Pebble flooring

Figure 6.1.7 Living room carpet

Figure 6.1.8 Office carpet

Figure 6.1.9 Beams and columns

52 - 76

Figure 6.1.10 Grilled door

Figure 6.1.11 Close-up of grille door

Figure 6.1.12 Components of stained glass

Figure 6.1.13 Glass door

Figure 6.1. 14 Carved door

Figure 6.1.15 Diamond frames

Figure 6.1.16 Steep gable roof

Figure 6.1.17 Gable roofing

Figure 6.1.18 Ridge of roof

Figure 6.1.19 Steel trusses

Figure 6.1.20 Roof construction details

Figure 6.1.21 Openings ventilation

Figure 6.1.22 Floral carving

Figure 6.1.23 Geometrics pattern

Figure 6.2.1 Craze attacks

Figure 6.2.2 Efflorescence

Figure 6.2.3 Paint peeling off

Figure 6.2.4 Exposed hacked wall

Figure 6.2.5 Mould growth

Figure 6.2.6 Concrete deterioration

Figure 6.2.7 A part of the living room wall damaged by the water seepage

Figure 6.2.8 A dented pipe located at the gazebo

Figure 6.2.9 Mineral stain

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CONTENT PAGE

INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH

i. Abstract

ii. Objectives

iii. Methodology

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

1

6

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO BUILDING

1.1 Historical Background of Kuala Lumpur and Padang Merdeka

1.2 Historical Background Royal Selangor Club

1.3 Relationship of Royal Selangor Club and Padang Merdeka

7

10

13

CHAPTER 2 CONTEXTUAL COMPARISON

2.1 Site plan

2.2 Site Context and Surrounding

2.3 Genius Loci

15

16

20

CHAPTER 3 OWNERSHIP

3.1 Founders

3.2 Club Management and Presidents’ History

21

23

CHAPTER 4 CHANGES & DEVELOPMENT OF THE BUILDING

4.1 Historical Timeline of the building

4.2 Old Wing and New Wing

4.3 Occupants’ Activities (Now and Then)

25

30

32

CHAPTER 5 DESIGN IDEAS

5.1 Architectural Style & Related Influences

5.2 Architectural Elements

5.3 Orientation

5.4 Ventilation and Natural Lighting

5.5 Spatial Relationship & Typologies (Exterior and Interior)

5.6 Form

34

37

41

43

45

51

CHAPTER 6 CONSTRUCTION METHODS & MATERIALS

6.1 Construction Methods

6.1.1 Wall

6.1.2 Floor

6.1.3 Beams and Columns

6.1.4 Door

52

53

57

6.1.5 Windows

6.1.6 Roof

6.1.7 Ornaments and Detailing

6.2 Defects

58

62

63

67

69

CHAPTER 7 DISCUSSION & CONCLUSION 77

REFERENCES

APPENDIX

PHOTOS

DRAWINGS

i. Location plans (key plan and location plan)

ii. Site plan incorporating the roof plan

iii. Main drawings

a. Plans

b. Elevations

c. Building sections

d. Site sections

e. Isometric or axonometric (exploded)

iv. Details

INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH

i. ABSTRACT

This report is a compilation of research on the building, in field of

architecture, history and culture to accompany the measured drawings

in order to develop further understanding on the significance of the

chosen building. Variety sources are referred such as old newspaper,

internet sources, written report from National Archive Malaysia, books

from the Kuala Lumpur Library and such to validate our information on

the chosen building, Royal Selangor Club.

ii.OBJECTIVES

❏ To document the significance of the building to accompany the

measured drawings ❏ To enable students to analyse the relationship between architecture

and the significance of the building as well as its inhabitation ❏ To elaborate the relationship between architecture and the significance

of the building as well as its inhabitation Figure 1 Group photo at the site

INTRODUCTION TO REASEARCH| 1

iii. METHODOLOGY

(i) Measuring tools

In order to effectively carry out the measuring process in

the Royal Selangor Club, a variety of equipment were used: a. Measuring tape b. Metal ruler c. Laser Distance Measurer d. Chalks (to indicate)

(ii) On-site measuring Figure 2 Various measuring tools

On-site measuring was done both on exterior and interior spaces within

our site boundary. For short-distance or detailing measurements,

measuring tapes and rulers were used. For long-distance

measurements, the laser distance measurer was used. In order to

achieve more accurate readings, each measurement was repeated at

least thrice to obtain the average dimension. These measurements

require sketches on the plan, elevation, details and such to be done


(iii) Transferring measurements

The dimensions that were acquired from the on-site measuring were

then transferred into the computers for the digital drawings to be made.

Figure 3 Measurements on rough sketches of elevations

(iii) Translating into drawings

The translating of measurements into CAD drawings ran concurrently with

the on-site measurement. This was done to determine the precision of the

measurements and, should there be errors found in the resulted drawings,

emend the inaccurate readings through remeasuring.

Figure 4 Drawings on the AutoCAD software


(iv) Interview

An interview was conducted with one of the Royal Selangor Club’s

administrative members, Mr. Sashi for further understanding of the

building and clarification of collected information. During the first visit, a

full tour of the Club by one of the guards was organised, along with a

brief introduction about the building.

Figure 5 Interview with Mr. Sashi in the cocktail lounge

Figure 6 One of the guards of the Royal Selangor Club giving the tour


(v) Photography

Numerous photos and videos of the Royal Selangor Club were taken.

Since access to the Club were exclusively limited to its members, photos

and videos were highly important for this project as they served as

references for the translation of drawings as well as for the report. The

abundant visual material was also significant for the study of various

aspects of the building, such as its condition and architectural elements.

(vi) Model

Once all the drawings are completed, a scaled model of the assigned

building is made. The materials used are mainly balsa wood of different

thickness and MDF boards as the base plan. Small detailing such as

the ornaments are sent for laser cutting.

Figure 7 One of the cameras set up to take pictures of the Club

Figure 8 Model making in progress


ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

We are more than pleased to have experienced this module (Methods of Documentation and Measured Drawing). The completion of this assignment

would not have been possible without the assistance and participation from our fellow lecturers as well as teammates; we deeply appreciate their

contributions.

Our group would like to express our gratitude particularly to Mr. Poovi Maniam, the president of Royal Selangor Club, for taking time out of his day for a

formal interview, as well as allowing us to visit and analyse the Royal Selangor Club for an in-depth understanding of the building. Secondly, we would

also like to thank Mr. Sashi for sharing his knowledge of this building and his patience on answering our questions. Other than that, we would like to

thank every staff involved who has helped us in any way.

Last but not least, we give our deepest appreciation to Ms. Norma for guiding us throughout this project, pointing us in the right direction, patiently

correcting our mistakes, and enlightening us on ways to better document our findings. Without her assistance, we would not have been able to execute

our take on this assignment.


CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION TO BUILDING

1.1 Historical Background of Kuala Lumpur and Padang Merdeka

In the second half of the 1800s, Kuala Lumpur started off as a tin mining

settlement and a port for vessels along the Klang River. Kuala Lumpur

means ‘muddy estuary’, and had gotten its name from Lumpur, the

intersection of Klang River and Gombak River. The 1860s witnessed the

growth of Kuala Lumpur into a small township filled with people from all

walks of life, due to the success of the tin mining industry. However, the

town’s existence back then was threatened by dangerous disputes and

civil war. It was during the rise of Yap Ah Loy as the third Capitan China

that the downfall of Kuala Lumpur was averted. The Capitan was integral

in the revival of the town after the Selangor Civil War as well as its

continued growth, to the point where Kuala Lumpur was considered a

mecca of economic activities, bustling with a vibrant community when the

British administration was established there.

The arrival of the British colony in Kuala Lumpur sparked a radical

change in the town in terms of infrastructure and town planning.

Figure 1.1.1 Yap Ah Loy, the third Capitan China of Kuala Lumpur

INTRODUCTION TO BUILDING| 7

Railways, roads, efficient water and electrical systems were amongst the

things introduced in the British colony’s attempt to modernise the town. Administration-wise, the governmental offices were stationed in one area,

now known as Dataran Merdeka. The turn of the 19th century into the 20th

saw Kuala Lumpur becoming the Capital of the newly founded Federated

Malay States; this became the fundamentals for Kuala

Lumpur’s gradual progress as the Federal Capital of Malaya and later

Malaysia.

Figure 1.1.2 Panoramic view of Kuala Lumpur, 1884

Figure 1.1.1


Dataran Merdeka is famous for where the Union Jack flag was lowered

for the Malaya flag to be hoisted up for the first time at midnight of 31

August, 1957. Originally a patch of land owned by Yap Ah Loy for

farming, the padang was acquired by Frank Swettenham to create a

police training ground. In the 19th century, as numerous important

government offices surrounded the field, it was used for many national

and civic events. Until 1987, Dataran Merdeka was a part of Royal

Selangor Club’s padang, in which various sports would be held in an

almost daily basis.

Figure 1.1.3 Dataran Merdeka during the early 20th century


1.2 Morphology of the Dataran Merdeka Area in Correlation with

Kuala Lumpur’s Development

During the early stages of Kuala Lumpur’s development, the Dataran

Merdeka area was the centre of administration, with the British central hub

system grouping several government structures in the vicinity. Amongst

the many buildings that surrounded the padang, the Sultan Abdul Samad

Building was one of the most important; the Moorish-style building housed

Federated Malay State departments and the Selangor State Secretariat during the early 20th century. The Dataran Merdeka’s

reputation as Kuala Lumpur’s focal point factored in in the area’s high

social and cultural interaction, as it attracted many people from across

Malaya, be it for official business or for entertainment. The Dataran was

also bustling with foreigners at the time for sporting events. Since the Royal Selangor Club’s padang was used to hold sport matches – an

act sparked by Acting British Resident, Ernest Birch’s desire to play

cricket on the grounds – and with Kuala Lumpur’s rise as the capital

and Dataran Merdeka’s growing significance as its focal point, the

padang became the choice ground for international games.

Figure 1.2.1 A map indicating the key locations surrounding the Club in the 20th century


Within the latter half of the 20th century, Kuala Lumpur’s centre

gradually shifted to an area known as the Golden Triangle, which

encompasses Jalan Raja Chulan, Jalan Sultan Ismail, and the Bukit

Bintang area. In the span of a few decades, major corporations set up

headquarters within the Triangle. Bursa Malaysia Berhad and the

nation’s largest bank, Maybank were also built there, making up an

integral part of the city’s financial district. Soon after, shopping and

entertainment areas mushroomed in the Bukit Bintang area. The

construction of Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, and landmarks such

as the Petronas Twin Towers and KL Tower further cemented the

Golden Triangle as the new heart of Kuala Lumpur. This, and the

relocation of the Selangor Government to the town of Shah Alam

greatly affected the social activity of the Dataran Merdeka area.

In recent years, most of Dataran Merdeka’s original purposes ceased to

exist – in 1999, Malaysia’s federal administrative centre was moved to the

city of Putrajaya, including the Supreme Court which the Sultan Abdul

Samad Building housed, and sporting events were rarely allowed on

Dataran Merdeka since the Kuala Lumpur City Hall reclaimed the patch

from Royal Selangor Club. With these issues in mind, it was

Figure 1.2.2 A map indicating the Dataran Merdeka area and the Golden Triangle


predicted that the area would fall into a state of abandonment and

disrepair. In actuality, the Dataran Merdeka’s area has increased in

relevance; this is because in Kuala Lumpur’s aggressive urbanization,

the subject of preserving the city’s historical heritage became

significant. Today, the Dataran Merdeka area is promoted as part of

Kuala Lumpur’s tourism locations, which increased the social

interactions that are generated from tourists. Although the Dataran

Merdeka can never recreate the bustling atmosphere of its heydays,

the antique ambience of the colonial-era architecture will be an

attraction point for generations to come.

Figure 1.2.3 Dataran Merdeka today


1.3 Historical Background of the Royal Selangor Club

Located in Jalan Raja, Kuala Lumpur, the Royal Selangor Club,

originally known as the Selangor Club, is one of the earliest social club

that is located at the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Founded by the British in

1884, The Club was considered the focal point of Kuala Lumpur at the

time; during the British reign of Malaya, a hub system was practiced

where all important government buildings were in one area, mainly for

ease of access. It was built to meet the social and recreational wants of

Westerners who resided in Kuala Lumpur. The Royal Selangor Club

was a rarity, in a sense that it overlooked race and citizenship,

especially in the late 19th century in which British colonial practices

promoted racial segregation; membership instead was primarily

determined by high educational and social standards. It served as a

gathering place for the upper-class society and British officials, as well

as a place where affluent and well-educated people from all races

assembled to discuss important matters.

The Royal Selangor Club was also one of the oldest sporting institutions

in Malaysia, with it being Malaya’s first cricket club and the host of many

important cricket matches. The Club was pivotal in the creation of hash

running, which was said to have been created by members of the Club

as a cure for hangovers. Today, The Club’s reputation is only but a

memory, as the padang was reclaimed by Kuala Lumpur City Hall in

1987, and most of its sports facilities were relocated to the Royal

Selangor Club Kiara Sports Annexe in Bukit Kiara.

In 1984, the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah,

who had voiced out his support of the Club’s preservation during its

100th anniversary celebration, awarded the Selangor Club with royal

status. Despite many incidents and protests to relocate the building

throughout its existence, the Royal Selangor Club still proudly stands

at Dataran Merdeka today. In 2009, the Royal Selangor Club

celebrated its 125th anniversary.


1.4 Relationship of Royal Selangor Club and Dataran Merdeka

The Dataran Merdeka used to be Royal Selangor Club’s padang, where

sports are held on an almost daily basis. Sporting events that were held at

the padang can be viewed from the Long Bar, a significant section of the

Royal Selangor Club located between the old wing and the new wing. Until

today, women and children are forbidden from entering the bar, as the

men "would drink and get very excited when they watched the games and

they didn't want the ladies to see their exuberant behaviour, hence it was

decided to ban women visitors from the Long Bar".

Figure 1.4.1 Exercise session with the staff of the Ministry of Information on Dataran Merdeka


CHAPTER 2 CONTEXTUAL COMPARISON

2.1 Site Plan

The site plan shows the location of the Royal Selangor Club, the indicated rectangle and its surrounding. It is located at Jalan Raja which

is one the busiest roads in Kuala Lumpur.

Figure 2.1.1 Site plan of the Dataran Merdeka Area

CONTEXTUAL COMPARISON| 15

2.2 Site Context

Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad

Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad is located right opposite the Royal

Selangor Club and Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square) and is

well-known as one of the oldest heritage building in Malaysia. The

highlight of the building is its 41-metre clock tower, and its copper

onion domes which resemble those manifested in Russian architecture.

Its building is of unique Moorish architecture, and is rich with historical

and cultural significance, hence it was listed as one of the National

Heritages in 2007. Historically, the building was the centre of many

momentous events due to its strategic position in front of Dataran

Merdeka. It was originally the home of the Federated Malay States

administration offices and the Selangor State Secretariat, before

housing the superior courts of Malaysia later in 1978. In 2007, the

Ministry of Information, Communications and Culture of Malaysia took

over and restoration works has been done both on the exterior and

interior to meet the modern office requirements.

Figure 2.1.1 Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad

Architect: A.C. Norman, A.B. Hubback & Regent Alfred John Bidwell


Perpustakaan Kuala Lumpur

Perpustakaan Kuala Lumpur can be found beside the Royal Selangor

Club. It is the main library in Kuala Lumpur. Built in 1989, the building

consists of a library, a conference hall, a multipurpose hall, and two

exhibition galleries amongst other spaces. The architecture’s design is

mostly influenced by the Renaissance palazzo style, and is evidenced

through its rusticated arcade, which appears as the façade of the

building.

A separate building called Perpustakaan Kanak-Kanak is situated

next to the library specifically for reading materials aimed at children

between 4 to 12 years old.

Figure 2.2.2 Perpustakaan Kuala Lumpur

Architect: A.C. Norman & J. Russell


St. Mary’s Cathedral

St. Mary’s Cathedral or Cathedral of St. Mary the Virgin can be found

next to the Royal Selangor Club. It is the oldest church in Kuala

Lumpur. The Anglican church was originally found in Bukit Aman,

before it was decided to erect a new church to accommodate the

growing congregation in Kuala Lumpur. The church was built in 1893

alongside the Royal Selangor Club’s padang and was designed by

A.C. Norman, who also designed the Sultan Ahmad Said Building. The

church is made in a Gothic style, which is evidenced in its external

buttresses. The wind bracing of the roof, visible from inside of the

church, also reflects early Gothic decorations and were used to

stabilize the roof and gables in to ensure the rafters to stay in place

during high wind. Stained glass windows depict saints and biblical

figures as well as stories of Christianity in architecture. St. Mary’s

Cathedral follows a Latin cross floor plan, in which the cruciform shape

creates a long nave. In 1958, the church was extended, with a Jubilee

Hall constructed at its rear, and another renovation in 1968 provided

the church with its double-storey annexe.

Figure 2.2.3 St. Mary's Cathedral

Architect: A.C. Norman


Kuala Lumpur Gallery

One of the buildings surrounding the Dataran Merdeka, it features bay

windows that punctuate the facade of the gallery, which was one of

Renaissance style’s common characteristics taken from a palace back

in 16th to 17th century. In addition, shaped gables from the Northern

Renaissance era are implemented in the design this building. Mullion

windows were used to show the wealth of building’s owner. They are

typically rectangular shaped and are divided into many panes

intersecting the vertical and horizontal mullions.

Central Market

Central Market features a plain tower that symbolizes modernism in

architecture through the Art Deco style. Stepped piers can be found at

the main entrance of this building, both as simple decoration and as

support between the doorway. Flat roofs, an essential Art Deco

element, usually come together with parapets, but Central Market

doesn't have the parapet; instead, it takes the vertical tower as

substitute. Furthermore, simple geometric decorations can be seen on

the facade of the Central Market, reflecting Art Deco’s refusal of

excessive ornamentation and preference to have simpler decorations.

Figure 2.2.4 Kuala Lumpur Gallery by A.C. Norman

Figure 2.2.5 Central Market by T.Y. Lee


2.3 Genius Loci

Genius Loci refers to the spirit of place. Jalan Raja, where once all the

important government buildings were located, witnessed the hustle and

bustle of the city as it was the focal point of Kuala Lumpur. By means

of old transportations such as trishaws and horse carriages, the

wealthy, high-class members of society would commute around the

town, carried by the less affluent ones.

Today, it still holds the peculiar feelings of the yesteryears but with a

twist on the old buildings’ purposes – many of them are turned into

tourist attractions like museums and galleries. As the community grew

larger, the traffic in Kuala Lumpur became more congested with

transports, especially during peak hours as more modernized buildings

surrounding Jalan Raja call for occupation needs.

Figure 2.3.1 Old Malaya

Figure 2.3.2 Malaysia today


CHAPTER 3 OWNERSHIP

3.1 Founders

The Royal Selangor Club was founded by several officers, each of them

holding positions within the various governmental departments in Kuala

Lumpur. Out of all the founders, only one of them is not of European

descent; this may have influenced the Club’s exception of race and

citizenship in its membership application.

Sir John Pickersgill Rodger

The 7th British Resident of Selangor, who held the position from 1884 -1888.

Captain H.F. Bellamy

The Superintendent of Selangor Public Works Department. He founded

the first voluntary fire service in Malaya, known today as the Fire and

Rescue Department of Malaysia. Captain H.F. Bellamy was also the

Deputy State Engineer, and aided A.C. Norman in the construction of

some of the buildings in Kuala Lumpur.

Arthur Charles Alfred Norman

A British architect who was prominent in Malaya during the start of the 20th

century. As the State Architect of Selangor, he contributed in the designs of

many of the important architecture that stands in Kuala Lumpur today,

especially the buildings that surround Dataran Merdeka – the Sultan Abdul

Samad Building, St. Mary’s Church, the Kuala Lumpur Library, and the

Royal Selangor Club.

OWNERSHIP| 21

Captain Harry Charles Syers .

The Superintendent of the Selangor State. Captain H.C. Syers was

fundamental in the formation of the first police force in Malaya, thus

becoming the first Commissioner of Police of the Federated Malay States.

Alfred Reid Venning

A Selangor State Treasurer appointed by the British Resident of the

Federated Malay States, Frank Swettenham. A.R Venning was a Ceylon

coffee planter before arriving in Malaya. He has served as the Head of the

Sanitation Board. He is also responsible for the creation of the Lake

Garden in Kuala Lumpur, in which Malaya’s first oil palms were planted on

an experimental basis.

Kayaroganam Thamboosamy Pillay

A famous businessman, philanthropist, and tin miner. He is known by

many as one of the pioneers in the Indian community due to his

contribution in founding one of the oldest temples in Kuala Lumpur as well

as promoting Batu Caves as a place of worship. He was also a member of

the KL Sanitary Board, now known as the KL City Council (Dewan

Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur).

Figure 3.1.1: Captain Harry Charles Syers

Figure 3.1.2 Alfred Reid Venning

Figure 3.1.3 Kayaroganam Thamboosamy Pillay

OWNERSHIP| 22

3.2 Club Management and Presidents’ History

Throughout the years, the Royal Selangor Club has been served by 54

presidents. During the Club’s early years, people of British descent held the

position of President. Even after Malaya declared its independence from the

British Empire in 1957, the president’s position was still given to a foreigner. 1964 marked the first time a Malaysian, Tan Sri Talib bin Haji Andak, was

chosen to be the President of the Club.

One of the most notable Presidents and committee member of the Royal

Selangor Club was Tan Sri Harun Mahmud Hashim, who served as the

Supreme Judge for 18 years until 1994. He was the 39th President and

played a significant role in saving the Club from a period of uncertainty,

where its location and heritage were threatened. Due to the fire and the

flash flood that struck the Club around the start of 1971, the reconstruction

of the club has been planned since August the same year. However, the

renovation plans were met with protests to relocate the club and redevelop

the site into a civic centre. The government offered many alternative sites

for the Club, such as Ampang, Parliament House,

Figure 3.2.1Tan Sri Harun Mahmud Hashim, the 39th President of the Royal Selangor Club

OWNERSHIP| 23

and Damansara. Many discussions took place but no decision was made

due to clashes between the heritage of the club and the bureaucracies

within the government. Thus, the verdict to either rebuild or relocate was in

limbo for 7 years until the appointment of Tan Sri Harun Mahmud Hashim,

who took the responsibility of reviving the Club up to its former glory as

well as resolving the long-standing issue of the club location. After some

discussions with the government regarding the feasibility of the proposed

redevelopment plan and the high cost of compensation of the club, the

government finally relented and approved plans to rebuild the Club on the

same location, hence preserving its legacy.

OWNERSHIP| 24

CHAPTER 4 CHANGES AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE BUILDING

4.1 Historical Timeline of the Club

Timeline Events

1884 The Selangor Club was founded by the British colony which reigned over Malaya. The original purpose of the club was as a

centre for educated and high-ranking officers of the British colony to meet and discuss mostly on political matters.

The earliest form of the Selangor Club was a small wooden building with ‘attap’ roofing near the north-eastern corner of the

field. The building’s design was influenced by Malay culture, particularly in the gazebo design in the 19th century.

Figure 4.1.1 The first structure of the Club

CHANGES AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE BUILDING| 25

1890 This early building was replaced at the present site of the club on the west side of the field by a two-storey structure made with

bricks and tiles, designed by A.C.A. Norman, the State Architect of Selangor. The Club committee was given a grant of $900

from the government to cover the construction costs.

Figure 4.1.2 The two-storey structure of the Royal Selangor Club

1910 The Selangor Club was refurbished using a design by architect Arthur Benison Hubback (notably credited with the design of

the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station) in Mock Tudor styling, with two additional wings on both sides of the main building.

1970 On 20th December, the main section of the club was razed in a fire which was contained within an hour by 50 fire fighters.

Property damage from the fire was estimated to cost more than RM1.5 million, but there were no casualties. The president of


https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthur_Charles_Alfred_Norman

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthur_Benison_Hubback

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuala_Lumpur_Railway_Station

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tudorbethan_architecture

1970 the club at the time, Khir Johari, stated that the club was insured for RM1 million. Even so, the cost of the property damaged

by the fire, which included 4 bars, the dance hall, the banquet hall, offices, and kitchens, was estimated at more than RM 1.5

million, and the destruction of club records resulted in profit loss through unpaid bills and expenses from the members.

Figure 4.1.3 the fire

1971 18 days after the fire, one of the worst flash floods in Malaysia’s history struck Kuala Lumpur due to the long periods of heavy

rain, and thus, half of the club and surrounding buildings submerged underwater. The documents that survived the fire, perished

in the flood. The tragic incidents put the club in serious jeopardy as the cost of reconstruction and the clean-up from the

floods nearly pushed the club to be bankruptcy and closure.


https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khir_Johari

1971

Figure 4.1.4 the massive flood

1971 – 1978 The reconstruction of the Selangor Club has been planned since August 1971 but the plans were put on hold when the

Government decided to redevelop the site where the clubhouse was into a civic centre. There several reasons why the club

should be moved, but the two main reasons were its close proximity next to the soil where independence was first declared

which has disturbed nationalists for years, as well as moderates criticising the club location as a symbol of oligarchy and

colonialism trampling over the site of the nation's independence.

Plans were made by the Club to rebuild what was damaged. Proposals were made on a new wing and submitted to the Kuala

Lumpur City Hall in 1972. As a result, the plans for a civic centre in the area were abandoned, and City Hall granted the

reconstruction of the club's new building in July 1978. The contractor, led by Fong Yung Loong, completed the refurbishment

of the cellar comprise of Club’s bar and discotheque where massive renovations took place.


https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuala_Lumpur_City_Hall

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuala_Lumpur_City_Hall

The new wing, which was built in a similar Mock Tudor style as the rest of the club building, was constructed between 5

1971 – 1978 November, 1978 to December 1980 at a cost of RM6 million and was officiated by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Haji

Ahmad Shah Al-Musta'in Billah Ibni Almarhum Sultan Abu Bakar Riayatuddin Al-Mu'adzam Shah, the fifth Sultan of Pahang.

The wing is designed to allow members to perform social and sports activities. The Club’s entertainment hall can fit around

2100 people.

1984 The Selangor Club was awarded royal status by the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah during the Club’s

100th anniversary celebration. Hence the Club changed its name to the Royal Selangor Club.


https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tudorbethan_architecture

4.2 Old Wing and New Wing

Figure 4.2.1 division of old and new wing (ground floor)


Figure 4.2.2 division of old and new wing (1st floor)





Figure 4.3.1 Timeline of occupants' activities


CHAPTER FIVE DESIGN IDEAS

5.1 Architectural Style & Related Influences

The architectural style that has influenced the Royal Selangor Club’s

design is the Tudor Revival style. This style, also commonly known as

the Mock Tudor, originated in the United Kingdom during the late 19th

century, and as the name suggests, is a revival of aspects of Tudor

architecture which was prevalent in the early 16th century. England’s

domestic architecture first displayed characteristics of the revived

movement before its influence eventually spread around the world

through the British Empire’s rule of its territories. Due to the British

Empire’s reign over Malaya in the advent of the 20th century, the Tudor

Revival style naturally manifested itself in the country’s architecture

scene, especially in Kuala Lumpur.

Figure 5.1.1 Royal Selangor Club, designed in a Mock Tudor style

DESIGN IDEAS| 34

Building The Compton Wynyates Little Moreton Hall The Smokehouse The Royal Selangor Club

Architecture Irregular Tudor Style Highly Irregular Tudor Style Mock Tudor Boutique Style Tudor Style (Modern)

Style and Elizabethan Style

Architects Edmund Compton Unknown Douglas Warin Arthur Benison and A.C.A

Norman

Location Warnickshine,England Congleton, Cheshire, Cameron Highland, Malaysia Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

England

Owner Henry Compton The National Trust Peter K.H Lee Few

Period 16th Century 15th Century 19th Century 18th Century

DESIGN IDEAS| 35

Intention To defend during the civil war Built for the Moreton Family To serve as a guest house To express wealth and status

Façade

Red brick facade Lozenge and chevron pattern Regular pattern Rectangular pattern arranged

on facade in horizontally on façade

Figure 5.1.2 Comparison of Tudor style architecture

DESIGN IDEAS| 36

5.2 Architectural Elements

Half-timber framing

The exposed frames of the exterior walls, a major characteristic in the

Royal Selangor Club, are known as half-timbered walls. They are the

product of the half-timbering method, a technique which originated from

Europe during the Middle Ages. The term "half-timbering" refers to the

fact that the logs were halved, or at least cut down to a square inner

section.

Buildings that were made using this method has its timber frames

exposed to the outside, with the spaces between the wooden members

filled with materials such as plaster or brick. The techniques used allow

the buildings to be dismantled with ease and reassembled elsewhere.

The half-timber frames create a decorative effect on the walls, the

contrasting colours of the dark timber and light plaster forming patterns.

Figure 5.2.1 Half-timber framing method

DESIGN IDEAS| 37

Jettied roof with wooden brackets

Jettied roofs supported by wooden brackets are usually found on the

upper storey of Tudor Revival style timber framed buildings such as Royal

Selangor Club. This jetty is a cantilevered projection that was often

constructed to bring upper floors out beyond the lower floor’s boundaries.

This was once a fashionable architectural style that be used to show the

wealth of a house owner. The jetties’ function is also to save the space on

ground level by providing a larger space at the upper level, allowing for

wider roads, streets, or gardens on the ground floor.

Figure 5.2.2 Wooden brackets and the jettied roof they support

DESIGN IDEAS| 38

Cross gable roof

Cross gable roof refers to roofs that have intersecting gables, and is a

common Tudor architectural element. This type of roof is prevalent in the

new wing of the Royal Selangor Club, which has three intersections of

secondary gables on each side of the main pitched roof. Due to the high

number of crossing gables, the Club has a complicated roofing layout.

Roof cladding

In Tudor architecture, slate and thatch are materials usually chosen for

roof cladding. In the context of the Club, a different material is used;

pantiles made of clay are used in consideration of Malaysia’s

temperature. Pantiles are also commonly used in traditional European

architecture as their appearances are not only attractive, but they are

also a suitable roofing material to substitute slate cladding.

Figure 5.2.3 Cross gable roof

Figure 5.2.4 Roof of the gazebo's walkway

DESIGN IDEAS| 39

Steep pitched gable roof

Steep pitched gable roofs are essential to Tudor architecture.

Furthermore, this type of roofs is suitable for architecture in Malaysia,

since the country experiences a tropical environment which is hot and

humid all year round. The spaciousness of the pitched roof allows the

building to have better ventilation.

Figure 5.2.5 Steep pitched roofs of the Long Bar

Punctuated with small dormers

Dormers are also constructed on the cross-gable roof with the same

facade as all other gables. This dormer is used to increase the space

value at the attic as a living space.

Figure 5.2.6 The dormer located above the Long Bar

DESIGN IDEAS| 40

5.3 Orientation

Figure 5.3.1 Sun path diagram of the Royal Selangor Club

DESIGN IDEAS| 41

Figure 5.3.2 Shadow diagram of the Royal Selangor Club at different times of the day

DESIGN IDEAS| 42

5.4 Ventilation and Natural Lighting

The Long Bar experiences efficient ventilation to the point where air-

conditioners are not needed to regulate the temperature. This is

because the Bar’s openings are closed off using grilled doors rather

than the common variation. The openings of the grilles allow the cool

breeze to flow into the room to replace the much warmer air, meaning

the space has access to constant cross-ventilation. The cocktail

lounge, however, has a severe lack of ventilation. The hot air that rises

to the ceiling are trapped as the upper section of the lounge has little to

no openings, hence the overall temperature of the space increases.

Due to this issue, the cocktail lounge relies fully on air-conditioning

units to regulate the temperature. A solution to the problem is to create

vents around the ceiling to allow stack ventilation to occur.

Figure 5.4.1 Ventilation diagram of the Long Bar area

DESIGN IDEAS| 43

The amount of natural lighting also differs between the Long Bar and the

cocktail lounge. As the Long Bar’s openings are large, a high amount of

sunlight can enter and illuminate the space. As for the cocktail lounge, the

small row of windows situated at the lower part of the room prevent

adequate natural lighting to enter and brighten the room. Skylights

should be installed to allow sunlight to enter the lounge, as they

correspond better with the angles of the rays.

Figure 5.4.2 Natural lighting diagram of the cocktail lounge at 8am

DESIGN IDEAS| 44

5.5 Spatial Relationship & Typologies (Exterior and Interior)

PUBLIC-PRIVATE RELATIONSHIP

GROUND FLOOR

The public-private relationship in the ground floor takes on a more

irregular form than that of the first floor, as the site is a combination of

both the old and new wings. The public spaces such as the Long Bar

and the Japanese restaurant are located closer to the view of the

Dataran Merdeka compared to the more private spaces, which are

clustered towards the front side of the Club. A notable characteristic of

the public-private hierarchy here is their contrasting features – most of

the public spaces are open, whereas the private spaces are enclosed

and small.

Figure 5.5.1 The public-private hierarchy of the ground floor

DESIGN IDEAS| 45

FIRST FLOOR

The public-private relationship can be seen in the planning of spaces,

where the ratio of public-private is equivalent as concept of balance is

applied. The public spaces which includes the cocktail lounge and

Chinese restaurant are where the people would gather and are most

dense, whereas smaller and less dense spaces such as the toilets,

kitchen and small living room on the other hand are arranged

accordingly at the private side. The public area is arranged close to the

main façade as the occupants can get full view towards the padang.

Figure 5.5.2 The public-private hierarchy of the first floor

DESIGN IDEAS| 46

CIRCULATION

The public circulation involves varying and free-flow movements in

horizontal direction as the spaces are usually crowded whereas private

circulation accounts for more intimate movements within the building

which needed more privacy.

Figure 5.5.3 The circulation map of the ground floor Figure 5.5.4 The circulation map of the first floor

DESIGN IDEAS| 47

TRANSITION

This can be seen in the Long Bar area. The Bar’s veranda acts as a

buffer zone between the pocket garden and the interior of the Bar,

providing a transition between the two otherwise directly adjacent

spaces.

Figure 5.5.5 Transition area coloured in purple

DESIGN IDEAS| 48

POETIC LANGUAGE

COCKTAIL LOUNGE

The cocktail lounge is one of the spaces which preserves authenticity

where its ambiance is unique as it were during back then. In this

context, features such as exclusive lighting, antique old-wooden

furniture and minimal natural light enable to give sense of originality to

the visitors. On top of that, choice of material for the interior which is

timber evokes intrinsic value to the whole space where visitors would

be able to experience feeling of being in older days. The textures as

well as the colours of the space elicits exquisite feeling. Minimal natural

lighting is allowed into the space through the openings along the main

facade to cast shadows, which highlights textural effect on the material

used. It boasts the architectural elements in the space to have more

presence while in return, the darker ambiance offers cosiness.

Figure 5.5.6 The high vaulted ceiling and wooden walls of the cocktail lounge

DESIGN IDEAS| 49

LONG BAR

The Long Bar is the essence of nostalgia in the Royal Selangor Club,

with historical pictures and memorabilia gracing its walls. The use of British India marble in the Bar’s interior floor design echoes the high

standard of the area, whereas the preservation of the Bar’s century-old

floor tiles and original bar counter reflects the Club’s pride of its

historical heritage and traditions. Its spaciousness is accentuated by

the lack of furniture, which also adds to the exclusive feeling the Bar

exudes; conversely, the much larger cocktail lounge feels suffocating

with its abundance of chairs and tables. The numerous entrances lined

up around the walls blurs the inside-outside boundary between the

interior of the Long Bar and the veranda, to the point where the

differing tiles emphasize the different spaces more than the walls. The

soft lighting that illuminates the Bar gives out a sense of warmth to the

customers who yearn to relax after a long day.

Figure 5.5.7 Memorabilia and floor tiles in the Long Bar

DESIGN IDEAS| 50

5.6 Form

The Club boasts a rectilinear form, where horizontality is clear from its

straight and rigid shape. Since the Club is divided into two sections which

are the old and new wing, a radical contrast between both sections can be

seen by the planning of the spaces; the layout of the new wing is much

more well-assorted and orderliness is prominent compared to the old

wing, in which the spaces portray a more scattered, chaotic pattern. This

extremity is the result of the times – there is a difference of almost a

century between the planning of the old wing and the new wing’s form,

allowing ideologies of spatial planning to drastically change.

Figure 5.6.1 The boundary separating the old and new wing

DESIGN IDEAS| 51

CHAPTER 6 CONSTRUCTION METHODS & MATERIALS

6.1 Construction Methods

6.1.1 Wall

Half-timbered framing

Exposed timber frames comprising of studs, crossed beams, and

braces are visible on the building’s exterior walls, whereas the gaps

between the studs are filled with white plaster. The inside of the

plastered walls remains hidden.

Figure 6.1.1 Components of the half-timbered wall

CONSTRUCTION METHODS & MATERIALS| 52

6.1.2 Floor

Ceramic tiles

The floor of the Long Bar is special, as it is still paved with its original

tiles, dating back to 1884. The ceramic floor tiles were specifically

bought from British India, and their well-preserved condition even after

a century indicates their high quality.

Figure 6.1.2 The Long Bar floor tiles


Almost half of the Royal Selangor Club has ceramic tiles installed to

the floor; this is especially evident at the outdoor areas and in corridors.

The tiles have a protective layer that rests over the material which

make them impervious to water and stain penetration. In addition,

ceramic tiles are extremely durable, which is beneficial for public areas

where most movement and foot traffic occurs daily.

Figure 6.1.3 Glazed ceramic tiles found at the Long Bar veranda Figure 6.1.4 Dull ceramic tiles found at the corridor behind the Long Bar


Patterned ceramic tiles

A section of the cocktail lounge is paved with ceramic tiles which are

decorated with X-shaped ridges. The tiles are designed as such to

increase friction and prevent barmen from slipping in the bar counter.

Figure 6.1.5 The ridged tiles on the bar counter floor

Pebble flooring

Strips of pebble flooring are used in the minor interior part of Japanese

restaurant and are purely for decoration. Pebbles are mixed with

cement and applied on the floor. This simple method has effectively

created a pleasing visual on the floor as the natural pattern contrasts

with the orderly cream floor tiles.

Figure 6.1.6 The pebble flooring against the cream tiles


Carpet

Most of the indoor areas use carpet as to cover the floor such as the

cocktail lounge, Chinese restaurant and the office where these spaces

are air-conditioned areas. Besides, the use of carpet offers comfort to

the occupants and prevent scratches on the floor due to movement of

the furniture.

Figure 6.1.7 Living room carpet Figure 6.1.8 Office carpet


6.1.3 Beams and Columns

Development of the basement only took place after the occurrences of

the fire and massive flood that damaged the Club’s structure. Hence

reinforced concrete is used to build the beams and columns for the

basement construction. Two-ways slabs are implemented for the

basement, so the load of the building is transferred through the beams

equally.

Figure 6.1.9 The beams and columns near the vehicle ramp


6.1.4 Door

Long Bar grilled doors

The metal grilled doors at the Long Bar were constructed during the

British colonial era and has been preserved as they were until today.

Accordion doors are used rather than the usual hinged doors found in

the Club; they are advantageous to the bar as the folding doors reduce

space consumption. As the doors are constantly exposed to the

outdoors, the metal used for the door has been coated long lasting

finishes to prevent rust that can occur through the process of oxidation.

Figure 6.1.10 One of the grille doors of the Long Bar


The design of the grille consists of panels of geometric swirls. These

old decorative ornaments made up of white painted steel are well-

arranged along the pickets which has been welded all the way through

to the arch. Other than being one of the oldest features in the club, the

doors are aesthetically pleasing.

Figure 6.1.11 Close-up of the grille door’s design


Cocktail lounge stained-glass door

A combination of timber and glass is used abundantly especially at the

Cocktail Lounge, where authenticity is preserved in this area as only

minor changes are allowed for the interior space. Stained-glass interior

doors comes with great resistance and durability against humidity and

moisture. The elaborate curved pattern and outline which frames the

stained glass is made of brass steel. Other than its easy installation,

the benefit of the doors is that they add richness, charm and beauty to

the whole atmosphere.

Figure 6.1.12 Components of the stained-glass doors


Double glass doors

The doors leading into the Chinese restaurants are made entirely of

glass, with the intention of allowing visitors to view the interior space.

Toilet doors

The doors of the toilets have 3 panels, each of them containing elaborate

floral carvings, a motif significant in Malay culture. Metal plates are

attached to the cross rail, indicating the gender allowed into the spaces.

Figure 6.1.13 The glass doors of the Chinese restaurant

Figure 6.1.14 The female toilet door in front of the Chinese restaurant


6.1.5 Windows

Diamond paned windows

The timber grilles along the windows are diamond patterned and

the window frames are of single colour and dark, taking inspiration

from the half-timbered pattern in Tudor style architecture.

Figure 6.1.15 The diamond frames along the windows of the cocktail lounge


6.1.6 Roof

The club displays Tudor style architecture, where roof is one of the

prominent characteristic and the club features a steep gable roof;

sloping downward from a central ridge to the both gable ends with

steep decline of the roof. Cross gable is frequent found on gable with

clay tiles roofing in its roofing construction. Steep gable roofing

features a declined 'V' shape roof design. The roof features clay roofing

tiles embedded and pointed with fibrous cement strip laid on top of

verge boards.

Figure 6.1.16 Steep gable roofing features a declined 'V' shape roof design


Verges are known as the junction of the roof and verge board. Steep

gable roof is sloping down from ridge tiles till the gable ends as well as features clay roofing tiles embedded and pointed with fibrous

cement strip laid on top of verge board.

Figure 6.1.17 Gable roofing has secondary gable also known as cross gable Figure 6.1.18 Ridge of a roof


The steep gable roofing is supported by steel trusses (which can be

seen in the attic) as the main structure, composing of steel trusses that

are connected by gusset plates at the end of each truss. The principal

steel rafter is connected to each single truss to form the structural

support for roofing. It is then covered with asbestos cement sheets with

cleat in between and ridge holding both side of roof firmly. The load of

the roofing is transferred down into the base plate and foundation of

wall of the buildings to increase its stability.

Figure 6.1.19 The steel trusses in the attic above the Long Bar


Pros: Gable roofs will easily shed water, providing more space for the

attic or vaulted ceilings and allow more ventilation. Their inherently

simple design makes it easy to build them and cheaper than more

complex designs.

Cons: Gable roofs can be problematic in high wind areas. If the frames

are not properly constructed with adequate supports, the roof can

collapse. High winds can also cause materials to peel away from gable

roofs. If there is too much of an overhang, winds can create an uplift

underneath and cause the roof to detach from the walls.

Figure 6.1.20 Construction detail of steel truss structures for steep gable roof

Figure 6.1.21 Openings allow ventilation to occur at the attic


6.1.7 Ornaments and Detailing

Floral carvings

This intricate ornamentation is commonly found on wooden doors and

walls of the Club. The flora-influenced pattern resembles the significant

traditional Malay woodcarving motifs. The balance and symmetry that

is visible in the design reflects Islamic values.

Figure 6.1.22 Floral carving in one of the toilet door panels


Geometric patterns

Minimal geometric patterns are abundant on the interior part of the Club.

As example, the old hardwood counter in the cocktail lounge. These

Tudor architectural details were often borrowed from Renaissance,

Prairie, and Craftsman styles.

Figure 6.1.23 The geometric patterns found on the panels of the cocktail lounge bar counter


6.2 Defects

Craze cracks

Craze cracks are caused by the drying out (loss of moisture) or

shrinkage of the concrete surface, and appears as patterned or

webbed cracks. These issues are most likely to occur when a concrete

structure has been exposed to low humidity and direct sunlight during

placement; the cracks can also be caused by multiple combinations of

environment factors. Although the exterior looks unpleasant, it does not

deteriorate nor affect the performance of the slab. Using a drier and

stiffer mix could reduce the crazing; decreased of troweling and the use

of a broomed finish could mask the blemishes and cracks.

Figure 6.2.1 Craze cracks on the stairs leading to the Chinese Restaurant storage room


Efflorescence

The white crusty deposit that appears on the surface of the tiles are

caused by the minerals and soluble salts that migrated to the surface

from the porous tiles or the cement slab that sits below reacting with

carbon dioxide. Because these tiles are placed outdoors, constant rain

and humidity from the environment are the major culprits of this defect.

Although the obvious causes are by environmental factors, it can also

occur through the excessive moisture from the soil under the structure.

A possible solution to prevent this from happening is to install a

waterproofing membrane in between the tile and concrete.

Figure 6.2.2 Efflorescence on the stairs of the pocket garden


Peeling Paint

Due to the constant exposure of the steel gate in pocket park to

environmental factors, the paint peels off after a short span of time.

Any type of contaminant on the surface can prevent the coating from

adhering to the substrate, which can break down the adhesion bond;

another factor might simply be the aging of structure – this can

overwhelm the strength of the coating which will then, over time, result

in peeling paint. If corrosion of the steel continues, it can weaken the

strength of the steel causing it to deplete slowly.

Figure 6.2.3 Paint peeling off the fence at the pocket garden


Exposed hacked walls

The hacked walls are most likely the result of previous air-conditioning

installations or fixations. This can be easily fixed by professionally filling

in the holes so that it will not affect the performance of pipes and wires

behind it. Leaving the hole exposed can allow rodents or foreign

materials to enter, which can result in more damage to the structures

within; leaving it uncovered can also detract from the overall visual

appeal.

Figure 6.2.4 Exposed hacked wall in the hairdressers' room


Mould growth

Most interior mould growth are caused by air-conditioner leakages. The

leak instigates the process on the wall, and if should the problem

persist, the humidity from the environment and the leakage itself could

sustain and allow mould to thrive. Mould growth could cause

respiratory problems in the long run as well as cause pneumonia and

bleeding in the lungs. Prevention of mould can be done by ensuring

that the air-conditioning ducts are free of debris that could possibly

restrict water flow.

Figure 6.2.5 Mould growth underneath the air-conditioning unit in the Chinese restaurant


Concrete deterioration

The horizontal cracks and deterioration may be caused by the slab

being forced under the inward pressure of the soil, whereas the

excessive lateral soil pressure is caused by saturated soils. As seen in

the picture, the existence of the corroding steel might also cause the

slab to split apart.

Figure 6.2.6 Close-up of the deteriorated concrete slab


Interior wall efflorescence (water seepage)

The loose bulging paint on the wall is the consequence of

efflorescence caused by water or drain leakage. Similar to the

efflorescence on tiles, this issue occurs indoors where humidity levels

are higher, which can bring about major mould growth and high repair

costs if not handled quickly. The dampness can result in occurring

allergic reactions to the club members. Waterproofing of the walls can

be installed to prevent future problems.

Figure 6.2.7 A part of the living room wall damaged by the water seepage


Dented pipes

The dented appearance on the exterior pipes are produced by impacts

from foreign materials. This can affect the performance of the pipes,

which could result in leakages. An obvious prevention to this defect is

to avoid heavy objects from piercing or hitting the exposed pipes.

Mineral stains

These stains are caused by the minerals and possibly efflorescence

transferred from within the bricks or concrete lying behind the surface

tiles. The common solution to the problem is to install efficient

waterproofing membranes.

Figure 6.2.8 A dented pipe located at the gazebo

Figure 6.2.9 Mineral stains found by the frame of the toilet door


CHAPTER 7 CONCLUSION

The Royal Selangor Club was a special club in the olden days, originally

built with the intention of being a place for the British staying around Kuala

Lumpur to socialise and play sports. Founded by British officers and one

Indian businessman, it garnered the attention of countless people due to its

strategic location next to the padang, now known as Dataran Merdeka, as

most of the governmental departments and institutions at the time were

clustered in the same area, surrounding the field.

The Club itself was heavily influenced by the Mock Tudor style, which is a

revival of Tudor architecture originating from the United Kingdom. This style

is clearly visible through the Club’s cross-gabled roofs and its half-timbered

framings gracing its exterior. Throughout the years, the Royal Selangor Club’s form has undergone many changes, starting from the small plank

structure with the ‘attap’ roof to the two-storey styled structure that stands in

front of Dataran Merdeka today.

Throughout the 20th century, the Club has faced many challenges in the form

of major floods and fires, which damaged a major part of the building. Protests

were also held against the location of the Royal Selangor Club next

to Dataran Merdeka, as the Club was considered a symbol of oligarchy and

colonialism whose proximity to the site of the nation's independence

diminished the significance of the historical event. Even so, the Club has

persevered through the difficulties and stayed at its original site. Now

recognised with the royal status gifted by the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan

Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah, the Royal Selangor Club will be able to exist

at Dataran Merdeka forever.

We have gained much over the duration of this project. Not only were we

able to experience the process of measuring a building, we also extensively

learned the methods of producing CAD drawings. Furthermore, we were

given a chance to study first-hand a Tudor Revival building, and one of the

oldest architecture in Kuala Lumpur - an opportunity that is rare to obtain in

Malaysia. We hope to be able to utilise everything we have learned in this

project in our future endeavours.

CONCLUSION| 77

REFERENCES

1. A. Ghafar Ahmad (1997), British Colonial Architecture in Malaysia

1800-1930" Kuala Lumpur: Museums Association of Malaysia.

2. Butcher, J.G., (1979), The British in Malaya 1880 - 1941, Kuala

Lumpur: Oxford University Press.

3. Vlatseas, S.,(1992), The Architecture of Malaysia, Amsterdam: The

Pepin Press.

4. Badan Warisan Malaysia., (1990), Malaysia Cultural Heritage

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the-history-behind-the-royal-selangor-club/ on 25th January 2017

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http://www.thestar.com.my/opinion/letters/2003/10/01/judge-with-compassion-and-a-sense--of-humour/

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http://www.cameronhighlandsinfo.com/hotels/Ye_Olde_Smoke_House/

APPENDIX

Education

Rsc full report group 12