Culture & History II Report

ARCHITECTURE CULTURE & HISTORY 2 (ARC 60203)

PROJECT 2

TENAGA NASIONAL BERHAD (TNB) HEADQUARTERS

NO 129, JALAN BANGSAR 59200 KUALA LUMPUR

AIDA JUNITA BINTI ZULKIFLEE (0317766)

ANG WEI YI (0317885)

CANISIUS BONG WEI PHENG (0318914)

CHIA CHENG WEI (0322091)

CHONG YU XUAN (0317950)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TOPIC PAGE NUMBER

01 INTRODUCTION 2

01.1 LOCATION 2

01.2 HISTORY OF THE BUILDING 3

01.3 BUILDING FUNCTION 4

02 SITE CONTEXT 5

02.1 BUILDING ACCESSIBILITY 5

02.2 RELATIONSHIP OF BUILDING TO SURROUNDINGS 7

03 ARCHITECTURAL LAYOUT OF BUILDING 10

03.1 SPATIAL ARRANGEMENT 10

03.2 CIRCULATION TO USE SPACE 15

03.3 ORGANIZATION ANALYSIS 17

04 ARCHITECTURE STYLE 19

05 BUILDING STRUCTURE 24

05.1 BUILDING CONSTRUCTION & STRUCTURE ANALYSIS 24

05.2 MATERIALS ANALYSIS 28

06 ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS & COMPONENTS 34

07 CONCLUSION 42

08 REFERENCES 43

01 | INTRODUCTION

TENAGA NASIONAL BERHAD (TNB) HEADQUARTERS

NO 129, JALAN BANGSAR 59200 KUALA LUMPUR

01.1 | LOCATION

Figure 01.1: Location map of Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) Headquarters

01 | INTRODUCTION

01.2 | HISTORY OF THE BUILDING

Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) is the largest electric utility company in Malaysia. Its

headquarters, located on Jalan Bangsar stands 11 storeys high and is considered as one of the

most prominent architectural landmarks at the time it was built in Kuala Lumpur, the national

capital of Malaysia.

Built in the mid-1960s, the opening ceremony of the TNB Headquarters was officiated

by the first Prime Minister of Malaysia, the late Tunku Abdul Rahman, in June of 1966. The TNB

Headquarters was designed by Mr. A.A. Geeraerts A.R.I.B.A. and the structural and civil

engineering design by Bolton Hennessey Cogan and Associates. The main contractor was Ahong

Construction Co. (M) Ltd.

Throughout its 49 years of life span, TNB Headquarters has undergone several changes

and refurbishments, which were necessary to accommodate the increase in number of staff

and the company’s output. This led to having little remains of the original interior of the

building left. For instance, the 11th floor did not have air-conditioning and was used as a staff

canteen but it has been transformed into director’s offices, VIP reception areas and dining

rooms with air conditioning.

Fortunately, the exterior of the building has remained unchanged. The good design

features and materials enabled the building to stand the test of time, and coupled with the

distinctive cube construction (based on the module of 5 feet 4 inches) of the façade, making the

TNB Headquarters an architectural landmark.

01 | INTRODUCTION

01.3 | BUILDING FUNCTION

The TNB Headquarters is located on a 70 acre site and the following are some of the functions

of the Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) Headquarters:

1. Main office building and headquarters for the TNB staff

2. A despatch centre

3. Workshops

4. Club facilities

5. Staff housing

02 | SITE CONTEXT

02.1 | BUILDING ACCESSIBILITY

TNB Headquarters is located in Bangsar, just a little off Lebuhraya Persekutuan (Federal

Highway). It is built in a gated area only with buildings owned by Tenaga Nasional Berhad. This

area can be accessed by turning into Jalan Panah from Jalan Bukit Pantai. The TNB

Headquarters is situated just on the left of Jalan Panah.

Figure 02.1: Map of Bangsar

The TNB Headquarters is surrounded by buildings and facilities owned by TNB,

multipurpose hall, storehouses, Kilat Club house, property services department building,

Bangunan Wilayah etc. Surrounding buildings outside of TNB area include Pantai Medical

Center and the TM Tower.

02 | SITE CONTEXT

The TNB Headquarters is a cuboid

shaped building with unique finishes

resembling honeycombs. The building

is facing south enabling the

“honeycomb” acts as shading to the

building. This place is where most

important functions are coordinated.

Figure 02.2: Map of TNB Headquarters

The TNB headquarters building is located in the middle of the area, making it the core

circulation in the area. As all important buildings are connected to the headquarters building

directly through the main road, the place is easily accessibly within the area. There is a pond

and a field just beside the TNB Headquarters. Other small buildings include living quarters of

TNB workers, parking lots and buildings of various different functions. The buildings

N

02 | SITE CONTEXT

surrounding the TNB headquarters building are mostly low-rise, together with the pond and

field which makes the headquarters building stand out.

The buildings further away consist of a combination of both high and low-rise. Majority of the

buildings are high-rise contrasting to the buildings in the TNB headquarters area.

02.2 | RELATIONSHIP OF BUILDING TO SURROUNDINGS

TNB MULTIPURPOSE HALL

A stadium with four badminton courts – it is used

during events. Consist of a cuboid form similar to

the headquarters building with an additional

cylindrical form which holds the stairs inside.

TNB STOREHOUSES

Used for storage purposes of TNB Headquarters. A

large dull cuboid structure, different from the

headquarters building which has an interesting

façade.

02 | SITE CONTEXT

TNB KILAT CLUBHOUSE

The club house is completed with gym, restaurant,

library and a field. Low-rised building with similar

features to the multipurpose hall.

TNB PROPERTY SERVICES DEPARTMENT

Property Services Department building and

working quarters of maintenance department etc.

The building is newer than the headquarters

building, and as a result, it possesses a more

modern architectural style while still maintaining

the cuboid form.

TNB BANGUNAN WILAYAH

It is a cuboid form with slanted roof. The only

building in the area with a mono-pitched roof,

which is similar to the solar panels found on the

parking lots.

02 | SITE CONTEXT

PANTAI MEDICAL CENTRE

A private hospital located at the west of the TNB

headquarters. Has a similar height and form

consisting of a combination of two cuboids. Also

have exterior shadings which are very similar to

the “honeycomb” of the headquarters building.

TM TOWER

A sky scraper shaped like a sprouting bamboo shoot

belonging to Telekom Malaysia. The building that

stands out the most because of its height and

unique form.

03 | ARCHITECTURAL LAYOUT

03.1 | SPATIAL ARRANGEMENT

Figure 03.1: Entrance hall

The headquarters building was built in 11 floors, including the mezzanine floor in between the

ground floor and the first floor. Figure 03.2 till 03.12 show the bubble diagrams of some specific

floor, as actual plans are not allowed to be publicly shared due to private and confidential

policy.

Figure 03.2: Ground floor

Ground floor consists of main lobby and receptions counter, placed at the center. There

is also an exhibition area and waiting hall beside the main entrance.


Figure 03.3: Chairman’s room entrance (left); Deputy President room (right)

Figure 03.4: Mezzanine

The mezzanine floor consists of a room for the deputy president. The room for the

chairman can also be found on the mezzanine floor.

Figure 03.5: 1st floor

1st floor is the office of president or CEO and for executive officers.

2nd floor is the secretaries department. It contains a lot space to store documents and

files. The place of the meeting room also stored a lot of files.


Figure 03.6: 3rd floor

3rd floor is the floor for the head of cooperation officer. It consists of several rooms for

head of treasurer, vice president of services cooperation and vice president of operation.

Figure 03.7: 4th floor

4th floor is for the management of human resources. Communication cooperation,

workers cooperation and monitor are also all on this floor.

5th floor is the department of communication and affairs cooperation. 6th floor is the

department of general officers. 7th floor is the office of benefit and administrative

management.


8th floor is the office of human resources management and office of human resources

and building environment.



9th floor is the office of human resources management and office of connection and

enterprise.

10th floor is the benefit and administrative office floor. The main meeting room is placed

right at the entrance.

Figure 03.10: Reception counter of penthouse (left); Dining hall (right)

Figure 03.11: Presentation hall



11th floor is also known as the VIP floor, the Penthouse Tenaga Nasional Berhad. This

floor consists of a waiting room, dining room for VIP and a presentation room. The presentation

room is for press conferences or presentation purposes. There is a room called Kapar room

which is the VIP meeting room and only CEO and VIP are allowed to enter the room because it

consists of a lot of private and confidential documents. A breathtaking view of the area of

Tenaga Nasional Berhad can be seen from the dining room.


03.2 | CIRCULATION TO USE SPACE

Figure 03.13: Main entrance

People can enter from the main entrance and go out from the rear entrance with a

straight path pattern.

Figure 03.14: Spiral staircase

The spiral staircase is the most noticeable element in this building and is placed behind

of the space. The spiral staircase leads people from the ground floor all the way to the 11th floor

(top floor).


Figure 03.15: Staircase to mezzanine floor

There is a beautifully built curved staircase at the ground floor and it placed at the

center of the lobby. Users just need 21 steps to access the mezzanine floor.

Most the offices are designed in a linear circulation. It is a straight path from one end to

the other end. The working spaces are organized at the side of the pathway.

Figure 03.16: Emergency staircase

People can also access each floor from the emergency staircase which is at the left and

right upper corner of the building. The roof can be accessed by using the right upper corner

emergency staircase.


03.3 | ORGANIZATION ANALYSIS

GEOMETRY

The building is in rectangular shape. It designed in a balanced manner.

SYMMETRY

The building is in a rectangular shape and it shows a bilateral symmetry.


REPETITION

The façade of the building is designed in a repetitive form.

RHYTHM

The façade of the building shows a wavy pattern with a sense of movement.

04 | ARCHITECTURE STYLE

Architecture in Malaysia has rapidly developed, stemming from the cultural, economic

and political stimuli, from pre-independence era (around the 1920s) until post-independence

era, which is after the year 1957 till the current day. The architectural style of buildings in the

capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, has a unique range from colonial to Asian, Chinese and

Hindu influences, traditional and Islamic, as well as modern and post-modern. Most of these

architectural styles have been adapted to accommodate the local climate – hot and humid all

year round, and use of local resources.

Figure 04.1: Unique range of architectural style of buildings in Kuala Lumpur

MODERN ARCHITECTURE STYLE

The Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) Headquarters is composed of modern architectural

style (Figure 04.2). Built in the year 1966, the TNB Headquarters

Figure 04.2: Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) Headquarters on Jalan Bangsar,

composed of modern style of architecture.

Modern architecture was a movement that came about around the late 19th century to

early 20th century, and was an effort to reconcile the principles underlying architectural design


with rapid technological advancement and modernization of society. Modern architecture

developed as a result of social and political revolutions. The main theme that revolves in

modern architecture is the notion of form following function. Modern architecture is also based

on the rational use of modern materials, principles of functional planning and lack of

ornamentation.

Features and characteristics of modern architecture is evident in the TNB Headquarters

through its adoption of ‘form follows function’ ideal, minimal ornamentation, use of modern

materials and systems, sincerity to materials used in construction and utilizing natural light.

ADOPTION OF ‘FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION’ IDEAL

Modern architecture focuses on function over form,

which is apparent in the TNB Headquarters structure as the

building uses a simple cube form. The 11 storey building was

designed in a cube construction based on a module of 5 feet 4

inches.

As opposed to using interior walls as supporting walls, the use

of posts and beams serve the function of dividing rooms and

aesthetic purposes. Posts and structural beams are used

extensively to support the weight and load of the building.

MINIMAL ORNAMENTATION

The external façade of the TNB Headquarters has almost

zero ornamentation. However, the façade has a distinctive cube

construction and design, familiarly known as the “Honeycomb”

and a building’s signage positioned at the top of the building.


USE OF MODERN MATERIALS AND SYSTEMS

The use of modern or industrially produced materials and

systems in modern architectural style is also evident in the

TNB Headquarters. For example, concrete blocks were used

as a finished material in the façade of the building, as seen in

Figure 04.3.

Figure 04.3: Concrete honeycombed

sculptured facade

SINCERITY TO MATERIAL USED IN CONSTRUCTION

In modern style of architecture, there is an emphasis on honesty of materials. In the

TNB Headquarters, components such as the wooden staircase and doors are stained instead of

painted in order to express its natural character.

Figure 04.4: Wooden components in TNB Headquarters

UTILIZING NATURAL LIGHT

In modern architecture, windows are used extensively to

allow natural lighting. TNB Headquarters used floor-to-ceiling

windows at the entrance of the building to enable better natural

light penetration into the interior space, as seen in Figure 04.5.

Figure 04.5: Main entrance


On top of that, use of sun shading to enhance human comfort is evident in the

structure. The projection of the honeycombed structure on the exterior façade was designed to

prevent direct sunlight rays.

Figure 04.6: Exterior view of the honeycombed structure (left);

Interior view of the honeycombed structure (right)

INTERNATIONAL ARCHITECTURAL STYLE

International architectural style was developed in Europe and the United States around

the 1920s to 1930s and was a dominant trend in Western architecture. Some of the common

features and characteristics of this style of architecture are rectilinear forms, plane surfaces

which have been completely stripped of ornamentation and open interior spaces. In the

International architectural style, visual lines, be it horizontal or vertical, can be seen clearly.

As applied in International Style modernism, the TNB Headquarters has a visual

emphasis on horizontal and vertical lines in both exterior façade and interior spaces.

Figure 04.7: Both horizontal and vertical lines can be seen on the exterior façade (left); Strong

horizontal lines on the ceiling and walls can be observed (right)


Nevertheless, the building is technically not considered to be of pure modern

architecture as it has local influences. As opposed to one of the ideas of the International

architectural style where by the design solutions were indifferent to location, site and climate,

the design and construction of the TNB Headquarters were influenced by the weather and

climate in Malaysia – hot and humid almost all year round.

The traditional International style buildings are generally not suitable for the Malaysian

climate. Hence, International style architecture buildings in Malaysia include modifications in

their design, usually in the form of concrete, instead of the typical glass and steel structure. An

example of a building in Malaysia besides the TNB Headquarters that adopts this similar idea is

the Parliament Building on Jalan Duta, Kuala Lumpur.

Figure 04.8: Parliament Building, built in 1963

05 | BUILDING STRUCTURE

TNB Headquarters used different kind of materials for the exterior and interior of the

building. The materials used to construct the building include reinforced concrete, marble,

mosaic, timber, steel, iron, tempered glass etc. The construction method of the building is

concrete piling by using hydraulic hammer to provide strong foundation to the building for

nearly 50 years.

05.1 | BUILDING CONSTRUCTION & STRUCTURE ANALYSIS

Figure 05.1: Section of main entrance and foundation of TNB Headquarters

Figure 05.2: Section of ground floor and foundation of TNB Headquarters


Mono pitch steel roof truss Corrugated plastic roofing

TNB Headquarters used mono-pitched steel roof truss to support the corrugated plastic roofing

outside the walkway of the building. The mono pitch truss of this building is slightly curved to

accommodate the roof shape. Besides that, the steel roof truss is used because it has high tensile

strength to support the roof. Steel roof truss is also fire resistant, weather resistant and highly durable.

Figure 05.3: Thick drywall with lead lining (left); Wood studs as framing members (centre);

Wood bottom plate (right)

Some part of the TNB Headquarters used gypsum wall as part of the structure in the

building. Gypsum wall is also known as drywall, wallboard or plasterboard and it is a panel

made of gypsum plaster pressed between two thick sheets of paper. It is used to make interior

walls of the building. Gypsum board is one of several building materials covered by the

umbrella term “gypsum panel products.” All gypsum panel products contain gypsum cores.

However, they can be faced with a variety of different materials, including paper and fiberglass

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


mats. Gypsum board building systems are easy to install and it requires only a few tools such as

screws, nails and staple for construction.

Figure 05.4: Structural glass balustrading systems

TNB Headquarters also used structural glass balustrading systems.

These systems are a contemporary alternative to timber or aluminum

framed systems. It is generally a free standing system with fewer vertical

or horizontal supports. It requires the bottom of the tempered glass

panel to be fully and rigidly fixed usually into the grouted channel.

Concrete top fixing methods is when the concrete deck construction

provides the most stable substrate and is particularly well suited to the

frameless glass styles. Concrete substrate provides strong anchor points

and choice of fixing positions.

Figure 05.3: Front elevation (left); Side elevation (right)


The structure of the TNB Headquarters building is a rectangular shape building and has

been designed into a cube construction based on module of 5 feet 4 inches.

The cube of the building structure gives a honeycombed sculpture façade for both front and

rear elevation of the main building giving the building a good repetitive pattern.

The structure of the honeycomb is made of concrete to build window into it.

The glazed surface of honeycomb structure to prevent direct rays of sunlight into the

building.

STRUCTURAL COMPARISON BETWEEN TNB HEADQUARTERS AND CENTRE POINT LONDON

Figure 05.4: TNB Headquarters, Jalan Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur

Figure 05.5: Centre Point, London, United Kingdom

After making some comparison between TNB headquarters and also a building from

western country which is Centre Point London building, there are similarities between these

two buildings which is the structure of the buildings. Both buildings are rectangular in shape

and designed into cube construction based giving a honeycombed structure. TNB Headquarters

have a total of 11-storey whereas Centre Point London comprising a 33-storey office tower.


05.2 | MATERIALS ANALYSIS

GRANITE

Figure 05.6: Dataran TNB with granite flooring

The connecting pathway to TNB Headquarters building is granite flooring. Granite, a

quartz-based stone, because of that it is hard and is often considered the queen of the stones

for flooring purposes. It is nearly impossible to break granite. With proper care, granite flooring

will last a lifetime. Granite flooring is hypoallergenic, allergen, and bacteria resistant.

TEMPERED GLASS

Figure 05.7: Tempered glass at main entrance (left); Tinted tempered glass at resting area (right)

Tempered glass has many intangible advantages. It is best in resistant to thermal

temperature changes. Moreover, it also allows penetration of sunlight to brighten the interior

of building. Tinted tempered glass is used to minimize sunlight and heat. Tempered glass is

much stronger than regular glass. So, it can also be used as railing since it reduces the risk of


injury, it also reduces the risk of lawsuits. Tempered glass is also used in the building especially

the entrance is to allow clearer vision of who is entering the building and enjoy outside view.

Figure 05.8: Tempered glass railing at pathway (left); Tempered glass window at honeycomb

shaped concrete which can be opened (right)

CONCRETE

The structure of the TNB Headquarters is built of concrete.

Concrete is a strong hard building material composed of aggregate

bonded together with fluid cement which hardens over time. Concrete

is also workable before hardening for long timescales. Besides the

honeycomb design structure being made out of concrete, the building

uses concrete underneath the staircase because it is a tough material to

support the structure. Therefore, columns of the building are also made

of concrete as columns are the main support of certain structure in the

building.

Figure 05.9: Honeycomb structure of the building built of concrete (left); Curving concrete

underneath staircase (right)


MOSAIC TILES

Figure 05.10: Black mosaic tiles of the spiral staircase

TNB Headquarters used mosaic tiles as the building materials for the interior and

exterior. Mosaic tile is very durable and can easily match to raise sophistication and style of any

area with the design of the building. Mosaic tile can be found at the outside structure of the

building such as the honeycomb design pattern wall or the pillar because it can be easily

cleaned and maintained as every 2 years, the building is cleaned. For the interior, some of the

staircase used mosaic tile because it can ensure safety of user because it can prevent slippery.

Besides that, the material keeps the staircase looking good for effective maintenance.

Figure 05.11: Mosaic tiles at the outside façade of the building (left); Mosaic tiles covering

concrete walls of the building (right)


TIMBER

Figure 05.12: Wall on Level 10 of TNB

Headquarters using timber (Nyatoh wood)

Timber is used all over the building as it is one of the few

natural non-toxic building material which doesn’t leak chemical

vapor and is safe to handle and touch. Timber is also a natural

insulator and can reduce energy needs especially it is used in walls

and floor. As timber ages, it doesn’t break down into

environmentally damaging materials. Not only that, timber makes

the building a glossy look, which brings an antique feeling in the

interior of the TNB Headquarters building.

Some of the levels in the building used timber

flooring. Timber flooring is used especially in the

eating area of building because it can be clean

easily as it does not stain. Timber flooring is also

soft under foot unlike concrete or tiles which

tend to tire our feet and legs.

Figure 05.13: Timber flooring (spotted gum)

Spiral staircase at the ground floor differs from

other floor as the handle is made out of timber

which gives a simple and elegant design.


MARBLE

Figure 05.14: Marble stairs at the outdoor entrance (left);

Marble spiral staircase on ground floor (right)

Marble is also used as building materials in TNB Headquarters

building. Marble is mainly used on stairs and also floor in the

building. Marble provides spectacular look and feel and can be used

for nice interior decoration. It offers a classic look that cannot be

mimicked by any other material. Marble is also durable and disperse

heat well, use radiant heat mats prior to install marble flooring to

keep the material warm to touch. Not only that, marble requires low

maintenance and is also moisture resistant. Pills or liquid on marble

tiles can be taken off easily. Most importantly, marble is low bacteria

buildup.

Figure 05.15: Marble floor (left); Synthetic marble for receptionist counter (right)


STEEL

Figure 05.16: Steel structure for TNB sign (left); Steel ladder (right)

Steel is used for the sign of TNB and the ladder at the rooftop building. Steel has the

highest strength to weight ratio of any building material and durable as steel is much stronger

than iron. Besides, steel won't shrink, twist or warp, reducing the likelihood of problems such as

cracking cornices, jamming doors, sticking windows or wavy rooflines therefore it is used to

uphold the sign of TNB to ensure safety.

Figure 05.17: Stainless steel structure as staircase railing

Stainless steel is used as railings for the spiral staircase at the 10th floor of the building.

Stainless steel is a durable, low maintenance material and is often the least expensive choice

material. All stainless steels have a high resistance to corrosion and resist scaling and maintain

high strength at very high temperatures. The easy cleaning ability of stainless steel makes it first

choice for strict hygiene condition materials.

06 | ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS & COMPONENTS

FLOORING

In the 19th century, complex geometric techniques were taught to architects. For

flooring of the entrance, the architectural design was highly influenced by the geometric

shapes. The hexagon shapes were a hugely popular pattern for tiling. They were used as design

that link to each other randomly with different colours such as orange and brown which can

make a large space in front of the main entrance appear smaller and more inviting.

The design of the flooring could be anything from a simple dark line, to a more complex

geometric pattern. For example, the square tiles in a grid pattern used for flooring could give a

simple and clean look which enhances the feel and atmosphere of the space.


In order to create a contemporary design in 1960s, the floors of TNB Headquarters’

entrance hall were covered in marble. Marble flooring also could add a luxury feel to the

entrance hall since it is traditionally a more formal space.

In postmodernism, architects were free in using any

architectural elements in their designs. TNB Headquarters

building was designed with the features of postmodernism

style by incorporating different flooring materials such as

stone, marble and wood into various spaces to achieve

contemporary design.

Besides that, building materials of postmodern building

should be durable and able to withstand long-term exposure

to sun and rain. For example, building material that requires

low maintenance such as natural stone was encouraged to use

for the balcony flooring.


STAIRCASE

The double spiral staircases at the entrance hall of TNB Headquarters, shows the two

access points at the bottom of the stairs. They were built at both sides of the reception counter

that is connected to the main office on the first floor.

The double spiral staircases allow one-way traffic without obstruction and often in

support of legal requirements to have two separate fire escapes. Both stairs were covered with

marble tiles and the handrails were made of timber. All of these elements were evident in Art

Deco designs.


There is a spiral staircase in the

middle of first floor connecting

each level of the entire building.

The spiral staircase has a

wooden handrail on the outer

side and inner side just the

central pole which is very space

efficient in the use of floor area. The stair was made up of a combination of different materials

such as timber and mosaic tiles.

Besides having spiral staircases, there was a metal staircase built for emergency

purposes. This staircase which provides a method of escape in the event of a fire or other

emergency is a very important aspect of fire safety.


WINDOWS

The arrangement in series and the geometric repetition principles were used in façade

design of TNB Headquarters. The primary facade of the building was designed in modular form

and richly built in decorative geometric patterns.

Windows are permitted to interrupt the massive concrete

forms of the building and mostly recessed out of sight which was

meant to also evoke the body. The recessed window openings in the

façade were criticized by occupants as small, leaving the interior dark

and uninviting.

However, perhaps they were small but that was the intention.

They were developed to reduce sun exposure and provide thermal

comfort to the users in the interior spaces.

The postmodern architecture in 1960s was designed to

be concerned with environmental issues. Along the exterior

wall of the building, operable windows were integrated

horizontally to provide natural ventilation and maximize energy

efficiency.


The window is believed to be the single most important element of the building to the

workers by keeping them in touch with the time of day. Sunlight penetration in a workspace

has made a significant effect on job satisfaction and general well-being. Preference for windows

design in a workspace is mostly in rectangular shape with timber frame.

DOORS

The automatic door system was designed to provide

additional accessibility convenience, hygiene and style for TNB

Headquarters’ main entrance. It also features innovative control

elements and technology ensuring a basis for safe and reliable

access.

With a comprehensive range of possible configurations and

functions allowing access to be optimized and match pedestrian

traffic flows, automatic doors offer an elegant, sophisticated and

welcoming entrance to the building too.

The doors for interior were built with

various kinds of materials to give different

feelings to different spaces.

Wood, steel, glass and fiberglass were selected both for its

appearance and ability to create a modern look to the

building. The biggest difference between materials is

aesthetic.


LAMP

Although daylight is used as the main source of light during daytime in TNB

Headquarters, lamps are also used to bring light to the indoor rooms. With good designs, these

energy-efficient bulbs last significantly longer than traditional bulbs so the maintenance

department would not need to replace them as often.

CEILING

The spiral staircase with a pole in

the middle could correspond to the

oval accents on the ceiling. The oval-

shaped lamp was intended to emphasize

the domed ceiling style and to make more

attractive when combined with it.

One of the busiest options, coffered

ceilings features repeating sunken square

panels. Generally, the primary lighting fixture

is hung from the centermost panel while other

panels may feature recessed lighting. This

ceiling was constructed to creating character

in the entrance hall with very little supporting

decor.


WALL

TNB Headquarters building employs large floor-to-ceiling glass

windows as walls for the main entrance hall. These architectural

elements allow daylight to lighten up the space. They are

aesthetically pleasing when combined with marble flooring and

furniture and at the same time they make the space seem larger

and welcoming.

Interior wall in TNB Headquarters building was built with the insulating material used for the

wall system. Adding insulation to interior walls could reduce unwanted noise from outside and

also limit sound transmission from room to room.

Mosaic tiles were used as the material for exterior wall

design of TNB Headquarters building. They are excellent

for effective maintenance because of their ability to stay

the same all over the years and reduce staining.

07 | CONCLUSION

Although it took us three visits to finally gain permission to enter the building, I find that

the TNB Headquarters is a unique building that stands out during its time. It is well maintained

and renovated to fit the requirements of buildings nowadays. This project is interesting as it

makes us to look into historical architectures and to learn from their mistakes and beauty.

The TNB Headquarters is designed in a balanced manner with very well spatial

arrangements. We can see that the circulation is mostly in linear pathway and every space is

emphasized and clear. Thus, there is less confusion in term of spatial arrangement. The function

of each floor is well planned and all the spaces have its usage. This reduced waste of space.

Being one of the most prominent landmarks in Kuala Lumpur, especially around the

time it was built, the TNB Headquarters is also a great illustration of the industrial and

commercial development that took place in Malaysia. Through this report assignment, I have

acquired a better understanding on the unique range of architectural style of buildings in

Malaysia and how external factors such as culture, economics and politics affect the

development of architecture.

The TNB Headquarters was constructed for over 50 years. The materials used in the

building are all well preserved and had always been maintained under good condition. The

tempered glass in the building will be cleaned every six months whereas the outside façade of

building will be cleaned every 2 years. Throughout this project, I really learned a lot and

understood more about this building especially the construction and materials of the TNB

Headquarters. We would also like to thanks Mr. Isamudin, from the Corporate Affairs &

Services Division who guided us throughout the whole building. Many thanks for his assistance

in our project.

Architectural elements are the unique details and component parts that form

the architectural style of a building. Key elements of TNB Headquarters which are

representative of both modern and postmodern architecture are geometric-pattern flooring,

spiral staircases, repetitive pattern on building façade, domed ceiling style, functional

requirements of doors and windows, mosaic tiles for exterior wall and floor-to-ceiling glass

windows as interior wall.

08 | REFERENCES

Cooper, D. (2007, May 5). Visit to Tenaga Nasional Berhad Headquarters. Retrieved from

http://www.badanwarisan.org.my/buletins/jul_aug07.pdf

SITE CONTEXT

ARCHITECURAL LAYOUT

Ching, F. (1979). Architecture, form, space & order. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold.

ARCHITECTURE STYLE

Kuala Lumpur Architecture. (n.d.). Retrieved from

http://www.malaysian-explorer.com/kualaLumpurArchitecture.html

Outoftheboxholiday. (2015, April 10). Modern vs Postmodern Architecture – Drawing the

Differentiating Line. Retrieved from http://outoftheboxholiday.com/modern-vs-

postmodern-architecture-drawing-the-differentiating-line/

Singh, H. (2014, November 26). Modernism & postmodernism in architecture. Retrieved from

http://www.slideshare.net/harshitasingh75470/modernism-postmodernism-in-architecture

The Architecture of Malaysia (52 images). (n.d.). Retrieved from

http://teamqphotography.photoshelter.com/gallery/The-Architecture-of-

Malaysia/G0000OEVqGU9GSxA/C0000RavT0LrYPBM

Williams, B. (2014, March 12). The Many Architectural Styles of Malaysia. Retrieved from

http://www.travelsintranslation.com/2014/03/many-architectural-styles-malaysia/

BUILDING STRUCTURE

(n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.nationalglass.com.au/catalogues/NGP_Section_13.pdf

Benefits of Ceramic Tiles. (n.d.). Retrieved from

http://www.homeimprovementpages.com.au/article/benefits_of_ceramic_tiles

Features and Benefits. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://a1timberflooring.com.au/features-of-

hardwood-flooring.php

http://www.badanwarisan.org.my/buletins/jul_aug07.pdf

http://www.malaysian-explorer.com/kualaLumpurArchitecture.html

http://outoftheboxholiday.com/modern-vs-postmodern-architecture-drawing-the-differentiating-line/

http://outoftheboxholiday.com/modern-vs-postmodern-architecture-drawing-the-differentiating-line/

http://www.slideshare.net/harshitasingh75470/modernism-postmodernism-in-architecture

http://teamqphotography.photoshelter.com/gallery/The-Architecture-of-Malaysia/G0000OEVqGU9GSxA/C0000RavT0LrYPBM

http://teamqphotography.photoshelter.com/gallery/The-Architecture-of-Malaysia/G0000OEVqGU9GSxA/C0000RavT0LrYPBM

http://www.travelsintranslation.com/2014/03/many-architectural-styles-malaysia/

http://www.nationalglass.com.au/catalogues/NGP_Section_13.pdf

http://www.homeimprovementpages.com.au/article/benefits_of_ceramic_tiles

http://a1timberflooring.com.au/features-of-hardwood-flooring.php

http://a1timberflooring.com.au/features-of-hardwood-flooring.php

08 | REFERENCES

Marble and Its uses in Construction. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://hubpages.com/living/Marble-

and-Its-uses-in-Construction

Smith, S. (n.d.). Advantages of Tempered Glass. Retrieved from

http://www.ehow.com/about_5039015_advantages-tempered-glass.html

STAINLESS STEEL OVERVIEW: FEATURES & BENEFITS. (n.d.). Retrieved from

http://www.ssina.com/overview/features.html

Using Gypsum Board for Walls and Ceilings Section I. (2011, December 2). Retrieved from

http://www.gypsum.org/technical/using-gypsum-board-for-walls-and-ceilings/using-

gypsum-board-for-walls-and-ceilings-section-i/#titleone

ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS & COMPONENTS

Anna, W. (2015, July). The dezeen guide to postmodern architecture and design. Dezeen,

Retrieved from http://www.dezeen.com/2015/07/23/guide-to-postmodern-architecture-

design-glenn-adamson/

Libby, B. A. (2001). Windows in the workplace: a comparison between window preferences and

preferences for other office amenities among white collar workers. Window preferences, 2,

23-27. Retrieved from http://www3.uakron.edu/witt/rmfcs/libby.pdf

http://hubpages.com/living/Marble-and-Its-uses-in-Construction

http://hubpages.com/living/Marble-and-Its-uses-in-Construction

http://www.ehow.com/about_5039015_advantages-tempered-glass.html

http://www.ssina.com/overview/features.html

http://www.gypsum.org/technical/using-gypsum-board-for-walls-and-ceilings/using-gypsum-board-for-walls-and-ceilings-section-i/#titleone

http://www.gypsum.org/technical/using-gypsum-board-for-walls-and-ceilings/using-gypsum-board-for-walls-and-ceilings-section-i/#titleone

http://www.dezeen.com/2015/07/23/guide-to-postmodern-architecture-design-glenn-adamson/

http://www.dezeen.com/2015/07/23/guide-to-postmodern-architecture-design-glenn-adamson/

http://www3.uakron.edu/witt/rmfcs/libby.pdf

Culture & History II Report

Education

Transcript of Culture & History II Report