A backpackers’ lodge in KL city is not what one would normally consider award-winning stuff, but the Architects’ Association of Malaysia (PAM) thought it was.
Describing it as “a refreshing approach to create an innovative solution to budget constraints without sacrificing creative detailing with spatial articulation with effective use of architectural elements and materials”, the PAM Awards 2009 jury named architects Masyerin MN Architect in collaboration with MMN Design Sdn Bhd the winner of the “Adaptive Re-use” category.
Completed this year, Back Home Tower was designed to change and uplift backpacking standards in Kuala Lumpur. Located along Jalan Tun H.S. Lee, four shoplots were revitalised and redesigned to accommodate 42 guests, a café, and an outdoor area.
Harking to cosmopolitanism at the turn of the 20thcentury, Back Home was conceptualised to be honest, comfortable and reminiscent of being home.
In line with this, the architects preserved the use of raw-finish concrete, treated marine plywood, facing bricks and unpainted galvanised steel elements. The ceiling was also lifted and an air well was built to facilitate natural light and air flow.
Glass was also used generously in the inner façade facing the courtyard to promote natural light, while glass light boxes were randomly positioned to create light interplay in the interior spaces by day while transforming into floating beacons that decorate the exterior by night.
These measures, along with steps to re-strengthen the deteriorating building structure, were done while preserving much of the original structure. A link-bridge and service facilities such as a wet area, kitchen, laundry and storeroom were also added.
As part of its design, Back Home also has several energy-saving design elements, including PLCE and LED lighting, louvered windows to minimise the use of air-conditioning, and a heat exchanger unit to recycle the heat emitted from the air-conditioner compressor to heat up the hot water tank.
The designers also used only natural sealants, ensuring they were water-based instead of acid- or chemical-based products. Chemical paints and processed building materials were kept to a minimum, in line with an environmentally friendly attitude towards the regeneration of the premises.
Address:
BackHome Kuala Lumpur
30, Jalan Tun H.S. Lee,
50000 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: +603 2078 7188
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