ARCA WARISAN

Project idea

To create a Performing Arts Training Center that becomes a cultural anchor for Kampung Bharu by nurturing local talent, preserving performing traditions, and offering dynamic spaces for artistic learning and expression. The center seeks to strengthen the district’s identity as a hub for performance arts while engaging the community and enhancing the urban cultural fabric.

Project description

The Kampung Bharu Performing Arts Training Center is a cultural and educational facility designed to support the growth of Malaysia’s performing arts while responding to the historical and urban fabric of Kampung Bharu. Guided by the concept of “Stratum”, the design layers spaces vertically—from public plazas and training studios to a cantilevered performance theater—symbolizing the evolution of both performer and place. A bold exoskeletal structure, inspired by dancers in motion, supports the architecture both functionally and symbolically, while kerawang-patterned screens provide shading and cultural expression. Through passive design strategies, integrated landscaping, and modular adaptability, the center acts as a plug-in system for cultural regeneration, offering a future-ready space that celebrates heritage, community, and climate-responsive architecture.

Technical information

The Kampung Bharu Performing Arts Training Center is a five-storey cultural and educational facility situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, with a total built-up area of approximately 3,800 m² on a 3,000 m² urban site. The structure is supported by a bold reinforced concrete exoskeletal frame, designed to evoke the expressive motion of dancers while enabling large cantilevers and open interior spaces. Guided by the concept of “Stratum”, the building is vertically organized into layers of public gathering, training, rehearsal, and performance zones. The façade employs a double-skin system incorporating high-performance glazing and kerawang-inspired perforated panels, providing both cultural identity and effective solar shading. Passive design features include cross ventilation, shaded courtyards, green terraces, and a water feature at the base to enhance microclimatic comfort. Materials such as concrete, timber finishes, local stone tiles, and expanded metal panels are used to reflect a balance between tradition and modernity. Designed as a modular and adaptive system, the center acts as a plug-in cultural infrastructure, engaging the local community while addressing future sustainability needs.

Documentation

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