Asian Architecture [ARC 2213/2234]

Project 1: Case Study

The use of climatic responsive materials in S11 House as an approach to respond to

local climate patterns in PJS11, Petaling Jaya in order to provide user comfort and

achieve sustainability.

Student Name and ID:

Andrew Law Zi Hang 0322670

Ng Hong Bin 0319735

Lee Kai Yung 0318314

Chong Yu Xuan 0317950

Alan Koo Ka Lok 0318757

Liew Yu Xian 0319713

Tutor: Mr. Koh Jing Hao

Submission Date: 29/11/2016

Table of Contents

Abstract

1.0 Research Framework

1.1 Introduction

1.2 Overview of S11 House

1.3 Concept Mapping

1.4 Research Objectives

1.5 Scope of study

2.0 Climatic condition in PJS11, Petaling Jaya

2.1 Hot

2.2 Humid

2.3 Wind Direction

2.4 Conclusion

3.0 Timber

3.1 Type and properties of timber used in S11 House

3.2 Climatic Response of timber used in S11 House

3.2.1 Chengal Wood

3.2.2 FSC Timber

3.2.3 Recycled plywood

3.3 Vernacular approach of S11 House with the use of timber

4.0 Steel

4.1 Type and properties of steel in S11 House

4.1.1 Carbon Steel

4.1.1.2 Properties

4.1.1.3 Climatic Response of carbon steel

4.1.2 Galvanized Steel Roof

4.1.2.1 Properties

4.1.2.2 Climatic Response of Galvanized Steel Roof

5.0 Concrete

5.1 Type and properties of concrete used in S11 House

5.2 Climatic Response of concrete used in S11 House

5.2.1 Aerated Lightweight concrete blocks

6.0 Brick

6.1 Type and properties of brick in S11 House

6.2 Climatic Response of brick used in S11 House

6.3 Salvaged materials

7.0 Low-E Glass

7.1 Low-E Glass used in S11 House

7.2 Climatic Response of Low-E glass in S11 House

7.3 Vernacular approach of S11 House by using full stretch of low-e glass window

design

8.0 Marble

8.1 Type and properties of marble used in S11 House

8.2 Climatic Response of marble used in S11 House

9.0 Conclusion

10.0 Reference

Abstract

The intention of this paper is to investigate on how local climatic responsive

materials used in S11 House can be used as an approach to tackle climatic condition

in PJS11, Petaling Jaya in order to achieve sustainability and thermal comfort. Material

and climatic study, literature review was conducted in order to gain basic

understanding on the materials used in S11 House and to achieve a smoother

research process. Under the similar climatic context, close similarities with the use of

materials and approach can be observed in both S11 House and local Malay

Vernacular architecture which helped in the understanding of the concept of

application of materials within the climatic context of Malaysia. The scope of study is

limited to materials in S11 House and local climatic condition rather than the building

as a whole. Materials are discussed together with their specific climatic condition in

each chapter in order to evaluate how both materials and climatic conditions can

work in harmony. Materials used are mainly recycled from site or from local to be

contextually responded and adapted to local climatic and cultural context.

Materials used in S11 House have the properties of being able to shed heat away,

resisting effect caused by humidity, prevent deterioration caused by long exposure to

sun. The materials studied in this paper are included of concrete, timber, steel, brick,

marble and low-e glass which they respond to either or both of the climatic conditions

that includes hot which is caused by long exposure of sunlight and high humidity

which is caused by abundant rainfall at PJS11, Petaling Jaya. Hence, the application

of each materials in a building plays a major role in achieving thermal comfort and

sustainability within a specific context. Result of this case study can be anticipated as

an approach that uses material towards specific context to achieve various quality

as observed in S11 house.

1.0 Research framework

1.1 Introduction

Sustainability has dubbed as a major role in architecture nowadays. Building must

adapt to local climate patterns in order to provide maximum user comfort through

design. Green building are designed to save energy used and recycle materials,

resources used are able to minimise the impact with the environment. GBI Malaysia

is integrated as a grading system to the sustainability and green approach of a

building. The use of materiality also play an importance role which, if ignored, may

cause problem for the building adaptability, compatibility to the site. Thermal

comfort is vital in Malaysia where heat gain lies with the use of materiality. (Juan,

n.d., p.79)

S11 house is located in an established older suburb of Petaling Jaya and designed

by Ar. Tan Loke Mun. The existing old house on the site was built in the early 1960’s

and was ruined and run-down over the years with the materials are being reuse on

the S11 house. "S11 House was designed to achieve the highest level Platinum rating

of Malaysia’s Green Building Index (GBI)." (Archdaily, 2013) The architect's approach

to design the S11 House is basically based on the objective to solve the problems

and to be responsive to the local climate pattern of PJS11, Petaling Jaya. (Mun, n.d.,

p.1) The climatic conditions of Malaysia is hot and humid throughout the years

where there are dry and wet season. S11 House is orientated North-South such that

the activity area is not exposed to direct sun from east-west as there is

approximately 12 hours of daytime throughout the years. (Archdaily, 2013) There are

2 monsoon winds seasons, which is Southwest Monsoon from late May to September,

and Northeast Monsoon from October to March. (Weather and Climate, 2016) The

amount of rainfall is high which caused a high moisture level. Therefore, the materials

application are very vital and are all based on the local climatic condition and also

defining the spatial planning.

This paper will investigate on how the use of materials in S11 house can be acted as

an approach to respond to local climatic condition which is hot caused by long

exposure to sun and humidity caused by abundant rainfall by responding to the

following research questions:

1) What are the climatic conditions of PJS 11, Petaling Jaya?

2) How the application of aerated concrete respond to long hours exposure of

sunlight and humidity caused by abundant rainfall?

3) How the application of Timber respond to long hour’s exposure of sunlight and

humidity caused by abundant rainfall?

4) How the application of Low-E Glass respond to long hours exposure of sunlight?

5) How the application and arrangement of old clay bricks respond to long hours

exposure of sunlight?

6) How the application of steel respond to long hours exposure of sunlight and

humidity caused by abundant rainfall?

7) How the application of marble respond to long hours exposure of sunlight?

1.2 An Overview of S11 House

Fig.1 Location plan of S11 House (Not to scale)

S11 House is a sustainable residential building located in PJS11, Petaling Jaya,

Malaysia. It is a 12,000-square-foot home that is based on the characteristics of a tree

in the tropics. (Goodwin, 2013) S11 House is designed as a response to weather of

tropics which is hot and humid by using various materials. Located in within a

residential area which it harmonically blended into the context with its rigid form and

can also be reinterpreted as a modern approach of Malay Vernacular architecture

which emphasize on the selection of materials and orientation, features that respond

to local climates to solve the issues such as ventilation, humidity and thermal comfort.

S11 House can be distinguished by the variety of materials used that contributes to

their own functional and aesthetic quality in respond to local context. Materials in S11

house in relation to climatic condition in order to provide various quality will be greatly

emphasized.

1.3 Concept mapping

Fig.2 Concept Mapping

1.4 Research Objectives

The objective of this study identify the extent of success of materials used in S11 House

in:

Responding to specific climatic condition

Providing user comfort

Achieving sustainability

1.5 Scope of study

The scope of study for this research is limited to the use of materials in S11 House on

responding to climatic condition, providing user comfort and achieving sustainability.

This scope of study only cover materials in S11 House in relation to the site condition

rather than the building as a whole.

2.0 Climatic Condition in PJS11,

Petaling Jaya

Malaysia is located in the region of equator which has the climate of tropical

rainforest. As being located near the equator, Malaysia is characterised by high

temperatures and humidity throughout the year. (Yuan, n.d., p.78) In the region of

PJS11, Petaling Jaya, hot and humid is caused by the long exposure of sun causing a

temperature and abundant rainfall that is averagely 2500 millimetres and an average

temperature of 27°C. It also involves with the monsoon, dry and wet seasons.

(Weather and Climate, 2016)

2.1 Hot

The temperature is always high (not as high as desert region due to abundant

rainfall) throughout the year due to long hour exposure of sun in equatorial region.

Evidence can be seen from data diagrams collected below. (Fig.1 & Fig.2)

Monthly temperature diagrams (Fig.3)

(Source: Weather and Climate, 2016)

From the above diagram, it can be observed that the maximum temperature of each

month can exceed 30 degree Celsius which is considered high which user comfort is

vital that should be achieved through design.

Monthly sun hours diagram (Fig. 4)

(Source: Weather and Climate, 2016)

Exposure of long hour of sunlight in the equatorial region is the major cause of high

temperature in this region. It is observed that each month have average 180-200

hours of sun hours excluding autumn season (Sept to Dec) which have lesser sun

hours.

2.2 Humid

In this tropical region, abundant rainfall can be observed. Therefore it is always rainy

season throughout the year which has caused the high humidity in this region. The

only difference is between the dry season (June to August, January to February) and

wet season (September to December, March to May) in which the occurrence of

rainfall may differ. Rainfall become more intense with the monsoons. Evidence can

be observed from data diagram below (Fig. 3 & Fig.4). The condition high humidity

accelerates rotting, rusting and the growth of algae and mould on materials. (Yuan,

n.d., p.78)

Monthly precipitation diagram (Fig. 5)

(Source: Weather and Climate, 2016)

It can be observed that there's precipitation throughout the year with an average of

more than 200mm of precipitation. Therefore, rainfall is abundant in this region.

Monthly Relative Humidity diagram (Fig. 6)

(Source: Weather and Climate, 2016)

From the data diagram above, Humidity exceeds 80% throughout the year caused

by the abundant rainfall. Therefore, this region has high humidity.

2.3 Wind Direction

Wind plays a major role in building design therefore it's vital to know the wind

direction and wind speed in the region. Wind speed is generally low variable sleep

with an average of 5 mph throughout the year. Strong winds often occurs with rain.

Most wind normally comes in two dominant directions which is from the northeast

and southwest. (Yuan, n.d., p.78) Evidence can be observed from data diagrams

below (Fig.5 and Fig.6)

Monthly Wind Diagram (Fig. 7)

(Source: Meteoblue, 2016)

Wind Direction Diagram (Fig. 8)

(Source: Meteoblue, 2016)

2.4 Conclusion

In conclusion, in this region (PJS11, Petaling Jaya), the climatic condition can be

concluded as hot and humid throughout the year caused by various factors

(Abundant rainfall, exposure to long hour sun). Therefore, these condition can be

tackled by design consideration through the use of materials and systems. Evidence

can be seen in discussion in later chapters which talked about how S11 House respond

to climatic condition through the use of various materials.

3.0 Timber

Various type of timbers are used in both outdoor and indoor as flooring or decking

depending on properties. They responded to both hot and humid condition with their

climatic responsive properties such as lightweight, low thermal mass and low

shrinkage in order to achieve sustainability, spatial quality and user comfort.

3.1 Type and properties of timber used in S11 House

I) FSC certified mahogany timber

Figure 9: FSC Certified mahogany timber

(Source: http://www.floorboardsonline.com.au/)

FSC certified mahogany timber (Figure 1) is a good CO2 absorber which tends to

absorb CO2 gases from the high traffics within the region. It is very stable due to its

straight-grain, close pattern and lack of soft grain. It also serves the best thermal

insulation properties of any mainstream construction material which heat can be lost

easily. It is renewable and durable which it can respond to the climate in a longer

duration of time. (Shaddy, n.d.)

*FSC Certified: a system to identify forest products produced from well-managed

forests and/or recycled materials certified by Forest Stewarship Council. (H, n.d.)

ii) Chengal

Figure 10: Chengal timber

(Source: http://blog.myfatpocket.com/)

Chengal (Figure 2) is a local wood which has been widely use by our ancestors, it is

"naturally durable and is normally very resistant to termite attack and fungal

infestation."(The Floor Galley, 2015) It has high durability as long as 60 years and it

provides termite resistant. Most importantly, it has a very low shrinkage therefore

suitable to use in humid region especially application at outdoor area. (The Floor

Gallery, 2015)

Iii) Plywood

Figure 11: Plywood

(Source: http://jalaramtimber.co.in/)

Plywood (Figure 3) has high-impact resistance, chemical resistance and high strength-

to-weight ratio. The cross laminated construction of plywood ensures that plywood

sheets remain relatively stable under changes of temperature and moisture. (Gurvich,

n.d.)

3.2 Climatic response of timber used in S11 House

Abundant rainfall has caused humidity in the region while hot is caused by long

exposure of sun. Humidity will cause deterioration of timber and heat will be corrupted

in the interior if types of timber are wrongly chosen. With the sustainability approach

of S11 House, the selection of types of timber is vital in compromising the sustainability

approach. They are applied at frequent-used space such as living space, verandah

& etc, both interior and exterior or even as a material for furniture making. Timber also

stores carbon throughout its lifecycle, therefore it is able to counter the issues of gases

emitted by high traffic beside the neighborhood.

3.2.1 Chengal timber

Chengal is the main timber material used in S11 House as outdoor decking. It is

applied at various spaces such as outdoor dining area and verandah as decking

(Figure 4). It is use for outdoors application as it is sturdy, durable and have resistance

against termites. (Shaddy, n.d.) Furthermore, with Chengal wood's properties of being

low shrinkage, it has the capability to respond to the high humidity of the region. The

exposure of chengal to the sun at the outdoor area will not cause any deterioration

with its high durability. Therefore, It will not rot easily when exposed to alternating wet

and dry conditions with fluctuating temperatures. (L., 2014) Therefore, it is able to

respond to local climatic condition, minimizing the problem of deterioration of timber,

achieving sustainability. Even with the exposure towards the strong east sun, the

properties of this sturdy chengal timber has the capability to withstand the condition.

Figure 12: Outdoor chengal decking at ground floor (Source: Archdaily, 2013)

Figure 13: Chengal wood as outdoor decking (Source: Archdaily, 2013)

3.2.2 FSC Certified Mahogany Timber

FSC Certified Mahogany Timber is mainly applied as interior flooring, decking. It

is applied at living spaces such as bedrooms (Figure 7), living rooms (Figure 8), study

room (Figure 6) where thermal comfort is important. It ensures airtightness and avoid

thermal bridges with its properties of low thermal conductivity therefore much heat

will be lost and shed away in the process and provide spaces with excellent user

comfort which it will stay cool most of the time. FSC certified Mahogany Timber is also

used for strutting and propping for roofing. Other than that, it also gives a rich look for

the interior which enhanced the spatial quality.

Figure14: FSC Certified Mahogany Timber flooring at ground floor and first floor (Source: Archdaily, 2013)

Figure 15: FSC certified Mahogany timber application at master bedroom (Source: MTC, 2014)

Figure 16: FSC certified Mahogany timber application at living room (Source: Archdaily, 2013)

3.2.3 Recycled plywood

Plywood is reused from project rejects therefore it lessens the tree cut down for

construction. It is cross laminated therefore it remain relatively stable under the

changes of temperature and moisture level. It is used to make furniture for the interior

such as modular book shelves (Fig. 9). It is also off-cuts with low VOC coatings.

(Archdaily, 2013) Therefore, furniture made can have longer life span with plywood's

properties.

Figure 17: Modular book shelves made from recycled plywood. (Source: Archdaily, 2013)

3.3 Vernacular approach of S11 House by using timber as material

F

Figure 19: Use of timber as flooring in interior of Malay Vernacular house (Source: Virtual Malaysia, 2014) and S11

House (Source: Archdaily, 2013).

S11 House practices one of the main design approach of Malay Vernacular

house. The use of lightweight timber shed heat away very fast as it is a low thermal

mass material and has been widely used in Malay Vernacular House which

emphasizes on thermal comfort. Especially Chengal timber, which is a wood

produced locally in Malaysia, it is used for columns, beams and roofs or installed on

floors of traditional houses for its sturdiness and durability. (Yuan, n.d., p.89)

By comparing to the other materials such as concrete, timber has the properties

of having low thermal capacity therefore it is able to shed heat gained from the

surrounding away and keep the interior cool therefore preserving interior user comfort.

Sustainability is achieved as much mechanical system is not needed. The use of timber

also greatly enhance the status of Malay Vernacular house. (Yuan, n.d., p.96)

4.0 Steel

Steels that being use in this particular house are mostly recycled steels, which

is hot rolled steels. These hot rolled steels are made from new billet steel and rolled into

shapes specifically which are able to make into large or larger steel due to its strength.

(Brad, 2016) The properties of steel are durability and strength. Steels are suitable and

able to counter the weather in Malaysia which is the hot and humid climate. Basically

steels are resistance to most of the chemical substance, hence it is suitable for outdoor

usage with great expose to weather. The strength-to-weight of steel is very high, little

mass can withstand very high load, with its extra properties of weldability and ductility,

and it’s able to held large amount of weight with little mass, but when steel exposed

to weathering too much it will experience corrosion. To overcome this problem,

coating or painting is needed to prevent corrosion, which resulting a high amount of

maintenance.

4.1 Types, properties and climatic response of each type of steel

used in S11 House

4.1.1 Carbon Steel

4.1.1.2 Properties

Carbon steel, mostly being used as windows frame and staircases in s11 house. The

intention of using steel for these component is because of it is incalculable strong and

durable, also its high strength-to-weight ratio which elongate the span of beams or

column that made from steel. It will not crack when bend, it is immensely flexible, and

it is ductile and has great plasticity, along with fact that it can endure calamities

without receiving any damage. The thermal resistance of steels are consider above

average, and with the strength of steel enabling a narrow sightline. (Capudean, 2003)

Steel will be coated with “Micaceous Iron Oxide” to reduce the diffusion of moisture,

enhancing corrosion resistance.

Figure 20: Appliances of steel as window frame at ground floor

(Plan Source: Archdaily, 2013)

Figure 21: Appliances of steel as stairs at First Floor Plan

(Plan Source: Archdaily, 2013)

4.1.1.3 Climate Response of Carbon Steel

Based on the climatic issue of Malaysia, steel is able to handle the transmission of heat

very well due to its high heat resistance. With its high heat capacity, it is able to

withstand heat up to 1500 °c, it’s very self-sustain with unchanged properties even

with long exposure to heat from long exposure of sun radiation. Another properties of

carbon steel is its high thermal conductivity. Steel absorb heat very fast, but also

release fast, absorbing most of the heat from surrounding to minimize the temperature

during the day while releasing heat to the surrounding air causing a rapid cooling

effect during night time.

Figure 22: Steel staircase (Source: Archdaily, 2013)

Figure 23: Steel stair case located at living room at north-west corner (Source: Archdaily, 2013)

Stairs and window frame are located right at the edge of the building, which

is exposed to direct sunlight from the surrounding. With its strong and durable

properties, it is able to minimize the material used in construction, hence less heat will

be absorbed due to its small surface area that is exposed to heat and therefore

helps to cool the surrounding environment.

Figure 24: Steel window frame (Source: Archdaily, 2013)

Humidity level in Malaysia is constant in between 80% to 85% which is considered as

very high, exposure to excessive moisture is the key problems that cause corrosion. It

also tend to weaken it and reducing its lifespan. In order to overcome this issue,

coating is applied to steel frame. The steel frame in S11 House is coated with”

Micaceous Iron Oxide” which is one of the best solution to overcome this problem.

This coat layer act as a barrier that reduce the diffusion of moisture, thus reducing the

chance of corrosion and blistering. It also helps to enhance the binder and prevent

cracking due to long exposure of sunlight which caused expansion of material. It also

enhance the adhesion of paint layers and help obtain a better recoatibility. (Kakaei,

Danaee, and Zaarei, 2012)

Figure 25: Steel window frame at living area (Source: Photo taken by Ng Hong Bin, 2015)

4.1.2 Galvanized Steel Roof

4.1.2.1 Properties

As for the roof panels, galvanized steel are being use. Galvanized steel is a steel panel

coated with a layer of zinc, it’s a highly reflective surface. Galvanized steel is usually

lighter in weight compare with other steel material but in term of strength it is still

competent with durable and strong material. Galvanized room able to sustain wind

gusts up to 55mps, which exceed the average wind speed of Malaysia on constant

4mps. In another way, it should be able to withstand any kind of weathering that will

be occur in Malaysia also together with its impact resistant. When exposed to

excessive moisture, corrosion also might occur although with minimum chance, so

painting will be apply as a protection coat to resist corrosion.

Figure 26: Galvanized Steel Roof Painted in White (Source: Archdaily, 2013)

Figure 27: Application of Galvanized Steel Roof (Plan Source: Archdaily, 2013)

4.1.2.2 Climatic Response of Galvanized Steel roof

The amount of sunlight exposed daily is about 10 hours throughout the year,

galvanized steel have a reflective surface which is able to reflect off radiant heat and

UV ray which both will transfer heat into the building interior, therefore the application

of it in S11 House help to reduce heat gain to 2-3°C by reflecting off some of the heat

waves direct from sun, hence minimizing heat gain during mid-day and helps cool the

interior.

Figure 28: Diagram of how galvanized steel roof reflect direct heat from sun. (Vandervort, 2016)

Reaction for the humidity level that will cause corrosion is a layer of paint. Paint will

act as a protective coat which restrict the moisture from diffuse into the galvanized

steel hence reduce the chance of corrosion. Galvanized steel is painted as white to

enhance the reflective effect against the sun therefore minimize the heat transferred

into the interior. Galvanized steel also come with high thermal conductivity. Heat

gained from the sun will be transmitted from the roof to the ground through the

connection of beam or column or walls, which resulted in a rapid cooling for the roof

which kept the area below cool and able to withstand the heat radiated by the sun.

(Vandervort, 2016)

5.0 Concrete

5.1 Type and properties of concrete used in S11 House

I) Concrete

Figure 29: Concrete

(Source:http://www.istockphoto.com/my/photos/concrete?excludenudity=true&sort=best&mediatype=photograph

y&phrase=concrete)

Properties

Concrete requires minimal manufacturing processing and is an efficient

resource. The amount of CO2 produced during processing and the environmental

impact of using as the sustainable building material is relatively small. Concrete has

high thermal mass and high capacity to store heat making the indoor temperature

cool. It has low air filtration which reduces the exposure of high moisture content and

weather. Hence, the energy required to cool the building artificially is reduced

relatively. It is a durable material which has low operational and low embodied

energy that reduces the energy for maintenance. In addition, it also has high

compressive strength which gains strength over time so it is used mainly as the load

bearing wall in the house and has good fire resistance compared with timber

construction. A well planned and proper application of the concrete could have

done a great work in providing cooling and reducing heat in a space (Sussane, 2010).

ii) Aerated Light Weight Concrete Blocks

Figure 30: Aerated Light Weight Concrete Blocks

(Source: http://www.brickmakingmachinetm.com/news/Web/ahtml/A__92.htm)

Properties

The equivalent strength of lightweight concrete is lower than the normal weight

concrete. It has lower building cost which is efficient for the building design and can

be relatively simple and rapid constructed which can help save cost. Moreover,

thermal insulation is one of the outstanding characteristics of this concrete which gives

energy conservation advantages that responds to climatic condition and also

significantly reduces operating costs. The high insulating value of the material

becomes important as energy is saved by cutting both heating and air conditioning

requirements, providing greater comfort in the hot and humid climatic conditions. Its

high thermal insulation and fire resistance properties make it an ideal material while

eliminating the need for autoclave curing. Due to its cellular structure, aerated

lightweight concrete offers a very low transmission of heat. This means that in most

cases the use of supplementary insulation in floors and walls is unnecessary. Aerated

lightweight concrete's thermal performance greatly reduces the process of

condensation from air humidity which makes changes in the ambient temperature of

the house (Dodge Woodson, 2011).

5.2 Climatic Response of Concrete Used in S11 House

The environmental impact of using concrete as the sustainable building material

is relatively small, the high thermal property and low air filtration properties that

respond to the climatic condition cause it to be widely used in the exterior and interior

of the building. The architect emphasizes the horizontality of the concrete which

makes the brutalist architecture style blending into the surrounding landscape and

context. The off form concrete ages and responds well to the exposure of humidity

and sunlight throughout the time providing a sense of coolness and stoic poetry of the

modernistic style.

Figure 3: Application of concrete at ground floor (Source: Archdaily, 2013)

Figure 32: Concrete application at living and dining rooms (Source: Photo taken by Ng Hong Bin, 2014)

Figure 33: Concrete application at washroom (Source: Photo taken by Ng Hong Bin, 2014)

Concrete has high thermal mass and heat capacity making it good thermal

insulator. Concrete is suitable and mainly used to respond to the hot and humid

climatic condition. Due to the low maintenance cost and low energy requirement to

cool the building, concrete is widely applied at the interior walls, ceilings, pavement

and exterior cladding to conserve energy. As it tends to keep the heat away from the

house, it is mainly use in the interior spaces of the house which are frequently been

used such as the living area, dining area, kitchen and washrooms. The interior

concrete wall and pavement is naked in expression without any painting or coating

as it has high heat capacity which is able to store heat and keep the interior spaces

cool naturally. Besides, it has high resistance to weather and humidity as it has low air

filtration which reduces the exposure of high moisture content and weather.

5.2.1 Aerated Lightweight Concrete Blocks

Figure 34: Application of aerated light weight concrete blocks at east and west walls (Source: Archdaily, 2013)

Figure 35: Application of aerated light weight concrete blocks with reflective paint (Source: Archdaily, 2013)

Figure 36: Application of green wire netting screen wall at aerated light weight concrete blocks (Source:

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/547257792202654411/)

The light weight characteristic means that this type of concrete has higher

thermal mass and provide air tightness. It also gives a high sound reduction for privacy,

both from outside noises and from other rooms when used as interior partition walls

which provides peaceful and cool living environment. For the exterior façade of the

east and west walls which have high exposure of sun intensity, they are constructed

of insulated light weight concrete blocks which offer low transmission of heat and

large openings instead of traditional heavy weight concrete (Josh, 2014). Although it

has high thermal insulation, it is treated with heat reflective paint in camouflage motif

to reflect sunlight more effectively and is shaded by the wire netting screen wall of

vegetable climbers. The green wall of low growing plants blocks sunlight and lowers

the concrete wall temperature while providing aesthetic effect. With the dense

growth of lush trees and the application of the green wall which acts as the secondary

barrier, the direct solar heat gain from the sun is significantly reduces and the energy

requirement is minimized (Archicentre, 2014). As this material has high insulating value,

the energy is saved and greater comfort in the hot and humid climatic conditions is

being provided.

6.0 Brick

Bricks are used in both outdoor and indoor as non-load bearing walls or feature

walls. They respond to both hot and humid condition with their climatic responsive

properties such as high thermal mass, low shrinkage and weather resistant help

achieve sustainability, spatial quality and user comfort.

6.1 Type and properties of bricks used in S11 house

I) Old Clay bricks

Fig.37 Old Clay bricks Source:

Clay bricks are the only type of brick used in the S11 house. Clay bricks are a

good heat insulator and it is resistant to fire. Bricks generally has high compression

strength but has low tensile strength making it easy to break if bent the wrong way.

High compressive strength results in it often used as a material for load bearing walls.

Bricks could be painted or left bare as a raw finish to the structure, this results in a low

maintenance material that practically needs low to no attention after installation.

6.2 Climatic response of bricks used in S11 house

Environmentally responsive planning includes consideration of selection,

disturbance, rainwater management and effects of the building on its surroundings.

The use of brick masonry is an appropriate choice for achieving several elements of

environmentally responsive planning.

Fig.38 Brick application at outdoor area (Source: Archdaily, 2013)

Because of aesthetic appeal, durability and historic value frequently associated

with brick masonry buildings, they often are chosen for reuse. In this case of the S11

house, load-bearing brick from the old buildings are reused in their entirety. They are

reused as feature walls and non-loadbearing walls of the S11 house. This adaptive

reuse of brick masonry buildings is a testament to the longevity and durability of brick

masonry. (LEED 2009 MR credit Building Reuse; LEED v4 MR credit Building Life-Cycle

Impact Reduction; ASHRAE 189.1 Sec. 5.3.1.1; ICC 700 Sec. 305, 403.9 and Ch. 11)

Fig.39 Application of brickwall can be seen at various space (Source: Archdaily, 2013)

Fig.40 Brick wall at living room (Source: Archdaily, 2013)

Clay brick walls are used as most of the interior wall of the S11 house due to it’s

superior performance in heat insulation and acoustic

In interior applications of the house, brick masonry has good ability of control over

the gain or release of heat. The continuous heat wave present in the site is shielded

by the brick walls of the S11 house. Studies of residential wall systems indicate that

assemblies with exposed interior brickwork or brick cavity walls would use up to 23

percent less energy than similarly insulated wood-framed wall assemblies with

lightweight claddings (LEED 2009 and v4 EA credit Optimizing Energy Performance;

ASHRAE 189.1 Sec. 7.5; IgCC Sec. 602; LEED-Homes EA credit Annual Energy Use; ICC

700 Sec. 702 and 703.1.3)

Interior brick walls of the S11 house can be used to store heat and moderate

temperature swings. A University of Newcastle study demonstrated that the amount

of energy needed for heating and cooling decreased by 14 to 34 percent when an

exposed brick thermal storage wall was added to the interior of housing units.(IgCC

Sec. A106.5; LEED-Homes EA credit Building Orientation for Passive Solar; ICC 700 Sec.

403.2, 703.1.3 and 703.6)

Brick masonry walls of the S11 house provide superior resistance to sound

penetration as compared with other wall systems. Brick masonry walls are far superior

to vinyl and other lightweight cladding materials in acoustic performance. (LEED v4

IEQ credit Acoustic Performance; ASHRAE 189.1 Sec. 8.3.3; IgCC Sec. 807)

6.3 Salvaged Materials

Bricks of the S11 house are old clay bricks cleaned and re-used for from the old

building .Use of salvaged materials avoids the environmental impacts associated with

new products. Brick is unique in that after many decades of use, brick used on exterior

and interior walls, as well as in paving applications, can be salvaged and provide

many more decades of benefits (LEED 2009 MR credit Materials Reuse; LEED v4 MR

credit Building Product Disclosure and Optimization – Sourcing of Raw Materials;

ASHRAE 189.1 Sec. 9.4.1; IgCC Sec. 505.2.1 and A105.3; LEED-Homes MR credit

Environmentally Preferable Products; ICC 700 Sec. 603 and 11.603)

7.0 Low-E Glass

7.1 Low-E Glass used in S11 House

Fig. 41 Process of low-e glass reflecting sunglight and heat (Source: http://glasswindowsprinyal.blogspot.my/)

Low e glass have been developed to minimize the amount of ultraviolet and

infrared light that can pass through glass without compromising the amount of visible

light that is transmitted. Glass is commonly use in any building like windows, doors,

partition wall and etc. With nowadays the increase of solar and thermal

performance of the glass, glass material getting more and more popular in the

construction field. It has alot of advantages that makes it popular in construction

field like it’s light, cheap, flexible in terms of shapes, sizes and thickness. It’s also

come with safety type which is laminated, toughened and reinforced. Glass can

archive various effect in a building. It can enhance huge spatial feelings, conduct

daylight into areas, decorative features inside the building and etc. (PPG Glass

technology , n.d.)

Fig 42 & Fig.43 Application of Low-E Glass in S11 House (Source: Archdaily, 2013)

Local tropical climate is hot and humid in Malaysia and also highly exposed to

sunlight along the year S11 House Have a clear North-South orientation for all the

openings to prevent direct light enter the building. The east and West walls are

constructed using the Low E glass to minimize the infrared light that went in the

building.

Most of the floor to ceiling window were constructed with thick glazed Low E safety

laminated glass with 90% openable area that further reduce the heat gain of the

building. Ventilation is also important in Local Tropical Climate. The double volume

family room in S11 house consist of 7m height Low E glass to reduce the infrared light

that get into the room and also to improve the cross ventilation in the area. (S11

House, n.d.)

7.2 Climatic response of Low-E Glass in S11 House

Fig.44 Application of Low-E Glass in S11 House (Plan source: Archdaily, 2013)

Low E glass which is glass material with passive and solar control low-e coating. The

heat and light energy that been absorbed by the glass will be transfer away either

carrying away by moving air or reradiated by the glass surface itself. The concept of

reradiate the solar energy is material with high reflectivity have lower emissivity and

on the opposite side dark material has high emissivity. Thus, Low E glass is coated or

laminated with material that lower it’s emissivity and allow it to reradiate the solar

energy in order to protect the interior of the building. (PPG Glass technology, n.d.)

The Low E glass not only work for external heat, it’s also work for the internal heat. In

a building, there’s rooms within the building. Thus, internal heat gain or the heat

energy that not completely filter by the external wall can be filter or reradiated so

that the rooms or areas in the building will have least solar heat gain even during hot

hours. The Low E glass have a clear coating that allow the natural lighting to reach

inside the building but the solar energy is being filter and reradiated to keep the

interior cooling and harmless.

Other than the hot climate condition, Low E glass is immune to the humid condition

in the tropical climate condition which makes the Low E glass last longer and

suitable material to respond to the tropical climate.

7.3 Vernacular approach of S11 House by using full stretch of low-

e glass window design

Fig.45 S11 House (Source: Archdaily, 2013) & Fig.46 Traditional Malay vernacular house (Source: Wikipedia)

Ventilation is also important in Local Tropical Climate. The double volume family

room in S11 house consist of 7m height Low E glass to reduce the infrared light that

get into the room and also to improve the cross ventilation in the area. Full stretch

window all along the façade of the house metaphors the one long strecth window

design of vernacular malay house which provide a good view from the house and

also maximize the ventilation.

8.0 Marble

8.1 Types and properties of marble used in S11 House

Fig.47 Marine Black Indian Marble (Source: http://www.ggtrust.com/)

The marble used in S11 House is Marine black Indian marble. It is

a metamorphic rock that may be foliated or non-foliated, composed of recrystallized

carbonate minerals, most commonly calcite or dolomite. Geologists use the term

"marble" to refer to metamorphosed limestone; however, stonemasons use the term

more broadly to encompass un-metamorphosed limestone. (Wikipedia, 2016)

Marble is commonly used for sculpture and as a building material. It is used

for its chemical properties in pharmaceuticals and agriculture. It is used for its optical

properties in cosmetics, paint, and paper. It is used because it is an abundant, low-

cost commodity in crushed stone prepared for construction projects. Marble has

many unique properties that make it a valuable rock in many different industries. (King

H, 2016)

Fig.48 Marble built kitchen island is placed in the centre of the dining area.

(Photo taken by Ng Hong Bin, 2015)

8.2 Climatic response of marble used in S11 House

Due to the orientation of dining and living area in the position of floor plan, facing

towards east, the space are having relatively high humidity and temperature, as the

exposure of walls are facing towards the sun. In order to withstand such climatic

condition, the material used in living & dining area need to have better thermal

insulation compared to materials used in other areas. (Archdaily, 2013)

Marine black Indian marble is mainly used for living & dining area in the S11 house.

They were used to build kitchen island and flooring tiles. With the properties of high

heat capacity (880J/kgC), they help to keep the shielded floor cool efficiently. While

its high thermal insulation and fire resistance properties helps to control the heat

transmission within the interior space, creating a cool and sustainable environment

within living & dining area. (GSA, 2016)

Fig. 49 Marine black indian marble used as flooring tiles in the living area and dining area (Photo taken by Ng Hong

Bin, 2015)

On the other hand, marble has high building cost which is also one of the reason

why they are only used in the main activity area(area with higher user flowing rate:

living room, dining area), however they do provide high aesthetic value as their

appearance creates a sense of classy and grand. (Jain V, 2014)

Fig. 50 Marine black indian marble flooring in the living area. (Photo taken by Ng Hong Bin, 2015)

9.0 Conclusion

The materials used in S11 House is well chosen which is an efficient integration of

achieving sustainability and thermal comfort. The diversity of materials used in S11

House is not solely about the quality created in space, but has the function and

adaptability to counter the impact from the local climatic pattern. The extensive use

of recyclable materials from the site and local materials has respond to local

economical context. Similarities can be observed between S11 House and

Vernacular architecture such as the use of materiality in respond to local climatic

context of being hot and humid. It can be concluded that the use of materials is

very vital in achieving sustainability and user comfort within a specific given context

and S11 House has well excelled in this category and it's the reason why it is a

Platinum Rated GBI Building. S11 House has shown that sustainability can be

achieved in tropical country through the use of materials.

10.0 References

General

1. Yuan, L. J. (n.d.). 6. Traditional Malay House. In The Malay House:

Rediscovering Malaysia’s Indigenous Shelter System (p. 74-97). Penang: Institut

Masyarakat.

2. S11 House, Selangor, Malaysia. (n.d.). Retrieved November 23, 2016, from

http://mtc.com.my/project/s11-house-selangor/

3. "S11 House / ArchiCentre" (02 Jan 2013). ArchDaily. Accessed 27 Sep 2016.

http://www.archdaily.com/313041/s11-house-archicentre/

4. Andrew. G (2013). Principal architect for ConsciousBuild, Inc. Retrieved 1 Nov

2013 from http://inhabitat.com/s11-house-in-malaysia-scores-platinum-level-

on-green-building-index/

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Rainfall-Temperature-Sunshine,petaling-jaya,pjs-11,Malaysia

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archicentre/

Timber

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https://www.woodsolutions.com.au/Wood-Product-Categories/Plywood

2. By The Floor Gallery, & Gallery, T. F. (2015, August 18). Why Chengal Wood is

the Best Option for Outdoor Decking - The Floor Gallery. Retrieved October

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option-for-outdoor-decking/

3. H. (n.d.). What is FSC? Retrieved November 23, 2016, from http://www.fsc-

uk.org/en-uk/about-fsc/what-is-fsc

4. Kommunikationsdesign, 8. M. (n.d.). FSC Benefits for Business. Retrieved

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wood.2.htm

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Concrete

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Stigmatised and Celebrated. Retrieved September 20, 2016, from

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1-a-material-both-stigmatised-and-celebrated/7000525

2. Dodge Woodson, R. (2011). Concrete Portable Handbook. Retrieved October

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3. Siegle, J. (2014, January 17). What are the best uses of concrete in modern

architecture? Retrieved October 30, 2016, from

https://www.quora.com/What-are-the-best-uses-of-concrete-in-modern-

architecture

4. Bennett, D. (2010). Sustainable concrete architecture. London: Riba

Publishing.

Steel

1. Brad, D. (2016, July 7). The Difference Between Hot and Cold Rolled Steel.

Retrieved October 28, 2016, from http://machinedesign.com/metals/what-s-

difference-between-hot-and-cold-rolled-steel

2. Capudean, B. (2003, August 28). Metallurgy Matters: Carbon content, steel

classifications, and alloy steels. Retrieved October 13, 2016, from

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classifications-and-alloy-steels

3. Kakaei, M. N., Danaee, I. and Zaarei, D., (2012, September 27). Investigation of

corrosion protection afforded by inorganic anticorrosive coatings comprising

micaceous iron oxide and zinc dust. Retrieved November 7, 2016, from

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4. Vandervort, D. (2016, June 24). Pros & Cons of Metal Roofing. Retrieved from

http://www.hometips.com/buying-guides/metal-roofing-drawbacks.html

5. Carlos A. Giúdice, Juan C. Benítez, (2000) "Optimising the corrosion protective

abilities of lamellar micaceous iron oxide containing primers", Anti-Corrosion

Methods and Materials

Brick

1. The Brick Industry Association. (2016). Technical notes on brick construction.

Mainfact.biz. Retrieved November 12, 2016, from

http://www.gobrick.com/portals/25/docs/technical%20notes/tn48.pdf

2. “LEED® 2009 Building Design and Construction: New Construction and Major

Renovation,” U.S. Green Building Council, Washington, DC, 2009 with

addendum.

3. Hammond, Martin. Bricks and Brickmaking. USA: Bloomsbury 2009. Print

Low-E Glass

Reference:

PPG Glass Technology, (n.d.). How Low E Glass Work. Retrieved from

:http://educationcenter.ppg.com/glasstopics/how_lowe_works.aspx

PPG Glass Technology, (n.d.). Understanding Low E Glass. Retrieved from

:http://www.ppgresidentialglass.com/window_glass/about_lowe.aspx

Low Emissivity (2016) in Wikipedia. Retrieved from

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

Marble

1. King, H. Marble: Metamorphic rock: Pictures, definition, properties. Retrieved

November 28, 2016, from http://geology.com/rocks/marble.shtml

2. Marble: Characteristics, uses and problems. (2016, August 2). Retrieved

November 28, 2016, from http://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/111858

3. Graniteland. (2016). What is marble? Retrieved November 28, 2016, from

http://www.graniteland.com/infos/home/marble

4. Marble (2016). . In Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marble

5. Jain, V. (2014, February 7). Marble tiles rates types kitchen natural stone tiles.

Retrieved November 28, 2016, from Marble Tiles, http://imarble.in/marble-tiles

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