POST 9 | PROS AND CONS OF TRADITIONAL AND MODERN ARCHITECTURE
Hi everyone! I’m here again to
talk about the pros and cons of traditional and modern architecture in
Malaysia. I had shared about Malaysian vernacular and modern architecture in my
previous posts, if you have read my previous posts then you will more
understand about Malaysian architecture.
So, what are the pros and cons
between tradition and modern architecture? Now, I will share you more about it.
Malaysian vernacular architecture is characterised by its reliance on needs,
traditions specific to its particular locality and construction material. Humans
can capitalize on the local traditions and knowledge. They also take advantage
of local resources and materials, means that they are sustainable and relatively
energy efficient to the environment. For example, they mostly used natural
material such as tree trunk, leaves, soil and so on to build the architecture.
Vernacular architecture provides humans and the environment a vital connection
in which they live. Humans know well in using the material which they get from
the environment to build up the houses. They designed with the local climate
condition in mind, and often perform well specifically. They designed with
stilts to prevent floods and large window to provide good nature ventilation.
Conversely, vernacular architecture
took longer time to build, “traditional forms were built by hand which is much
slower requiring many workers on site for a longer time.” (Lohden , n.d.)
Traditional architecture were limited on materials what can be get in the
forest around them or dug and quarried from the ground. Due to structural constraints,
traditional buildings were limited in height. Within the structures, there is
lack of internal walls or partitions to separate the spaces. “It is possible to
conclude that the absences of these walls might imply the absence of privacy
concerns but privacy is manifested differently in different cultures. The rules and symbols of privacy controls
influence the flow of information and communication at individual, group and
social levels.” (Sim,
2010)
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| Example for Malaysian Vernacular Architecture (Image Sources: http://nalenda14.blogspot.my/2010/11/malay-vernacular-architecture.html) |
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| Example for Malaysian Vernacular Architecture (Image Sources: https://asianinspirations.com.au/experience/exploring-east-malaysia-sabah-and-sarawak/) |
In the other hand, the advantages of modern
architecture are much faster than vernacular architecture. Much quicker erection
allowed by manufacturing of components and assemblies off site. Less structure
materials are required by modern structure, so it becomes lighter. And also,
they are more variety compare with vernacular architecture, the design options
are limited by the primary structure materials which are wood and stone. Modern
architecture used modern materials and systems. “Steel columns are used in exposed
applications, concrete block is used as a finished material, concrete floors
are stained and exposed, long-span steel trusses permit open column-free
spaces, and radiant heating systems enhance human comfort.” (A2modern,
2011)
But,
there are few disadvantages in modern architecture. “Buildings are sometimes
expensive to build because of the high-tech materials they use.” (Terms, 2016) And modern architecture is lack of culture
sometimes, some modern designer just follow the trend, but not care about local
culture.
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| Example for Malaysian Modern Architecture (Image Sources: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/467670742527501139/) |
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| Example for Malaysian Modern Architecture (Image Sources: http://www.sobha.com/project/completed/bangalore/sobha-azalea/location-map.php#prettyPhoto) |
So,
that’s all for today, stay tuned for my next post. I will make a conclusion as
an ending of my blog. See you! J
References:
A2modern (2011) What is
modern: Characteristics of modern architecture – a2 modern. [Online] Available at:
http://a2modern.org/2011/04/characteristics-of-modern-architecture/ (Accessed:
20 June 2016).
Ltd, D.B. (2016) Vernacular
architecture - designing buildings Wiki. [Online] Available at:
http://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Vernacular_architecture (Accessed: 20
June 2016).
Sim,
S. (2010) ‘A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the
Degree of Master of Architecture’, Redefining the Vernacular in the Hybrid
Architecture of Malaysia. (Accessed: 20 June 2016) p.p27
Terms, P.I. (2016) Contemporary
architecture. [Online] Available at:
https://prezi.com/bmscxsu1m1gn/contemporary-architecture/ (Accessed: 20 June
2016).
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