There was no conscious intention to emulate the vernacular form of Malay architecture, but the principles of tropical designs learned from these traditional buildings were applied in the new structure nevertheless, which led to major design decisions showing a sensitivity toward Malaysia’s tropical climate, evident in deep recesses and brise-soleil sun shading (evidently influenced by Chandigarh), high ceilings and provisions for natural ventilation. In order to achieve the rough concrete texture, Bailey had specific descriptions and drawings of the shuttering or timber formworks, a technique he first learned and executed in India. The use of timber shuttering was very common due to the abundance of timber in Malaysia. Excerpt from Azaiddy Abdullah’s article in: SOS Brutalism: A Global Survey. Catalog DAM + Wüstenrot Foundation, Zurich (Park Books) 2017

Renovated after a fire in 2001. In use.