Design Pre-thesis 1 | Social Culture

Under the influence of rapid urbanization and economic development, many cities and towns have doubled and tripled in terms of population and land use. As a result, a large number of traditional rural villages, located in the urban areas of cities, has became part of the built up areas. They have been turned into the so-called "urban villages'. Located in Petaling Jaya, Kampung Cempaka is a small village with a total population of 8,000. The original built up area was far too small to accommodate the increasing population and economic activity. The growth pattern of its settlement showed conspicuous disparity in terms of economic prosperity and development. Due to improper land uses in Kampung Cempaka, a phenomena of persistent young population loss had became a challenge for the community of Kampung Cempaka.

A vertical housing is designed as a strategy to increase attraction and retention of young local residents as well as to improve sustainable living in Kampung Cempaka by offering flexible dwelling unit and livable environment. A wide range of activities that would help them in their social lives are also provided, and thus increase their level of satisfaction.