Landscape Design as an Added Value to Real Estate Development in Klang

LANDSCAPE DESIGN AS AN ADDED VALUE TO REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT IN KLANG VALLEY

Dr. Mohd Ramzi Mohd Hussain

Dr. Izawati Tukimam

Prof. Emeritus Dr. Ismawi Hj Zen

Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia (UIAM)

Jalan Gombak 59728 Kuala Lumpur

ABSTRACT

The research evaluates the basic landscape requirements in residential areas by studying and identifying basic landscape preferences. The aim of the study is to investigate the importance of landscape design in the planning and designing of a residential property in Klang Valley. It has been proven that proper landscape planning and design with the sustainable concept and approach help to create conducive and responsive environment of residential properties. The research employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches which includes i) a questionnaire survey; ii) a semi-structured interview; and iii) an observation. The case studies approach was selected in order to obtain an in-depth study required to examine the importance of landscape design in residential developments.

This empirical study is based on the findings of case studies conducted on several residential areas in Klang Valley. With reference to the basic landscape requirements in residential areas, a high level of congruity was found between the answers given by the samples and the objective realities of the residential landscapes. The residents have very clear ideas both on how much green space is really important in residential areas in order to create a sustainable residential environment. Based on the findings, there are three major spaces that need to include in house compounds which are spaces that integrate family members, spaces that respond to utilities areas and spaces that accommodate public areas. Therefore, the multifunctional planning and design of green spaces in house compounds (plinth areas) is very important since each resident prefer different types of activities. Despite the absence of public actions in terms of providing information, encouraging participations in the survey and promoting awareness by those interviewed have shown considerable interest in promoting landscape design to be applied in real estate development. The perceptions of the quality and quantity of landscape designs in residential areas and how landscape design can influence the values of real estate developments especially in Klang Valley can be further researched for future study.