SKYPARK SUBANG TERMINAL

Kinda like to share a project which is close at heart. A built resource scheme using adaptive reuse to bring life back to a derelict feature of Malaysian Architecture. I just want to say my peace in this blog. I am really dismayed with the one responsible for the demolition of the Subang Airport Terminal of 1965. This was a proud landmark of a new nation then and i am lucky to say that i have fond memories of this. This Airport design was one of the influence in my architectural career. This was the airport where brought my bride home from abroad.

As to raise a point from my final year project " in order to bring down a structure of significant value due to economic reason, a worthy or greater replacement must be erected in it's honour"

Well, since my design is not an actual replacement of the same site but this will be a catalyst for new magnificent structures in that area begining with ours.

Here is the excerpt write up for the project for the press releases :

Kamal Hussin Abdul Hamid, project director of Arcradius Sdn Bhd, together with architect Khairul Anwar of KASDA have conceived a scheme to revive the original airport by a complete redevelopment of the interior architecture, creating new mezzanine levels and providing substantial additional space for retail and F&B outlets together with new banking facilities, commercial offices, check in and satellite departure facilities.

Kamal elaborates that the whole scheme concept is based on the dire need for adaptive reuse of the current build resource of Subang Terminal 3.
"Revitalisation of this air terminal is required not only for economic reasons but also for the enhancement of aerospace architecture to follow-suit work done to other Malaysia airports," said Kamal.
Arcradius Sdn Bhd had developed a scheme to retain the existing fabric enclosure of the 150,000 square-foot terminal – by "building boxes in a box" while transforming the interior, which could no longer accommodate the new airport operational needs. The design works from the interior towards the exterior as the new internal usage takes precedent in terms of creating the commercial-like environment instead of being only an airport.
"It's an idea of not taking things for granted," said Kamal.
"In the main terminal, spaces are rearranged by consolidating and creating new mezzanine planes opening into a well-lighted two-storey single volume atrium as an internal garden conservatory. Suspension cables hang from the atrium's metal ceiling and support a huge sinuous suspended ceiling enhanced with fibre optic lighting producing a starry night effect," added Kamal.
"The main intention is to refurbish the existing area into a lounge that spells out comfort and rest, while preparing passengers for departure and pleasantly receiving them on arrival."
Visitors will enter a lobby that is surrounded by terrace balconies separating the retail ground level and the office level on the mezzanines that are reached by open concrete and glass staircases. The splendour of the local tropical theme is brought into the space by using light warm colour on the materials.
The modernity of the commercial aspect can be seen in the use of strong based material as glass and metal interwoven throughout the solid interior walls providing a mall ambience.
Mezzanines are linked to each other by open staircases and surrounded by glass terrace balconies overlooking the atrium, creating a gallery-like ambience. The interior architecture creates an imaginative and invigorating workspace and updates a historic building to suit modern retail and office requirements.
Also situated in the present Terminal 3 of the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, is the SkyPark Fixed Based Operation Lounge that has been suited in a full scale fit out as an adaptive reuse of the previous design.
The main entrance of SkyPark FBO Malaysia is enhanced with a proposed portico of a grand scale canopy. Then, the space shall receive the guest via a spacious lobby and where the reception is the first pleasant contact point. The theme is played with a contemporary local design by using water feature and wall feature. The reception area also facilitates a luggage room and a business centre complete with discussion and meeting rooms.
The reception opens out into a large lounge with a private room attached. The service areas are lined along the parameter wall to optimize the space. Subtle and cosy lounge seating is provided in the area for the comfort of guests, complete with ornamented plaster ceiling design.
"This modern tropical theme fits seamlessly into this industrial-like building where a previous double volume hanger can be transformed into multi purpose spaces. Enhanced comfort to cater for future airport volume has been considered in the provision of upgraded ventilation and electrical system," said Kamal.
The new interior shall provide a single volume space with fresh light interiors. The design layout focuses on the customer journey and convenience of the passengers from point of arrival, check-in, retail shopping, F&B until they proceed through to the departure satellite.