Eleena Jamil Shades Malaysian Guesthouse with Bamboo and Steel Canopy

Anjung: A Masterclass in Climate-Conscious Malaysian Architecture

This post delves into the recently completed Anjung residence and studio by Malaysian architect Eleena Jamil. It explores how this project, situated near Kuala Lumpur, blends residential comfort with functional studio space while championing sustainable design and the use of local materials.

Embracing the Tropics: Design Inspired by Climate

In the humid climate of Malaysia, architectural design must respond to environmental forces. Anjung, created by Eleena Jamil, reflects this approach.

The project combines a four-bedroom guesthouse with a single-storey workspace for Jamil’s studio. It shows how to create comfortable and functional spaces that fit well with tropical surroundings.

A Symphony of Local Materials and Innovative Techniques

Central to Anjung’s identity is the use of local, minimally processed materials. This reduces the environmental footprint and gives the structure a regional character.

Jamil’s attention to detail is visible throughout, from the canopies to the walls.

Bamboo Brilliance: Structure and Shade

Anjung prominently features whole bamboo culms as structural components. These are slotted into green-painted steel holders.

This creates canopies that provide shade from the sun and vertical screens that offer privacy while allowing airflow.

Sustainable Roofing and Walls from the Earth

The roofs use sheets made from recycled packaging, reusing materials that might otherwise go to waste. The walls are built from compressed earth bricks made with local soil.

These bricks help regulate internal temperatures naturally, reducing the need for energy-intensive cooling.

The Guesthouse: A Courtyard-Centric Haven

The guesthouse is organized around a central courtyard. This space promotes natural ventilation and brings soft light into the rooms.

A western verandah strengthens the connection to the outdoors, offering shaded space for relaxation and gatherings.

Maximizing External Living Spaces

The internal rooms are modest in size to maximize the use of outdoor living areas. The design encourages an outdoor-centric lifestyle, making the most of the tropical climate.

Water Management: A Thoughtful Integration

A raised concrete and stone walkway circles the courtyard. It also serves as part of the rainwater harvesting system.

This walkway channels rainwater into two collection points made from reclaimed concrete pipes, reflecting a resourceful approach.

The Studio: A Hub of Creativity and Collaboration

The workspace for Jamil’s studio is smaller than the guesthouse but highly functional. Eight desks are arranged beneath a bamboo truss ceiling, creating a sense of openness and warmth.

Light-Filled and Connected

Beside the main desk area are a meeting room and a separate workshop. Clerestory glazing above the earth-brick walls lets in more natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting.

Sliding doors open the workspace onto a northern verandah, inviting fresh air and views of the greenery.

Vernacular Wisdom for a Modern World

Jamil describes Anjung’s form as “climate-driven.” The project uses a series of vernacular features that have been effective in tropical regions for generations.

• Verandahs: Providing essential shade and transitional spaces.
• Large Overhangs: Protecting walls and openings from direct sun and rain.
• Cross-Ventilation: Facilitating natural airflow to keep interiors cool.

These elements enhance comfort and livability. They also help with efficient rainwater harvesting, which is important in the tropics.

This project continues Jamil’s exploration of bamboo in architecture. She builds on her previous works, such as the bamboo pavilion for Kuala Lumpur’s botanical gardens.

 
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