Jacques' Archive

Malaysia is located in a tropical zone. Its climate is vastly different from countries like the United States and Europe, where most architectural movements and innovations originate. Should foreign architecture designs not be adapted to the Malaysian weather conditions, homes may not be comfortable throughout the year. This may mean paying a high cost to control the temperature within these homes. The traditional Malay house is built on raised pillars, homes being of wood. Knowledge regarding these structures can be incorporated into modern homes that meet the needs of a modern lifestyle. This is important, a tropical house being simply a reaction to its environment. In addition, a tropical house may either be constructed taking a passive approach: unwanted climatic elements such as rain and heat are kept out. At the same time, good elements: ventilation and illumination are increased. An active approach aims to harness some climatic elements for energy, increasing the efficienc...

A modern tropical bedroom should exude tranquillity and simplicity, where less is more. Lines should be clean, with hints of natural elements and luxurious fabrics. Most importantly, a tropical bedroom should have a direct relationship with the outdoors. Ideally, a tropical bedroom opens onto a forest; however, this look can work extremely well in an urban environment. To start with, you may have some questions. What are the elements of a tropical bedroom? What colors may be used in a tropical bedroom? Which wall treatments will work well in a tropical bedroom? You may also be slightly apprehensive and unsure; however, this is a style that you can have fun with. If you design your scheme properly, you could change the accent colors as trends change to keep the room current. Either way, start with the basics – a good quality mattress, floors ideally in old wood like Merbau wood, which can cost RM10 - RM30 per square foot, and a ceiling fan to circulate the air. Sufficient storag...