Kedah Buddhist Association
The Kedah Buddhist Association envisioned a sanctuary of their own—a place free from reliance on external locations for worship and activities. Embracing a humble design approach that reflects Buddhist values of openness and inclusivity, the entrance invites all with a sense of welcome. The use of clear glass and perforated screens in the main prayer hall symbolizes transparency and connection, creating a space that respects all beliefs while fostering a peaceful and inclusive environment.
LOCATION
Alor Setar, Kedah
CLIENT
Kedah Buddhist Association
YEAR
2016
TEAM
Ar. Mei Chee Seong
Lim Chun Sing
STATUS
Completed
AWARD
Asia Pacific Award 2016 Highly Commended Public Service Architecture
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Re-Interpreting Typology For Spiritual Affiliation
Unlike the traditional Buddhist building, the Kedah Buddhist Association adopts contemporary prototype, spatial designing logic as well as capacity and ability to be self-sustaining. Due to elongated site context, the building stretches downright to a linear circulation, allowing cross ventilation across the internal spaces and consequently creating a feasible and tranquil environment for mediation. Not only does the Buddhist Association houses prayer hall, but also acts as a nerve centre of community life with kindergarten, medical hall and offices for daily use.
Instead of solid walls, the design features an intricate and expressive post-and-beam structure, allowing for flexible, open spaces that adapt to various activities year-round. In front of the building, a wide, open green with steps leads to the main prayer hall, transforming into an amphitheater during festivals where visitors gather to enjoy films projected onto the wall.
Since its opening in 2016, the Kedah Buddhist Association’s innovative design has garnered public admiration and received accolades, including recognition in the Asia Pacific Awards.
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Gallery
