Bachelor of architecture thesis : proposed waterfront park at Stulang Laut, Johore Bahru, Johore

Abstract

Waterfronts are strongly linked to the identity and vitality of cities. They provide and enable spaces for urban expansion. They also offer a place of refuge and self expression for the urban community. Unfortunately, these sites are often victim of gluttonous and premature development where water edge lands are becoming scarce for public utilization. This occurrence denies the public accessibility thus detaching the intimate relationship between human and water. Several cities such as Dubai and New York have relied on their waterfronts development to boost their economy and image. It is with the waterfronts ability in revitalizing a city that other urban areas are turning to these forgotten sites to create a vibrant and healthy living. Malaysia is also realizing this scenario and starts to vigorously explore and develop these areas. Johor under the Southern Johor Economic Region Plan is deemed Malaysia’s new development engine. Therefore the development in Johor is set up to cater for the international demand. One of the main aim in the Southern Johor Economic Region is to develop an Integrated Waterfront City. It will be the image and also acts as an interface for Johor Skyline. Therefore the proposed waterfront park at Stulang Laut is an echo to the proposal. It is also to provide opportunity for greater public activity and waterfront access for residents and visitors thus enabling a flexible urban activism along the coastal shoreline through landscape planning and design. The proposed waterfront park is located at Stulang Laut, Johor with an area of approximately 19 acres. Its development is based on water recreation activities with emphasis on public accessibility. Consequently, the design concept is based on water activities which is Water Play. This concept enables the contact between human and water reconnecting the relationship through numerous vibrant, fun and healthy activity whilst creating an image for Johor. The waterfront park consists of several components such as the plaza for performance and seasonal activities, a food court, sport station, pavilion and an open lawn. These components are intertwined with social and recreational activities such as a swimming, kayaking, windsurfing, boating, gathering, leisure walking, and jogging. The waterfront park is bounded by 9 light pillars that extrudes out from the surface of the sea. The waterfront park acts as Johor’s introductory space for foreign tourist whilst represents as an interface for Johor Bahru.