RANGKAI- Iconic Highrise in Johor Bharu Gateway

National University of Malaysia(UKM), Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment, Department of Architecture, Bangi, Selangor

Project idea

Johor Bharu faces the challenge of underutilized land, hindering economic activity and safe, walkable urban living. The proposed Rangkai highrise building at the city's gateway presents an opportunity for transformation. Integrating corporate franchises and small businesses fosters economic connectivity and social engagement.

The concept for this building is a linkage which is the from follows movement. The building's concept promotes seamless integration with natural surroundings, pathways, and people. Facing the waterfront, it creates a captivating view corridor, enhancing Johor Bharu's entrance. Green elements are integrated into the office design and spaces. The building's diverse programs include a learning centre, mall, shops, exhibition area, co-working spaces, UTC, Koperasi, JB Convention Center, and Meldrum Food Village.

Improved pedestrian-friendly infrastructure ensures safe access for the public, cyclists, and food trucks. By revitalizing the forgotten Segget River and integrating it into the project's design, Johor Bharu can reposition itself as a dynamic, walkable, and economically vibrant city, celebrating its unique history and location.

Project description

Non-economic Land Usage:

-The Rangkai highrise building and integrated corporate franchise and small business hub can help convert non-economic land into a thriving business and commercial center.
-The project's economic activities, including the Meldrum Food Village, can potentially stimulate economic growth in the area, reducing underutilized land.

Walkable and Safe City:

-The project's emphasis on creating a walkable area for the public, cyclists, and food trucks addresses the need for walkability and improved mobility.
-Improved urban planning and design can enhance safety, such as well-lit streets, pedestrian pathways, and traffic management.

Isolated Site and Poor Connectivity:

-The Rangkai building's strategic location at the gateway to Johor Bharu from Singapore has the potential to become a focal point for improved connectivity and accessibility.
-Develop infrastructure to connect the isolated site with the city center, such as pedestrian bridges, bike lanes, or a shuttle service.

Green and Open Space:

-Although the Rangkai project focuses on business activities, incorporating green infrastructure and open spaces within the building's design can provide residents and workers with green amenities.
-Encourage developers to incorporate green building principles and rooftop gardens into the design.

Reviving the Segget River:

-The Rangkai project can help revive the Segget River by drawing attention to it as a feature of the waterfront.
-Consider incorporating the river into the project's design, creating a riverside promenade or recreational area to attract residents and tourists.

Economic and Social Connectivity:

-The integration of corporate franchise businesses and small businesses can create economic opportunities and connect the local community with larger enterprises.
-Facilitate networking events, business mentoring, and collaborative initiatives to strengthen social ties among entrepreneurs and residents.

Community Involvement:

-Encourage community engagement and participation in the development process to ensure the project aligns with local needs and aspirations.
-Establish community councils or advisory boards to provide ongoing input and feedback.

Accessibility to Key Areas:

-Ensure that the Rangkai project serves as a central hub that provides convenient access to areas like R&F, Meldrum, Johor Bharu City, and JB Central, promoting connectivity and convenience.

Sustainability:

-Promote sustainable design and practices in the Rangkai project, incorporating energy-efficient technologies, waste reduction, and responsible resource management.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

-Implement a monitoring and evaluation framework to assess the project's impact on the local economy, social fabric, and urban environment, making adjustments as needed

Technical information

The construction system implemented in the Rangkai highrise building incorporates a Flat Slab Structure with a secondary steel structure supporting the building's facade. It relies on circular columns and a core for primary structural support, allowing for the creation of spacious, open-plan interiors. This construction method not only enhances structural integrity but also improves interior design and functionality, aligning with the intended purpose of the Rangkai highrise. In summary, the building's structural components include concrete columns, flat slabs, steel frames, and a facade featuring perforated metal. The Core Sheer Wall is employed to fortify the building's overall structure.

For safety, the building is equipped with a fire prevention system that includes hose reels, fire-resistant doors, sprinklers, a smoke lobby, emergency staircases, wet risers, a fire pump elevator, wet column sprinklers, and dry risers.

This building features a variety of spaces and structural elements that reflect meticulous planning. It includes "Growth" office spaces available for rent, an administrator's area, a pantry, restrooms, balconies, meeting rooms, janitorial facilities, and accessible toilets to cater to the diverse needs of the building's users.

Available services encompass an AHU VAV ventilation system, passenger elevators, electrical risers, telephone risers, cold water risers, sewer risers, MATV (Master Antenna Television), electrical risers, a refuse room, and ventilation pipes.

The building's exterior comprises materials such as concrete, laminated timber flooring, glass windows, glass doors, furniture, and brickwork, offering a combination of aesthetics and functionality. The overall building design reflects a focus on detail and security, creating a comfortable and functional space for various purposes.