Omar Harb

advisor

Phoenicia University

Lebanon

As an architect and founder of Omar Harb Architects & Associates, my work centers on creating… more

Feedback: The Carver - Wood Carving Training Center
This project presents a thoughtful and well-integrated approach to preserving the traditional craft of Malay wood carving. Your proposal for "The Carver" in Kampung Baru effectively blends cultural heritage with contemporary needs, creating a valuable hub for education, skill development, and community engagement.

The project idea is particularly strong in its commitment to revitalizing a traditional craft within a significant cultural enclave. This focus on cultural continuity, local identity, and socio-economic opportunities demonstrates a keen understanding of the broader impact of architecture.

The project description clearly outlines a functional layout, with the Wood Carving Workshop at its heart, supported by essential spaces like material preparation and finishing areas. The inclusion of an Exhibition Gallery, Multipurpose Hall, Cafe Corner, and outdoor Rest Zones creates a comprehensive program that encourages both learning and social interaction, making it a true community asset.

From a technical information perspective, the design shows practical consideration for Malaysia's tropical climate. The sloped roof for efficient rainwater runoff and passive cooling, combined with adjustable wooden louvers for cross ventilation, are excellent choices for enhancing comfort and energy efficiency. The use of reinforced concrete for stability alongside waffle wood beams for the ceiling effectively marries structural integrity with a celebration of traditional craftsmanship and natural materials, aligning perfectly with the project's cultural aims.

To further enhance this strong project, consider explicitly detailing how local artisans and traditional wood carving techniques will be integrated into the actual construction process of "The Carver." This could include using traditional joinery, incorporating carved elements into the building's fixed features, or even creating a "living laboratory" where students contribute to the building's upkeep and evolving decorative elements. This approach would make the building itself a direct embodiment of the craft it seeks to preserve, enriching the learning experience and reinforcing the center's core mission.

Dear Omar Harb,

Thank you for your thoughtful and encouraging feedback on The Carver – Wood Carving Training Center. I truly appreciate your kind words and insightful observations, which have deepened my understanding of how to strengthen the project further.

I’m grateful that the integration of cultural heritage with community development and environmental design was recognized. Preserving the traditional Malay wood carving craft in a contemporary setting was a core aim, and I’m encouraged to know that this intention came through clearly.

Your suggestion to further detail how traditional artisanship could be embedded into the construction process is particularly valuable. I will explore incorporating traditional joinery techniques, carved elements, and a "living laboratory" approach into the design, allowing artisans and students to actively participate in the building's evolution. This idea aligns well with the project’s mission to celebrate and preserve craftsmanship as a living, hands-on experience.

Once again, thank you for your feedback and support. It will guide the next steps of my design refinement.

Warm regards,
Wong Yun Ros
Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman