Best integrated community designs for Global Awards shortlisted
MELBOURNE: The shortlist for the best integrated living care housing design has been declared.
Over 250 designs have been considered by the awards secretariat. One of the finalists in this category is shown above.
Design studio Lead8 has unveiled a masterplan for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, that would see one of the city’s earliest townships transformed into an eco-living destination.
Created for UEM Sunrise and Melati Ehsan Group, the Kiara Bay development would cover 73ac (30ha) and is aimed at creating a balance between the city, leisure and nature.
There are three planned areas – the Waters, the Walk and the Village – which are to be linked by a pedestrian and cycle network aimed at supporting healthier lifestyles, improving air quality and reducing vehicular traffic demand.
David Buffonge, co-founder and executive director at Lead8, said: “Accessibility and sustainable mobility were extremely important in the planning process for this development. These design strategies help create a platform for liveable neighbourhoods and inclusive communities as well ensure the complete offer of Kiara Bay, from healthcare to education, culture, environment and technology, can thrive.”
The Waters is a district is based at the waterfront of the 140ac (57ha) Kepong Metropolitan Lake, with towers at the lake’s edge and opportunities for watersports.
The Walk is a commercial district with retail elements and has transport links to and from the other parts of the development.
The Village, finally, is a compact community cluster designed for multi-generational living with a community park, a wellness centre, retirement living, a community retail hub and an education facility.
Meeta Patel, another co-founder and executive director at Lead8, said: “Our design has been informed by the significance of this site in Kuala Lumpur. To be located along one of the premier and most popular lake parks in the city is quite special. As such, sustainability and liveability have been the two main drivers of our masterplan – creating an eco-aware community which celebrates its biodiversity.”
The development is intended to be realised over the course of the next decade.
The Global Award winner will be announced in December in London. (Globals)
