In the heart of Penang’s bustling streets, a silent testament to sustainable design stands tall, often overlooked amidst the city’s modern facade. The Blue Mansion, a Peranakan-style heritage building, is not just a relic of the past but a beacon of sustainable architecture, according to a recent study published in *ARTEKS: Jurnal Teknik Arsitektur* (English: *ARTEKS: Journal of Architectural Technology*). The research, led by Mei Jie Low, delves into the sustainable components of Hokkien architecture, offering insights that could reshape the energy sector’s approach to design and construction.
The study focuses on the unique architectural elements of Southern Fujianese culture, particularly those found in the Blue Mansion. “The gable roof structure, ridge beasts, and decorative ‘Chien Nien’ and ‘Chai Hui’ on the façade are not merely aesthetic features,” Low explains. “They play a crucial role in achieving sustainability, a fact often overlooked in modern architecture.”
Low’s research highlights how these components contribute to energy efficiency. The gable roof structure, for instance, facilitates natural ventilation, reducing the need for artificial cooling. Ridge beasts, ornate decorations along the roof’s ridge, serve a functional purpose by enhancing airflow and reducing heat absorption. Meanwhile, the decorative elements on the façade, ‘Chien Nien’ and ‘Chai Hui,’ provide shade, further minimizing heat gain.
The commercial implications for the energy sector are significant. As cities worldwide grapple with rising energy demands and the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions, the insights from Low’s research could inspire innovative design solutions. “By integrating these traditional sustainable elements into modern architecture, we can create buildings that are not only energy-efficient but also culturally significant,” Low suggests.
The study’s findings could also influence policy and urban planning. As cities strive to become smarter and more sustainable, understanding and incorporating traditional sustainable design elements could be a game-changer. “This research is a call to action for architects, urban planners, and policymakers to look beyond the conventional and explore the wealth of knowledge embedded in our cultural heritage,” Low asserts.
Low’s research, published in *ARTEKS: Jurnal Teknik Arsitektur*, is a timely reminder that sustainability is not a new concept. It is a thread that has been woven into the fabric of our architectural heritage for centuries. As we navigate the challenges of the 21st century, perhaps the solutions we seek are not entirely new but hidden in plain sight, waiting to be rediscovered and reimagined.
In the words of Low, “The past holds the key to our sustainable future. It’s time we unlock it.” As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights from Low’s research could very well shape the future of sustainable design, proving that sometimes, the best way forward is to look back.