This IBM main office in Malaysia is one of the better examples of Ken Yeangs Bio-climatic Architecture. The building - a wide 3 story base with entrance and public provisions, a 12 story cylinder formed office volume and a roof construction with sun terrace and swimming pool - optimally uses the possibilities of the moderate tropical climate.
The
most striking part of the plan is the 'vertical landscaping'; planting
which starts at the slanted roof at the base of the building and spirally
passes the office-floors, rising up to the roof. This green streamer joins
a series of laid back 'skycourts'. These three story high loggia-like
transitional spaces are completed with large plant baskets and balconies
with sliding doors to the offices. The chain of 'skycourts' provides a
flow of cool, oxygen rich air for natural ventilation of the workspace.
Along the 'hot' east- and west front aluminium sunshade-panels are placed
at some distance from the glass office façades. Toilets, stairs and
elevators are found on the east facade and this way work as a sunshade
on the side of the building with the highest sun impact. Other than at
the conventional placing of those provisions in the centre of the ground
plan, these can be naturally ventilated. The roof terrace is covered with
a 'parasol' that consists of a steel structure with aluminium panels.
In a later stage this roof can be fitted with solar cells. To further
improve the reduction of energy use, the building is completed with a
number of automated installation systems.
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