Rackson House Building

Rackson House Building is an exemplary architectural refurbishment project that masterfully demonstrates the harmonious fusion of heritage architecture with contemporary design elements. Located in George Town, Malaysia, this corporate building transformation occupies a generous 2,640-square-meter plot surrounded by landscaped gardens, embodying a sophisticated approach to adaptive reuse. The project, completed in December 2021, consists of two interlocking programmatic blocks: the preserved heritage structure maintaining its original character with traditional elements such as verandahs and bay windows, and a modern extension characterized by steel and glass construction that appears to merge with the sky. The design philosophy centers on maintaining continuity between old and new, reinterpreting historic architectural elements through a contemporary lens while preserving the building's authentic character. Notable features include abundant natural lighting throughout the interiors and a reflective pool that creates a harmonious visual connection between the heritage building, new annex, and surrounding landscape. The renovation strategy involved careful preservation of existing walls, leaving visible the historical traces and architectural palimpsest, while introducing modern interventions that respect the original structure. This Bronze A' Design Award-winning project in the Architecture, Building and Structure Design category exemplifies innovative architectural practices through its thoughtful integration of contemporary design elements with heritage preservation, creating a sophisticated corporate environment that honors its historical context while embracing modern functionality.

Author: Adam Dawson

Keywords: architectural heritage, adaptive reuse, corporate architecture, sustainable renovation, contemporary design, structural preservation

SOURCES:
https://competition.adesignaward.com/140041

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