Endless Bounds
The boathouse is situated in the tropics of Batu Dam, Kuala Lumpur. The idea is a conceptual juxtaposition; it plays upon the drama between one floating structure, contrasting with another bounded by earth. The rowing center rests dramatically on stilts (a reference to vernacular Malay Kampong houses). Rowers here strive to reach new heights - to reach Endless Bounds…
Timber and masonry embody this contrasting dynamic in materiality. The two structures are connected by an integrated landscape; working perpendicular to the site’s slope offers visual connections to the water at varying sectional heights. Spaces are sequentially organized so one travels along the site’s central axis from high to low
elevation. The roof responds to this axis by transforming in section from straight edge to a butterfly roof. Collected rainwater becomes a spectacle by flooding into the central courtyard; the water is then stored and recycled in an underground cistern. Staircases are also embedded into the earth and hidden from view.
Date: Spring 2017
Program: Rowing Center
Location: Batu Dam, Kuala Lumpur
Tutor: Bruce Lonnman
U4 Studio: The Chinese University of Hong Kong
