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UNIFOR Complex

DAVID ONG ARCHITECT
2025
PAM Award - Silver
Commercial (High Rise)

Project Description

A 10-storey development with 8-storey Office Block on top of 2-storey Commercial/Convention Facilities podium. Housing UNIFOR offices, it is designed as a humble iconic Green Building to signify religious freedom in Sarawak. The Unit For Other Religions (UNIFOR), established in 2017 by Sarawak Government, was tasked to manage the needs of the non-Islamic religions in Sarawak impacting 68% Sarawakians. Commercial, Convention facility and surplus office spaces are rentable to private entities and events to generate rental revenue to help the various Religious Groups in Sarawak. There is a volumetric semi-enclosed rooftop garden as communal space for interactions and functions.

Designed like a beautifully wrapped present, this innovative Architectural design symbolizes a divine gift of unity among religious communities. As a whole, the development portrays a unique built form which is expressed by its ONE WRAP ie. a continuous aluminum composite panel cladding embracing the architectural envelope together with a distinctive architectural sun SCREEN resulting in a simple yet elegant building showcasing a new timeless contemporary iconic building. The architectural sun screen is designed with repetitive star motives as a representation of the “Universe” to signify the Divine Power and Hope. Inspired by PASSIVE Green Building Concept, the design of UNIFOR Complex hinges greatly on the principles of Passive Design. Guided by a HUMBLE approach, this building is not extravagant in space and materials. All spaces are SUFFICIENTLY designed and with standard materials. Together with PASSIVE DESIGN protecting the Building Envelope and DESIGN SUFFICIENCY is an outcome of DESIGN EFFICIENCY.

Citation

A well-translated concept with a simple, humble aesthetic. Striking a balance in modern materiality with a good passive design strategy, resulting in a harmonious modern building.

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