Semarak International Journal of Design, Built Environment and Sustainability

Impact of HVAC Systems Integration on Aesthetic of Public Buildings in Brunei Darussalam

Rozia Haji Adenan — 2024-12-23

In the context of architectural and urban design, the aesthetic of a building is a relative and dynamic concept that involves different aspects including building façade style, form, color, texture, and overall artistic expression. However, this evolution can be influenced by various factors such as cultural shifts, technological advancements, materials available, and changing tastes and trends in architecture. Traditionally, building facades in Brunei have prioritized uniformity, symmetry, and cultural ornamentation. Contemporary challenges such as climate change necessitate a re-evaluation of these aesthetic principles. The integration of HVAC systems into public buildings presents unique challenges and opportunities for other architectural aesthetic ways. Modern architectural practices now emphasize ecological and interactive facades that enhance building aesthetics while addressing environmental conditions. This study examines how integrating HVAC systems affects both the aesthetics and functionality of public buildings in Brunei, and explores solutions, including exterior decorative HVAC system models, that balance visual appeal with practical functionality. The findings aim to support the aesthetic goals of modern architecture and align with broader efforts to create sustainable and resilient urban environments in Brunei Darussalam.

The Implications of Epistemology on Knowledge and Awareness in Green Campus Management

Nazrul Rusli — 2024-12-23

The study explores the implicatios of epistemology on knowledge and awareness in green campus management. Epistemology, which concerns how knowledge is acquired, validated, and applied, provides a critical framework for understanding the various knowledge forms- scientific, experiential and institutional that shape environmental awareness and behavior. By investigating the interaction between these types of knowledge and the awareness levels of campus stakeholders, the research aims to investigate how different epistemological perspectives drive behavioral change toward sustainability. Using content analysis of relevant literature, the study focuses on how the production, dissemination, and application of knowledge contribute to sustainable campus management practices and foster an environmentally responsible campus culture. It emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary approaches that integrate scientific knowledge with social and experiential insights, aligning with the goals of sustainable development. The findings indicate that a deeper understanding of epistemology can significantly enhance the effectiveness of green campus initiatives by ensuring that knowledge not only informs policy but also motivates active participation and long-term behavioral change. This paper offers valuable insights for university administrators, educators, and policymakers seeking to improve the impact of sustainability programs. Ultimately, it supports global efforts to mitigate environmental challenges through education, awareness, and the cultivation of a culture of sustainability.

Exploring the Effectiveness of Green Wall and Roof Retrofitting Practices in Brunei Darussalam

Muhammad Arif Safwan Zalidin — 2024-12-23

Brunei Darussalam faces sustainable challenges related to energy efficiency and environmental quality. These issues can be tackled through the implementation of bioclimatic strategies into building design and construction. Green wall and roof in buildings aimed to reduce the indoor air temperature without excessive use of mechanical cooling systems. This research aims to quantify and confirm the effectiveness of green wall and roof systems in reducing the indoor temperatures with buildings in Brunei emphasizing their contribution to sustainable environment within the local context. Results revealed that both green wall and roof showed significant reduction of indoor temperature during peak daytime periods. The green wall experiment has shown 3.5°C maximum indoor temperature reduction while green roof experiment has shown 5.4°C, both during peak daytime hours, showing maximum temperature decrease of 9.1% and 13% respectively. The indoor temperature reduction was proved to be inadequate to reach optimum comfort for building occupants and to fully eliminate the use of air conditioners. The study suggested that green infrastructure alone cannot fully mitigate the use of mechanical cooling systems, but still be able to reduce their usage. This can still lead to slight energy savings and improved energy efficiency in buildings. Green wall and roof have the potential to enhance thermal comfort and biophilic benefits in buildings, creating more pleasant indoor environments for occupants. In general, the findings of these experiments emphasize the possibility of green wall and roof as a versatile answer for enhancing indoor spaces, advancing sustainability, and improving the well-being in buildings.

Towards Sustainable Redesign of Academic Library Buildings in Nigeria: Case for Remodelling Higher Institution Library Buildings to Meet 21st Century Users’ Expectations

Oluwafemi Kehinde Akande — 2024-12-23

The rapid transition in technology, changing user needs, and altering educational procedures have forced the long-term redesign of academic library facilities all over the world. However, in Nigeria, most academic library buildings have not been updated to meet changing trends and user expectations. This has consequently affected the users’ learning and educational experience. Many Nigerian higher education libraries still use antiquated designs that do not meet the expectations of digital-age users who demand more flexible, collaborative, and technology-integrated environments. This paper investigated the disparity between traditional library architecture and the needs of the 21st-century academic community. The objective was is to determine how to redesign current academic library buildings in Nigeria to fulfil 21st-century user expectations, with a focus on sustainability, flexibility, and technological integration. The study took a quantitative approach, surveying students and staff (n=484) at selected higher education institutions about their library usage patterns and expectations. The findings show that altering library designs can considerably improve user experience, accessibility, and collaborative learning in higher education. The paper proposed essential design concepts that connect with sustainability, user-centred space provision, and digital integration to prepare academic libraries for the future while also supporting environmental aims. It concluded that remodelling academic libraries in Nigeria can close the gap between current infrastructure and future user needs, particularly in terms of technology, flexibility, and sustainability.

The Significance of Pedestrian Pathways as Place Identity in an Urban Environment

Abdullah Hasif Patria — 2024-12-23

In an urban environment, pedestrian pathways are an essential physical structure that contributes significantly to establishing place identity. This review investigates the role of pedestrian pathways in shaping place identity, highlighting their physical and social importance. It explores how these pathways generate social attributes, such as place identity, within the urban context, addressing the often-overlooked significance of these structures. The undervalued physical and social significance of these pathways is an inquiry that the research aims to address. A comprehensive review of databases specializing in pedestrian pathways and place identity was conducted to examine this, focusing on books, peer-reviewed journal articles, and other relevant materials from the past five years. The findings demonstrate that pedestrian pathways are crucial in defining a place's identity through physical features, creating meaningful connections between people and their environment. By enhancing the physical characteristics of urban spaces, pedestrian pathways help foster a sense of belonging and identity among residents. Hence, pedestrian pathways significantly improve an urban environment's physical characteristics while nurturing place identity. This research offers new perspectives into the relationship between physical features and social ramifications and approaches to urban design that strengthen physical and social significance. Furthermore, it suggests approaches to urban design that recognize and strengthen the physical and social significance of pedestrian pathways, offering a framework for creating more meaningful and cohesive urban environments.