Cover The container resort by the sea exemplifies holistic design (Photo: Ar Idr Nur Safuraa Abd Razak)
The container resort by the sea exemplifies holistic design (Photo: Ar Idr Nur Safuraa Abd Razak)
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According to architect Ar Idr Nur Safuraa Abd Razak, good design is made to leave a lasting impact
Nur Safuraa Abd Razak is a certified architect and interior designer with over a decade of experience crafting holistic and unconventional spaces for varied communities. Born into a family of architects, Safuraa and her brother followed in their parents’ footsteps. “Growing up surrounded by their creativity and vision, they instilled in me a unique perspective, encouraging me to think outside the box and express myself freely,” Safuraa says.
Despite surrounding influences, Safuraa didn’t initially see herself pursuing a career in architecture. “It wasn’t until my time in an art and design foundation after graduating from the pure science stream in high school that I began bridging my artistic expressions with scientific principles. This fusion led me to realise that architecture beautifully marries the realms of science and art. At that moment, I knew I had found my calling and I have never looked back.”
Container Resort by the Sea, Port Dickson
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Among the senior architect’s cherished projects are the villas she crafted for Daun Retreats in Hulu Langat: Kasturi Cabin and Kozu. Kasturi Cabin is a good example of “cargotecture”, a design approach that aims to upcycle old shipping containers to create sustainable and cost-effective living spaces.
A term coined around 2004 by HyBrid Architecture of Seattle, the trend is here to stay as there are an estimated 65 million shipping containers in use worldwide, with estimates of those in active use at any given time ranging from 5 to 17 million. With so many containers languishing and new shipping containers manufactured each year, there is an abundance of containers waiting to be repurposed.
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Meanwhile, Kozu is a Japanese contemporary inspired villa with a focus on natural materials such as bamboo, wood, and tatami mats, allowing visitors to feel in touch with Mother Earth. As Safuraa describes it, “These villas harmoniously blend with the surrounding landscape, evolving over time as nature works its magic around them. The organic growth of plants and the ageing of walls create a truly unique experience with each enchanted visit.”
Above Ar Idr Nur Safuraa Abd Razak
Ar Idr Nur Safuraa Abd Razak
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Safuraa also admits to being drawn to the works of Atelier Bow-Wow and Tezuka architects for their approach of treating architecture as a “kit of parts—simple yet highly functional, with each project carrying a distinct character.”
One project that resonates with Safuraa is Tezuka’s Roof House. “This modest home, encircled by glass sliding doors, grants every room access to the roof, transforming it into a communal outdoor space. Despite its compact size, the clever utilisation of space exemplifies the notion that a house is what you make of it.”
To Safuraa, the notion of good design is purely subjective. “For me, it’s all about seamless functionality, enhancing user efficiency, and leaving a lasting impact on anyone who encounters it. A truly exceptional design seamlessly integrates into daily life, becoming a memorable part of our experiences.”
Villa Sunlight Between the Trees - Komorebi
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Reflecting on personal experience, the architect recalls the sight of a bungalow home she passes on occasional walks to the park. “[The bungalow] exudes an understated charm, and when I catch sight of indoor lights glimmering through the windows on occasion, it sparks my curiosity and inspiration. It’s a testament to how design has the power to evoke emotions. Every time I see it, I can’t help but wonder about the lives of those who live there. To me, that is the essence of remarkable design: it tells a captivating story on its own.”
See also: Designer Olivia Lee On Balancing Good Design With Practical Purpose
When it comes to holistic design, Safuraa insists on considering all relevant elements of a project, including the intangible aspects. “Going beyond mere sensory appeal, my designs prioritise human-centricity and future-proofing.” Human-centred architecture acknowledges the capacity of a constructed environment to impact emotions and mental well-being. Elements like colour, lighting, texture, and spatial layout have the ability to elicit particular reactions. For example, warm hues and daylight can create feelings of cosiness, while expansive areas and thoughtfully positioned windows can establish a link with the natural world, promoting a sense of calmness and renewal.
Container Villa in a Kampung - Kasturi
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By comparison, future-proof architecture aims to cater not just for today’s needs but for future demands as well. “I aim to ensure seamless operation within the space for users and an authentic brand experience for commercial projects. I find joy in materialising a brand’s persona through holistic design, especially in today’s digital era where online personas are significant in creating expectations.”
Observing recent design trends, Safuraa is thrilled with seeing more personality-infused contemporary design, aimed at sparking joy. “Architects are increasingly unafraid to experiment with colours, forms, and materials, breaking away from conventional labels and embracing expressive design. I hope this trend continues to flourish, allowing architects to unleash their creativity without boundaries.”
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As architectural designs continue to evolve, Safuraa hopes people will understand how invested architects are in their projects. “Beyond the realms of designing and drawing, architecture necessitates a profound understanding of human behaviour, sensitivity to surroundings, and strategic problem-solving. Each architectural venture demands significant mental and emotional investment, underscoring the multifaceted nature of our industry.”
Credits
Images: Ar Idr Nur Safuraa Abd Razak
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