Design Solutions for Revitalisation of Buffer Zones in Cultural Heritage Sites

Case study: Kampung Jawa, Melaka, Malaysia

Abstract

This paper examines various design solutions towards urban regeneration of buffer zone areas in the context of cultural heritage sites. Although buffer zones play an essential role in protecting the values of core zones, yet due to the implementation of legislative limitations and local construction regulations, they suffer from a decline in urban growth. This study aims to suggest a variety of design solutions to regenerate the context of buffer zone areas after a critical study and analysis of their urban setting. The study area locates in Kampung Jawa (KJ), situated in the historical city of Melaka, Malaysia. At the initial phase, this study adopted a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods to explore and survey the study area. The required data was collected through observation, questionnaire, interviews with stakeholders as well as available documents and statistics about the area. After analysing the data and based on the principles and design rationales derived from precedents studies, suggestions and recommendations for the revitalization of the site are developed in the form of design proposals. The study concludes that five important factors, including a sense of place, optimum land utilization, compatibility with the neighbouring districts, appropriate circulation network, and safeguarding imageability and identity of the site, are among the most vital factors for revival and regeneration of deprived buffer zone areas.