UCL professor embarks on Malaysian urban regeneration project

CJ Lim, Professor of Architecture and Cultural Design at the UCL Bartlett School of Architecture, has designed an urban renewal project in his native Malaysia. The competition, held by the Penang State Government, required architects to submit an urban renewal proposal for the Rifle Range area in Penang. The main objective was to get creative ideas and a practical solution to redevelop the existing housing area in Rifle Range into a vibrant, sustainable and well-planned residential and commercial area. The current flats in Rifle Range were built in the 1970s and provided housing for many of Penang's poor. Over the years, however, the general condition of Rifle Range Flats has deteriorated rapidly. Professor Lim's winning proposal includes over 4,200 living units, public facilities, an atrium park and sports facilities ' all of which will lead to new employment opportunities in the area. Discussing the proposal award, Professor Lim explained: 'I was originally from Malaysia and as this is my first Malaysian project, it's quite special to me.' The winning proposal includes an overview of how the project will affect the area: 'A place of prosperity and healthy well-being, this visionary proposal re-evaluates modern day living and working environments, public place making and built forms to create a green sustainable community with energy efficiency.' ?The scale brings with it a new dynamic and intensity, and presents a bold image for Rifle Range as well as Penang.