V21 Residence @ KKIP
This 1,121-unit affordable housing development at Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park sets a new standard for low-cost, sustainable living. Designed specifically for industrial park employees, the project aims to deliver vibrant, comfortable homes without compromising on quality or liveability. At an unprecedented starting price of RM138,888 for fully furnished studio units, the development makes home ownership accessible to a broader segment of the community.
As architects, we believe that good design should be inclusive, not reserved for the privileged few. This project challenged us to strike a careful balance between cost efficiency and quality of life. Every design decision was guided by the principle of long-term affordability, extending beyond construction costs to include considerations for future maintenance and energy efficiency.
Central to the project’s design are airwell cores incorporated into each residential block. These vertical shafts harness natural light and cross-ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical systems and lowering ongoing utility costs for residents. The result is a passive design strategy that enhances indoor comfort while minimising environmental impact.
Sustainability was further integrated through the installation of EV chargers, supporting a shift towards carbon-free mobility. This not only reduces transportation expenses for residents but also promotes a greener, more forward-thinking community.
To bring character to the buildings within a tight budget, we used colour as a cost-effective way to animate the façades. Without the budget for balconies or elaborate architectural elements, colour provided a simple solution to add depth and vibrancy. Each block features a unique five-colour palette, arranged to complement window patterns and give visual depth to the otherwise flat façades. The colour coding also aids wayfinding, serving as an intuitive navigation tool for residents and visitors alike.
Ultimately, this development embodies our core belief: architecture should enhance lives, foster resilient communities, and create meaningful, sustainable spaces that serve everyone, regardless of income.
Text by the architect
PROJECT GALLERY
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Architect : Mak Arkitek Konsult
Client : Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park Sdn Bhd
Area : 56,678.41 m²
Project Location : KKIP, Off Jalan Sepanggar, Melawa, Kota Kinabalu | Sabah
Year : 2024 -
C&S Engineer : Awana Konsult Sdn Bhd
M&E Engineer : Urban Tech (Sabah) Sdn Bhd
Quantity Surveyor : Prokosman Konsultant
Interior Designer : Design Gallery
Contractor : China Hyway Group Limited
Landscape Architect : Landscpec
Photography : Mak Arkitek Konsult -
Wall Finishes
• Brick : Starken AAC
Roofing Systems : CityTop
Paint Systems : Nippon Paint
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