shd group report

SUSTAINABLE HOUSING & DEVELOPMENT

[QSB 2453]

Smart and Sustainable Housing

Development for the Future

GOH JENG JHIEH

0315080

JAKE SIA CHYI SERN

0314396

KELLYANN HIEW YAU MEI

0319532

MELVIN LIM WEI JIEN 0315772

1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................. 2

LOCATION ........................................................................................................................... 3

FEASIBILITY STUDY ........................................................................................................... 6

DISTANCE ........................................................................................................................ 6

WATER SUPPLY .............................................................................................................. 7

ELECTRIC SUPPLY ......................................................................................................... 7

FACILITIES ....................................................................................................................... 8

COMMERCIAL AREA ................................................................................................... 8

RECREATIONAL........................................................................................................... 9

EDUCATION ................................................................................................................10

HEALTH .......................................................................................................................10

SAFETY .......................................................................................................................11

DRAWING PLANS ..............................................................................................................12

MASTER PLAN ................................................................................................................12

FLOOR PLAN ..................................................................................................................13

SIDE VIEW (EAST) ..........................................................................................................14

BUILDING SUSTAINABLY ..................................................................................................15

SUSTAINABLE CONCRETE ...........................................................................................15

METAL ROOFING ...........................................................................................................16

SOLAR PANEL ................................................................................................................17

RAINWATER CATCHMENT ............................................................................................19

TRIPLE GLAZED WINDOW ............................................................................................20

LIGHT COLOURED EXTERIOR WALLS .........................................................................20

REFERENCES ....................................................................................................................21

2

INTRODUCTION

This report is a proposal to build a smart and sustainable house design for the future. The

proposed location is at Setia Alam. Sustainable or “green” building means designing and

constructing houses that are efficient and durable. The main objectives of sustainable

design is to reduce, or completely avoid depletion of critical resources like energy, water,

and raw materials; prevent environmental degradation caused by facilities and

infrastructure throughout their life cycle; and create built environments that are liveable,

comfortable, safe, and productive.

3

LOCATION

Malaysia is a Southeast Asian country occupying the Malaysian Peninsula and part of the

island of Borneo. It's known for its beaches, rainforests and mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian

and European influences. Geographically, Malaysia is almost as diverse as its culture. 11

states and 2 federal territories (Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya) form Peninsular Malaysia

which is separated by the South China Sea from East Malaysia which includes the 2 states

(Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo) and a third federal territory, the island of

Labuan.

Selangor, also known as Selangor Darul Ehsan, is one of the 13 states of Malaysia. It is

located on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia and is bordered by Perak to the north,

Pahang to the east, Negeri Sembilan to the

south and the Strait of Malacca to the west.

It surrounds the federal territories of Kuala

Lumpur and Putrajaya, both of which were

once under Selangor's territorial

sovereignty.

The state capital is Shah Alam, however the

first city in Selangor, and the royal capital is

Klang. Another major urban centre is

Petaling Jaya which was awarded city

status on 20 June 2006. Selangor is one of

only two Malaysian states with more than

one city; Selangor has the largest city in

Malaysia and it is growing rapidly due to

modernisation in the Klang Valley

4

Setia Alam is a new township located in Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia. Setia Alam is an

integrated development spanning over 4,000 acres (16 km2) of land. It falls under the

jurisdiction of the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) which had placed restrictions on the

establishment of entertainment outlets such as pubs or live music venues.

Setia Alam was chosen because the township is not fully constructed yet. This provides us

with the opportunity to utilise the empty lot to build a sustainable housing area. Since 2009,

Setia Alam and Setia Eco Park have become one of the most sought after residential

townships in the Klang Valley. With this information, it will ensure that the proposed building

will be purchased due to the high demand.

5

The location chosen for the proposed sustainable building (in yellow) is located near Setia

City Mall

As the image below shows, the chosen site is yet to be developed.

6

FEASIBILITY STUDY

DISTANCE

The images below will show the distance from Setia Alam to other various cities as well as

the airport. It also shows the time needed to reach the destination.

It will take 32-34 minutes from Setia

Alam to reach the capital city, Kuala

Lumpur.

It takes 45 minutes to reach Kuala

Lumpur International Airport

It will take 19 – 23 minutes to reach

Subang Jaya.

It is only a 13 – 15 minutes’ drive to

reach Klang.

7

WATER SUPPLY

Setia Alam receives their water supply from Syarikat Bekalan Air Selangor Sdn Bhd

(SYABAS). SYABAS is reliable as they adhere to the regulatory compliance preset by the

Government during the Concession Agreement (CA) in 2004 (Syarikat Bekalan Air

Selangor Sdn Bhd, 2015). From the beginning of their operations, they have met or even

exceeded the standards set by the regulator.

A good quality of water is SYABAS top priority as they ensure all water supplied that goes

to consumers’ taps are always clean and safe to drink from. In addition, SYABAS has

strategized an integrated and comprehensive Water Quality Improvement Master Plan

which was launched back in 2007 to further improve the quality of water that is distributed

to consumers. Setia Alam also has an existing water treatment plant.

ELECTRIC SUPPLY

Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) supplies electricity to Setia Alam. They are the largest

electric utility company in Malaysia and a leading utility company in Asia. TNB is serving

over 8.3 million customers in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah as well as Labuan. Tenaga

Nasional Berhad generates electricity from six thermal stations and three major

hydroelectric schemes (Tenaga Nasional Berhad, 2015). The electricity is then sent to a

step-up transformer where the voltage will be increased for efficient transportation. The

transmission lines transports the electricity over long distances and to the step-down

transformer where the voltage is decreased. The distribution lines then transports the

electricity to households and industries.

8

FACILITIES

Another reason why Setia Alam was chosen to build a sustainable residential area is

because of the many different available facilities in the township.

COMMERCIAL AREA

The township is equipped with two kinds of commercial area, the larger commercial and the

smaller commercial area. The larger commercial includes Setia Alam’s very own shopping

mall, which is Setia City Mall. They also have their very own Convention Centre and a large

hypermarket, which is Tesco.

On the other hand, the smaller commercial areas are where multiple shop lots are built in

one area. These shop lots are located at the north east and south west of the Setia Alam

Township. Both kinds of commercial area include a sufficient amount of parking lots.

.

9

RECREATIONAL

Setia Alam builds their township with nature in mind. They have over five recreational park

which is the Wetland Park, Urban Park, Setia City Park, Western Park, and the Setia Alam

Recreational Park. Each residence is not more than one street away from the Village Green

via landscaped pedestrian paths called Green Fingers (S P Setia Bhd. Group, 2015).

Within the Setia Alam exists a badminton court and a football field. In addition, there is also

a clubhouse located at the south west of the township which is known as Setia Alam Club.

Setia Alam Club is equipped with many various facilities such as a swimming pool, sauna

room, music studio and a gymnasium. The club also has a Flexi Studio which is designed

for yoga, exercise and dance classes (S P Setia Bhd Group, 2015). Furthermore, they are

furnished with 2 badminton courts, 2 squash courts and 2 table tennis tables that are

available for booking. There is also a proposed clubhouse at the north side of the township.

10

EDUCATION

There are many institutions for education in Setia Alam. Some of which have already been

erected and the rest are soon to be developed. There are a total of 4 Kindergarten schools

on the north side of Setia Alam and 15 Kindergarten school at the south side. In addition,

there is a total of 5 Primary and Secondary Schools which are spread out in the township

and a Chinese Primary School named Pin Hwa SRJK(C). Furthermore, there are two

international schools, SEGi International School which will be constructed in Setia Alam and

Tenby International & Private School which is already erected at Setia Eco Park.

HEALTH

There are various clinics available which is located at the shop lots of Setia Alam. There is

also a KPJ Klang Specialist Hospital which is a 5 minutes’ drive from Setia Alam

(www.vincENTHNS.com, 2015). A proposed medical centre is located near the Police

Station. In addition, Setia Alam is an Industrial-free zone development thus promoting a

better air quality.

11

SAFETY

There are pedestrian bridges in selected areas of the township. Zebra crossings are also

available for pedestrians to use. 2 Police Stations are located in Setia Alam, with one being

stationed at the south west and the other in the centre of Setia Alam

12

DRAWING PLANS

MASTER PLAN

Drawing is not to scale

There is a two entry way into the residential area for an easier ease of access. A park with

a lake is in the middle of the residential area for recreational activities.

13

FLOOR PLAN

14

SIDE VIEW (EAST)

Drawing is not to scale

The slanted inwards roof will allow water to be collected for the water catchment system.

With the solar panel placed on the roof, it will be able to harness the solar power from the

sun. In addition, because of the position of the roof, the solar panel will be able to receive

direct sunlight at all times when there are no disruptions (clouds).

15

BUILDING SUSTAINABLY

SUSTAINABLE CONCRETE

Concrete is the most commonly used construction material on earth, it has the longest

lifespan of any conventional building material. Structures created can still stand even after

more than 2,000 years.

Buildings and homes constructed with high-performance concrete wall systems offer

excellent energy efficiency, guarding against daily temperature fluctuations and providing

occupants with greater comfort and lower heating and cooling bills (Portland Cement

Association, 2015). As concrete is designed for each distinct project, there is a minimal

amount of waste, and the material has an unlimited flexibility in applications ranging from

high rise buildings to parking lots, bridges to stadiums. When a structure made from

concrete has served its function, the material can then be crushed and recycled for other

purposes.

Concrete is durable as it gains strength over time. It is not weakened by moisture, mould or

pests and it can withstand natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes. It is low

maintenance as it is compact and non-porous, and does not attract mould or lose its key

properties over time. If compared to other building materials such as steel, concrete is

definitely cheaper to produce and thus it is extremely affordable.

In addition, it is naturally fire-resistant and it forms a highly effective barrier to fire spread.

CO2 emissions from concrete and cement production are relatively small compared to other

building materials (IMS Consulting Plc, 2014). Concrete walls and floors slow the passage

of heat moving through, which reduces temperature swings. This reduces the energy needs

from heating or cooling, offering a year-round energy savings over the life-time of the

building. Concrete also has an Albedo Effect, where by the high "albedo" (reflective

qualities) of concrete which is used in pavements and building walls reflects light and so

less heat is absorbed, thus resulting in a much cooler temperature.

16

METAL ROOFING

The use of aluminium as a roofing metal is becoming increasingly popular, since it resists

corrosion and requires little maintenance. Aluminium also tends to reflect heat better than

steel, thus keeping a house cooler (Flamholtz, n.d.). If properly installed, a metal roof

should last as long as the house, sealing out water and surviving strong winds. Metal is also

resistant to fire, mildew, insects, and rot.

Compared with tile at 750 pounds per square (an area equal to 100 square feet) or

concrete tile at 900 pounds per square, metal roofing is lightweight. Most varieties run from

50 to 150 pounds per square. As it is light weight, the number of roof support members can

be downsized. Most metal roofing materials come in multiple-shingle sections or in 12- to

36-inch-wide panels. An accomplished contractor can install these quickly.

Because metal roofs are non-combustible, they’re given a Class A fire rating (the most

resistant). Part of a roof’s classification depends on materials beneath the surface that

could ignite in intense heat. Most metal roofs applied over a combustible material such as

wood shingles have a lower, Class C rating. It also reflects radiant heat from the sun,

minimizing midday heat gain. This means energy needed for air conditioning during the day

can be reduced. Though the material itself is low in insulation R-value, many systems utilize

a dead-air space between the metal and roof deck to increase energy efficiency.

Most metal roofing materials can be installed on gently pitched roofs without presenting a

leaking potential. It is also practically impervious to rain because of the way it is designed to

interlock and because the surfaces are hard and slippery.

Sadly, there are disadvantages to metal roofing. The biggest drawback is initial cost. Metal

roofing is equivalent in cost to other premium materials. It is also noisy when there is a

rainstorm but the noise can be controlled both by using materials that have structural

barriers to minimize the drumming effect and by applying them over sound-deafening

insulation and solid plywood sheathing. Aluminium metal roofing is also prone to denting.

Because metal expands and contracts as it warms and cools, most new products have

fastening systems that accommodate movement; otherwise, fasteners that secure the

roofing tend to come loose. Expansion and contraction on hot days can cause a wavy

affect. Metal roofing materials installed in large panels are more difficult to replace if

damaged than individual shingles.

17

SOLAR PANEL

Solar Power has expanded in recent years for our domestic and industrial needs. Solar

power is produced by collecting sunlight and converting it into electricity. This is done by

using solar panels, which are large flat panels made up of many individual solar cells. It is

most often used in remote locations, although it is becoming more popular in urban areas

as well.

Below is a list of advantages of solar panel and solar energy:-

1. The major advantage of solar power is that there is no pollution created in the

process of generating electricity. Environmentally it the most Clean and Green

energy. Solar Energy is clean, renewable (unlike gas, oil and coal) and sustainable,

which in turn helps us to protect our environment.

2. Solar energy does not require any fuel.

3. It does not pollute our air by releasing carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide, sulphur dioxide

or mercury into the atmosphere like many traditional forms of electrical generation

does.

4. Solar Energy does not contribute to global warming, acid rain or smog. It actively

contributes to the decrease of harmful greenhouse gas emissions.

5. There is no on-going cost for the power it generates – as solar radiation is free

everywhere. Once installed, there are no recurring costs.

6. It offers much more self-reliance than depending upon a power utility for all

electricity.

7. It is quite economical in long run. After the initial investment has been recovered, the

energy from the sun is practically free. Solar Energy systems are virtually

maintenance free and will last for decades.

8. It’s not affected by the supply and demand of fuel and is therefore not subjected to

the ever-increasing price of fossil fuel.

9. It’s generated where it is needed. Therefore, large scale transmission cost is

minimized.

10. Solar Energy can be utilized to offset utility-supplied energy consumption. It does not

only reduce your electricity bill, but will also continue to supply your home/ business

with electricity in the event of a power outage.

11. A Solar Energy system can operate entirely independently, not requiring a

connection to a power or gas grid at all. Systems can therefore be installed in remote

locations, making it more practical and cost-effective than the supply of utility

electricity to a new site.

12. They operate silently, have no moving parts, do not release offensive smells and do

not require you to add any fuel.

13. More solar panels can easily be added in the future when your family’s needs grow.

However, there are also some disadvantages to solar panel which is listed below:-

18

1. The initial cost is the main disadvantage of installing a solar energy system, largely

because of the high cost of the semi-conducting materials used in building solar

panels.

2. The cost of solar energy is also high compared to non-renewable utility-supplied

electricity. As energy shortages are becoming more common, solar energy is

becoming more price-competitive.

3. Solar panels require quite a large area for installation to achieve a good level of

efficiency.

4. The efficiency of the system also relies on the location of the sun, although this

problem can be overcome with the installation of certain components.

5. The production of solar energy is influenced by the presence of clouds or pollution in

the air. Similarly, no solar energy will be produced during night time although a

battery backup system and/or net metering will solve this problem.

19

RAINWATER CATCHMENT

Rainwater catchment involves the accumulation and deposition of rainwater for reuse rather

than allowing it to go to waste. The rainwater is a legitimate source of water and can easily

sustain a household on its own. By using rainwater for toilet flushing, laundry and garden

use alone, it can reduce mains water requirements of a typical household by 70% (Rain

Harvesting Pty Ltd, 2010).

Some of the advantages of rainwater harvesting is that it is easy to maintain as it is based

on a simply technology to collect rainwater for everyday applications. It also reduces the

cost of water bills as now there are two sources of water. Water is commonly extracted from

the ground but when done excessively can cause a huge water scarcity in that area. So by

using rainwater as an alternative source the ground doesn’t have to bear the load to fulfil

daily demands. It can also definitely reduce floods and soil erosion for places which suffers

from loose soil and poor drainage. The rainwater collected however need not be purified if it

serves non-drinking purposes making it one thing less to worry about.

Despite the various advantages, there are in fact a number of disadvantages as well.

Unpredictable rainfall is one of the most common concerns when it comes to rainwater

harvesting as it fully depends on the weather to be used to its full capacity (Conserve

Energy Future, 2015). The initial cost may be a disadvantage depending on the size and

technology of the system. The cost can be recovered in 10-15 years however it still

depends on the amount of rainfall. Other than that, rain water harvesting system need

regular maintenance as it is prone to spawn pests such as rodents, mosquitoes, algae and

other kinds of insects if not maintained properly. This in itself can pollute the system and

cause some sanitary issues. As with all other storages, this system’s storage also has

limits. So in cases of heavy down pour the system may not be able to collect all the water.

In conclusion, it is best to use both the normal water distribution system as well as the

rainwater harvesting system and utilise it to have best outcome. The load on each system

can be split evenly and it will still save cost and energy than when only using one. For

instance, the main water distribution system can be used only for drinking purposes and the

rainwater harvesting system can be used for cleaning purposes. That way it can really

benefit both the user as well as the environment.

20

TRIPLE GLAZED WINDOW

The manufacturing processes and the technology involved in making triple glazed windows

have progressed a lot in the last few years. It is an energy efficient multiple glazed window.

Although some double glazed energy efficient windows do carry the A rating, triple glazed

windows are always highly rated as they have three layers of glass with internal gas filled

spaces to provide much better insulation. The most energy efficient designs have krypton,

argon or xenon between the sheets of glass. These are the inert gases – there is little

chance that they could leak out but if they did, the gases are completely harmless

(EnergySavingSecrets, 2015).

LIGHT COLOURED EXTERIOR WALLS

Nippon Paint Odour~less AirCare paint will be used as it absorbs harmful formaldehyde and

refreshes the air. Nippon Odour~less AirCare is one of the most advanced technological

innovations to date that can help improve air quality by absorbing formaldehyde. This

breakthrough product has Anti-Formaldehyde with Active Carbon Technology that will

continuously absorb harmful formaldehyde from the air and convert them into water vapour

and therefore, create a safer environment for the consumers (Nippon Paint (M) Sdn Bhd,

2015). This product also has a near zero volatile organic compounds (VOC) and odour. It is

anti-bacterial, has a superior washability and scrub resistance.

The walls will be painted in light colours as a light exterior will help the building stay cooler

by reflecting heat. A light and bright exterior colour scheme has a big impact on indoor

comfort (Smart Homes for Living, 2014). The best colours to use for exterior walls are

white, light grey, beige or other light-coloured neutrals. In addition, light-coloured exteriors

not only give a clean, fresh appearance to a home, it also makes it look bigger and more

appealing than a darker colour might.

21

REFERENCES

Conserve Energy Future, 2015. What is Rainwater Harvesting?. [Online]

Available at: http://www.conserve-energy-

future.com/Advantages_Disadvantages_Rainwater_Harvesting.php

[Accessed 16 June 2015].

EnergySavingSecrets, 2015. How to Choose the Right Energy Efficient Windows. [Online]

Available at: http://www.energysavingsecrets.co.uk/choose-right-energy-efficient-

windows.html


Flamholtz, C. J., n.d. Metal Roofing Pros and Cons. [Online]

Available at: http://www.motherearthnews.com/green-homes/metal-roofing-pros-and-cons-

zmaz84mazgoe.aspx?PageId=1


Habitat for Humanity International, 2015. Sustainable building. [Online]

Available at: http://www.habitat.org/env/Construction_Standards.aspx


IMS Consulting Plc, 2014. Sustainability Benefits of Concrete. [Online]

Available at: http://www.wbcsdcement.org/index.php/en/about-cement/benefits-of-concrete


Nippon Paint (M) Sdn Bhd, 2015. Odour~less AirCare. [Online]

Available at: http://www.nipponpaint.com.my/products/topcoat/Odour-less-AirCare


Portland Cement Association, 2015. Foundation for a Sustainable Future: Concrete

Innovates. [Online]

Available at: http://www.cement.org/think-harder-concrete-/buildings-structures/design-

aids/sustainable-design


Rain Harvesting Pty Ltd, 2010. Ideal uses for rainwater. [Online]

Available at: http://rainharvesting.com.au/knowledge-center/ideal-uses-for-rainwater/


S P Setia Bhd Group, 2015. Facilities. [Online]

Available at: http://www.setiaalamclub.com.my/facilities.asp#.VZF9TvkirIU


S P Setia Bhd. Group, 2015. Key Features. [Online]

Available at: http://www.setiaalam.com.my/key-features.asp


22

Smart Homes for Living, 2014. Choosing the best exterior colours for an energy-efficient

home. [Online]

Available at: http://www.smartideas.smarthomesforliving.com.au/choose-best-exterior-

colours-energy-efficient-home/


Syarikat Bekalan Air Selangor Sdn Bhd, 2015. Water Quality. [Online]

Available at: http://www.syabas.com.my/corporate/about-us-water-quality#0


Tenaga Nasional Berhad, 2015. Corporate Profile. [Online]

Available at: http://www.tnb.com.my/about-tnb/corporate-profile.html


WBDG Sustainable Committee, 2014. Sustainable. [Online]

Available at: http://www.wbdg.org/design/sustainable.php


www.vincENTHNS.com, 2015. Contact & Find Us. [Online]

Available at: http://www.vincententhns.com/Finding%20us.html


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