Thesis (M.S.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Architecture, 1981. / MICROFICHE COPY AVAILABLE IN ARCHIVES AND ROTCH. / Bibliography: leaves 110-113. / The Malay house is defined and described in the Malaysian context . Underlying principles or rules that make up the· house are derived from the analysis of its physical, spatial and functional elements and the variations that these elements exhibit. Tho rules are tested in the reconstruction of the Malay house. Changes based on hypothetical cases are then introduced to find out how the house would transform under these new sets of requirements. It is found that it is possible for a person, having not seen a Malay house prior to this, to reconstruct one based on the rules stated in this work. It is also found that new systems have to be added to the existing systems in the Malay house to meet the requirements for change. The addition of new systems however, do not mean the destruction of the tradition. It is hoped that this prototype would be the basis for further research in the Malay house. / by Wan Burhanuddin B. Wan Abidin. / M.S.

Thesis (M. Arch.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Architecture, 1982. / MICROFICHE COPY AVAILABLE IN ARCHIVES AND ROTCH. / Includes bibliographical references (p. 160-163). / Malaysia is now undergoing rapid economic development, bringing swift and often drastic changes to the built environment. Major cultural changes, the effects of which may not be fully appreciated for a number of years, have also accompanied development. As "modern" construction techniques displace traditional methods, aspects of an intrinsically Malaysian way of life may be lost forever, for vernacular construction has evolved to provide a setting for the intimate and delicate intertwining of social environment with built environment. This thesis examines the traditional Malay settlement, the kampong, and presents an application of observed principles in a design for a contemporary musing development. Descriptions are drawn largely from personal observation, and are given in terms of the cultural-physical interrelationship whenever applicable. Attention is given to the transformations which have occurred as the kampong (a traditionally rural form) has been introduced to the urban context. A hypothetical housing development in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia' s largest city, illustrates the adaptation of traditional ideas and methodologies to the modern urban setting. For the sake of economics, as well as for the betterment of the environment, the role of the architect is confined to providing an infrastructure, leaving infill to the residents. Typical units are designed however, to serve as suggestions to the occupants and builders. It is intended that the thesis itself will offer further ideas. / by Teck Neo Choo. / M.Arch.