Mei Ee Architect Created A New Chapter in Historic Preservation
The Rackson House sits humbly amidst a 2,640 sqm landscaped garden in Georgetown, Penang. The new refurbishment aims to transform the once-vacant structure into a Corporate House. This involves adding a new multi-purpose annex hall and rejuvenating both the interior and exterior spaces.
Reviving heritage with modern spirit
Over time, a lack of maintenance left the building in a state of disrepair. The refurbishment project, which began in 2021, involved the refurbishment of the vacant unused single-storey building and a new extension structure designed in steel and glass playfully set contrast with the heritage building.
The two interlocking programmatic blocks, consisting of the existing building and the new extension, were designed to preserve the historic structure while meeting spatial requirements. The south-facing existing block retains its heritage roof and has a more closed character, housing the main programmatic spaces. In contrast, the new block, which faces the northwest, is primarily comprised of servicing spaces. It features an open character with greater height and a glass roof.
Creating continuity between old and new
The old building with ‘good bones’ and character was carefully restored to be given a new lease of life. The facade geometry borrows from the existing building beside, reinterpreting the architecture of the past while highlighting its contemporary capabilities.
The use of alternating bands of glass panels and solid walls showcases the differing styles of the existing and modern architecture, creating a unified space that breathes new life into the time-worn building.
Harmonizing Architecture with Skylights, Courtyards, and Pocket Gardens
New skylights and courtyard spaces flood the interior of the old building with abundant natural light. Additional pocket spaces, shared by both the old and new structures, extend views into the garden and toward each other, creating a harmonious coexistence. The close proximity enables detailed observation of the architectural ornaments on the old building through the pocket garden space.
| Location | Jalan Bagan Jermal, Georgetown |
| Area | 2,640 m² |
| Year | 2021 |
| Architect | Mei Ee Architect |
| Interior Designer | Design Palette Plt |
| Contractor | LEC Advance Resources |
| Landscape | Landart Design Sdn. Bhd. |
| Photographer | Twjpto Studio |
Navigate to this project 🗺️
Other projects by Mei Ee Architect
Note: To protect our designers & suppliers community from spam and harassment. Your contact requested will be routed to our representative first. We will connect you to the representative asap. If our editor might have published your project with consent, do drop us a message via here to remove it or claim this officially.
