Building Investment (May - June 2022)

combat the tropical heat. Textures are also pivotal in adding
contrasts against the darker finishings. Rattan and woven patterns
are observed on the furnishings to help add depth into the overall
design.
Another common design feature that one would notice are
the arches whether it be on the timber doors and the iron grille
upon the windows and along the walls. Arches are one of the most
prevailing architectural elements seen in local historical buildings.
It can be observed on the Christ Church Melaka, the five-footways
of traditional shophouses and the corridors or verandahs of British
colonial era mansions.
Conceivably, the main feature of the lobby would be the basrelief
of local tropical plants: banana trees, palms and ferns on
the main wall. We took a notch further to depict local scenery via
the artistic technique of bas-relief to add to the sense of savoir
vivre. It was also to immortalize a scenery that was and could still
be observed locally today. The depiction of a flock of red crowned
cranes across the lobby is just as significant. Cranes bestow upon
those that it meets with luck, longevity and fidelity.
The motifs on the floor tiles are inspired by the traditional
geometric forms of nyonya tiles. The Melaka nyonya elements are
also brought thru the entire hotel and villa rooms to reflect the
local culture and its diverse historical experience.
Sojourn Melaka Hotel is the latest addition to the series of
wellness inspired Guesthouses, Restuarants and series of Spa
houses from Herbaline Wellness Group designed by Santa Fe
Interior Achitecture Sdn Bhd for the past decade.
Contributed by Santa Fe Interior Achitecture Sdn Bhd.
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