THEJUDGEEATERYGROUP 03 FOR YM DR RAJA NORASHIKI JANUARY 27, 2026SEPOY LINE, GEORGETOWNMANAGEMENT &CONSERVATIONOF WORLDHERITAGE SITEGUIDELINE DESIGNFOR ADAPTIVEREUSE OFHERITAGE BUILDINGWHC713ASSIGNMENT 2PENANG JUDGERESIDENCE,SEPOY LINE,GEORGETOWNLOCATION“The Judge Eatery” is reborn asan extension of the PenangJudge Residence. This adaptivereuse proposal celebratesconservation, creativity, andcultural continuity—transforminga historic government quartersinto a dynamic historical diningexperience within the heart ofGeorge Town.
ContentsPage Number01 ..................... Introduction03 ..................... Case Study : Penang Judge’s Residence12 ..................... Adaptive Reuse Proposal (Concept & Design)20 Guidelines for Building Components,Materials & Finishes.....................WHC713 - Management & Conserva 23 ..................... Guidelines for Mechanical &Electrical Services25 ..................... Guidelines for Tourism Management27 ..................... Guidelines for Landscaping29 ..................... Guidelines for Landmark & Signage31 ..................... Conclusion32 ..................... References
Editor's LetterGeorge Town’s heritage cultural and architectur a former quarters and officer of the Europea significant part of this h presents an adaptive r building into an exten ensuring its continued re Guided by conservation reversibilit and resec Editor 1Editor 2NAIM BIN RUHAIZAD2025690558Editor 3BE7771ANURUL NAJIHAH BINTI MOHD KHAIRUL AZAHARI2025442752SITI NURWARDAH HABIBAH BINTI FAZIL2025826432Editor 4NUR ZULAIQHA HAZIQAH BINTI MOHAMAD RAWI2025282686
IntroductionPENANG JUDGE RESIDESEPOY LINE, GEORGETOGUIDELINEDESIGNFORADAPTIVEREUSEOFHERITAGEBUILDINGADAPTIVE REUSE PROPJANURARY2026
ADAPTIVE REUSEWhat is Adaptive ReAdaptive reuse of historical b always related to the hard work to reuse the buildings as a comfo safe residential location. Not o residential location but also employment, business, and rareas for the local community area. (Benneth, 2001) Adaptive buildings is a method for historical locations and extend of historical patterns. The adapti historical buildings as stated (2009), the conservation area w massive impact to give more especially for the enhancement Challenges ofAdaptive ReuseOlder structures often containmaterials like weakened plasteror timber that fail modern safetycodes, requiring costlyreinforcements for seismic orfire compliance. Higher upfrontcosts arise from specializedlabor shortages and unforeseenrepairs, making adaptive reuseriskier for investors thandemolition. Strict heritage lawsslow approvals with lengthyconsultations, while conflictingbuilding codes createbureaucratic delays.Benefits of Adaptive ReuseAdaptive reuse significantlycuts embodied energy use byavoiding demolition and newconstruction, which can saveup to 95% of the energy tied tomaterials like concrete andsteel. It reduces constructionwaste sent to landfills andlowers carbon emissions fromresource extraction andtransport. For tropical heritagesites like those in Georgetown,Penang, this approachminimizes disruption to localecosystems. This strategysafeguards architecturalidentity and stories, fosteringcommunity pride andcontinuity for UNESCO siteslike Sepoy Lines quarters. Itrevitalizes vacant buildingsinto vibrant public spaces,enhancing social cohesion andrecreational value.Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 1
RULES & CRITICAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR ADAPTIVE REUSEAny conservation work mustobtain approval before anyalteration or change of use toensure it comply with theNational Heritage Act 2005. Toprotect significantarchitectural and historicalfabric. For instance, HeritageImpact Assessment (HIA) isrequired to assess condition,materials, and significanceprior to approval.01 HERITAGE REGULATIONSThis principle is to guide the protection and management ofheritage sites to ensure their long-term survival.Interventions should follow minimum intervention, allowingonly necessary changes, and reversibility, so new additionscan be removed without damaging the original structure.02 UNESCO CONSERVATION PRINCIPLESTo ensure that heritage buildings adapted for new uses aresafe for occupants and the public. Adaptive reuse mustcomply with the Uniform Building By-Laws (UBBL), includingfire safety, emergency exits, structural stability, andaccessibility to preserve architectural and historical value.03 BUILDING SAFETY REQUIREMENTSAdaptive reuse for heritage buildings must follow zoning and land-use regulations set by localauthority such as the building height, setback, and plot ratio limits. This regulation is to ensurethe heritage values, safety, environmental, and accessibility standards are well-respected.04 LOCAL AUTHORITY PLANNING CONTROLSWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 2Adaptive reuse is more expensive than standard construction due to uncertainty and heritagerequirements. So, cost management must be proactive, starting from feasibility studies andending with contingency planning on unexpected repairs or compliance measures.05 BUDGETING STRATEGIESGuideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, Georgetown
CASE STUDY:PENANG JUDGE’S RESIDENCEGUIDELINEDESIGNFORADAPTIVEREUSEOFHERITAGEBUILDINGADAPTIVE REUSE PROPJANURARY2026PENANG JUDGE RESIDESEPOY LINE, GEORGETO
CASE STU D YWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 4Overview:The Penang Judge’s ResidenceThe Judge’s Residence, located on JalanSepoy Lines in George Town, Penang, is animportant colonial-era building that plays animportant role in the area's history andarchitecture. It demonstrates the evolution ofBritish colonial rule in Penang and wasformerly a military and administrative hub.The building is particularly significant for itsconnection to the judicial system, symbolizingauthority and governance during the colonialera.In addition to its historical importance, thebuilding is also recognized for its uniquearchitectural style, which combines practicaldesign with features typical of colonial homes.Even though its use has changed throughouttime, the Judge's Residence has mostly keptits original design, which enables it to conveyits historical significance despite signs ofdeterioration.Site Location:Penang Judge’s ResidenceThe Judge’s Residence is situated on JalanSepoy Lines in George Town, Penang (GPS:5.41836, 100.30985). This area has a richhistory tied to British military andadministrative activities from the colonial era.The building's original function as an officialresidence is highlighted by its location in aquiet and large neighbourhood, apart from thebusy commercial areas of the city.It is also part of George Town's UNESCO WorldHeritage Site, which places it with othersignificant colonial structures and highlightsits importance in Penang's historicenvironment.Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, Georgetown(GPS: 5.41836, 100.30985)
CASE STU D YWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 5Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownEarly 1880sConstructed as military quartersinside the Sepoy Lines barracksfor the Commanding Officer ofthe European troops.Late 1890s (around 1897)After the troops left, it wastransformed into the governor'stown residence and used towelcome the leaders of theStraits Settlements with lavishrestorations.TIMELINE & HISTORY OF PENANG JUDGE’S RESIDENCE1994sBecame the Judge's Residence,where Penang's senior judgesspent decades.PresentDespite the building'sarchitectural, historical, andadministrative significance, it ishowever considered asignificant heritage site despiteits neglect and deterioration.History:Penang Judge’s ResidenceThe Judge's Residence, a historical yet significant building thatrepresents the island's colonial past, is situated on Sepoy Lines inGeorge Town, Penang. Built over 200 years ago by a militaryengineer, it originally served as living quarters and a mess hall forthe Commanding Officer of European troops, playing a key role inthe military neighborhood during Penang's early days underBritish rule. The residence was converted into the Governor'sresidence by the late 19th century, following the troops'departure in 1897. It had opulent furnishings and gardens for theStraits Settlements' elite during their visits to Penang.The bungalow acquired importance during the JapaneseOccupation in the 1940s, when it was formally designated as theresidence of Penang's senior judges. Today, the bungalow is invery poor condition, with parts of its walls falling down andnearby buildings crumbling.
CASE STU D YWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 6Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownARCHITECTURAL INFLUENCE AND STYLEThis stunning semi-circular porch at the entranceprovides shade and creates a welcoming ambiance.Inspired by European castle designs, it reflects theelegant and comfortable styles of the colonial eraof the 19th century and helps promote airflow inPenang's hot heat.Semi-Rounded Porte Cochere (Porch)Surrounding much of the two-storey building,these large, open-sided corridors help with airflowand create great outdoor living areas. Strongcolumns and railings, a common feature of theStraits Settlements bungalows constructed forBritish officers, protect the interior from sunlightand rain.Deep VerandahLike the battlements of a mediaeval castle, twosymmetrical towers with notched parapets risefrom the roofline. These decorative componentsshow the colonial engineers' admiration forromantic and eclectic architectural forms inaddition to giving the building a powerful, fortresslike look that radiates energy. While these towersmay have had some minor lookout purposes, theirprimary function is to showcase this artistic flair.Castellated Towers
CASE STU D YWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 7Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownADDITIONAL DIAGRAMFront View & Ground Floor
CASE STU D YWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 8Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownADDITIONAL DIAGRAMStaircase & Second Floor
C R ITE R IA F O R H E R ITAGE N OMI N ATI O NWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 9Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownA) THE HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE, ASSOCIATION WITH ORRELATIONSHIP TO MALAYSIAN HISTORYWhen the Royal Artillery moved to Sepoy Lines inthe late 1800s, the building was initiallyconstructed to provide living quarters and a diningarea for the commander of European soldiers. Itportrays the military history of Penang and theimpact of British colonial control.Military OriginsAfter European troops left in about 1897, thebuilding became known as the Governor'sBungalow. Several governors of the StraitsSettlements used this location as their officialresidence while they were in Penang. There was aclose connection between the building and thecolonial government and its administrativenetworks because notable people like Sir JohnAnderson, Sir Arthur Young, and Sir LaurenceGuillemard stayed there.Colonial GovernanceThe Penang Judge’s Residence has an important history that shows both the colonialgovernment's past and the local community's heritage.Lastly, the bungalow was used as the ChiefJustice's official residence (Judge's Residence)during and after the Japanese Occupation,accommodating a number of notable Penangjudges over the most of the 20th century.Judge’s Residence
C R ITE R IA F O R H E R ITAGE N OMI N ATI O NWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 10Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownB) THE GOOD DESIGN OR AESTHETIC CHARACTERISTICSLike the magnificent entrances of chateaus,the semi-rounded entrance area offers shadeand fresh air while creating a refined andharmonious appearance.Aesthetic HighlightsAn ideal example of a bungalowwith castle-like elements, whichmakes it an excellent case studyfor investigating architecturalsignificance and designmodifications.Innovative DesignThe Penang Judge's Residence is a unique and beautiful building from the late1800s. It's a special type of mansion that looks like a castle, combining practicalfeatures from the colonial era with a romantic and impressive design.High ceilings, thick walls, and expansivegrounds are all well-suited to Penang'sclimate. They highlight the elegance of theStraits Settlements by combiningfunctionality with incredible beauty.Tropical Adaptation
C R ITE R IA F O R H E R ITAGE N OMI N ATI O NWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 11Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownD) THE SOCIAL OR CULTURAL ASSOCIATIONSFrom 1897 until the late 20th century, it was a meeting place for significant judges andthe governors of the Straits Settlements. Penang's law and governance processeswere developed by its many ethnic communities, and this location served as a symbolof the power and institutions that shaped them.Symbol of Colonial AuthorityImportant government officials called this building their home, and it served as a“gathering spot” for judges, local authorities, and British expats. It demonstratedhow the European and Straits Chinese communities in George Town combined theirdiverse cultures and lifestyle.Social Elite NetworkThe Penang Judge's Residence is a significant historical building that representswealthy people's properties, British rule in the past, and Penang's rich culturalhistory.
ADAPTIVE REUSE PROPOSAL(CONCEPT & DESIGN)GUIDELINEDESIGNFORADAPTIVEREUSEOFHERITAGEBUILDINGADAPTIVE REUSE PROPJANURARY2026PENANG JUDGE RESIDESEPOY LINE, GEORGETO
RULES & CRITICAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR ADAPTIVE REUSEWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 13Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownSustainable Adaptive Reuse (SAR)A process that involves adapting the historical Judge Residence building into a modern restaurant whilepreserving its cultural and architectural significance. The restaurant will provide a space for dining,complemented by a small exhibition of the building's rich history.Charecteristics of Sustainable AdaptiveReuse PracticesCreating a vibrant, multi-functional space thatblends modern dining with the building'shistory, featuring framed photos and briefnarratives.Generating economic and social value bytransforming the historical building into acommercial space, boosting tourism and localculture.Incorporating history into the dining experience,with decor, photos, and information about thebuilding's past as a judge's residence.Ensuring sustainability through eco-friendlymaterials and energy-efficient practices.The Basic Tools of The Case PracticesClear vision and implementation for maintaining thebuilding's integrity while creating a functional,profitable space.Balanced regeneration of the structure with respectto its heritage while adapting it for contemporaryuse.Community involvement in preserving and sharingthe history of the building.Innovative and sustainable design solutions thatrespect the building's original structure.
WHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 14T H E JU D G Judge’s Eatery reimagines a former judge’s residence as a dining space where history becomes part of theexperience. Original white walls, arched windows, timber beams, and the iconic tower are carefully preserved,allowing the building’s character to remain untouched. Subtle modern additions including warm wooden floors,comfortable layouts, and curated lighting bring contemporary ease to the historic setting. Framed photographs andstories displayed throughout the restaurant invite diners to engage with the building’s past, turning every meal intoa moment of reflection.Dining Through HistoryAt Judge’s Eatery, sustainability is part of the dining experience. Energy-efficientindoor spaces and breezy outdoor seating keep guests comfortable while reducingenergy use. Seasonal, locally sourced ingredients bring fresh flavors to every dish,showing that great food and care for the planet can go hand in hand.Sustainable Restaurant
RULES & CRITICAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR ADAPTIVE REUSEWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 15Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownEntranceThe entrance will highlight the building'shistorical features with arched windowsand grand wooden doors. Soft lightingwill create an inviting atmosphere,setting the tone for a warm and elegantdining experience while reflecting thebuilding’s history as a judge's residence.Pay Counter AreaThe counter will maintain the building’scharm with wooden finishes andantique-style décor. Historicalnarratives will inform customers aboutthe building’s past, blending seamlesslywith the restaurant’s ambiance toprovide a welcoming, functional space.
RULES & CRITICAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR ADAPTIVE REUSEWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 16Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownDining AreaThe dining area will feature woodenfurniture with a mix of stylish chairsand tables that complement thebuilding’s historical elements. Soft,warm lighting will create a cozy,elegant atmosphere, while whitewalls will display framed historicalimages to add character. The layoutwill focus on privacy and relaxation,allowing diners to enjoy bothcomfort and the building’s beauty.MenuThe menu highlight Penang’s iconicdishes, focusing on traditionalflavors like Nasi Kandar, Char KwayTeow, and Penang Laksa, along withcakes and desserts, some reflectingthe building’s history. A section willfeature stories behind certaindishes, providing an immersivedining experience.
RULES & CRITICAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR ADAPTIVE REUSEWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 17Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownOutdoor Dining AreaThe outdoor dining area will embrace a harmonious connection with nature, offering guests aserene and eco-friendly space to dine. The space will incorporate greenery, with plants thatare locally sourced and carefully selected to thrive in the outdoor setting. The layout willallow for privacy, with the lush garden and natural surroundings enhancing the diningexperience, making it a perfect blend of comfort, sustainability, and beauty.
RULES & CRITICAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR ADAPTIVE REUSEWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 18Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownAmbianceThe restaurant, housed in a beautifully restored historic building that was once the PenangJudge Residence, blends heritage with contemporary dining. The space preserves thebuilding's rich history, featuring framed images and traditional décor that celebrate Penang’scultural heritage. With a cozy atmosphere enhanced by local plants and timeless elements,diners can enjoy an immersive experience. The menu showcases traditional Penang dishes,offering a culinary journey that connects guests to both the building's legacy and the region'srich flavors.
GUIDELINES FORBUILDING COMPONENTS, MATERIALS & FINISHESGUIDELINEDESIGNFORADAPTIVEREUSEOFHERITAGEBUILDINGADAPTIVE REUSE PROPJANURARY2026PENANG JUDGE RESIDESEPOY LINE, GEORGETO
RULES & INTERNAL BUILDING CONSERVATIONWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 20WallsStructural strengthening shall prioritise minimal interventiontechniques such as wall jacking or micro piling to reducedisturbance to the original fabric. Where replacement isunavoidable, materials must closely match the original in colour,texture, composition, and structural strength. The use of Portlandcement is strictly prohibited in buildings finished with lime plaster,as it is incompatible and may cause long-term deterioration.All wall conservation and strengthening works must be carried outin accordance with PeWaris guidelines and shall be subject to P.Dapproval or satisfaction prior to implementation.CeilingTemporary structural reinforcement must beinstalled prior to any repair works to ensure safetyand prevent further damage. Severely deterioratedceiling sections shall be replaced using materialsconsistent with the original in type, form andworkmanship.All ceiling repair and replacement works shallcomply with PeWaris requirements and must obtainP.D. approval or satisfaction.FloorOriginal floor structures and finishes shall be preservedwherever possible. Any replacement materials must betreated appropriately, including anti-termite treatmentwhere relevant, and must match the original flooring insize, material type, and laying pattern.Floor conservation works must adhere strictly to PeWarisprovisions and are subject to P.D approval or satisfaction.Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, Georgetown
Paint FinishesRULES & INTERNAL BUILDING CONSERVATIONWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 21Decorative ElementsOriginal decorative featuresincluding mouldings, carvings, andmotifs must be conserved andrestored to their original designand material composition. Newmaterials are permitted only whenthe original fabric is beyond repairand must meet or exceed thequality of the original.All conservation or restoration ofdecorative elements shall followPeWaris conservation principlesand require P.D approval orsatisfaction.Only breathable paint systems arepermitted for heritage buildingswith lime plaster finishes. Originalcolour schemes must be identifiedthrough scientific investigationmethods such as paint scraping,stratigraphic analysis, or chemicalpigment testing to ensure historicalaccuracy.Paint selection and applicationmethods must comply with PeWarisguidelines and are subject to P.Dapproval or satisfaction.StaircasesThe original staircase structure,layout, and design shall beretained. Replacement is limited todamaged components only, and allnew elements must match theoriginal materials, detailing, andconstruction methods.All staircase repair or replacementworks shall be carried out inaccordance with PeWaris and mustobtain P.D approval or satisfaction.Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, Georgetown
RULES & EXTERNAL BUILDING CONSERVATIONWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 22RoofingPrior to any intervention, existing roof construction techniques, dimensions,and detailing must be fully documented. Original roofing materials in goodcondition shall be retained. Replacement materials should prioritise salvagedoriginal tiles or matching new tiles such as Senggora or Marseilles tiles.Roof conservation works must be undertaken in accordance with PeWarisguidelines and require P.D approval or satisfaction.External WallsAll treatments must be non-invasive and must not damage theexisting building fabric. The use of Portland cement is strictlyprohibited to prevent efflorescence and salt-related decayassociated with lime-based construction.External wall treatments shall comply fully with PeWarisrequirements and are subject to P.D approval or satisfaction.Doors and WindowsDecayed doors and windows shall be repaired orreplaced using traditional joinery techniques,particularly the cut-and-join method with mortise andtenon joints. New accessories must be consistent withthe original in quality, material, and detailing.All door and window conservation works shall followPeWaris guidelines and must receive P.D approval orsatisfaction.Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, Georgetown
GUIDELINES FORMECHANICAL & ELECTRICAL SERVICESGUIDELINEDESIGNFORADAPTIVEREUSEOFHERITAGEBUILDINGADAPTIVE REUSE PROPJANURARY2026PENANG JUDGE RESIDESEPOY LINE, GEORGETO
RULES & MECHANICAL & ELECTRICAL SERVICES (M&E) GUIDELINESWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 24Internal M&E ServicesNew internal M&E installations shall be designed to minimise visual andphysical impact on the historic fabric. Services must be concealed withinexisting voids where possible, without chasing into original masonry ordecorative elements. Original passive ventilation features such as open airwells, fanlights, and ventilation openings shall be retained and remainfunctional to support natural cooling.All internal M&E installations shall comply with PeWaris and are subject toP.D approval or satisfaction.Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownExternal M&E elements such as air-conditioning units, solar panels, andexternal cabling must be positioned discreetly and must not be visuallydominant from the main street or primary elevations. Installations shall avoiddamage to original fabric and be reversible where possible.All external M&E installations shall comply with PeWaris and require P.Dapproval or satisfaction prior to installationExternal M&E Services
GUIDELINES FORTOURISM MANAGEMENTGUIDELINEDESIGNFORADAPTIVEREUSEOFHERITAGEBUILDINGADAPTIVE REUSE PROPJANURARY2026PENANG JUDGE RESIDESEPOY LINE, GEORGETO
RULES & TOURISM MANAGEMENT GUIDELINESWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 26Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownPermitted ActivitiesAll tourism and commercial activities are permittedprovided they support heritage conservation andcultural sustainability, and comply with PeWarisguidelines and P.D requirements.Activities are NOT permitted if they:Introduce modern uses that overshadow ordiminish the original cultural characterCause negative cultural, social, or heritageimpactsResult in environmental harm such as pollution,vandalism, or misuseContribute to physical deterioration or visualdistraction to the building structure andmaterialsExisting activities must:Adopt best environmental practicesPromote cultural sustainabilityRespect the heritage significance of the buildingand surrounding areaAccessibility and Carrying CapacityTo minimise environmental impact, soil compaction,and long-term building deterioration, visitor capacityand accessibility controls shall be implemented.Carrying capacity guidelines:Maximum number of visitors or customers shallnot exceed 200 persons at any one timeVisitor movement shall be managed to preventovercrowdingAccess routes shall avoid excessive load or stresson original structural elementsThese controls aim to ensure:Long-term preservation of the building fabricProtection of the surrounding environmentSustainable use of the heritage asset
GUIDELINES FORLANDSCAPINGGUIDELINEDESIGNFORADAPTIVEREUSEOFHERITAGEBUILDINGADAPTIVE REUSE PROPJANURARY2026PENANG JUDGE RESIDESEPOY LINE, GEORGETO
RULES & LANDSCAPING GUIDELINESWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 28Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownSoftscape ControlPlanting design shall emphasiseindigenous and site-appropriatevegetation that complements the heritagesettingSoftscape layout must ensure the buildingfaçade and key architectural elementsremain visually unobstructedTree and shrub species shall be selectedso that mature growth remainssubordinate to the building formThe maximum height of mature trees orplants shall not exceed 2.0 metresRoot systems shall not interfere withfoundations, pavements, or undergroundservicesHardscape ControlHardscape works shall adopt lowimpact installation methods to preventdamage to the existing building fabricHeritage-related ground features shallbe retained and incorporated wherefeasibleIntroduction of hardscape elementswith design language inconsistent withthe original architecture is notpermittedMaterials, finishes, and scale shall bevisually compatible with the historiccharacterHardscape layout shall maintain clearsightlines towards façades andentrances
GUIDELINES FORLANDMARK AND SIGNAGEGUIDELINEDESIGNFORADAPTIVEREUSEOFHERITAGEBUILDINGADAPTIVE REUSE PROPJANURARY2026PENANG JUDGE RESIDESEPOY LINE, GEORGETO
RULES & LANDMARK AND SIGNAGE GUIDELINESWHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 30Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, GeorgetownLandmark ControlLandmark elements shall be subtle, legible, andsecondary to the heritage buildingLandmark features shall not dominate, obscure,or visually compete with the original architectureMaterials, scale, and form shall be contextsensitive and compatible with the historic settingPermanent landmark structures that alter ordamage original fabric are not permittedLandmark placement shall respect importantsightlines and views towards the heritagebuildingSignage ControlSignage shall be limited in number and sizeto avoid visual clutterSignage design shall reflect simple andrestrained character, avoiding excessivegraphics or illuminationFixing methods shall be reversible and mustnot damage original building fabricModern materials or lighting effects thatconflict with the heritage setting arediscouragedSignage shall not cover or obscurearchitectural details such as mouldings,openings, or decorative elements
C O N C LUS WHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 31Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, Georgetown“The adaptive reuse proposal for Bangunan Kuarters No. 6,Sepoy Line demonstrates how a modest yet significantheritage building can be conserved through thoughtful designand appropriate contemporary use. By transforming theformer government quarters into an extension of the PenangState Art Gallery, the project preserves the building’sarchitectural character while enhancing its cultural relevancewithin the George Town World Heritage Site. The proposalcarefully responds to heritage regulations, UNESCOconservation principles, and building safety requirements,ensuring that interventions remain minimal, reversible, andrespectful of original fabric. Cost and budgeting challengesare addressed through phased implementation and selectiveupgrading, prioritising conservation over extensive alteration.Ultimately, this project illustrates how adaptive reuse canrevitalise underutilised heritage buildings, support the arts,and strengthen public engagement, allowing BangunanKuarters No. 6 to continue contributing meaningfully toPenang’s cultural and urban identity.”
R EFE R E N WHC713 - Management & Conserva Page 32Guideline Design For Adaptive Reuse of Penang Judge Residence, Sepoy Line, Georgetown1.National Heritage Act 20 2.Governor’s Bungalow, 1 (PHT). Retrieved Janua bungalow-1-sepoy-lines3.Mail, M. (1970, January Heritage Day — https://www.malaymail.penang-judges-residencnasution/1095551?utm_
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