An ode to an award-winning Malaysian architect

The Salinger Residence is a unique Malay-style house that won the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 1998. Photos: Asakawa Satoshi/AKAA

One of Malaysia’s most renowned architects and a strong supporter of conservation in Malaysia is Prof Dr Jimmy Lim. His portfolio includes a wide spectrum of buildings, from residential bungalows and tropical resorts to inspiring mosques.

One of his most well-known works is the Salinger Residence, a unique Malay-style house south of Kuala Lumpur that won him the highly prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 1998 in recognition of his innovative approach to building. His other notable projects include Menara Prudential, Penang Turf Club, Wisma Genting, Awana Genting, Awana Kijal and Awana Porto Malai in Langkawi.

Design philosophy

Born in Penang, Prof Lim’s early interest in architecture was formed during his childhood and growing up years in Air Itam, Penang. During his first visit to the Kek Lok Si Temple, he was inspired by the temple’s layout, which evokes “movement through spaces” as one navigates between the temples, walkways, courtyards and fish ponds.

Trained in Australia, Prof Lim returned to practise in Malaysia with his philosophy of “Tropical architecture that celebrates architecture without walls”.An external view of the Salinger Residence, a remarkable example of sustainable architecture that harmonises traditional Malay construction techniques with modern design principles.

He advocates sensitivity to site context, designing shaded breezy spaces, operable roofs and moveable walls. Prof Lim also believes in the importance of raising buildings above ground, minimising earthworks, retaining traditional and cultural values, and always maintaining site vegetation where possible. He is also committed to conservation and adaptive reuse to give old buildings a new lease of life.

Award-winning design

The Salinger Residence is a remarkable example of sustainable architecture that harmonises traditional Malay construction techniques with modern design principles.

Elevated on stilts, this post-and-beam timber structure minimises its environmental footprint, embodying a respectful nod to its cultural roots while also reflecting the client’s Islamic faith. Designed with ecological sustainability at its core, the house is strategically positioned on higher ground to mitigate water runoff during the monsoon season and is oriented to capture the prevailing winds, enhancing natural ventilation.

Its unique layout consists of two adjoining equilateral triangles – a larger triangle serves as the main living space, while the smaller triangle functions as a prow-like veranda, offering an inviting outdoor area. At the ground level, the house features a hexagonal granite core that contains the entrance, a small foyer, a restroom and stairs that lead up to the first floor living area, dining room, kitchen and bedroom. The staircase continues upward to the second floor, which features a dressing room, master bedroom and study.With a structure made from dense timber, the Salinger Residence was built by traditional Malay carpenters entirely by hand, using only minimal machinery such as a small cement mixer.

The Salinger Residence was built by traditional Malay carpenters entirely by hand, using only minimal machinery such as a small cement mixer. The structure is made from dense timber, known for its resistance to water and termites, with handmade roof tiles completing the natural aesthetic. The Aga Khan international jury recognised the Salinger Residence for demonstrating how high-tech solutions and energy-

intensive services can be set aside in favour of skilled craftsmanship and creativity. This project successfully merges the rich meanings of vernacular architecture with the realities of contemporary living, proving that sustainable design can be both vernacular-inspired, beautiful and functional.

A lifelong commitment

In recognition of his dedication to the architectural profession, Prof Lim was awarded the PAM Gold Medal in 2020 by Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (Malaysian Institute of Architects), honouring his lifetime commitment and service to the profession. Prof Lim’s influence extends beyond his designs, as he is also one of the founding members of Badan Warisan Malaysia, a non-governmental organisation that champions heritage conservation and promotes awareness of Malaysia’s architectural heritage.

Prof Lim has been an inspiration to the next generation of architects like me. I once asked him why he is still in active practice when he can easily opt for full retirement at his age.As an architect, Prof Lim is committed to conservation and adaptive reuse to give old buildings a new lease of life. Photo: Filepic

“Don’t you know? Architects never retire!” was his point-blank reply. I was speechless, but it sums up his lifelong dedication to architecture. In recent years, he’s been generously sharing his knowledge and insights through teaching and carrying out design workshops with university students.

His contributions have significantly shaped Malaysia’s architectural landscape, inspiring future generations to appreciate and preserve the rich cultural heritage that defines the nation.

Through his work, Prof Lim not only enriches the built environment but also fosters a deeper connection to Malaysia’s diverse cultural legacy.

Tan Bee Eu is a professional architect and interior designer registered with Lembaga Arkitek Malaysia with over two decades of professional practice. She also teaches at Universiti Sains Malaysia and is a frequent keynote speaker at architectural forums and juror of international awards. She can be reached at www.betadesignz.com/contact.