From Hut to Palace: AR Explanation is a Connections Through Culture 2023-24 project, by Institute of Malay World and Civilisation University Kebangsan Malaysia, Ecosystems Knowledge Network (UK) & Scotland's Rural College.

Exploring Local Wisdom Through AR

Aiming to emphasise the significance of local wisdom in building design through augmented reality (AR), this project focused on two vernacular buildings: the Istana Puteri Bongsu in Malaysia and a traditional Scottish bothy, each designed to work in harmony with its landscape. By using AR, the project allowed participants to explore how these buildings have historically responded to climate and environmental challenges.

The project successfully presented its findings through a series of five exhibitions across the UK and Malaysia, engaging diverse audiences, from local communities to students. In Scotland, the exhibition at St Andrews Botanic Garden attracted a range of visitors, including schoolchildren and international attendees. In Malaysia, the project was showcased at Istana Puteri Bongsu and at various locations, such as a national seminar, a hands-on workshop for architecture students and broadcasted on national television. The interactive AR models were especially appreciated for how they brought the architectural history and resilience of these buildings to life. Watch the launch event in Malaysia.

Augmented Reality model presented at the outdoor exhibition, St Andrews Botanic Garden, Scotland

Fostering Cross-Cultural Knowledge Exchange

The initiative not only shared valuable insights into resilient architecture but also fostered meaningful cross-cultural exchanges between Malaysia and Scotland. The use of AR technology in the study of traditional buildings created an innovative learning platform for students and professionals, offering them a deeper understanding of sustainable architectural practices. The project’s learnings underscores the potential of digital tools in preserving and disseminating local architectural wisdom, inspiring future generations to integrate traditional knowledge into modern building design. Learn more about the project through the following blogs and articles:

  1. An augmented reality exploration of building wisdom in the landscape
  2. Building wisdom in the landscape
  3. The Huts to Palaces Project Conclusion

About Connections Through Culture

The British Council's Connections Through Culture grants support new cultural collaborations between the UK and East Asia. This support assists artists and cultural organisations working across all art forms to create new connections and collaborative projects. Learn more about the Connections Through Culture programme. 

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