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Tatler Asia
28-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Tatler Asia
Discover how Johor architect Razin Mahmood is redefining Malaysian architecture with tropical modernism
Above The contemporary facade of Denai House uses modern materials and techniques while respecting the cultural context of Johor's residential architecture. Above The timber screening system at Denai House exemplifies Razin's passive cooling strategies, providing solar protection while maintaining natural airflow—a contemporary interpretation of traditional tropical design principles. Who and what inspires your architectural approach? In my early years, I was deeply inspired by Richard Meier. His disciplined use of a monochromatic palette, simple geometries, and precise detailing appealed to my sense of order and clarity. But as I matured in my practice, I realised that architecture isn't just about aesthetics—it has to respond to its environment. Meier's glass-heavy approach, for instance, wasn't always suitable for the tropical climate. That's when I started looking closer to home. I became drawn to architects who embrace local materials, local craftsmanship, and cultural identity in their designs—Geoffrey Bawa, Kerry Hill, RT+Q, and SCDA, to name a few. Their work resonated with me because it wasn't just about form; it was about creating spaces that belong to their place. I began focusing on designing with the climate in mind, using passive design principles, and working with the natural elements instead of against them. Don't miss: Luxury car brands transforming skylines: How Porsche, Bentley and Bugatti are redefining ultra-luxury living Photo 1 of 2 The open-plan living space at Denai House embodies Razin Mahmood's approach to tropical modernism, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor areas while incorporating natural ventilation and cultural considerations Photo 2 of 2 True to Razin's philosophy of biophilic design, Denai House incorporates living trees within the building structure, creating natural cooling and ventilation while bringing nature into the heart of the home. Your practice emphasises local architectural identity and sustainability—how do these principles manifest in your recent projects, particularly in the context of Johor's rapid development? There was a turning point in my practice when I realised that architecture should always be truthful to its time and place. In the early years, clients often came in with design magazines, bookmarking pages of European or American-style homes, asking us to replicate those aesthetics in Malaysia. At first, we obliged, but over time, something shifted as we built and published more projects rooted in tropical design principles. Clients began seeking us specifically for homes that embraced open-plan living, natural ventilation, and passive cooling techniques. Expatriates, in particular, were drawn to the idea of experiencing the tropical climate fully—something they couldn't do in their colder home countries. When you design for the local climate, sustainability follows naturally. Orienting a house properly, designing for shade, and maximising cross-ventilation aren't just eco-friendly strategies—they make the home more comfortable and livable. Now, we're seeing a resurgence of traditional tropical design elements, even in housing developments. Take airwells, for example—once a common feature in traditional shophouses, they are now being reintroduced as 'courtyards' in modern terrace house designs. It's encouraging to see both individual homeowners and developers recognising the value of these timeless design solutions. Read more: Bill Bensley: Eco-luxury hotels' design rebel Above Masjid Daing Abdul Rahman in Johor is a modernist masterpiece Malaysian architecture often balances tradition with modernity—how do you interpret this in your projects? I see tradition and modernity not as opposing forces, but as two sides of the same coin. Architecture should respect the past while embracing the present, and in my work, I try to weave both together seamlessly. For instance, I incorporate traditional elements like natural ventilation and deep overhangs but reinterpret them using modern techniques and materials to suit contemporary lifestyles. Culture plays a huge role in how we experience spaces. Take something as simple as the way Malaysians remove their shoes before entering a home. This small ritual can easily become an afterthought in modern housing design, leading to messy piles of shoes at the doorstep. In one of our projects at Senibung Cove, we addressed this by designing an entryway at the same level as the car porch. This allowed for a more seamless transition—residents could step inside with their shoes on, sit down on a bench, remove them comfortably, and store them neatly in a designated cabinet. It's a small detail, but one that makes a meaningful difference in daily life. Similarly, cultural traditions around food influence kitchen design. In Malaysian households, cooking is often a multi-generational affair, with strong, aromatic spices and wok-frying being part of the process. This impacts everything from ventilation requirements to the layout of the kitchen itself. These are the nuances that I love to explore—because at the end of the day, it's the little things that shape how we experience space. See also: Not A Hotel Toji reimagines luxury mountain living in Minakami, Japan Above The intricate brickwork and geometric screening of Masjid Daing Abdul Rahman demonstrate how traditional Islamic symbolism can be expressed through modern construction techniques What unique characteristics of Johor's landscape and climate inform your designs? Johor's tropical climate, with its high humidity, heavy rainfall, and intense sun, is something I constantly factor into my designs. You can't fight the climate—you have to work with it. That's why I always prioritise passive cooling techniques, deep overhangs, and natural cross-ventilation to mitigate heat buildup. Landscaping plays a crucial role, too. Whether it's a home, an office, or a public space, I always try to integrate greenery in a meaningful way. Large trees provide much-needed shade, especially on the west-facing facades, helping to reduce heat gain. But it's not just about placing trees around the building—sometimes, the best place for them is inside. I love incorporating courtyards with trees growing within the building itself. It's biophilic design at its core, where nature isn't just an external element but an integral part of the space. A tree in an interior courtyard doesn't just provide shade—it actively cools the air, improves ventilation, and enhances well-being. There's something deeply calming about sitting near a living, breathing tree in the heart of a building. Don't miss: Biophilic luxury: 7 stunning nature-integrated resorts Above The interior of Masjid Daing Abdul Rahman is a contemporary reinterpretation of Islamic architectural elements, while incorporating passive cooling strategies to reduce reliance on air conditioning. How has your international experience influenced your local practice? Working in Texas for a year in the late '80s was an eye-opener. The firm I worked for specialised in religious buildings, and I saw firsthand how they were commissioned for projects all across the country. More than just architecture, I learned about the business side of running a practice—how to build a solid reputation, the importance of marketing, and how consistency in quality earns trust. Travel, too, has been an invaluable part of my education. For me, traveling isn't just about sightseeing—it's research. Every new place offers lessons, whether in urban planning, materials, construction methods, or how people interact with their built environment. I've been inspired by Japan's meticulous attention to detail, Europe's respect for heritage, and the innovative sustainability solutions I've seen in places like Scandinavia. But at the end of the day, I always return to one fundamental truth: architecture has to be rooted in its own place. No matter how many global best practices I absorb, my work has to remain true to Malaysia's culture, climate, and people. Read more: How The Campus Ampang is revolutionising Malaysia's retail landscape through adaptive reuse Above A multipavilion house in Ledang Heights with expansive outdoor areas which seamlessly connect to the indoor areas Could you walk us through your most challenging project and how it shaped your approach? Masjid Daing Abdul Rahman was one of the most challenging projects I've ever worked on, and also one of the most rewarding. Designing a mosque is more than just creating a place of worship—it's about embodying faith, culture, and community in a single space. There was a delicate balance to strike: respecting Islamic architectural traditions while ensuring the design felt progressive, inviting, and environmentally responsible. One of the biggest challenges was reinterpreting traditional mosque elements in a way that felt contemporary yet meaningful. The client wanted a space that carried the essence of Islamic symbolism without feeling overly ornamental. At the same time, I was determined to integrate passive cooling strategies to reduce reliance on air conditioning. This project reinforced a few key lessons for me: the importance of clear communication, the value of collaboration, and the necessity of creative problem-solving. It also reaffirmed my belief that the best designs don't just meet functional needs—they carry deeper meaning and leave a lasting impact on the people who use them. See also: Embracing warm minimalism: Beyond austerity in interior design Above Jacaranda is a modernist villa with generous overhangings and natural materials embedded into the design How do you collaborate with clients to meet their lifestyle needs while maintaining architectural integrity? It all starts with listening. Every client comes with a unique set of needs, aspirations, and daily habits, and my job is to translate that into a well-designed space. The first stage of any project is almost like an interrogation—I ask a lot of questions, trying to uncover not just what they want, but why they want it. Then comes empathy—understanding the way they live, work, and interact with their space. Once I have that deep understanding, I start looking for creative solutions. Sometimes, clients have strong ideas that might not be the best for the long-term, so part of my role is to guide them towards designs that are not only beautiful but also functional, sustainable, and timeless. It's a conversation—a back-and-forth process of refining and improving. At the end of the day, the best projects come from true collaboration, where both the client and architect bring something valuable to the table. Don't miss: Y2K aesthetic revival: Decoding the millennium design trend making a comeback Above The resort-style Baan Tara features generous overhangs and water features Which sustainable design innovations are you most excited to implement in upcoming projects? I'm really excited about pushing the boundaries of low-tech, passive design strategies. High-tech sustainability solutions have their place, but sometimes, the simplest approaches are the most effective. I'm currently working on projects where we're using advanced natural cooling techniques, such as carefully placed air vents, shaded courtyards, and thermal massing to reduce heat absorption. I'm also keen on integrating rainwater harvesting and edible landscaping into more urban projects. Imagine a city where homes and offices don't just consume resources but also give back—where buildings collect rainwater, where green roofs reduce heat, and where urban gardens provide fresh produce. I'm actually implementing some of these ideas in institutional buildings right now, with plans to obtain official green ratings for them. Sustainability shouldn't just be an add-on—it should be embedded in the DNA of every design. Read more: 9 greenest skyscrapers in Asia Above Double-height spaces are impressive while delivering practical benefits of enhanced light, air circulation, and spatial flows How do you envision the future of architecture in Malaysia's rapidly developing urban landscape? I see a future where architecture serves as a bridge between modernity and heritage. Malaysia is growing fast, and while progress is exciting, we need to ensure that development remains thoughtful and people-centric. The danger is in chasing trends without considering long-term impact. Technology will play a huge role in shaping our cities—smart buildings, energy-efficient materials, and AI-driven design processes will change how we work. But at the same time, we have a responsibility to protect our cultural and environmental heritage. I believe the cities of the future should be more than just high-rises and glass towers—they should have identity, character, and a strong connection to nature. The best architecture is not just about creating buildings; it's about shaping how people experience their environment. If we get it right, Malaysia's urban future can be one that is innovative yet deeply rooted in its traditions, a place where modern design and cultural heritage coexist in harmony. NOW READ Home tour: A Malaysian home that masters traditional-modern fusion 7 iconic cantilever chairs that shaped modern furniture Luxury car brands transforming skylines: How Porsche, Bentley and Bugatti are redefining ultra-luxury living Credits
Yahoo
25-05-2025
- Yahoo
Man convicted for neglecting dogs, running ‘puppy mill'
( — The Stanislaus County District Attorney, Jeff Laugero, has announced that Darrell Coleman, a 57-year-old, has been convicted by a jury for 17 counts related to the suffering of dogs under his care and control. According to SCDA, this conviction comes following a report of neglected dogs left in a trailer received by Newman Animal Control on July 27, 2022. A truck and trailer carrying the dogs had been observed in the same location for at least two days before animal control officers got to the scene. The dogs were lying in their urine and feces, stated SCDA. Two more dogs were found in the hot cabin of the truck that was connected to the trailer. One of the dogs was suffering from severe wounds. New evidence was introduced at trial that Coleman was involved in running a 'puppy mill' at a different location, SCDA said. Body of man who went underwater found in Placer County reservoir 'Puppy mills are for-profit dog breeding operations where dogs are generally kept in cramped, unsanitary conditions with a lack of veterinary care,' SCDA said in a press release. Authorities stated that Newman Animal Control has rescued all of the dogs from the incident and provided them with shelter and medical care. The Newman Police Department was responsible for investigating the crime and arresting Coleman. Coleman is scheduled for his sentencing on July 31. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Gulf Today
20-05-2025
- General
- Gulf Today
Sharjah honours Emirati man for saving elderly woman and domestic worker from fire
Brigadier General Yousef Obaid Al Shamsi, Acting Director General of Sharjah Civil Defence Authority (SCDA), honoured Emirati Amer Ali Al Qadiri for his bravery in rescuing an elderly woman and a domestic worker from a fire that broke out in their home. His bravery in fighting the flames until the arrival of civil defence teams contributed to averting a potential disaster. Al Shamsi emphasized that Al Qadiri was honoured as part of the SCDA's commitment to enhancing a sense of social responsibility and encouraging initiatives that contribute to the preservation of lives and property. Praising Al Qadiri's role, courage and bravery, Al Shamsi emphasized that crises reveal the true character and values of citizens, calling on everyone to emulate these honorable models in serving the community.
Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- General
- Khaleej Times
UAE citizen saves elderly woman, domestic worker from fire; authorities honour bravery
An Emirati was honoured on Tuesday by Sharjah Civil Defence Authority (SCDA) for saving an elderly woman and her domestic worker from fire at their residence. Amer Ali Al Qadiri was praised for his heroic action. 'His bravery in fighting the flames until the arrival of civil defence teams contributed to averting a potential disaster,' said Brigadier General Yousef Obaid Al Shamsi, SCDA acting director general. 'Crises reveal the true values and character of our people. I call on everyone to emulate Al Qadiri and other honourable men and women serving the community,' added Al Shamsi, noting, 'their sense of social responsibility contribute to the preservation of lives and property.
Yahoo
27-04-2025
- Yahoo
Modesto man sentenced to 180 years to life for attempted murder of officer
( — A Modesto man has been sentenced to prison for the premeditated attempted murder of a police officer. According to Stanislaus County District Attorney Jeff Laugero, Jesse Brooks, 45, from Modesto, was sentenced by Superior Court Judge Robert Westbrook to 180 years to life in prison. The sentence follows Brooks' conviction by jury on Feb. 5 of three counts of premeditated attempted murder of a police officer, three counts of assault with a firearm and felon in possession of a gun and ammunition, said SCDA. He also had several related allegations, including a gun enhancement that alleged Brooks discharged a firearm that caused serious injury to a police officer. SCDA said this sentencing is related to crimes that were committed by Brooks on August 14, 2021, in Modesto. On this date, police officers executed a search warrant at a home on Orangeburg Road and discovered Brooks to be inside the home. Suspect arrested for stealing package from Vallejo business SCDA said that Brooks stated that he would not go back to prison and would shoot it out with the police. When the officers were able to get into the home, Brooks armed himself with a firearm, barricaded himself in a room, and fired 12 rounds at the officers. During the gun battle, Modesto Police Officer Michael Rokaitis was shot in the abdomen and the upper part of his bulletproof vest, said SDCA. MPD officers then returned fire and struck Brooks several times. SDCA said both the officer and the suspect were transported to a local hospital to be treated for their wounds. On Friday, during the hearing, SDCA stated in a press release that Officer Rokaitis gave a powerful victim impact statement and spoke directly to the suspect about how he almost lost his life and how the experience has affected him and his family. SCDA said that during the statement, Rokaitis forgave Brooks. Officials stated that Rokaitis nearly died from his gunshot wound and faced years of surgery and rehabilitation to recover. He received the law enforcement Medal of Honor for his actions in this incident. D.A. Laugero, who attended the sentencing hearing, stated, 'The sentencing of Brooks for nearly killing Officer Rokaitis is a powerful affirmation that we will not tolerate violence against our front-line protectors and our justice system stands firmly behind those who risk their lives to keep our community safe. While no sentence can completely heal the deep physical and emotional scars inflicted by such a violent encounter, this conviction and prison sentence serve as an important reminder that our community values and defends its law enforcement officers.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
