MELAKA TRADITIONAL HOUSE AS A GALLERY WITH INTERIOR COURTYARD: ANALYSING VISITORS’ FEEDBACK TOWARDS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Abstract

This study aims to critically analyse the multifaceted impact of courtyard environments on the interior architecture climates of traditional Melaka houses, particularly in Merlimau. It emphasises the environmental consequences of courtyard design in Malay traditional housing in Melaka. Nonetheless, in this innovative era, courtyard design is one of the most essential aspects of house construction today. In Malaysia, global warming impacts the interior spaces of traditional Malay houses. It will explore how natural light, ventilation, and thermal regulation from courtyards contribute to occupant comfort and well-being. Furthermore, the study will propose innovative design methodologies to integrate these environmental benefits into contemporary residential architecture, ensuring that modern houses respect traditional practices, enhance energy efficiency, and promote sustainable living. The target respondents, those who visited this house, were given questionnaires as part of the quantitative approach, and the findings were analysed using SPSS and PLS-SEM. The main findings show that a traditional Malay house's courtyard is an important component of its environmental features, improving the thermal comfort of its interior focusing on Demang Abdul Ghani House's courtyard design. The findings are intended to help interior architects practice sustainable indoor design, conservators preserve traditional houses, and developers develop designs for the courtyard environment, influencing the interior spaces.