The Central Park at Jade Hills, Kajang, Selangor, is not just a green space. It’s a vibrant, dynamic environment where communities thrive and nature flourishes. It covers an area of 14.56 acres, and 13.8% of the site area is water bodies and water canals. This dynamic space embodies a meticulous journey of transformation, from neglected land to a vibrant communal oasis. The genesis of this project stemmed from a profound need to address the disconnect between residential phases, lack of cohesive green spaces, and underutilized natural assets within the site.
Our solution was not merely to create a park but to craft an immersive experience, rooted in nature, that fosters community engagement, promotes well-being, and champions environmental stewardship. The design process unfolded over six years, meticulously addressing site constraints such as slope profiling, infertile soil conditions, and the presence of retention ponds. Through three distinct phases of development, our team endeavoured to redefine the neighbourhood garden and revitalize forgotten features, infusing them with new purpose and vitality.
Central to our design concept was the idea of forming a central outdoor space accessible to all residents, bridging the divide between residential phases and creating a cohesive community hub. The park’s layout reflects a harmonious blend of Malaysian nature-inspired thematic gardens, each offering a unique sensory experience. From the tranquil ambiance of Pine Lake to the vibrant hues and bustling biodiversity of Rymba Garden, every corner of the park invites visitors on a journey of exploration and discovery. The careful selection of color tones throughout the park enhances this experience, with earthy greens, calming blues, and vibrant pops of floral hues creating a visually captivating landscape.
The hierarchy of connection within the park ensures that every pathway, gathering area, and amenity is strategically positioned to facilitate seamless navigation and interaction. Whether strolling along winding trails or gathering in designated community spaces, residents are invited to engage with their surroundings at various levels, fostering a sense of belonging and connection to nature.
Moreover, the park is designed to offer a wide range of activities and programs that cater to the diverse needs and interests of its residents. From yoga sessions in serene garden settings to outdoor stargazing, the park serves as a vibrant hub of communal life. Cultural festivals, fitness classes, and environmental education programs further enrich the park experience, encouraging residents to come together, learn, and celebrate their shared community spirit.
Our design strategies were underpinned by principles of environmental sustainability, social cohesion, and governance. By maximizing the exposure of water bodies and green spaces, including the 320m lakefront experience, integrating permeable surfaces such as hydromedia, gravel, and grasscrete at driveways and walkways, and implementing recycling initiatives, we sought to minimize our ecological footprint and enhance biodiversity.
The park’s role in floor mitigation and drainage during heavy rains underscores its environmental resilience, while initiatives like the Miyawaki forest tree planting demonstrate our commitment to ecological restoration and carbon sequestration. The Miyawaki forest, comprising 16,471 saplings of 133 different species, has had a significant impact on the site’s microclimate. In an area where the outdoor temperature typically reaches 34 degrees Celsius, the introduction of the forest has lowered the average temperature to a cooler 30 degrees Celsius, enhancing comfort for park visitors. Additionally, the dense vegetation of the Miyawaki forest facilitates carbon absorption, sequestering approximately 46,200 kilograms of carbon dioxide annually.
Moreover, by incorporating 5%-10% of IUCN Red List plantings, including species like Dipterocarpus Dyeri, Shorea Bentongensis, and Millettia leucantha, we aim to reduce the degradation of natural habitats and promote the conservation of endangered plant species within the park’s ecosystem. Furthermore, sustainable features such as PV panels and solar lights have been integrated to reduce energy usage by 40%, contributing to the park’s overall sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Socially, the park serves as a catalyst for community development, offering recreational spaces, gathering areas, and opportunities for outdoor activities that enrich residents’ lives. Thoughtful consideration was given to inclusivity, with diverse play areas, fitness facilities, and relaxation zones catering to different age groups and interests. Safety measures around water features and ample seating near amenities ensure a secure and inviting environment for all.
The park’s design narrative celebrates the richness of Jade Hills, transforming neglected land into a vibrant testament to urban living harmonized with natural beauty. Through careful curation of landscapes and thoughtful zoning, Central Park has become the heart of a flourishing community, where families, friends, and pets converge to celebrate life. Its diverse offerings, from serene natural retreats to vibrant communal spaces, embody the essence of modern living amidst lush greenery.
In summary, Central Park at Jade Hills is not merely a park but a living testament to sustainable placemaking and community empowerment. Its holistic approach to design, rooted in environmental responsibility and social inclusivity, sets a benchmark for future urban developments.
Location: Jade Homes Sdn Bhd, No. 20-G, Persiaran Jade Hills Utama, Selangor, 43300 Kajang, Selangor Malaysia.
Design year: 2017
Year Completed: 2023
