Unveiling the Potential of Green Facade Retrofit for Commercial Shopping Malls in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Abstract

In dense metropolitan areas like Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, commercial buildings encounter challenges from deteriorating conditions and insufficient maintenance. Building owners are increasingly adopting sustainable strategies to mitigate environmental impacts and improve urban life quality. Among these strategies, green facade retrofitting is a promising solution for commercial shopping malls. This study investigates the potential of green facade retrofitting in Kuala Lumpur's commercial shopping malls, particularly within the Golden Triangle, using empirical data, typological studies and case study observations. Next, the four primary criteria that Qualitative Comparative Analysis evaluated are Geometry, Optical, Thermal, and Physical features. The study also employs a scoring matrix which extended from relevant prominent studies for evaluating rating scores for each selected building. The findings show that the majority of older shopping centres constructed before the year 2000 have higher score ratings compared to newer ones. This also highlights opportunities for green facade retrofit development in these targeted areas, aiming to inform policymakers, urban planners, building managers, and stakeholders about sustainable urban transformation strategies applicable to Kuala Lumpur's Golden Triangle area.