Primary Layout Of The Earliest Shophouses In The Small Towns (1880s - 1930s) – A Case Study In Perak

Abstract

The layout of the shophouse combined two main functions, as a residence and commercial building.  The living and business activities were main influences on how these spaces were designed in the shophouse that first made its appearance in the small towns and surrounding areas in the early 19^th and 20^th centuries.  In Malaysia, in particular Perak, these shophouses are still intact and have enabled the opportunity to identify and record the layout features of interior space for this study.  From interviews and measured drawing of the early shophouses in 16 small towns in Perak, a complete set of layout plans were produced and analysed.  This study has found that the domestic (or family) space was given prominence in terms of size; thus, the lifestyle was a determining factor in the building's layout for interior space. Yet, the importance of business sets its relevant space at the forefront where customers are received.