The Linc KL is a good example of sustainability in the heart of the city

The Linc KL features a semi-rustic design inspired by the concept of a country barn. Photos: P&T Consultants Pte Ltd

It's quite pleasant to stroll into The Linc KL, located at the intersection of Jalan Ampang and Jalan Tun Razak in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.

For one, its semi-rustic design, inspired by the concept of a country barn, offers a breath of fresh air amid the surrounding skyscrapers. Vertical glass panels paired with classic red bricks add to the retro feel.

Inside, raw concrete walls, black steel fittings and herringbone brick flooring create a warm and relaxed atmosphere. A look around will show a series of nature-inspired murals as well as art installations and 3D-effect graphic designs.

Most importantly, the design and construction of the dining, shopping, leisure and entertainment hub was done while retaining the six pre-existing trees on the grounds.

A few decades old, three of them are giant ficus (Bodhi) trees located inside the mall that greet visitors as they enter the two-storey building.

The design and construction of The Linc was done while retaining the six pre-existing trees on the grounds.

The building’s design had to factor in ample space for the trees to grow as well as ensure sunlight streams in freely without exposing visitors to outdoor weather. Hence, glass walls and windows were used extensively within the building.

The Linc KL is the brainchild of the head of development planning and design at PPB Hartabina, Lim Siew Yee.

“The architecture plan aims to balance design, space functionality and sustainability of the trees. The biggest tree among them all is located in the middle of the building which inspires the idea of having a modern barn house typology, where nature and basic architecture marry. It is made the focal point where spaces were built around it, ” explained Lim.

The interior of the two-storey building features raw concrete walls, black steel fittings and herringbone brick flooring that create a warm and relaxed atmosphere.

Since The Linc opened in November 2018, the team has put in much effort to maintain the ficus trees.

“We have to ensure the trees are exposed to sufficient sunlight and water, have adequate space to grow, are free from pests and diseases, and reduce human-caused disturbance, ” added Lim.

Sustainable practices

The development also incorporates a few green design elements and initiatives. The insulated roof helps reduce energy consumption by cutting down heat transfer into the interior. The designers also worked with tile manufacturers to use existing stock or discontinued materials as part of their design to help reduce tile wastage in the industry.

The Book Sharing Corner is a space created to encourage the public to donate and exchange books, while an e-waste bin is set up for visitors to dispose their end-of-life personal electronic items such as PCs, laptops or smartphones.

The Book Sharing Corner is a space created to encourage the public to donate and exchange books. Photo: The Linc KL

There is also a Kloth Cares Bin where the management collaborates with the Kloth Cares Fabric Recycling Movement to collect textile waste from the public. Since the initiative started in Sept 2019,750kg of fabric waste have been collected for recycling.

Opening soon is a farm-to-table concept garden at the rooftop which aims to provide food sources, such as fresh vegetables and herbs.

Overall, The Linc also serves as a venue for community activities such as the Zero Waste Festival, group painting workshops, bazaars organised by social enterprises, and handicraft workshops.

“The Linc is a community-driven development. It serves as a place to bring people together for different causes, as well as to encourage local social enterprises to thrive and success, ” said Lim.