Breathing life into ordinary spaces

Having a balanced and wholesome lifestyle amidst Mother Nature’s embrace and cleverly designed outdoor architecture is what IJM Land Bhd has set out to achieve.

BY MANGALESRI CHANDRASEKARAN
mangalesri@ocision.com

The enchanted view of the spice and flower garden as well as The ARC.

IJM Land Bhd’s premier iconic township development, Bandar Rimbayu, is a fine example of balanced living within a green neighbourhood. Sprawled across 760ha, this township grants harmonious living within a placid setting, complemented by water features and natural greenery.

Being Malaysia’s largest green development with a spectacular landscape, Bandar Rimbayu won the Malaysia Landscape Architecture Awards (MLAA) 2014 for excellence in Landscape Design – the most prestigious award under the professional category given by the Institute of Landscape Architects Malaysia (ILAM).

“On par with IJM Land’s eco-friendly ethos, more emphasis was given on the natural resources with the implementation of green features such as energy efficiency, rainwater harvesting and adaptation of recycling, providing a healthier environment for the residents,” says Bandar Rimbayu Sdn Bhd chief operating officer Shuy Eng Leong.

(From left) Dingal, Shuy and Tang, posing in front of The ARC, the icon of Bandar Rimbayu.

He adds that the elegant landscape further complements the township, bringing IJM Land’s green vision to life.

Adding to the uniqueness is The ARC, a facilities podium blessed with abundant space, designed to host communal and recreational happenings, and even carnivals. Being the centre of gravity for all the developments under Bandar Rimbayu, The ARC boasts a green canopy with a 360 degree panoramic view of the fully integrated township.

Included in the awe-inspiring landscape are a myriad of facilities consisting of a tranquil creek with a timber deck overlooking the breathtaking spice and flower garden; wondrous creepers dangling from the green canopy giving the illusion of a hanging garden; open terraces further enhanced by water features; wooden pedestrian bridge with seatings to cherish the serene environment; a vast football field coupled with an upscale playground and green wall system.

Besides being the perfect place to be at during the day time, The ARC is also quite impressive at night as the place is surrounded by ample lights, providing an alluring atmosphere which will create a lasting impression on the visitors.

Serene night view of the pedestrian bridge leading to the spice and flower garden.

“Not only is The ARC unique on its own, it’s a pioneer design in Malaysia,” says Pentago Landscape Sdn Bhd associate director Alan Dingal, when speaking of its distinguished feature being the only kind in our country.

Situated merely minutes away from the Shah Alam City Centre, the landscape of Bandar Rimbayu, without a doubt, will awaken all our senses, giving a relaxed-cum-stress-free environment for the residents. The overall features of the landscape and The ARC are taken into proper consideration to provide a holistic environment, he further states.

Garis Architects director Tang Hsiao Seak says that the reason for Bandar Rimbayu’s success is primarily due to the uniqueness that this township offers, in terms of the designs and technologies it incorporates. The landscape is carefully designed to maximise the potential as well as offer special advantages, and would be extended later on for added conveniences, he adds.

Secured timber bridge over the creek leading to the viewing tower.

Being the heart of Bandar Rimbayu, The ARC will connect the commercial and residential belts in the future.

Bandar Rimbayu’s captivating award-winning landscape, specifically The ARC, incorporated the concept of “Embracing life within nature” and will always remain as the icon of IJM Land for its exceptional architecture and landscape designs for the green township. As a pioneer in the property industry, the developer strives to provide a positive impact in all its developments, providing spectacular landscapes that give a lasting impression.

Spectacular setting as seen from the green canopy.

Bringing a green vision to life

Bandar Rimbayu, the holistic green township, is co-joined with the mature vicinity of Kota Kemuning, providing excellent connectivity and amenities right at the doorstep. Abundant space are allocated for greenery alone as IJM Land’s main motive is to provide quality homes close to nature. Main emphasis is given to the going green initiatives and Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) which are incorporated into Bandar Rimbayu. Most homes are pre-installed with a solar panel heater system, rainwater harvesting system and skylights to reduce the consumption of water and electricity, so as to create awareness for the future generation to appreciate nature.

This eco-friendly neighbourhood by IJM Land will be developed as a fully integrated township in the upcoming years, with outstanding connectivity, coupled with schools, hospitals, mall and retails within.

The welcoming entrance of The ARC @ Bandar Rimbayu.

Bandar Rimbayu will be connected to five major highways in the next five years, linking to the Shah Alam Expressway (KESAS), Shah Alam – Kota Kemuning Expressway (LKSA), South Klang Valley Expressway (SKVE), proposed West Coast Expressway (WCE) as well as the North - South Expressway Central Link (Elite) which connects to Federal Highway and the New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE).

Located in the high-end vicinity of Shah Alam, Bandar Rimbayu is expected to be the next most anticipated development due to the exceptional reputation of IJM Land, as well as the well-organised masterplan that this comprehensive township offers.

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Enchanted waterfront living

A perfect tranquil awaits in Puchong, away from the hustle and bustle of hectic city life.

An artist’s impression of the development of Lake Side City, a picturesque township located next to the largest lake in Puchong.

AURORA Residence is the first residential tower within the development of Lake Side City, a self-sustaining lakeside waterfront mixed-development township in the heart of Puchong.

Developed by Permodalan Masteron Sdn Bhd, a member of the Masteron Group of Companies, the first phase of Aurora Residence is slated for completion in 2017.

The group aims to provide idyllic living with its gated integrated development alongside a well-known lake in the vicinity of Puchong, which is the breathtaking Prima Lake (Tasik Prima). Residents will wake up to a peaceful scenic lake and enjoy being surrounded by captivating nature.

“The green environment and the renowned blue lake offer a tranquil zone for city dwellers who appreciate the beauty of nature amidst their residential area,” says Masteron sales and marketing group manager Liew Li Ping.

Overall, Aurora Residence has four blocks of luxury condominiums that offer the same layout of three bedrooms and two bathrooms, but with different built-up areas ranging between 1,141 sq ft and 1,238 sq ft.

The second phase of the condominium will see a special addition. Units that sit on Level Five, which are on the same level of the facilities, will have the rare privilege to enjoy a villa-like feature, as each one comes with its own private terrace garden measuring from 320 sq ft to 950 sq ft overlooking the lush greenery and the pools.

“Every inch of Aurora Residence is perfectly designed with substantial settings and modern approaches. Standing high on Lake Side City, Aurora Residence will offer a different atmosphere for its residents. Proud homeowners will be able to witness beautiful sunrises and sunsets without having to leave their comfortable abodes,” says Ping.

A scenic view from the infinity pool at Aurora Residence.

The design scheme of Aurora Residence places great emphasis on the relationship of the surrounding natural landscape of the lake while bringing greenery and recreational features into the heart of the development.

Landscaped garden in the sky Residents at Aurora Residence can enjoy a lush tropical landscape experience with distinct facilities available at the high-rise residence. Residents are able to lead a healthy yet contented lifestyle with an immense 3.9 acres of an open garden facility podium, 1 km span of jogging track as well as several hanging gardens located at various higher levels.

The podium facilities at Level Five comprise an integrated green area with an infinity pool surrounded by seamless green landscape and also recreational sports arenas such as a gymnasium, tennis courts and squash courts, just to name a few.

This ensures optimum harmony, comfort and perfect balance between human and nature for conducive modern day living.

The 1km stretch jogging track at Aurora Residence.

The connectivity surrounding Aurora Residence is brilliant as there are existing highways such as Lebuhraya Damansara-Puchong (LDP), Konsortium Expressway Shah Alam Selangor (Kesas), Ekspresway Lingkaran Tengah (Elite) and South Klang Valley Expressway (SKVE), which are accessible within minutes.

Furthermore, there is an ongoing construction of the light rail transit (LRT) system extension connecting Puchong to Kelana Jaya and Sri Petaling, to be completed and fully operational concurrent with Aurora’s Phase 1 completion.

In collaboration with Prasarana Malaysia Bhd, the group is working with various authorities to obtain approval for the proposed covered pedestrian walk-way from Lake Side City to Station 11 Puchong Prima. The infrastructure is definitely a privilege to future Aurora’s residents.

Integrated waterfront township

Living up to its name, Lake Side City is a fully integrated waterfront township sprawled across 155 acres by the scenic Prima Lake. It is a mixed development that sets a new standard of living and is projected to be a self-sustaining waterfront township that will appeal to those who are looking for a sensuous city life in the midst of nature.

In order to ensure a balanced development within Lake Side City, the group conceptualised the waterfront city according to this principle called “SPACE”, which stands for Sustainability, Parks, Attraction, Commercial and Education.

As a part of the new living concept, Lake Side City will be an all-in-one township that offers a sustainable living supported by convenient infrastructures as well as numerous amenities that are all within reach.

An artist’s impression of a fully-equipped gymnasium at the podium facilities of Aurora Residence.

Besides offering an idyllic lifestyle that blends well with nature, this self-sustaining development provides convenience alongside a myriad of surrounding amenities, thanks to the rapid development that is currently happening in Puchong.

The group is looking to enhance the development of Lake Side City with more serviced apartments, high-end condominiums, landed properties, a commercial precinct, shopping outlets, retail shops and F&B al fresco dining fronting the lake. There will also be public amenities such as a school and centralised green lung complete with sports and recreational facilities for the young residents.

Living in Aurora Residence will be the perfect opportunity for any homebuyers who are looking to be part of a vibrant hub enveloped by tranquil ambiance and natural landscapes.

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Green living at Aquamarinec

The neighbourhood’s latest freehold development is an endorsement of spacious and healthy living set amidst lush greenery complemented by a seven-acre community park.

BY YVONNE YOONG
yvonneyoong@thestar.com.my

Overall view of Aquamarine.

SPACIOUS homes and green surroundings will certainly go hand in hand at the freehold Aquamarine development with a gross development value (GDV) of RM160mil spread across 10.83 acres in Taman Putra Prima in Puchong.

Indeed, for starters, there will be a central seven-acre community park and beautifully landscaped green zones, nature’s magnificent splendour literally beckons at one’s doorstep in this private and serene haven for the family.

The practical charms of a well-designed residence will be a daily reality with its list of unique selling propositions that include contemporary designs and spacious layouts.

The typical two-storey layout encompasses a master bedroom large enough to accommodate a walk-in wardrobe while the corner units will be perfect for those with extended families by virtue of the fact that the spacious second floor bedroom will feature a lanai that can be converted into a second master bedroom.

Each two-storey unit will feature four plus one bedrooms and four bathrooms.

Living & dining area.

The three-storey layout with its grand master bedroom concept will occupy the entire floor with a private sitting area and covered balcony. Each three-storey unit will feature five plus one bedrooms and five bathrooms.

In essence, these units will pave the way for a clear separation of space that harmonise the private and family areas into a seamless and coherent design concept.

Developed by Plenitude Permai Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Plenitude Bhd, Phase 2C of Aquamarine that has just been launched recently has already seen a 35% take-up rate out of its total 150 units comprising two- and three-storey terrace houses.

Plenitude Bhd executive chairman  anticipates demand to be high for the corner units due to the flexibility afforded by its large bedroom and special lanai area on the second floor.

The units, designed according to a north-south orientation, will feature high glass windows to allow natural lighting in while sun-shading louvres will be featured in the corner units.

Spacious bedroom.

The three-storey units come with 12 ft high ceilings while the two-storey terrace houses feature 13 ft high ceilings. All bedrooms will have en-suite bathrooms fitted with solar hot water system and inverter air conditioner piping.

“Our target market is represented in the upgraders who may consider these landed freehold houses as their future retirement homes. Alternatively, they could also view the homes as their next generation or children’s dream home. These upgraders are mainly from the surrounding neighbourhoods who have long stayed in smaller scale houses or apartments/condominiums,” she says.

Not dismissing the fact that in recent years, a younger group of people has moved into Puchong due to work requirements in Putrajaya and Cyberjaya, she anticipates that these young families may consider purchasing the units at Aquamarine.

Envisioning that the development will be well-received by upgraders and owner occupiers, she says that community facilities with 50 ft wide internal roads and perimeter hedging, underground cabling and three-phase power supply as well as a single entry and exit point to Aquamarine will be other value-added features.

Two-storey terrace house.

Priced from approximately RM370 per sq ft compared to the neighbourhood pricing of above RM400 per sq ft, she says affordability is key at the Aquamarine development.

The two-storey terrace units categorised as Type B, C and D with built-up areas starting from 2,456 sq ft with land sizes of 22 ft x 72 ft and 22 ft x 75 ft respectively will be priced from RM956,000 onwards.

The three-storey terrace units categorised as Type A have built-up areas starting from 3,426 sq ft with a land size measuring 22 ft by 75 ft. These units will be priced from RM1.215mil onwards.

Each unit will be able to accommodate two cars parked side-by-side at the large car porch area with an automatic gate.

Easy accessibility

The mature township is already equipped with ample commercial support and a ready network of comprehensive infrastructure. Surrounded by public amenities, such as shopping malls, hypermarkets, financial and educational institutions as well as medical centres, the upcoming LRT (light rail transit) station at Puchong Prima located 3 km away is anticipated to boost the value of the development. The LRT and bus transit points will also help ease traffic.

Plenitude Bhd executive chairman Chua.

A key highlight of the development is its excellent connectivity to major highways such as Lebuhraya Puchong Highway (LDP), Lebuhraya Shah Alam (Kesas), Puchong-Sungai Besi Bypass, the North-South Expressway Central Link (Elite), Putrajaya Link and the Puchong Hicom-USJ Link.

The development is located in close proximity to local amenities that include being a mere 3 km away from Tesco Hypermarket and Aeon Big.

Columbia Asia Hospital is located just 8 km from the development while Sunway Medical Centre is 15 km away. Meanwhile, Putrajaya Hospital is situated 19 km away.

Within nearby travelling distance are educational institutions such as Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan (SJK) (C) Han Ming, SJK (C) Sin Min, Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Puchong Perdana, SK Puchong Indah, Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Puchong Permai, Sekolah Menengah (SM) Sains Seri Puteri Cyberjaya.

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They built this city

Developer bullish about integrated development

Lifestyle mall: Tan says Damansara City will be the first mixed-use development in Damansara Heights.

PROPERTY developer Guocoland (M) Bhd is bullish about its Damansara City project as they have already leased out both office towers.

Set for handover early next year, Guocoland managing director Tan Lee Koon says the market is confident with the project thus it was snapped up quickly.

“Tower A, which has 33 floors in total, has been fully taken up while Tower B, with 18 floors, is being picked up quickly. We have very few units left,” said Tan.

Damansara City, a luxury integrated development worth RM2.5bil, is recreating and redefining luxury in an already upscale neighbourhood.

Besides two office towers, Damansara City also comprises of high-rise luxurious DC Residency, an open-street concept lifestyle mall and a five-star hotel.

“Damansara City will have its spanking new luxury hotel. The upscale Clermont Kuala Lumpur will be part of the development.

“The 23-storey hotel, which will feature 312 lavishly appointed guest rooms and suites, is due to open next year. As well as a range of refined dining options and recreational facilities, Clermont Kuala Lumpur will also have a grand ballroom and meeting rooms,” says Tan.

“The choice of Clermont was most apt and an important step forward in Kuala Lumpur’s transformation into a world-class city, supporting Damansara City’s role as one of the entry point projects under Malaysia’s Economic Transformation Programme,” he added.

Besides the luxury hotel, there are also two 28-storey residential towers. DC Residency comprises 370 contemporary luxury serviced apartments with one bedroom to 3+1 bedroom units and penthouses that come fitted with high quality fittings froms brands such as Poggenpohl, Miele, Gessi Emporio and Catalano.

Strategically located in the heart of Damansara Heights, DC Residency will be complemented by the added convenience of the MRT station at its doorstep.

It is also served by the Sprint highway linking Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya.

Typical units have gross built-up areas ranging between 899sq ft and 2,705sq ft. Owners will enjoy an Olympic-length salt water infinity pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms private dining rooms, function rooms and multi-purpose hall, barbecue area and chauffeurs’ room.

“DC Residency residents will enjoy seamless integration with the luxury of a five-star hotel, the convenience of a lifestyle mall and the efficient proximity of Grade A offices, all within the 8.5-acre freehold development of Damansara City,” Tan said.

“Damansara City is the first mixed-use development in the heart of Damansara Heights and we are confident it will transform this established neighbourhood when the entire development is completed,” he added.

On top of providing a luxurious conclave for urbanites, Guocoland has taken it upon themselves to build one tunnel and two flyovers to ease congestion for those living and working in the development.

With prices starting from RM1,400 per sq ft, Damansara City is set to rival all other luxury properties in the Klang Valley with its very own mall.

The lifestyle mall, described as the crown jewel of Damansara City, will offer a new experience in dining, entertainment and shopping.

Unlike conventional shopping complexes, the Damansara City mall will offer a unique and casual “open” street concept with alfresco dining along the walkways and enclosed-type retail spaces.

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Mah Sing’s net profit rises 18%

KUALA LUMPUR: Mah Sing Group Bhd’s net profit for the first quarter ended March 31, 2015 rose 18% to RM98.89mil from RM83.78mil a year ago due to higher work progress and sales from ongoing development projects.

The property developer said on Thursday, that the ongoing development projects that contributed to its earnings were Icon City, M City, M residence, M Residence 2, Southville City@ KL South and Southbay City.

Meanwhile, its revenue jumped 22.1% to RM784.14mil compared to RM642.19mil a year ago due to the improvement in sales from these development projects as well as the plastics segment.

The plastics segment contributed positively to its revenue and earnings, whereby its revenue increased 1.7% to RM61.7mil, from RM60.6mil a year ago.

“As at March 31, 2015, a total of RM48.71bil comprising unbilled sales of RM5.12bil combined with remaining gross development value of RM43.59bil is expected to sustain revenue growth for the next 8 to 10 years,” Mah Sing said.

With its net cash position, the group can capitalise on appropriate acquisition or joint venture opportunities to further strengthen its property portfolio for long-term growth momentum.

The company’s earnings per share for the quarter was up 5.96sen, from 5.49sen a year ago.

As at end of its first quarter, the group had a cash pile of approximately RM1.59bil and in a net cash position.

Mah Sing said that the country’s property market is undergoing a softening demand as buyers adjust to cooling measures and GST.

Hence, the company has strengthened its market efforts towards products differentiation through a diverse range of prices properties at various growth locations.

It noted that its new projects that are key drivers of sales include Southville City@KL South , D’sara Sentral in Sungai Buloh, and Lakeville Residence in Taman Wahyu.

Going forward, Mah Sing expects the upcoming projects such as Meridin East in Iskandar Malaysia and Festival Lakecity@Puchong CBD to spur its future sales.

In the long run, it said that it is confident of market prospects supported by strong household formation, young demographic and steady employment condition.

“The group’s strategic positioning in the four property hotspots with greater focus in Klang Valley due to extensive ongoing and proposed public transportation infrastructure investments in the key corridors where its projects are strategically located,” it added.

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Ewein banks on property for growth

GEORGE TOWN: Ewein Bhd, a leading company in the precision sheet metal fabrication industry, expects its property development business to be the main driver of the group’s growth in the near future.

Group managing director Datuk S.K. Ewe said the group’s maiden project in Penang, City of Dreams, which would be launched in the second half of 2015, was expected to generate some RM200mil in pre-tax profit to the group over the next four years, starting from 2016.

The RM800mil, 40-storey City of Dreams comprises 572 condominium units.

“We have just received the green light from the local authorities for City of Dreams,” he said after the company’s AGM.

On March 31, 2015, Ewein Zenith Sdn Bhd received planning permission for the City of Dreams project to be developed on a 1.48 ha site in Bandar Tanjong Pinang, Tanjung Tokong.

Ewen Zenith is a joint venture company set up by Ewein and Consortium Zenith BUCG Sdn Bhd (CZ BUCG).

The land cost for the City of Dreams is RM133mil, while the development cost is expected to be more than RM400mil.

Moving forward, Ewe said the group was now negotiating to buy from CZ BUCG another parcel of about 1.8ha in Bandar Tanjong Pinang for another development project.

“Depending on market demand, it could either be a residential or a commercial scheme,” Ewe added.

The second project is expected to have a GDV of RM1bil.

Ewein specialises in manufacturing sheet metal enclosure, designing precision moulds, tools and dies, and fabricating injection moulding for finished products. Its products are exported to the United States, Brazil, China, Finland, and India

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