SAMA SQUARE

ARCHITECT : Tan Kwon Chong Architect (TKCA Architect)
CLIENT : SkyWorld Development Berhad
CONTRACTOR : Sri Binaraya Sdn Bhd
Market place with passive design through natural light and cross ventilation

SAMA- SAMA (TOGETHERNESS)

SAMA Square emerges as a transformative landmark in the heart of Setapak, Kuala Lumpur, revolutionising the traditional marketplace experience through innovative design, inclusive programming, and a commitment to fostering community connections. This groundbreaking project embodies the essence of togetherness, celebrating life’s vibrancy while setting new standards for sustainable urban development.

PLACE MAKING

SAMA Square represents a new typology of market and retail development, meticulously crafted to cater to the diverse needs and aspirations of the surrounding community. The project comprises three distinct zones. At the heart of SAMA Square lies the Main Market Building, a dynamic space housing an open food kiosk with diverse culinary offerings and enclosed stalls specializing in packaged fruits, vegetables, seafood, dry goods, and groceries. The design prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring a seamless shopping and dining experience for all visitors.

PEOPLE PLAZA

Connected to the Main Market Building, the Open Street People Plaza serves as a lively public space where locals and visitors can come together to socialize, explore pop-up stalls, and participate in community events. This vibrant plaza adds a dynamic layer to SAMA Square, fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness through cultural exchange and leisure activities.

People’s plaza connecting the sheltered tropical community market, food stalls and clustered landscaped retails

RETAIL VILLAGE

Adjacent to the Main Market Building,8 Retail Villages offers a diverse array of shops, restaurants, fashion boutiques, bookstores, pharmacies, and more. This curated retail destination enhances the overall experience of SAMA Square, providing additional amenities and services that cater to the diverse needs and preferences of the community. The Retail Village is designed to be inclusive, welcoming, and accessible to all, reflecting the ethos of togetherness that defines SAMA Square.

VIBRANCY OF LIFE

The design concept of SAMA Square revolves around celebrating the vibrancy of life and fostering community connections. Inspired by the dynamic spirit of Setapak, the project adopts an integrated approach that blends various programs under one roof, creating a vibrant hub that reflects the diverse and lively character of the neighbourhood. The project’s innovative design strategies aim to maximise social interaction and engagement while promoting land use efficiency.

Main entrance - a place where everyone gets together and celebrate life
Market place with community and people’s plaza connecting the food kiosks and clustered landscape retail villages
Individual retail village - independent façade details of the retail units with layering of vibrant colours

REDEFINING THE TRADITIONAL MARKET EXPERIENCE

SAMA Square offers an extensive variety of fresh products, lifestyle shops, and dining options, organised in a way that encourages exploration and discovery. The market’s design, including its translucent façade and integration of natural light, creates a welcoming and dynamic atmosphere. Focusing on fresh produce, local cuisine, and cultural experiences, the market aims to become a vibrant destination for the local community, celebrating Malaysia’s rich food culture and fostering a sense of pride and identity.

Aerial View of SAMA Square showing vibrantly coloured retail and market spaces uniting under one roof

CONCLUSION

SAMA Square represents a paradigm shift in urban marketplace innovation, offering a holistic approach to community living that celebrates diversity, fosters inclusivity, and promotes social cohesion. As a transformative landmark in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur, SAMA Square sets new standards for sustainable urban development, providing a vibrant hub where people can come together to shop, dine, socialise, and celebrate life’s vibrancy. Through its innovative design, inclusive programming, and commitment to community engagement, SAMA Square embodies the spirit of togetherness and catalyses positive change in the urban landscape.

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