The new, 200-meter-tall UOB Plaza 1 Kuala Lumpur is a visually outstanding addition to the city’s skyline, offering a remarkable architectural presence. The new headquarters of UOB Malaysia, a leading foreign bank in Malaysia, with its multi-layered landscapes, public plazas, and integrative workspaces, not only enhances the urban environment but also sets a benchmark for modern office buildings. By providing an inclusive and collaborative work environment, it aspires to foster creativity, communication, and a strong sense of community, all while integrating seamlessly with its surroundings.
A notable feature of UOB Plaza 1 is its all-glazed façade, which plays a significant role in defining the building’s identity. During the day, the transparent glass surface allows natural light to flood the interior while giving the building the appearance of a massive gateway that invites visitors and passers-by. At night, the building transforms into a glowing lantern, softly illuminating the surrounding area and contributing to the city’s vibrant nighttime atmosphere. This dual appearance reflects UOB’s values of inclusivity and trust, encapsulating the essence of a modern, high-rise building that is not only functional but also contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the city.
The architectural design of UOB Plaza 1 is based on three distinct and carefully considered concepts, each of which enhances the building’s functionality and visual impact. Firstly, “Transforming Octagon” paying homage to the octagonal shapes of both UOB Plaza 2, the original building that served as the headquarters of UOB Malaysia for the past 39 years and UOB Plaza in Singapore. The design is expressed through the gently curved edges of the building, which rise from the ground to the top, creating a distinctive oval shape that sets the building apart from other structures in the area.
Secondly, “Vertical Gardens” – integrate greenery into the building’s architecture, extending the landscape from ground level to the upper floors. The use of semi-enclosed spaces on all four corners of the building creates small triangular balconies that are planted with diverse greenery, blending nature with the urban environment.
Thirdly,“Lantern in the City” is most evident at night when the building’s fully glazed façade emits a soft, gentle glow, resembling a lantern. This illumination not only enhances the building’s visibility but also aligns with the local government’s vision for a dynamic and visually striking cityscape. The building’s lighting design complements the surrounding environment, enriching Kuala Lumpur’s urban nightscape.
UOB Plaza 1 was designed to meet the evolving needs of UOB Malaysia, complementing the existing 39-year-old UOB Plaza 2 building, which is also undergoing refurbishment to meet the bank’s operational requirements. The new building’s modern features, larger capacity, and state-of-the-art technology offer the bank greater flexibility and efficiency. At the same time, it allows the bank to maintain its longstanding legacy in the city while ensuring that it remains relevant in a rapidly changing commercial district.
In addition to its functional and sustainable features, UOB Malaysia is the first bank to receive GreenRE platinum certification for its corporate headquarters. The building’s design prioritises interaction and community engagement, focusing on the well-being of its employees. It features abundant natural light, excellent indoor air quality continuously monitored, and green spaces that all contribute to a positive and healthy work environment. Additionally, the building offers various amenities to support employee well-being, including a gym, childcare centre, health clinic, and bistros on every floor.
With greenery integrated both indoors and outdoors, it features two sky gardens inspired by botanicals on levels 18 and 29, providing both recreational and formal spaces. Beyond the indoor multi-purpose hall, the outdoor social areas were designed to promote community engagement. The public plazas and open spaces around the building encourage employees and the local community to use the area, fostering social connections and enhancing well-being.
