The Developer: "Senibong Cove"

Senibong Cove is a comprehensive up market waterfront residential and commercial development, complete with extensive recreational facilities comprising of an international residential marina and clubhouse located within the Iskandar Development Region (IDR) in southern Johor.

By the banks of the Lunchoo River and Straits of Johor in Johor Bahru, the development spreads across a sprawling site of 208 acres of riverfront land and mangrove swamps. The main focus and feature of the development is the extensive water body of the marina basin and the water canal network that extent from the sea into the waterfront residential areas. Designed to be a natural retreat which retains the natural terrain, it takes full advantage of the surrounding natural environment.

A comprehensive landscape design has been developed for open spaces and streetscapes surrounding the entire development, comprising of mainly strata title cluster homes, semi-detached houses, waterfront bungalows and service apartments. The low density residential houses are strategically sited amongst the open spaces and green belts, that provide leisure and recreational facilities for the residents. These premium luxury residences provide modern living of spaciousness and privacy amidst the surrounding of unparalleled greenery.

LANDSCAPE DESIGN APPROACHES

Senibong Cove is one of the pioneer projects in modern marina developments in Johor Bahru. It is important to note that overseas models may be adopted as a reference to develop a design vocabulary in both architectural and landscape architectural that reflects the ‘maritime’ theme of the development. However, it is also essential to recognise the challenge for designers to retain the local identity of the development in a Malaysian context of water as a recreational facility and lifestyle.

Specific landscape design approaches had been adopted to develop a distinct identity for the development that are in context with the existing landscape character and the architectural intent of modern contemporary adaptation of tropical architecture with a strong ‘maritime’ theme. Inherent to the site is the existing vegetation and scenic value of the water environment of Lunchoo River and mature mangrove swamps, and the backdrop qualities of the secondary forest in the distance hills.

By adopting the ‘minimalist’ approach, a timeless modern contemporary language has been chosen for the design of all built elements within the landscape areas. To achieve maximum cost-effectiveness and minimum maintenance, natural material such as rubble stones, common clay bricks, crushed rock chippings, raw concrete, natural timber and steel are chosen as the core building material for all hardscape elements.

Generally, design continuity is established through the use of materials for the hardscape elements that reflects and is consistent with the existing architecture of the buildings. A complete system of paths are established providing access, circulation and scenic walking trails to specific points of interest, and linking major activity areas within the development.

A themed planting design is established allowing for a variety of landscape treatments whist achieving continuity and harmony in the overall design. Existing trees are retained where possible to form the basic structure of landscape design and focus. Grouping of palms and low flowering shrubs adjacent to the buildings create a tropical character to the development. These palm canopies provide filtered views from the buildings onto the marina, pool courtyard and river with distant mangrove swamps beyond. Mature trees and palms are strategically located to screen and frame selected views, highlighting vistas and specific features throughout the development. Mounded lawn areas with overhead canopy trees provide usable outdoor spaces with perimeter shrub planting to create privacy and intimacy to these areas. Introduction of aquatic plants to ornamental pond reinforces the tranquil atmosphere and provides a picturesque view to guests and residents strolling along the rustic footpath that meanders through the residential areas.

CAPTIONS

017-01 Master Plan

017-02 Aerial view of the development

017-03 Panoramic view of precinct entrance and ranger station at dusk

017-04 Water feature at precinct entrance

017-05 An idyllic reflection of floating deck and bridge perched on the water

017-06 View towards the modern pedestrian bridge over the canal

017-07 ‘Minimalist’ design approach of the steel and timber pavilion

017-08 Bridge over the canal connecting the man-made island at dawn

017-09 Maze as the centerpiece of Central Park

017-010 Floating deck over man-made beach with filtered views of the houses

017-011 Houses fronting the tranquil water of the man-made beach

017-012 An almost moat-like quality of the calm emerald water at Entry Park

017-013 Panoramic view of the lake with occasional glimpses of houses through clusters of trees.

017-014 Children playground nested in the maze at Entry Park

017-015 Aerial view of the canal, park, pavilion and houses beyond

017-016 Aerial view of houses fronting river/mangrove

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