Project Title

China Street Ghaut

 

Type

Public Realm / Heritage Conservation 

 

Location

George Town World Heritage Site, Penang

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Client

Penang State Government

Majlis Bandaraya Pulau Pinang

Aga Khan Trust for Culture

Think City

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Year of Completion 

2020

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Descriptions

The China Street Ghaut project revitalises a 100 metre stretch of historic street within the George Town World Heritage Site, enhancing its role as a vibrant public realm while preserving its cultural and architectural character.

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The design introduces generous pedestrian walkways and a continuous streetscape defined by lush, coastal-resilient tree planting. These elements provide shade and comfort while responding to the climatic conditions of the seafront environment. The reconfiguration of on-street parking reduces visual clutter and opens up clearer views towards the historic building facades, allowing their architectural qualities to be more fully appreciated.

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Flexibility is a key consideration in the spatial planning of the street. The upgraded layout accommodates a range of activities, from everyday pedestrian use to cultural events and community gatherings, enabling the space to adapt over time. Through careful material selection and detailing, the intervention complements the heritage setting while introducing a renewed sense of order and vitality.

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By prioritising people over vehicles and strengthening the connection between street life and heritage, the project transforms China Street Ghaut into a more walkable, engaging, and culturally expressive urban space.

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