Architectural and Cultural conservation on the buildings.

The architecture of the traditional baba and nyonya house is rather special because of its design. Most of the houses were designed to be very long. At an average length, a house can reach up to 250 to 300 feet. The houses are also known as pre-war houses because it was built since a long time ago.

This is a picture of a baba and nyonya heritage house which is now a heritage museum in Melaka. Most of the houses were double story and some even have attics in the house.

The exterior of the building is exquisite because of its sophisticated façade on the wall and pillars. The design of the buildings was also influenced by the British during their colonization. However most of their designs were influenced by the Chinese. The carvings on the walls are very detailed.

The separation of the houses also has these circular holes which follow the Chinese architecture where most of their entrance are circular shaped.

Baba and Nyonya houses are very long. That is why the house is divided into many different sections. As we entered from the main door, we stepped into the main hall. And to proceed to the next hall there are two entrances by the side.

This as a picture of the second hall where guests are normally seated and entertained by the host.

 The spiraled staircase is also a unique feature in the house. This staircase can only be used by the family members of the house. Servants have to use another staircase located at the back of the house as it is a way for respect to the family.

Moving on to the next section of the house is the air well. The air well is designed to create a good air ventilation system for the house. It is also designed to bring is some natural light into the house.

This part of the house would be flooded with rain water every time it rains. However with a good drainage system, the water will only be contained in the built space. Most of the rain water is also stored in the well located on the floor in the picture.

The air well is designed to portray a good feng shui to the house. Water means luck and wealth is entering the house.

The water from the roof would flow into the house and come out from the mouth of the fish. The fish represents the wealth and the water represents the luck.

The carvings around the house are carved by hand. That makes the carvings exquisite because every carving is different.