Panggung Anniversary sits in the Perdana Botanical Gardens, also known as Lake Gardens, in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s city centre. This project is a refurbishment of a 1967 recreational structure that underwent renovation in 2007 and 2010. Lush greenery is preserved in the surrounding area, with trees and plants remaining unmoved from their original roots, while several retained original wooden structures provide visitors with an authentic experience.

Built in the Sixties, the amphitheatre was a popular venue for the public to enjoy free concerts and outdoor entertainment. After a period of inactivity, the decision was made to restore the amphitheatre to its former glory and install a roof over the seats on the slopes. The new Panggung Anniversary now features a roof canopy made out of PTFE membrane that is strategically stretched over a striking yellow steel frame. This results in a free-form organic covering that serves to provide shade and protection from the elements, while its aerodynamic design facilitates airflow for natural ventilation.The expansive white-coloured roof canopy gives the outdoor theatre a distinct and instantly-recognisable feature that makes a bold statement in the middle of Kuala Lumpur’s green lung. At night, the entire structure is illuminated, giving it a futuristic and other-worldly appearance.

Below the canopy, concrete blocks built directly into the sloped landscape provide sturdy seating that can accommodate up to 2,000 people at any given time. As part of the design, the material and curvature of the roof canopy serve to capture and concentrate sound into the partially-closed area, to the audience’s benefit. The overall shape of this tensile structure results in an aesthetically-defined space with enhanced acoustics, making it an ideal performance setting. A simple, arching gesture, bridging across generation from 1967 to present, all in the spirit of celebrating diversity and harmony.