to adapt the architecture to the natural environment, the archtect of the shophouse had localized the design to suit the surrounding. this are shown in some of the architecture features of the house.
the five-foot-way are included in the house design to address the extremities of the tropical sun and rain. It provides a pedestrian shade and at the same time created a protected pedestrian linkage at ground level. It is also an advantage to the shopkeeper as the shaded area was very conducive for passerby to browse and trade merchandise in front of the shop.