Project / Kampung Warisan
Task / Logo & Identity Design, Brochure, Brand Communication
Client / E&O Berhad
Year / 1994
Lead Designer / Allie Hill
The concept behind Kampung Warisan, a property development in Kuala Lumpur, is quintessentially Malaysian: capturing the idyllic charm of traditional kampung (village) life. Designed to reflect the warmth and simplicity of a bygone era, the architecture and environment evoke memories of carefree days, communal feasts, and neighbourly kindness—reimagined in a modern urban setting.
Spread across 15 lush acres, Kampung Warisan comprises five low-rise residential blocks, a clubhouse, and 275 units, offering the exclusivity of low-density living. The development features thoughtful landscaping details, such as a hillside planted with pandan (screwpine) leaves, evoking the charm of paddy terraces. These not only add a visual nod to rural life but also release a light, soothing fragrance at dawn and dusk. The swimming pool, designed to mirror a kampung pond or stream—complete with a tree trunk—is an inviting homage to the playful water spots where village children once gathered.
We teamed up with Datuk Lat, Malaysia’s favourite cartoonist, celebrated for his iconic depictions of rural life. Beyond contributing his delightful illustrations, he shared his insights to shape the development’s lush green landscapes.
Every element, from the illustrations to the materials used, was meticulously selected to evoke the authenticity of a 1970s village, ensuring the sentiment of kampung life was as tangible as possible.
“When Kampung Warisan first opened its doors in 1994, it wasn’t initially embraced by local buyers, who saw little value in paying a premium price for a village-style living experience. Foreign expatriates in Kuala Lumpur, however, welcomed it enthusiastically.
It’s disheartening how we sometimes fail to recognise the beauty and value of our own heritage, clouded by preconceived notions. Even today, we often overlook these local gems, only to realise their worth when they gain recognition from abroad.”
The promotional materials included a brochure, postcards, a kite kit, and a ‘drawing block’ containing detailed floor plans. The cover illustration for the drawing block was created in-house, inspired by the drawing pads commonly used by students in the 50s and 60s.
property brochure
Datuk Lat brought his unique artistic touch, illustrating Kampung Warisan’s amenities, architectural features, and landscaped surroundings.
The brochure also included a set of postcards featuring artist impressions of the property.
Cover printed in two colours, black and white, on brown kraft card.
Lat’s sketches highlighted key elements such as the bamboo bridge and a children’s playground built with local materials and traditional methods.
Designing the clubhouse in the style of a traditional Malay house came naturally, but reinterpreting the architecture of a traditional village for high-rise buildings, ranging from three to eight storeys, posed a significant challenge.
Datuk Lat played a dual role—not only as the illustrator but also as the overall consultant—ensuring every detail faithfully reflected the charm and authenticity of a kampung environment.
Photographs were sourced from the landscape architect’s personal collection. It’s worth noting that in 1994, stock images featuring local content were exceptionally rare.
The list of amenities and services was printed on yellowing newsprint and glued to the brochure along the top edge.
The computer rendering of the buildings was intentionally kept simple and rudimentary, with the ‘blockish’ aesthetic of early-era computer graphics. The edges of the postcards were die-cut with a deckled (jagged) finish, found in vintage studio photographs. These were carefully placed in a glassine envelope and affixed to the brochure, adding a tactile and nostalgic touch.
Kite kit
A highlight of the launch was the kite kit, which included all the materials needed to assemble a traditional laying-layang (kite)—the way kids used to make them in the 1950s–1970s. An instruction sheet was also provided to guide users through the process.
Sourcing authentic materials for the kit proved challenging, as they were only available in a few old sundry shops in rural areas.
The kite kit served a deeper purpose beyond its nostalgic appeal. It created an opportunity for intergenerational bonding, inviting parents and children to connect over a shared activity. For many children today, assembling a traditional kite—often a complex process for beginners—may feel unfamiliar. Parents can use this moment to teach, share stories, and rekindle the joys of a simpler, carefree childhood.
