Warenhuis Heritage Walk

/ Warenhuis City Walk
/ 2023-2024
/ Design Proposal

The masterplan and urban design for this 2-hectare prime land, situated along the historic Deli River on the western edge of Medan’s old city center, seeks to breathe new life into the city’s rich heritage as a vibrant trading town. The area known as Kesawan, was once the heart of Medan's commercial activity, marked by its colorful history and distinctive architecture. The revitalization aims to celebrate and restore the city’s legacy while adapting it to meet the needs of contemporary urban life.

One of the central focuses of the masterplan is the restoration and adaptive reuse of the area’s remaining built heritage. The site is home to rows of historic shop houses and colonial-era warehouses, most of which were constructed in the 1920s and exhibit the distinctive Art Deco-eclectic style that Medan was known for during its golden age as a trading hub. These buildings, with their intricate facades and rich architectural details, have suffered from decades of neglect but remain key to Medan’s identity. The most prominent of these is the Warenhuis building, an iconic landmark that will serve as the focal point of the revitalization effort. Through careful restoration, rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse, these historic structures will once again become active contributors to the city's urban life, blending their architectural beauty with modern functionality.

To create a dynamic and engaging urban environment, the programmatic concept of "retailtainment" (retail and entertainment) forms the foundation of the masterplan. This concept aims to seamlessly integrate retail spaces with entertainment venues, providing visitors with a multifaceted experience that goes beyond traditional shopping. The plan envisions lively streetscapes lined with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, interspersed with entertainment venues such as theaters, galleries, and performance spaces. This blend of commerce and culture will attract both locals and tourists, transforming the area into a vibrant destination for social interaction and leisure.

In addition to restoring the historical architecture, new infill developments will occupy the vacant plots of land, enhancing the area’s appeal and functionality. Modern retail spaces will be constructed alongside urban entertainment facilities, ensuring that the site remains commercially viable while respecting its historical context. The introduction of hotel and apartment towers will further invigorate the area, attracting a mix of residents, visitors, and business travelers. These new structures will be designed with sensitivity to the surrounding heritage buildings, ensuring a harmonious blend of old and new architecture.

A key feature of the masterplan is the development of a scenic river promenade along the Deli River, which will provide a lush, green public space connecting the site to the historic city center. The promenade will be lined with trees, benches, and pedestrian walkways, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling urban environment. This riverside park will not only serve as a recreational space for the public but will also enhance the site’s environmental sustainability, incorporating green infrastructure to manage stormwater and improve the overall quality of the urban landscape.

The promenade will also strengthen the connection between the historic Deli River and the city’s cultural heart, encouraging more interaction between the waterfront and the surrounding neighborhoods. It will offer a natural and picturesque setting for residents and tourists to enjoy, while also serving as a key link between the revitalized site and the rest of Kesawan, ensuring a seamless integration of the old and new city elements.

This revitalization project aims to create a cohesive and vibrant urban district that honors Medan’s past while positioning it for the future. By restoring and reimagining the historic architecture, infusing the area with modern amenities, and creating dynamic public spaces, the masterplan will transform Kesawan into a premier destination for commerce, culture, and community. The revitalized district will not only preserve Medan’s historical legacy but will also act as a catalyst for economic growth and urban renewal, fostering a renewed sense of pride in the city’s heritage while meeting the needs of a modern, evolving urban population.