University of Reading

Project Overview

ETFE foil in Malaysia: The University of Reading Malaysia features a lightweight ETFE atrium roof that brings daylight, comfort, and openness to the campus Heartspace.

Malaysia

Country

2500

m²

of ETFE

2015

Completed

Scott Brownrigg (UK, MY) and Veritas Architects Sdn Bhd. (MY)

Architects

At a Glance – ETFE at University of Reading Malaysia

ETFE roof covers the campus’s central Heartspace atrium
Lightweight cushion system keeps the structure visually open
High transparency provides natural daylight and supports indoor planting
Works well in Malaysia’s tropical climate with low maintenance needs
Delivered by Vector Foiltec Asia Pacific as an integrated design-and-install package
Helps create a bright, climate-protected gathering space for students and staff

ETFE Malaysia: University of Reading Malaysia features a lightweight ETFE atrium roof that brings daylight, comfort & openness to the campus.

2,500 m²

of ETFE

The Story of the Project

ETFE Atrium for a Light, Connected Campus

The University of Reading Malaysia campus in Johor EduCity was designed as a compact, walkable academic environment where circulation, gathering, and teaching spaces remain linked by a central hub known as the Heartspace. To keep this core bright, open, and usable throughout the year, the atrium is covered by a lightweight ETFE cushion roof that brings daylight deep into the building while providing reliable protection from Malaysia’s tropical climate.

A Central Atrium That Anchors the Campus

Let the outside in!

The Heartspace sits between the two main academic wings and acts as the social centre of the campus. It accommodates informal learning, events, circulation, and community activities.

Covering this area with a solid roof would have darkened the interior, while conventional glazing would have added weight and required more structural support.

ETFE offered a solution that kept the atrium open, light-filled and visually connected to the sky.

Visual Journey

ETFE roof at the University of Reading Malaysia

Click on the pictures to see the full size

Daylight, Openness, and Comfort

The inflated ETFE cushions allow high levels of natural light to enter the space, improving visibility and reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. ETFE also transmits UV light, which supports landscaping and plant growth within the atrium. Despite its transparency, the cushion system helps moderate heat and glare, maintaining a comfortable indoor environment without compromising the indoor–outdoor atmosphere that defines the building.

Efficient Structure, Low Maintenance

Because ETFE is exceptionally lightweight, the supporting steel structure could remain slender and efficient, reducing materials and simplifying installation. In Malaysia’s warm and humid climate, ETFE also offers significant long-term advantages: it does not yellow, degrade, or corrode, and requires minimal maintenance to remain clear and functional year after year.

Delivered with Regional Expertise

Vector Foiltec Asia Pacific designed, supplied, and installed the ETFE cushion system for the atrium roof, working closely with the project team to ensure the enclosure aligned with the architectural intent for a transparent, welcoming academic hub.