In Auto City, Penang, Jiù Garden transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary by using reclaimed materials to create a vibrant, eco-conscious outdoor space. Designed by Lab Two Design, the name “Jiù,” meaning “old” in Chinese, encapsulates the project’s philosophy—breathing new life into the forgotten.
The entrance sets the tone with repurposed scaffolding and industrial remnants, enhanced by dynamic colour-changing LED lights that evoke an edgy, industrial atmosphere. Inside, lush greenery mingles with vibrant, recycled furniture, creating a relaxed yet stimulating ambience.
The garden houses four distinctive food stalls, each crafted from materials such as old signage, corrugated metal, and wheel rims. Notable among them are “Dong Bei Tiao” and “Yugumi Yogurt,” which proudly display bold, industrial aesthetics born of upcycled elements.
Adding to the visual appeal is a dedicated photo spot fashioned from scrap iron pipes and metal grating, lit by reclaimed lighting fixtures. This corner of the park underscores the project’s dedication to artistic reuse and environmental mindfulness.
By moving social and culinary activities outdoors, Jiù Garden also reduces energy consumption and lowers the risk of disease transmission—an environmentally and socially responsible strategy. Blending creative design with ecological ethics, Jiù Garden offers visitors a space that is both comfortable and consciously sustainable. It is a compelling model for how discarded materials can shape meaningful, forward-thinking urban spaces.
Lab Two Design is an MFID Award 2025 Winner. See the award-winning projects here and here.
Project & Images: Lab Two Design
Article by: Lily Wong
