The two major concerns in the building design were climatic constraints and integration with local architectural traditions. Effective protection against solar heat gain was achieved by means of: - the insertion of an insulated and ventilated space between the roof and an insulated false ceiling; - no fenestration on the east and west elevations to avoid direct sunrays, while the other openings are either protected by verandahs or recessed; - tapering outer walls with a naturally ventilated void between them and the interior bearing walls.