Investigation the types and functions of water feature at culture and heritage waterfront: case of melaka waterfront

Image character of a waterfront was predisposed most by the history of the places. Hence, landscape elements also a part of history of place that influence the image of waterfront. In order to sustain the city’s images and character, preservation on the visibility of water features as a landmark is important. Recently, the new commercial development which growth surrounds the historical landmark in cultural and heritage waterfront, have indubitable affect to the visibility at those areas. This paper investigated the types of water features and function for cultural & historical waterfront that influence the identity of place. Thus this paper discusses the roles of water features that characterized the cultural and heritage waterfront identity of Melaka waterfront. A case study method was conducted involving site observation and questionnaire survey to collect residents ‘cultural experiences. Result indicated that water features are used to decorate waterfront and townscapes besides that it’s also practical to honor persons or occasions, such as entertainment and leisure times .This finding will be useful for architect, designers, and planners as their strategy in developing a commercial area especially within a sensitive area in the heritage site.