colorful roofed units compose TKCA architect's sama square market village in kuala lumpur

SAMA Square by TKCA Architect redefines retail development

SAMA Square by TKCA Architect, located in the heart of Setapak, Kuala Lumpur, redefines market and retail development with a focus on unity and communal engagement. The name ‘SAMA SQUARE,’ symbolizing ‘togetherness,’ reflects its core philosophy of bringing people together through shopping, dining, leisure, and activities. The project comprises three distinct zones: the Main Market Building, Open Street People Plaza, and Retail Village, each offering a unique experience tailored to the needs of residents and visitors.

The design maximizes the ground plane to create a multi-layered experience of public plazas, markets, and retail spaces, promoting sustainable community interactions and enriching the urban landscape. At the center of SAMA Square is the People’s Plaza, a hub that fosters social interaction and connectivity between the project’s elements, including the food court, market, and retail village. With a mix of amenities like community markets, retail villages, and pocket gardens, SAMA Square aims to be a vibrant, inclusive space that serves as the community’s heart.

all images by Heart Patrick Photography

SAMA Square embodies community, vibrancy, and innovation

The market at SAMA Square goes beyond traditional expectations, offering a fresh, varied, and innovative experience with fashion wear, coffee roasteries, food courts, bakeries, and patisseries. The design by TKCA Architect features translucent facades and strategic lighting to create an inviting ambiance that extends into the evening. Modular stall designs, dedicated service lanes, ample loading bays, and layouts that support both physical and online commerce enhance cleanliness, organization, and accessibility.

The project embodies community, vibrancy, and innovation through its inclusive design, strategic planning, and commitment to fostering social connections while representing a new vision for urban living, where every day celebrates togetherness and community spirit.

the name ‘SAMA SQUARE,’ symbolizing ‘togetherness,’ reflects a philosophy of unity and communal engagement

each of the three market zones offers a unique experience tailored to the needs of residents and visitors

the design maximizes the ground plane to create a multi-layered experience of public retail spaces

the People’s Plaza at the center of SAMA Square fosters social interaction and connectivity

amenities include community markets, retail villages, and pocket gardens

the market offers a varied, and innovative experience with fashion wear, coffee roasteries, and food courts

modular stall designs, dedicated service lanes, and ample loading bays enhance organization

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project info:

name: SAMA SQUARE
architect: TKCA Architect

lead architect: Ar. Ts. IDr Rien Tan Kwon Chong

location: Selangor, Malaysia

photography: Heart Patrick Photography

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom