The Ark is designed to be a permeable building to minimise the flow of foot traffic along the esplanade and street. The open structure of the Ark is achieved by incorporating glazed walls that slide open to allow breezes to flow through the space and to reveal glimpses of the rain tree. The building was conceived as part treehouse/part café, viewing platform and urban landmark in Sibu. This riverine town in Sarawak has its roots in the timber industry.