Kota Lama reflects Islam's imprint on the architecture of the Terengganu Malays at a time of religious reform in the 1920s. This was a period when British influence in Terengganu was strong after a late entry a decade before.

Architecturally, Terengganu has a rich heritage of traditional buildings but Kota Lama Duyong is one example of the marrying of western influence, a burgeoning Islamic consideration, and traditional Malay elements. The house is based largely on the traditional Malay house. Its main entrance faces north and the sea, convenient for visitors coming to the island. Like other typical Terengganu Malay houses, its orientation shows a similarity with the architecture of the Chinese and Chains. The main part of the house (Rumah Ibu) is higher than the other spaces while the kitchen has the lowest elevation.

The Western influence is not apparent at first but is 'embedded' in the materials used in its construction. A combination of timber and concrete structure is used to create both the traditional and Islamic spaces. While the floor is made out of cement, the brick walls are stacked to the height of a man's waist. Perforated timber strips formed the upper level. The house also faces Mecca, roughly pointing from east to west.  However, one of the most significant examples of Islamic influence is in the design criteria of Kota Lama where separate spaces for men and women have been constructed.

Those who used this entrance were neigh- bours and salesmen. And lastly, the east side entrance was for vil- lagers. It is clear that Dato'Biji Sura was keen to accommodate his guests and outsiders who were very sensitive to class and gender distinction.