Architectural Design Studio 3

For this project 1A, in a group of 5, we are required to identify and analyze spatial order and spatial poetics through precedent studies. One precedent must be pre-modern movement and another one must be contemporary. Also, we need to select two building which are concentric building and linear building. For our group, we had chosen on Angkor Wat(concentric) and Jewish Museum(Linear) to analyze the spatial poetics and spatial typology.

Through this project, I was able to identify and explain different spatial types in architecture, and how they inform spatial use and experience. Firstly, I learnt how to state spatial and describe the spatial typologies applied in the design of chosen precedent. Besides, I had learnt how are the spaces articulated in terms of the poetics, sensuality and tactility of architectural spaces. Next, I had also learnt to analyze how the experiential space is created, for example, the manipulation of the lights and its effects on space, texture and materials, scale and proportions of spaces and so on. I had learnt that these factors can help create an interesting, emotional and poetics spaces.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STUDIO 3

ARC 2118

PROJECT 1: MEMORIALS THEMED "JOURNEY OF THE FIVE SENSES"

1A: PRECEDENT STUDIES

1B: "JOURNEY FOR THE FIVE SENSES" MEMORIAL

Here's our precedent studies:

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Concentric Building

Jewish Museum, Berlin

Linear Building

For this Project 1B, we are required to use the design strategies based on the Project 1A and design a Memorial themed "journey for the five senses". We had given two topics to do on which is Mr. Lee Kuan Yew(Singapore's first president) and Lahad Datu Invasion. For Mr. Lee Kuan Yew, we had focused on his passion and resilient towards his life; For Lahad Datu Invasion, we focused on the victims which are the villagers. We are then need to produce 8xA3 panels including plans, sections and images of poetic spaces for each scheme.

Through this project, firstly I had learnt how to translate the message that wanted to bring into a memorial. I had learnt how to create tectonic expressions of different spatial typologies which impact on the users and experiential conditions of space through these two memorials. Besides, I learnt how to generate design through conscious considerations of section-plan relationship, and also the human scale, natural lighting, materially and texture.

PROJECT 2:

GENIUS LOCI: SITE ANALYSIS AND CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT

In the same group from Project 1, we are required to conduct site analysis of the physical context within the identified micro site. We need to collect and record data on site survey which include dimensions of its width and depth and indicate any adjacent buildings at level of plans, elevations and sections to create an accurate record of what currently exists. We are also need to analyze on the climate, sun orientation, pedestrian circulation, neighboring context, vegetation, views from the site and so on.

For this project, firstly I had learnt the importance of group work when conduct a site analysis. Besides, I learnt how to collect and record data in short period by distribute different task to different person. Group work is very important when come to site analysis as the data collected will then be used for group members for next project.

INDIVIDUAL

CLICK HERE TO SITE ANALYSIS PRESENTATION

Individually, we are required to produce personal interpretation of the macro site in the form of sketches. These personal interpretation of the overall character of the site will inform subsequent design decisions. The aspects of the history and memory of the site need to be reinforced into our design. Next, we need to conclude by identifying the key characters of place that would form inspiration in the design, and then present a Design Concept for our Visitor Interpretive Centre derived from issues discovered. My concept for my Visitor Interpretive Centre is "Core". Then, we are required to produce individual interpretation hand sketches, micro analysis, one concept model and conceptual drawings include plan, section, elevation at an appropriate scale.

Through this project, I had learnt to produce site analysis which document, interpret and analyze the site context and the "genius loci" of Lembah Bujang archeology site. Besides, I was able to put myself into the space and feel its poetics. I was able to produce a meaningful concept design for a Visitor Interpretive Centre based on site analysis conclusion and inspiration I got from the site. I got my concept from Mount Jerai which is the highest peak in Kedah, I named it "core" as it is the core of everything, core of the start of history in Lembah Bujang.

Individual sketches:

PROJECT 3:

GENIUS LOCI: VISITOR INTERPRETIVE CENTRE (VIC)

For this project, we are required to propose a design scheme which response to the site(site topography, history and socio-cultural events), functional program and users' experiences. We need to consolidate initial design ideas and develop it by producing a schematic plan and section, and a study model which the schematic should respond to the physical site context and functional requirements. Next, we should generate design through conscious consideration of human scale, natural light, materials/ texture. We need to consider the flow of space so that visitor will be inspired and informed in ways that somehow express the spirit of place.

For my Visitor Interpretive Centre, my concept is "Core" which is the importance of Mount Jerai. Because of Mount Jerai act as the landmark in Kedah, it attract the traders from China and India as it can be seen from far. The Mont Jerai provide fresh water for the people living and also the trading. During monsoon seasons, the traders stayed there and spread their religions and cultures. For them, Mount Jerai is scared as it provided them safety and water. Thus, my Visitor Interpretive Centre bring the message to visitors about the importance and significant of Mount Jerai and how it attract and lead the people to Lembah Bujang. The three stones wall are the main gallery area which partially support the first floor floor slab, this show the characteristic of Mount Jerai: Landmark, sacred and important. Before enter the building, the walls design with water flowing down represents the water brings the traders come and welcoming. Besides, the circulation in the building is surrounded the 3 stones wall, from the start of the gallery until exit to the archeology site(show the Lembah Bujang today). My materials used are stones, reinforced concrete, limestone, glass and etc.

Through this project, firstly I had learnt how to generate a design based on the unique character and conditions of the site context. I learnt how to generate design through conscious considerations of section-plan relationship with considerations of human scale, natural light, materials/ texture. Besides, I learnt how to transfer a message and idea into a design that will be experienced by the visitor. Next, I was able to produce both 2D and 3D drawings through digital. This is the first time I used computer software such as AutoCAD, rhinoceros, 3DS Max and Photoshop to complete my presentation boards. It was a challenges to me and I had used a lot of time and efforts in this project. Lastly, I had improved my verbal presentation skill in communicate and visualize my architectural design and ideas to my audience.

REFLECTION:

For Design Studio 3, it emphasizes on the poetics of place and experiential qualities of space in architecture. In this subject, firstly I had learnt about different spatial typologies for a simple memorial space which explores the idea of architectural tectonics and experiences. At here, I had learnt what is a memorial and how to make it unique in term of design and spatial experiences as it represents some events or people. For the final project, I had learnt how to design a small scale community building (Visitor Interpretive Centre) which engages with the spirit of place inherent within the site, the site topography, history and socio-cultural events. Besides, I was able to generate design through conscious considerations of section-plan relationship with considerations of human scale, natural light, materiality and textures. This module had helped me create awareness of a wider place, a genius loci and the design towards the place. I had known the importance of site and program in architectural design. Lastly, I want to thanks to all the lecturers especially my tutors: Mr. Angus Lee , Mr. Keith Tan and Mr. Tan Teik Choon for leading and guiding me for the semester.

Presentation boards:

Model: