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Project 1 is an introductory project by which we are required to explore issues of spatial typologies and poetics through simple design exercises. Working in groups of 4-5 students, we are to propose 2 schemes for a Walkway Space themed ‘journey for the 5 senses’. We are required to design the space in the form of semi-open architecture by using two contrasting spatial types of our choice. There is no specific site for this design work. The story of the design should translate the literature's given by our tutor, and it should be

 

 

2 precedents were selected for analysis. They can be local, national and/or international examples. One precedent must be PRE-MODERN MOVEMENT, and one precedent must be CONTEMPORARY. Also, one precedent must be LINEAR, and the other CONCENTRIC. The precedent study should provide the following analysis:

 

SPATIAL TYPOLOGIES

1. State and describe the spatial typologies applied in the design

2. Explain how the spaces are organised and ordered

3. Explain how the typologies ordered the use of the design

 

 SPATIAL POETICS

1. What is the design considerations employed to explore spatial poetry/poetics/experiences?

2. How are the spaces articulated in terms of the poetics, sensuality and tactility of architectural spaces?

 Flow of experience (identify key circulation/journey).

 Using at least 5 images/perspective that illustrate poetics of space, analyse how the experiential space is created: Engagement with senses; Manipulation of light and its effects on space (natural & artificial); Texture and materiality; Scale and proportion of spaces etc

3. Plan-Section relationship

 Co-relate the plan to one of the most interesting section of your selected building. Study the section and analyse how it is designed. Comment on the relationship between inside/outside, volumes and scale of space, variation and hierarchy of spaces

The second part of the project is to adapt what is analysized from the precedent studies and design the two walkways. The design is also based on the literature given. The two literatures given were The Child's Story by Charles Dickens and Death by Emily Bronte. The Child's Story was interpreted as a journey of life which then was translated into a linear walkway. As for death, it was about how a tragedy change a person's perception on things and from there accept and move on. This is later then designed into a concentric walkway. 

 PROJECT 2  |   GENIUS LOCI: Site Analysis & Concept Development

We were assigned to a site known as Bukit Cina which is one of the oldest chinese cemetries in South East Asia. Bukit Cina comprises of the community and the cemetry and it is a place that is rich in culture and history. Although many have moved out from there but the traditional traits and culture still remain. 

 

We had to conduct a site analysis on the macro site and micro sites. One located at the community area and the other two on the hill.

The scope of analysis include 

- Orientation (sun path)

- Climate (rainfall & temperature)

- Site contours

- Adjacent street and vehicular traffic patterns

- Pedestrian circulation

- Neighbouring contexts 

-Vegetation

- Views from the site

- Views to the site

-Views through the site

- Noise

- Human-Cultural

- SWOT Analysis

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Society, culture, history, memory and the landscape of a particular place echoes the meaning of that ‘place’, or its ‘genius loci’. These qualities will inform the architectural concept and generators for Project 2. In Project 2, the design brief calls for an architectural response toward the sense of place with a strong engagement and relationship to the site and programmatic requirements.The first assignment for Project 2 requires an analysis of the site context as a starting point. It is a fundamental need for any design project as it will suggest a series of parameters to suggest architectural solution, one that will be appropriate to the place and its meaning, and contributes to its context. The site needs to be understood, in both intuitive and personal ways, as well as quantitative and measured means. Techniques to record and understand the site are varied, from physical surveys to qualitative aspects of experience and personal interpretation of the place.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reflection

Having to explore the different culture and derive the essence of the site and its value that would contribute towards my interpretation of the place, was what this particular project 2 is about.

Group performance 

Ability to plan and carry out research

Ability to analyse and conclude data

Ability to convey/communicate findings (audio and visual)

Personal interpretation of place

Ability to record and analyse the character of place

Ability to convey/communicate findings

Ability to conclude/make sense of findings for the subsequent design work

Ability to produce a meaningful concept which is communicated well via drawings & model.

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