Advanced Architectural Construction (ARC60104)
TUTOR: Mr. Bruce Lee Xia Sheng
Assignment 01 :
Industrialised Building System
This is a group assignment which predominantly relates to the topics of Industrialised Building System (IBS). Before embarking on this project we are exposed to different types and methods of the IBS system and the calculation of IBS scoring in the classroom. Firstly, the groups are require to design a 3-storey apartment block using mainly IBS components. before constructing a physical sectional model of the building to show the IBS components in detail.
In a group of 5 students, we are to perform a study on a building preferably an apartment, which was constructed fully or partially using IBS method and identify all the IBS components used including appropriate sizes, etc. The design of an apartment unit which size should not exceed 100 square meters per unit must consists of a living hall, a dining area, three bedrooms and two toilets. The design should also incorporate mainly IBS structure and components such as precast wall, blockwork, hollow core slab, precast staircase, toilet pod, prefabricated timber roof truss, etc. with appropriate sizes. The content of the report is thus comprised of concept and framework of proposed IBS categories, relevant drawings such as plans, elevations, sections, isometric view, sectional perspectives and details, sequence of construction, schedule of modular components as well as the IBS score calculation for the building. Concept and framework which may include the suitability of proposed system, features of the proposed IBS components, fabrication process and sequence of construction shall also be included in the report.
REFLECTION
Through this project, I was able to develop and expand my understanding in different types of IBS construction method and to apply appropriate IBS construction method in the production of a model for an apartment building. Through model-making, we were able to demonstrate a more comprehensive understanding of IBS construction process as we get to work hands-on. I was also glad that through the teamwork, we were able to foster good communication skills among group members through proper delegation of works and production of deliverables. Despite the many trials and errors and the ups and downs, I've enjoyed the experience of learning and working with craft cement for the first time with my group mates. As we learn to identify and collect relevant research data for precedent study, we learn to be selective and to filter through the information. In the report, we had to explain a set of architectural and structural documentation and relate the basic structural elements and structural principles in construction. Through the study of various precedents, we get to then analyse and document the construction methods and materials while assessing and understanding the methods of calculating the IBS Score
Assignment 02 :
Construction Detailing of Building Elements
This assignment is aligned with the Studio Design Project (semester 4) and aims to facilitate us, students in the technical studies and development of our design. It deals with the analysis and establishment of the structural and the envelope systems of the student’s design to ensure that the design has logical and workable construction systems.We were also encouraged to think about construction as integral part of the design and not just an afterthought. Most of the times, amateur designers tend to design their spaces without thinking about the construction aspects yet later on having to undergo the hassle of changing and redesigning their schemes due to the unbuidable designs. This assignment is thus designed with the intention to tackle this issue and to increase the technical competency of students.
Consists of two parts, the first part deals with the analysis and establishment of the structural and the envelope systems of the student’s design. This is to ensure that the design has logical and workable construction systems and at the same time encouraging students to include construction as part of the design and not just “tools” to build it. The second part is a continuation from the first where students need to show in the final presentation drawings of the project, evidence of the previous studies being implemented in the design. The main drawings for this part will be the detail sectional drawing of the design which is also one of the requirements of the design studio.
REFLECTION
In this second project, we had to work individually and was encouraged to conduct the analytical and critical study of the principles, practices and details of building technology in the our own design. I've thus learnt that the considerations for the construction process of a building begins throughout the design process and not merely in the end. As we were taught with the different building systems during the lectures, I've realised the importance to adapt and implement the alternative construction systems into the our design in a manner that suits and adds up to the entirety of the building.
Through the process from start to the successful completion of this project, I believe the learning outcome to analyse and document construction methods and materials has successfully been achieved with the help and guidance of my passionate tutor, Mr Bruce. Besides, I've assimilated the approach to evaluate existing construction system and detailing of our selected project as we get to inspect nad delve deeper into the technical details. Through observations, we were then quick to highlight and critique issues pertaining to construction principles, materials, techniques, codes of practice, process of assembly, and detailing.in order to generate alternative construction solutions by means of sketches and drawings as well.
All in all, I would like to thank Mr. Bruce who has given us inspiring lectures and motivates us to push ourselves harder in its architecture journey. I'm thankful that has been a fruitful and enjoyable semester for me.