ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN II (ARC60308)
TUTOR: AR. ALINA CHOONG
This module introduces the principles and methods of analysis, abstraction, and synthesis in design thinking that are common to many design fields, including building and architecture. The key emphasis of the studio is “User and Context”, which investigates the relationship between user and natural environment. In this studio, students will undertake a series of studio-based exercises; firstly, an investigation of the architectural spaces and construction through precedent studies; and secondly, an exploration of form and space through architectural conceptualization. Finally, students will design a small freestanding structure that meets user requirements and engages with the site context.
Assignment 01:
Diagramming Architectural Principles
In this assignment, we were required to explore architectural design through the abstraction of 2D and 3D composition of space. In groups of five, we were to conduct a background research of our assigned architect and his key building and produce a complete set of architectural drawings. With the drawings, we had to investigate and analyze in relation to its concept, structure, context, space planning and circulation. Based on the analysis, we were then required to formulate our findings into 5 analysis diagrams and 5 diagrammatic models that convey the ideas behind the building in a precise and informative manner.
PRESENTATION BOARDS
PRE-RECORDED VIDEO PRESENTATION
ANALYSIS PROCESS
REFLECTION
Through this assignment, I have learnt to analyze and interpret architectural design through 2D or 3D diagramming in an abstract manner. In order to highlight and communicate the key idea that we want to express, I've realized the importance of utilizing the appropriate line weights and symbols. Besides that, I'm thankful that I was able to work with reliable and responsible teammates who had all contributed their parts in the successful completion of the project. It made me realized the defining and indispensable role of teamwork, cooperation and communication among team members of the same goals to warrant a smooth and cohesive outcome of our task.
Assignment 02 :
Designing with Architectural Principles + Materiality
With the understanding of architectural principles through analysis and diagrams from Project 01, we were to explore the conceptual and operational procedures in generating forms and crafting spaces that poses significant gestures. In a group of two, we were assigned to generate and craft an Introspective Architectural Folly that provides spatial experiences to users through interpretation of architectural principles and presentation of ideas and design through diagramming, drawing and model making. With the design intention of allowing users to experience nature, my teammate, Grace and I forged a space for users to connect and explore relationships with nature through the integration of architecture, man and nature.
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PRESENTATION BOARDS
PRESENTATION VIDEO
DESIGN PROCESS
PRESENTATION SLIDES
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REFLECTION
For this assignment, we had to work in pairs and I had the chance to partner with Grace who was really understanding and cooperative. I am very glad and grateful that the both of us managed to progress well throughout this project which resulted in the smooth completion of the project. As this is the first time that I work with a partner, I've learnt to take the initiative to communicate with each other to ensure that we are on the same page despite my shyness. Besides that, this project allows me to delve into exploring the different interactions with nature we can form through architecture by shaping different spatial experience.
Assignment 03 :
Designing with Architectural Principles + Materiality + Context + User:
Tropical Solitary Haven
With our given site at Subang Ria Recreational Park, we had to design a tropical solitary haven which serves as a safe quarantine space for two which includes myself and a partner. Besides having a built-up space of maximum 100sqm, the space had to correspond to its immediate site context while complying to a set of space requirements of a working and living space for each users, discussion area, a resting space and a washroom. To ensure a memorable spatial experience for users, the structure design has to demonstrate our design intentions through application of architectural principles, materiality and constructability. In my instance, I created a space inspired by the tale of lighthouse keepers who are isolated on a secluded island yet enduring in spirit amidst the storm, much akin to the current pandemic situation.
PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTATION BOARDS
FINAL MODEL
WORKSHOPS OUTCOMES
DESIGN PROCESS
REFLECTION
In this project, I found it a pity as we were not able to conduct site visits physically due to the pandemic which limits our understanding the site to merely Google Earth and findings from seniors of previous semester. In spite of the lacking information, I was relieved that I was able to espouse the use of diagramming and analyzing the site context in order to generate a space that corresponds to the site with the help of lectures and workshops. I appreciate the workshop sessions that were organized with our seniors as they had provided us with helpful insights and suggestions for our project which I really appreciate. Besides, as we had to fulfill the space requirements, I've also learnt to design spatial experiences according to its programme. Overall, I find that this project was an enjoyable one as I get to conceptualize and construct a solitary haven of my own. I'm also really thankful for my tutor, Ms. Alina who has rendered me ample of help and guidance which has allowed me to complete this project successfully.