DESIGN STUDIO III
PROJECT 1 | THE JOURNEY OF THE 5 SENSES
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 literatures 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
All of these were recorded in the form of video.
The second part of the project is to come up with a concept based on the analysis for a visitor interpretive center.
The submission consists of a micro site analysis, conceptual drawings and a physical model. Sketches, diagrams and mock models are to be shown to further justify the concept.
PROJECT 3 | GENIUS LOCI: VISITOR INTERPRETIVE CENTRE (VIC)
After the conceptual development, more concrete ideas were added in to design a Visitor Interpretive Center.
The interpretive centre will serve two purposes:
- To provide a physical point of reference with visual significance that keeps alive the culture/history/memory/essence of the site
-To provide accommodation to house and display relevant material and interpretive material for public access and information.
Solutions relying heavily on landscape are encouraged.
Visitors should be inspired and informed in ways that somehow express the spirit of the place (genius loci).
Total floor area: 450sqm (covered internal spaces), 2 storeys
ROOM REQUIREMENTS for the space are as follows:
Reception
Foyer / Public gathering space
Display / Exhibition / Gallery space
Book / Souvenir shop
M&E / Utilities space(s)
Office
Toilets
Pantry / cafeteria
Storage
1 MISC Space to be defined by designer (10 rooms / spaces in total)
The above rooms are RECOMMENDED. The TOTAL floor area of the building should be approximately 450 sqm. The designed should be developed taking into account the climate, culture and context of the building. The building must EMPHASISE THE USE OF MATERIALS WITH HEAVY THERMAL MASS (CONCRETE, NATURAL STONE AND/OR BRICKWORK). The use of timber (if any) should be limited to roof structures and/or secondary elements and finishes. We are required to indicate MATERIALS and show an appreciation of BUILDABILITY in your final presentation.
