Architectural Design I
Project 1:
Geometry & Form:
Design Elements and Principles
Overview
In order to make a notion more simply understood, this assignment abstracts and simplifies it in order to elaborate on diagram architectural principles. We must look into how design objectives and the creation of architectural elements, such as solids, planes, lines, and frames, lead to the creation of architecture and places.
Task
We are asked to research the allocated architect and the major building they chose in groups of five to six, and to create a full set of architectural drawings (scale 1:50). The designs must be meticulously hand-rendered in A3 landscape format. The next step is to explore and evaluate the important building using the drawings (i.e. floor plan, sections, elevations etc). We must translate your findings into a set of five analysis diagrams and five diagrammatic models based on our analysis (8 x 8 x 8 cm).
Expected Outcome
Research and presentation of selected architects' biographies and works with correct key architectural concepts and a clear, thorough background study. Clear analysis of diagramming, development of diagrams based on analysis, and original diagrams are all required. The quality and organisation of visual presentations should be high.
Final work
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Reflection
Through this project, I have learned many many things. The first being the power of the simplicity in diagrams; that because it is so simple, each and every line holds a powerful meaning. I also learned the skill of simplifying drawings while still upholding its focused definition. I've also learned to skillfully analyze the core essence of an architecture building, and to translate them into sketches and diagrams.
I definitely have room for improvement when it comes to my workmanship when working with a small model. I have learned from my groupmates better ways to cut and mix adhesives in order to stay neat. I've also learned other criteria of diagramming and their definitions through them.
Project 2:
Designing with Architectural Principles + Materiality: Tropical Rainforest Discovery Platform
Overview
Southeast Asia's rainforests, including Malaysia, are thought to be the world's oldest and most biologically diverse. This diversity of rainforests is not by chance, but rather the result of a unique set of circumstances. Our main task is to design and build a Tropical Rainforest Discovery Platform with spatial experience using the architectural principle(s) from the first assignment; to investigate your conceptual and operational procedures in order to create a significant gesture of architectural space (s). You will be required to define the architectural principle(s) that you have chosen.
Task
Define and expand on the architectural principle(s) from Project 1 while determining the tropical rainforest setting. Communicate your ideas, thoughts, and design development through diagramming, drawings, and model making to generate and craft a spatially experienced architectural platform with a maximum volume of 125 m3.
Expected Outcome
The spatial quality analysis and interpretation should conduct research, identify architectural concepts, and demonstrate concept development. It should use design elements like space, surfaces, openings, and partitions to create a simple architectural space with clarity of forms and space ordering. Materiality, light, and shadow should all be considered in the design, as well as a basic understanding of construction. Drawings and models should be legible in terms of scale and linework, as well as workmanship.
Final work
Reflection
Through this project, I have learned to bring my analytical skills from Project 1 to design and innovate something. It was also the first time I've designed a studio project in a group, this time in a group of 3 people. I've learned to adapt myself to different ideas and contributions in a group, and work with a group pf passionate designers. I've also learned certain habits from them. For eg, my group leaders was more of a final push person and I've learned to trust it instead of fretting on nearing deadlines.
I definitely have room for improvement when it comes to my determination to finishing models. I tend to get fed up with the number of iterations a design process needs, and have the urge to settle for the less due to laziness. Thankfully, my groupmates held me accountable for this, and pushed me to my limits. I also think our group could have done better in planning out the presentation board. It was not done prior to the drawings and diagrams, and we had to redo the diagrams very last minute due to sizing problems.
Project 3:
Designing with Architectural Principles + Materiality + Context + User: Tropical Wildlife Discovery Unit
Overview
An Observation Unit is defined as "a facility at the edge or centre of a tropical forest for the purpose of observing its' fauna." This Discovery Unit should also feature a tropical rainforest discovery area (which can be developed from Individual Project 2) for relaxing, talking, and other activities within the maximum built-up space. The structure should have a maximum built-up space of 100sqm and be able to comfortably host two people, including yourself and a discovery partner, in a short period of time.
Task
We must collect site data and analyse the physical setting of the place. Use the following reference as a basis for your site recording and analysis. Collect and record data on the following topics using physical maps/diagrams. We are needed to create a Design Response Vignettes matrix and Site Use Alternatives based on the site data collecting report. Then, we must create an observation unit to demonstrate our understanding of how architecture is conceptualised and realised.
Expected Outcome
The conceptualization and translation into design must show a clear notion while also meeting the functional requirements. Ideas must be translated through concept, study models, and sketches, with an attempt to push design boundaries. In terms of form and space, the design work should exhibit an interaction with its site environment. It should also demonstrate a comprehension of construction materials and structure, as well as an understanding of light and shadow, as well as materiality. It should also take into account anthropometry, proportion, and scale.
Final work
Reflection
Through this project, I have learned SO MUCH. It was a two month project and at first I wondered, "Why would i need two whole months to complete this project? This was double the time compared to Semester 1!" It was only when I progressed through that i found out, my tutor wanted us to really have the time to go through the iterative process of design. From starting out with impossible and almost sculptural designs, then toning it down to what construction reality could bare with.
I've learned a lot to take things step by step in the design process with my tutor. He showed me the correct process, from site analysis, to having a design narrative and concept, and even taught me elevation treatments. Through this, I was never once lost in my own design.
I've also learned to take necessary breaks in the span of an intense two months. For the first time ever, I felt as if I could not continue anymore due to the feeling of being fed up with iterations after iterations. I could not think and execute as fast as I wanted to, and I felt very suffocated for not being in my best condition for one of the most important projects. However, I've learned to be honest with myself and most important with my friends and tutor about this, and that taking sporadic breaks are also part of the progress. I was happy with myself when I was able to recover after a week of being gentler to myself.
I definitely have room for improvement when it comes to my vision to innovation. Often, I am not able to seen the unseen potential, and unable to visualize the "could be-s" of my working models. I also made a grave mistake when only studying form and materiality of my case studies, when one of the most important things were intangible elements such as circulations and concept. I definitely need to study more on the nails and bolts of construction as well; I struggled quite a lot trying to piece my design together.