THEORIES OF ARCHITECTURE & URBANISM [ARC2224]

Project 1  Theorizing Architecture

Learning Outcomes
1.Analyse architecture and urban forms in relation to relevant architectural theories
2.Analyse and critique the relationship between architecture and its social, cultural and intellectual context
3.Produce, orally and in writing, a critical interpretation of architecture and urbanism in relation to relevant theories within the contemporary discourse of architecture

Part 1: Analysing “Through the eyes” of an architect/urban designer/ theoretician

Stage 1: Choosing the area for analysis
The first part of this project is a preparation for the latter stages. We were required to select a defined area of your hometown and see it “through the eyes” of one architect, urban designer or theoretician that was discussed in the lecture series. Through the lectures given to us week by week, we were able to identify different theories. We were then asked to apply or translate design theories and historic urban design approaches onto this area, providing an interpretation on this chosen area. The application or translation can be done through a graphical language or sketch design. The findings and application will then be done through a medium and style that is appropriate for the chosen architect or urban designer and should be accompanied by short reflective text of approximately 500 words.

In a group of 3 students, we have selected Putrajaya as our area of study. We also felt that the urban theory of Garden City by Sir Ebenezer Howard was quite interested and well suited to our chosen site. Therefore, we have submitted a proposal of the selected site with the proposed urban theory which sums up the first part of the project.

Stage 2: Analysis and Interpretation (Individual)
The following stage involves diagrammatic analysis, drawings, sketches supported by 500 reflective essay presented on two A3 sheets representing the selected area and proposed theory respectively. For this part of the project, I have done a considerable amount of research on Garden City while also paying a visit to the chosen site of Putrajaya.

This project enables us to apply what we have learned from the lectures to the chosen city. Through this project, I was able to know more about Garden City Movement, from the initial thoughts to the actual application of it as seen in Welwyn Garden City and Letchworth Garden City. It is also interesting to see that a Malaysian icon, Tun Mahathir had the vision to turn Putrajaya into an Intelligent City with the implementation of this theory.

Below are the A3 panels that I have produced on the findings.

The board on Garden City Movement

A3 panel of Putrajaya

PROJECT PART II: ANALYZING AND THEORIZING ARCHITECTURE

Part 2 of the project emphasizes architecture is like language with vocabulary, grammatical structure; both physical and intellectual. Through certain arrangement, it carries messages and communicates meanings. Nevertheless, in order to understand architecture, we must be aware of the conditions within which they are employed.

The second part of the project is a more in-depth analysis into the chosen area. We were to select a certain building within the area and study the impact of external factors on architecture (emphasize on how the architect had responded to the factors in realizing their theoretical intention). For this, I have selected the Putrajaya International Conventional Center (PICC) as my subject of study. To understand the ideas of the architect and how the design has been affected by external factors, readings on the building had to be done. I have come out with the conclusion that the building has been designed on the basis of Semiotics while being affected by external factors such as climate and geography.

While the first part of the project is based on ideas, the second part would represent a solid analysis on an existing building. By analyzing a building, I have noticed that a design of a building can be affected by so many factors. Considerations have to be taken on everything that might have an effect on the design, from cultural to contextual, every single detail will determine how the design outcome will be like. It also helps me to be more aware of the buildings around me as I have paid more attention and had more thoughts when looking at an architecture.

The following panels support my analysis on PICC.

The board on Semiotics

The board on Context

Climate as an external factor

To top it off, the panels are further supported by a 2000 words analysis essay on the findings. Below is the link to my essay.
Report


In-Class Assignment
Synopsis

Last but not least, in a group of 4 students, we have conducted an in-class assignment whereby we produce a synopsis on a specific topic after reading a passage about it.  This synopsis is inquiry into architectural theory in the broader context of philosophical thought, cultural and social conditions, which include modernism, postmodernism, phenomenology. semiotics, post structuralism, and deconstruction.  

Each week we will have a group discussion on the topics and come out with a four-page slide to present our findings. The synopsis gives us an opportunity to provide critical perspectives on key issues within the contemporary discourse of architecture, through integration of case studies and theoretical studies. Through the discussions, we were also made aware of others' opinions on the topics while also understanding their point. I was also able to be intellectually engaged and understand the relationship between architecture, social, cultural and intellectual context by synthesizing the theories and applying them with the help of case studies.

Below are the slides of the synopsis that we have used for presentation.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B8hgiOMglBrhTmdnaTJNbnptalk
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B8hgiOMglBrhME5WdUlGUUg1Tnc
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B8hgiOMglBrhMmotYmpMcnROMkE
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B8hgiOMglBrhOUZLdFdJUjNvSTQ

Design Studio 4

Project 1

GREEN INFO-SHELTER: EXPLORING THE ENVIRONMENT POETICS

Project 1 is a starter for studio 4, it requires us to have a good understanding of the site and  respond to the basic natural context such as the sun, wind, heat, cold, energy issue, and the existing context. We are required to design a small space within an open area by applying ideas of environmental
sustainability in architectural design. The structure should provide both a shelter and suitable environment for users. Before we started our design progress, we have visited our site and have  done a thorough analysis on our given site. Fortunately, we were given a site that is within our campus, which is the empty space beside CODA. This project was done in a group of two and really tested our ability to work in a small group. 

My partner and I have done our precedent studies respectively and have different ideas from the start. However, our differences soon disappear after some discussions on the intention and basic design ideas. We have looked into the needs of the users and how to utilize on the advantage of the context while relating it to CODA. Finally, we have settled on an idea to create a structure that is fun and approachable while fulfilling the basic requirements of providing shelter and information on CODA and SABD. Our green info shelter has a silhouette of sky scrappers that attracts attention of by-passers. The orientation and layout of the shelter is also carefully considered to provide easy access for students waiting for their parents while giving them spaces to rest and do their work.

Project 2

Nature Appreciation Center

In this semester, there are only two projects in Studio 4. However, the second project carries a great weight as it is also the final project. This project is an individual project that needed us to first conduct a complete site analysis as a class. The site that we have visited was Pulau Banding in Belum Rainforest. We have spent a few days in the site collecting important datas and information that can aid our designing process. 

This projects calls for a design of a simple public building with some complexity that includes the complexity of site topography and vegetation, socio-cultural events, and variety of strategies for sustainable design. It helps us to develop awareness of environmental sustainability in architectural design. In this project we were to propose a communal facility accommodating several related functions such as meeting and learning in a suburban context. Based on our research of the area and the community’s needs, we have developed our ideas from it. Personally, I was greatly impressed by the serenity of the forest that is not only quiet but nicely complimented by the sound of the forest. To top it of, the scenery at the tip of Pulau Banding is also something that I look to emphasize on. Basically, I have an idea of designing a building that compliments the site and best portrays the beauty of the rainforest. One that encourages engagement with the site. 

After plenty of exploration and considerations, I have come out with a building that has mainly lightweight frame structures due to the weak soil conditions and also used local materials to create a more familiar condition for the locals. The orientation of my NAC is also done according to the location of the trees as I seek to avoid cutting down trees existing on site.

Presentation Boards 1 & 2

Presentation Boards 3&4

Presentation Boards 5&6

Measured Drawings and Documentation

In this short semester, we have visited our given site which was the Thai Pak Kong temple located in Penang. During that period of time, we have conducted a thorough analysis and measurement of the temple. In a group of 27 students, we were divided into several sub-units to gather different information on the Thai Pak Kong temple, which consists of measuring, interview, photo-taking etc. During our stay, we have managed to produce a complete set of measurements of Thai
Pak Kong temple, while also taking enough pictures to be compiled in a photobook to showcase our findings. 

Compilation work continued after we got back from the site. We were then separated into groups to finish up the documentation, namely the report group, modelling group, photobook group, autocad drawing group and website group. Thankfully, all the groups managed to finish the given work within the time given and produced complete drawings and documentation complimented by a neatly done model. Individually, we also had to produce a 20 page sketch journal to reflect on our visit to the Thai Pak Kong temple. 

Below is the link to the website that we have produced to showcase our documentation:

http://measureddrawings2014.wix.com/thaipakkongtemple

This is the link to my sketches of Thai Pak Kong temple:

https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B8hgiOMglBrhdlRZQmpybGMxQTA&usp=sharing

Building Construction 2

Project 1:

Understanding Forces in Skeletal Structure

The first project of Building Construction 2 is an interesting project. In this project, we were asked to build a skeletal tower using only popsicle sticks and different joining medias such as string tying and nailing. No glue is allowed to stick the popsicles together. With a base of size A5, the tower should stand strong and have a minimum height of 30cm. In addition, the number of popsicle sticks used must not exceed 100 while it must withstand a reasonable amount of weight for one minute. In conducting this project, we have done several prototypes to experiment of the type of joint and braces that are the most stable and strongest. We have used different types of joint such as slotting, tying and nailing to make sure the pressure is distributed equally so that the building will be as rigid as possible. Along the project we have made analysis of the failures of prototypes and tried to improve on our final design. Thankfully, our analysis and experiments paid off as our skeletal tower was strong enough to withstand more than 100kg of weight for a reasonable period of time before collapsing.

here is the link to our analysis report:
https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B8hgiOMglBrhazRGaWJMQVFlRDg&usp=sharing

Project 2:

Understanding Forces in Solid Structure and Surface Structure

In project 2, we were to proposed a building (solid construction or surface construction) and identify the different types of structural systems used in the construction of the building of your choice. We must ensure that the building we have selected uses at least TWO (2) different types of structural system. To further explain how the structure, materials, joints affect the function and load distribution of the structure, we were required to build a physical model of a suitable size. A booklet to further explain on the construction must also be included to complement the physical model. We have chosen surface structure to work on and after approval from the tutors we have decided on Wembley Stadium which is in the United Kingdom. Wembley Stadium is a world known arena which is famous for its arch structure. We thought it was interesting to do something different as it will help us gain extra knowledge. However, due to its complicated construction we struggled but nevertheless finished the model in time.

Below are some photos of our physical model

Here is the link to our booklet:

https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B8hgiOMglBrhX09kam9TMWpWWHM&usp=sharing

Individually, we must also produce drawings explaining the construction methods of our choice on a piece on A4 paper. The feature that I have chosen is the famous arch that holds most of the roof on Wembley Stadium.

Building Science 1

Project 1 :

Case Study: Identifying innovative passive design strategies

The only project in our Building Science 1 module is a complicated one. This project requires us to conduct a case study on certified green buildings in Malaysia and Singapore in a group of 6 students. The green buildings chosen must feature a passive design strategy for tropical climate. Before choosing the buildings, we must first have a thorough research on the passive design strategies, the principles and details needed for these passive design strategies to perform best in tropical climate and to achieve thermal comfort in this 

building/space. We have visited the buildings several times and conducted various interviews with people in charge to have a thorough understanding on the buildings. The case study report should contain the followings:

a. Building Introduction (images, pictures, diagrams, drawings and description) 

b. Thermal Analysis; basically means using a manual calculation or computer program to 

mathematically model the interplay of thermal processes within a building 

c. Wind Analysis; Airflow and air quality is an important aspect of human comfort. Moving air 

helps people feel cooler, and natural ventilation is a key strategy for passive cooling. 

d. Sun Analysis; analyzing the impact of the sun on a site, as well as the building’s location, the 

spatial arrangement, orientation, window placement, daylight access and other design features, the 

designer can take full advantage of passive solar design features and increase the energy 

efficiency and comfort of the building. 

e. Concept and analysis of building’s passive design strategies. Highlight the 2 passive design 

features used in each building and elaborate the effect and importance of it. 

The buildings that we have chosen are Point 92 which is located in Kuala Lumpur and the National Library of Singapore. These are highly certified green buildings of at least gold certification. They have incorporated numerous passive design and green features and have put them into use. In addition, we have also done our own analytic diagrams to clearly explain how the features work.

Point 92 report:

https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B8hgiOMglBrhbzhtbldJZ1lWZGs&usp=sharing

National Library of Singapore report:

https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B8hgiOMglBrhS09tNDdxMVNEUVk&usp=sharing

Design Studio 3

Project 1         

Journey for the 5 senses

Project 1 is divided into two parts, 1a and 1b. In project 1a, we were tasked to identify and analyze spatial order and spatial poetics through precedent studies. In a group of 5, we were supposed to analyse the spatial poetics & spatial typology of the selected precedents. The precedent studies should consist of two buildings of different spatial typology, namely concentric and linear. We must also explain the spatial poetic of the selected buildings. The precedent could be local, national and/or international examples. One precedent must be PRE-MODERN MOVEMENT, and one precedent must be CONTEMPORARY. 

Our 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.  

·         Co-relate the plan to one of the most interesting section of your selected building. 

3.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

Subsequent to our analysis of each precedent, conclude the manner in which spatial experiences and use are designed and articulated.

We should also use diagrams, photos and minimal annotations to illustrate our analysis. 

The buildings we have selected for project one are Nasrid Palace [the Alhambra]- Concentric and Thermes Vals- Linear. Nasrid Palace is one of the most visited area in the Alhambra which is located in Granada, Spain. The Nasrid Palace has a generally concentric layout, it consist of few blocks surrounding a centre court. We have chosen the Nasrid Palace not only for its concentric layout but also we felt that it has rich spatial poetic in it, most of the places in the Nasrid Palace are decorated with Islamic features. Water is also heavily featured in the palace and it is used to connect the places together.

Nasrid Palace spatial poetic board

Nasrid Palace spatial typology board

As for Therme Vals, it is a bath located in Vals, Switzerland and designed by Peter Zumthor. This bath is very unique as in has a multiple of different baths with different ambience in each and everyone of them. It also uses materials that blend in with nature and create a flow in the building. Gaps in linear form are present on the roof to allow lights to shine into the building thus acts as a path to lead users to a certain destination. Rooms of different sizes and decorations are made according to the theme of the bath.

Therme Vals spatial poetic board

Therme Vals spatial typology board

    Project 1b requires us to use the design strategies based on the Project 1a and design a walk themed ‘journey for the five senses’. We were given a poem and our task was to translate the poetry into a walk by using 2 contrasting spatial typologies. The two types of typologies have restrictions of a 50m linear form and a 10m x 10m x10m cube. We should also produce a physical model or digital model along with architectural drawings such as plans, sections and elevations. Our design process are recorded in butter papers and we have put some of the interesting features from our precedent studies into our final design. The poem that were given to us was The Wall. It is a poem that reflects the anxiety of the author in trying to break through a barrier set by himself only to realize that the barrier grew bigger as his fear crept in. Finally, we had 15 minutes to present our project to the lecturers.

Concentric plans

Concentric sections and interior

Concentric elevations and actual model

Linear plans

Linear sections and interior

Linear sections and circulation

Project 2

GENIUS LOCI: Site Analysis & Concept Development

This project is very interesting as it provides us a chance to visit a given site. The 

site that were given was the Labrador Nature Park located in Pasir Panjang, 

Singapore. In the same group as project 1, we were to produce a complete site 

analysis of our chosen micro site. The analysis should consist of all of the

following:

-Site survey: provide dimensions of its width and depth and indicate any adjacent buildings at the levels     of plans, elevations and sections to create an accurate record of what currently exists
-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

This site analysis will be presented along with our individual understanding towards the site. The 

individual part of the project requires us to produce our personal interpretation of the MACRO site in the

form of sketches. The personal interpretations of the overall character of the site will inform subsequent

design decisions. After exploring the nature park and inspired by the view from our site, I have developed 

a concept of contrast, contrast in terms of size, volume, brightness, solidity and so on.

Project 3             

GENIUS LOCI: VISITOR INTERPRETIVE CENTRE (VIC)

Project 3 is the final project of design studio 3. In this project, we should follow up with the concept that we have developed in project 2 and further improve our design to make a presentable VIC.

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. 

In designing the VIC, we should make use of the site analysis done in the previous project to design a unique VIC that is made for the site. Continuing on my initial concept of contrast, I have decided to make this VIC a place for visitors to experience contrasting sensation in the VIC, as an introduction to the Labrador Nature Park and Singapore as a whole. During the design process, I have done a lot of changes towards the building to find a balance between the contrast in terms of materials, room volume, experience, brightness etc. I also tried to keep the context untouched and tried to utilize on the site advantages, the most vital one being the cliff as I have used it as part of my wall and for exhibition purpose. The exhibition should have the these:

Total floor area: 450sqm (including internal and external spaces), 2 storeys

Reception                                10%

Display/Exhibition                     40%

Public gathering space            30%

Book/Souvenir shop                10%

Private/Utilities spaces             10%

Office (2 pax)

Toilets (4 toilet cubicles)

Pantry

Storage

After the design process is done, we would produce 4 pieces of A1 boards to help us explain our design and also supported by a 1:50 scale sectional model. This project took a lot of time to prepare and be conducted but the result was rather satisfying. Though, with better time management and planning it could be even better.

Computer Applications

Project 1: Modelling of an Architectural Design

Below is my working progress for project 1.

Below is the final outcome and different views of my building for project 1

Project 2: Still Rendering with Materials, Lights, Camera
Views with Site Context

2a.Exterior renderings

Here are the two eye-views I have chosen for project 2a

Project 2B Interior Rendering

Work in Progress

Below are the two interior views that I have chosen

Project 3 Animation

Work in progress

Below is the link to my animation

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KIJjv-ANTfI