Building Materials

Project 1a 

My Home My Space

In the first project of Building Material, we were asked to produce an A2 board to show at least 5 different materials in our home. In this board, we were to show pictures of building materials to understand the compatibility of materials to the design concept. It required some effort on researching as this was our very first project. After some analysis, I have picked a few important features and materials to show in my board, also highlighting the suitability and characteristics of the materials.

Project 1b

Materiality of SPACE: An experiential exploration

The following task was a task that required much more work. In a group of 5, we were to select a commercial / residential building (a fun, creative space) which allow us to experience and explore most of the building materials covered in the module. Task A was a group work, we needed to produce two A2 boards in landscape orientation and a Mood board which is separate on its own. In these boards, we have to give a brief introduction of the selected building and also reason for selecting the space. For the Mood Board, we should include color, pattern, photographs, sketches and informative design elements to reflect the material used and  the ambience of the space. Identification of Materials were an interesting task in this project as we got to visit the building that we have chosen, in our case, Cyberview. We did plans, sections and elevations to indicate the materials used. We also explainedthe types of material that are used in a specific area/space. After some discussion, we were able to understand the application of Materials and were able to explain the suitability of material used in context to concept, occupancy and climate. In addition, we gave our own opinion on the suitability of materials used and possible replacements.

Task B was an individual work. In one A2 board, we were supposed to give experiential analysis of the Material and Space. The visit to Cyberview helped us in understanding the design intention and concept in relation to the selection of materials. I also shared my experience within the space and got to feel how the material selection and its application within the space affect user experience. To make the board look interesting, I have added photographs to help support my analysis.

Task A

Task A

Task A

Task A

Photos taken in Cyberview

Photos taken in Cyberview

Photos taken in Cyberview

Photos taken in Cyberview

Project 2 Integration

Material Specification- Demonstration of knowledge and understanding of Building Materials application and properties through materials specification or proposal for final studio project

Project 2 is an integration of Building Material and Design Studio. After focusing on documentation and analysis of the existing materials in building of different concept, functional use and site context architectural space, this assignment will challenge us with the task of selecting materials for a our hideout design responding to several issues such as site context- material compatibility with climatic, cultural, and aesthetic conditions, applicability of material to occupancy, size of building, including durability and structural requirements, environmental impact building materials and recycling issues. We were encouraged to explore the information that we have and to show the proposed materials on plans, section and elevation from the structure to the finishes materials for floor, wall, roof, ceiling, floor and wall finishes, etc. All these have to be done in the form of sketches, diagrams, pictures, captions and annotation. After my design had been approved in Design Studio, I researched on the suitability of the material types, environmental impact, physical and chemical properties of these materials, to ensure that the best materials were being used in my hideout. All findings were composed on an A3 board and were presented alongside the Design Studio boards as it was an integration project. It was a proud experience to be able to identify suitable materials for my own design.

Architecture Culture & History 1

Project : Precedent Study

The only project in architecture culture and history consists of 4 parts, it requires us to truly understand the historical building that we have chosen. This project focuses on investigating historical works to enrich architectural design and ideas. Through the study of existing buildings, we were able to inform and expand our own architectural vocabulary and develop design concepts. In a group of 4, we were required to conduct analysis on specific building through drawing, model-making, written and verbal presentations. More specifically, we were to submit a study essay, an individual analysis presentation board, a detailed model and finally to verbally present them.

The historical building that we have chosen was Santa Maria del Popolo which is located in Rome, Italy. After rounds of research and studies, we were able to gather sufficient information about Santa Maria del Popolo. We did a draft to highlight the things that we wanted to focus on in producing the essay and it was approved after tutorial sessions. It meant a lot since it showed us that we were on the right track. Following various discussion with the group members, we have picked up important facts and information on Santa Maria del Popolo and managed to produce a 500 words research essay. We were able to give adequate evidence as a result of our research on the building.

Here you can view our research essay.
https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B8hgiOMglBrhM25na0NWUlI1QzQ/edit?usp=sharing 


The second part of the project was the analysis presentation board. The presentation board should include floor plans, building sections, analysis diagrams and sketches. The drawings produced should be able to communicate the depth of our analysis of the building. Drawings should be composed on one A2 board and hand-drawn and hand-written. For this project, I have decided to focus on Chigi Chapel which is located in Santa Maria del Popolo because I think it has a very interesting history and is a beautiful architectural creation. I did plenty of research before planning the layout of the presentation board to make sure I have a good balance of information on the presentation board. My analysis has included the building concept, the structure of the building, circulation, spatial organization, sketches of the building and also the main focus which is the magnificently built dome.

Analysis Presentation Board

Moving on to the third part of the project, which was the most interesting one in my opinion, the model making part of it. We were restricted to using only Balsa timber in producing the model. The model is 30 cm x 30 cm in dimension with 10 cm depth. The focus of our model was again on Chigi Chapel as we all agreed upon it. To show the interior of Chigi Chapel, we have done a sectional model of the building. We also thought that the columns in Chigi Chapel look interesting as they have a lot of details in them. To show the details of the column, we did a close-up model of the capital. Another attraction of the Chigi Chapel being the tombs of Chigi brothers, which we also made to compliment the entire model.

Finally, after all the works are done, we were to prepare for a verbal presentation to communicate your precedent study of the historical building. With the help of our analysis drawings and details in model, we were able to complete our verbal presentation well.

Design Studio

Project 1: Self-Expression through Object

REPRESENTING ME

The first task in Design Studio was a rather easy and fun. Rather than being an assignment, it was more like an ice-breaking session to introduces basic methods and approaches in the generation of ideas and conceptual narratives. We were asked to find a creative representation of ourselves and to be able to narrate it in front of the class. We were given advice to be adventurous and experimental in identifying an abstract idea of ourselves. My first attempt to introduce myself was a self-portrait that shows two sides of me. This can be explained by how close an individual is willing to get to me. Before getting to know me, I tend to have a cold attitude towards people and will be rather dead, but if one bothers to break the ice and get to know me, I think I will be able to show a different side of me that is much more colorful and alive. A hemisphere on top of my head represents the thing that is very influential towards me and is constantly on my mind, football. The background of messy lines and dull colors shows my untidiness and tendency to opt for a boring lifestyle while the splashes of paints represent little sparks somewhere in my life. However, after more exploration I think I have found a better way to describe or represent myself, by using a mere passion fruit. Passion fruit is not only my favorite fruit, it also symbolizes my character pretty well. Passion fruit might not look pleasant on the outside, if you have not tried it, you would not even consider buying it at a fruit store. It has a dull and dead look on the outside but once you cut it open, a fresh smell comes out and the taste is beyond words can explain. Well, at least that is what I think. Passion fruit has a strong taste of a mixture of sweet, sour and bitter, I think that describes myself well, if one can open up my heart, that brave individual will find the greatness in me that is unlike what it looks from the outside. A metaphoric comparison of myself and passion fruit sums up my first project in Design Studio. This project helped me to understand that ideas come from exploration and not just from sitting down thinking about it. I have accustomed a new way of generating ideas by not setting myself any limit and continuation of exploration.

Self Portrait

Passion Fruit presentation

Project 2: Self-Expression through Architectural Space


ME IN SPACE

Project 2 was the next big step in Design Studio. Our task was to express our personality using a 1:1 scale installation. In our respective tutorial groups, we were divided into groups of three and to explore about how human body inform space and how it reacts to space. After few tutorial sessions, we were able to come out with a general idea of what feel we want to give in our installation. The material allowed to make this installation was limited to only one, cardboard. Before deciding to create a specific space, we had to explore the possibilities and properties of cardboard. After having a rough idea of how cardboard hold up and bend, we made a basic shape of our installation to make sure it has a solid foundation. Our concept basically relates back to our personality of being reserved and self-protective. Triangular spikes are used as basic shapes of our installation to give a terrifying look to it. If one does not be careful, they might be hurt by the spikes. One will have to be very cautious in making steps but once they made it to the comfort zone, they will have a much easier time where they can sit can look at the outside world from our perspective. To give a very dangerous and uneasy feel to the installation, we experimented time after time to place the spikes at suitable positions. We also decided to add the number of spikes and a variety of sizes to increase the intensity inside the space. We did that by sitting inside our installation to get the right scale and proportion that fits us perfectly.

The installation in this project was the first one that I have done in 1:1 scale, it was fresh to me to produce such a big model that I can experience the space myself. With the cooperative group mates, I was able to happily explore spaces and at the same time create spaces. It was interesting to see how people react to spaces that we have created and how they have their own interpretation of space. I have known more about scale and proportion through this project.

First mock-up model

Improved mock-up model

Shapes we decided to use

Working Progress

Working Progress

Final 1:1 scale installation

Project 3: Space for the Self

MY CITY DREAM SPACE

Project 3 came as a surprise to most of the students. WE WERE TASKED TO WATCH MOVIES! Who would have guessed that in architecture course we actually have a task to enable us to relax?! The task that got us excited were assigned a few days after our visit to KLPAC. It was a visit to help us understand quality of space and how senses react to different materials. The movies that we were asked to watch were Tron, Blade Runner, Ghost in the Shell and Fifth Element. All four movies are of a futuristic background with very interesting settings. We were then grouped by movies that we have chosen to work on a site model of 1:50 scale. The movie that I have chosen was Blade Runner, which I think is a good movie with plenty of potential spaces to work on. It is a movie where replicants exist in human world and 'Blade Runner' is tasked to 'retire' them. After making a site model with the group members, we have to create a character that fits into the movie. In addition, a hideout will have to be designed to match the character and movie. After watching the movie, I got inspired and decided to create a character that is the leader to all replicants, the Nexus 7. To really understand the site in the movie, I have watched the movie a few times and experimented different space with the site model. Tutorial sessions were useful and proved vital as we close in on the final stage. Our lecturer Mr.Dickson pushed us hard enough from the start that resulted in numerous designs and mock-up models we have made. These idea developments allowed us to come out with the best design that is most suitable for our characters and the site. To match with my character, I chose a sleek, one-piece, futuristic design. To further explain my hideout, Orthographic drawings and Axonometric drawings were required to support my design. After days and nights of hard work, I was finally able to present my design to outside panels, it was a truly fulfilling experience.

This project enables me to gain valuable experience as I got to design a hideout that is tailor made for my character to fit its needs and to visualize how one would feel and react toward the hideout. I felt that it was a big step ahead of an exciting journey. I had a lot of fun applying design principles to my design and choosing suitable materials for sensory experience. I also realized how drawings can support a design and show different elements as opposed to a model.

Process of completing site models

Process of completing site models

Presentation Board 1

Presentation Board 2

Presentation Board 3

Hideout in place with site model

Side View of hideout model

Details of hideout model

Details of hideout model

Details of hideout model

Design Communication

Project 1a  

On-site sketching

The first assignment of the semester in Design Communication was to learn the basic in architecture, to be able to sketch. The task given to us was to produce 4 on-site sketches which consists of 2 outdoor and 2 indoor sketching to show exterior and interior spaces respectively. This practice is important to enable us to improve our observation skills and expression of space through our free-hand sketches. 

For the outdoor sketches, i have chosen Taylor's University as one of my site. I have done a sketch of the commercial building looking from the amphitheater. I think this view highlights the relationship between solid and void well and has a variety of volume to it. In the other sketch, I decided to go with a two-storey terrace house in my housing area. I think the relationship between the terrace house and the environment is very interesting. How shadow changes on different surfaces and how things look different in size according to the distance makes me think more while sketching to take these things into consideration. While for the indoor sketches, I did them at home, in my parents' bedroom and my living room respectively. In my parents' bedroom, I have noticed things that I have not been able to before this. Different materials gives out different looks and requires different sketching techniques to show textures and rhythms. I have also learned to master the importance to put shadow at where it matters and to make dead objects seem alive by adding volume to it. 

Throughout this assignment, I have learned to pay more attention to the details in a building, the texture, form, structure, material, shadow etc. To be able to produce good on-site sketches, I have to truly understand the construction of the building and how it reacts with the environment. One vital thing that i have learned from this task is to understand how important scale and proportion can be to make sketches look realistic and alive. I think I am able to communicate through my sketches more after completing this task, it also helps me to add more depth and meaning into my sketches.

Project 1b

Tonal values

In project 1b, we were required to produce another 4 sketches, but in this task, the attention should be put on the tonal values instead. We were to pick a picture that has interesting shape and texture. Based on the image, we have to produce 4 variations of a tonal value sketch. We were advised to vary the sketches in the hatching type and medium. Examples of hatching types include stippling, cross-hatching, one-directional and we can choose different mediums pen, pencil or charcoal. For this task, I have decided to go with a picture of a bunch of keys. In my opinion, the orientation of the keys gives out different tones of shadow and depth.

The hatching techniques that I have chosen for this task are hatching, cross-hatching, stippling and scribbling. Hatching and cross-hatching are techniques that I often use in my sketches so it did not seem too unfamiliar to me. However, stippling is a technique that requires plenty of work. I have come to know that different medium does give different feel to a sketch and it will affect the tonal values of a sketch. Scribbling is a technique that I hardly master in this task. After plenty of work, I did not seem to yet get hold of the right way to do scribbling, especially on solid objects like a bunch of keys, I will have to work harder on it in the near future. Anyway, I think I did improve my overall hatching skills and have a better understanding in the importance of tonal values.

Project 2a

Orthographic projections: plans, sections, elevations

Project 2a is the start of a very interesting project that I consider as my very first BIG project. In this first part of second project, I had to include sufficient evidence to show that I am competent in a range of architectural drafting skills. We were given images of a building in Spain, the Barcelona Pavilion. With the images given, we should produce a floor plan, front, back and both (left & right) side elevations, 2 cross-section views of the building showing floor and roof construction. To top it off, all these drawings have to be of a standard appropriate architectural scale of 1:100. This project can be done with pencil at first but has to be inked on appropriate tracing paper for submission. The reason that I call it an interesting project is because it is the beginning of a three-part project and also the beginning to my professional life as an architecture student as I learn to live with tools that will eventually be my partners in life. These tools include T-square, set square, scale ruler, technical pens, artline pens, butter paper, tracing paper, masking tape and oddly, shaving blades. This was a brand new experience for me, knowing that eraser is no longer the trusted tool to remove any error on a tracing paper. Shaving blade instead became its replacement. 

To actually start this project, I had to do adequate research on the structure of Barcelona Pavilion and the materials used in it. I also need to get the measurements right to make sure that I do not make any error when drawing it. To draw Orthographic drawings of a building that I have not seen with my own eyes seemed difficult at first, but it proved to be a challenge worth taking as there are countless positives that I can take upon completing this assignment. I think that the ability to control line weights better now is the biggest gain for me in this project, it helps to show the distance of an object as compared to those around it. The types of line chosen speaks for themselves and enables people to understand the drawing with just a look of it. It was a fun and effective way to be introduced to the world of architecture and I benefited from it greatly.

Orthographic Drawings of Barcelona Pavilion

Project 2b

Axonometric projection

Moving on to the second part of project two, we were to produce an Axonometric drawing of Barcelona Pavilion to the scale of 1:100. After having a good understanding of the structure of the building, I can finally do an Axonometric drawing that in my opinion is the most interesting way to showcase a building as it shows part of the interior and also exterior of a building. If well done, it can also show how a building is constructed and helps in visualizing spaces in the building. As compared to Orthographic drawings, Axonometric drawing required less work but it trained me to visualize a building better. By utilizing on the Orthographic drawings produced and other images, I had to project the building out to be able to show important features of the building. I think I did fairly fine for this project but still have to show more details on how the building is constructed.

Axonometric Drawings of Barcelona Pavilion

Project 2c

Perspectives

To round of a three-part project, we were tasked to draw two perspective drawings. Firstly, we have to identify an external view of the building which is interesting. This view can be selected from existing drawing and/or photographs. Before starting project 2c, we were given a very helpful tutorial by Mr.Wan on how to produce one-point and two-point perspectives. After rounds of analysis and consideration, I have decided to do a two-point perspective of the exterior view of Barcelona Pavilion and a one-point perspective for the interior view.

I personally think that perspective drawings are the ones that will attract attention as it shows exactly what our eyes will see of a building. I have learned to draw three dimensional drawings to scale and I find it extremely satisfying. I also took note of how to place my picture plane, stationary point etc. while constructing perspectives. Overall, it felt good to be able to finish off my first BIG project and I think all the sleepless nights paid off the moment I see the result of it.

Perspectives of Barcelona Pavilion