ARCHITECTURE DESIGN 2
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.
Project 1: Diagramming Architectural Principles
This assignment will teach you how to diagram architectural principles through the process of abstracting and simplifying an idea so that it can be easily understood. You are required to investigate how architecture and spaces are created from establishing design intentions and the making of architectural elements: architectonics - solid, planes, lines, and frames. The idea of using pure and diagrammatic models to express the architectural idea would be in-cooperated into this assignment. Upon completion of the assignment, you should be able to achieve a level of understanding on the works assigned and will be able to apply the idea and concept in the subsequent project.
Objectives:
- To identify architects and their works
- To analyze and ‘diagram’ architectural work of selected architect
- To produce basic architectural compositions of solids, planes, lines and frames.
Presentation
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Diagramming
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Diagram Models
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Reflection
This assignment has been an enlightening experience, providing us with valuable insights into the principles of architectural diagramming. The process of abstracting and simplifying an idea to make it easily comprehensible has honed our analytical skills and enhanced our understanding of architectural concepts.
Being a group project, effective communication was crucial. However, we encountered several communication issues that hindered our progress. There were instances where teammates did not fully cooperate. This lack of cooperation manifested in very uneven distribution of workload, causing frustration and stress among group members.
In conclusion, this assignment has been a valuable learning experience. It has equipped us with the skills to diagram architectural principles and apply these concepts in future projects.
Project 2: Designing with Architectural Principles + Materiality
​In the previous assignment, you learned how to analyse and diagram architectural principles. Now, you need to use the architectural principle(s) from the first assignment; to explore your conceptual and operational procedures in order to produce a significant gesture of architectural space(s). The architectural principle(s) that you have selected will need you to define them. You are required to explore the potential meanings and implications of this architectural principle(s) in the sense that it will inform two design criterias: generating forms and crafting spaces.
Objectives:
- To encourage your thinking and discussion about space(s) and its qualities through architectural conceptualisation-Architectural design intentions and objectives.
- To show the importance of using the art of crafting and making: drawing(s) and model(s) as a critical design tool in the design process.
Finished Outcome
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Model
Diagramming and Site Context
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Reflection
The architectural principles selected from the first assignment provided a critical framework for this project. We needed to delve into their potential meanings and implications, ensuring that they would effectively inform our design criteria.
We were required to split into smaller groups of three to design the observation post, however, the execution of the project was filled with challenges, leading to a less than satisfactory outcome. One of the main obstacles we faced was poor communication. Despite repeated attempts to coordinate and communicate, several team members consistently ignored messages. This lack of responsiveness created significant delays in our progress and hindered our ability to work effectively as a team. With some team members not contributing their fair share of the work, the project fell disproportionately on a few individuals. This uneven distribution of workload resulted in an incomplete and poorly executed final presentation.
Due to the aforementioned issues, our final presentation was lackluster. The lack of cohesive collaboration and effective communication meant that our design lacked the depth and polish that we had initially envisioned
This assignment provided valuable lessons on the importance of teamwork and communication in collaborative projects. It underscored the need for clear and consistent communication, timely contributions, and active participation from all team member.
Project 3: Designing with Architectural Principles + Materiality + Context + User
students are required to design a Hideout Retreat at National Botanical Garden, Shah Alam.
The structure should be within the built-up space of maximum 150sqm and be able to accommodate 4 defined people with interest, including yourself comfortably in a short spend of time (2-3 days). The unit must correspond to the immediate tropical site context. The relationship between your design and the context is important in making your architecture unique to its landscape and activity. The design of the structure must demonstrate your design intentions through the application of architectural principles, materiality and constructability in creating a memorable spatial experience for the user(s).
Objectives:
- To introduce the notions of concepts, program and process in architectural design
- To introduce students to the understanding of user specific design requirements
- To introduce the notions of space, form and function in architectural design
- To introduce awareness of site-specific design and the process of site analysis
Presentation Board
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Models
DPSJ
Reflection
Following the challenging previous assignments, the Hideout Retreat design project turns out to be a refreshing and rewarding experience. The objective was to create a structure within a built-up space of 150 sqm, accommodating four defined people, including myself, comfortably for 2-3 days. The design had to resonate with the immediate tropical site context, ensuring a harmonious relationship between the structure and its surroundings.
Unlike the previous assignments, this project went smoothly. Since this is an individual project, I can have full control on my design and presentation. With efficient time management I am able to complete the models and presentation board on time to pin-up.
The panel critique was an invaluable part of the process. The feedback provided by the panel members helped us refine our design and consider aspects we might have overlooked. The insights gained from the critique will undoubtedly inform future projects and enhance our architectural approach.
In conclusion, the Hideout Retreat design project was a successful and enriching experience. It not only allowed us to apply and expand upon the knowledge gained from previous assignments but also prepared us for future architectural challenges by emphasizing the importance of context, materiality, and collaboration.