Asian Architecture (ARC2234)

Project 1: Case Study Paper

This project is driven by Architectural Design Studio 4, as an approach to support our design through extensive research within the framework of sustainability design in Asia. The sustainability design framework focuses on the building assigned for site visit, with research objectives defined through in-depth literature review, leading to a well-established case study paper structure and writing.
Assessments involve oral presentation and a written paper of 3,000 to a maximum of 4000 words. The final topic of the paper should be evolved in discussion and consultation with the tutors and should be finalised by the fifth week of the course. Students will present the summary of the paper with images in class – which contains an outline of the paper covering issues and themes explored, as well as a bibliography.

Objectives

1. To integrate architectural design and research through a specific case study, supporting students’ design through extensive research within the framework of sustainability design in Asia.
2. To introduce students to activities which culminate in the production of the study; collection, indexing and evaluation of information; analysis of information; compilation and organization of study; writing of study; assembly of illustration and text; design of layout; binding and presentation.

Learning Outcomes

1. Analyse and discuss in depth on the selected research area based onthe assigned building, within the framework of sustainable design.
2. Identify significant elements of sustainable design through investigation on the assigned building.
3. Produce, orally and in writing, a critical interpretation of sustainable design of the assigned building.
4. A paper (3,000 to a maximum of 4000 words, double-spaced).
5. A power point presentation (10 minutes) – which contains an outline of the paper covering key issues and themes explored, as well as bibliography.

Through this project, I've learnt how to collect data according then document it into a report. As this project require a site visit to Belum Rainforest Resort, I've also have to well manage my time for this project since our Design Studio 4 also take place there at the same time for just a few days there. The topic I'm doing is more to efficiency spaces planning, many research including interview, online and library in order to finish this report. And last but not least, thank to Pn. Norhayati as my lecture and tutor at the same time.

Project 2: Documentation Study

This project involves the study of streets in an Asian city to understand the historical and social aspects of a city by examining the development of tradition, modernization and globalization of streets. Every city in Asia has its own unique characteristics, which could be presented in the form of architectural iconography, a semiotic interpretation based on visual elements. Students are required to visit streets in an Asian city to identify the architectural elements as visuals/ symbols that construct the semiotic interpretation of the street, or its iconography. These semiotic interpretations may be based on culture, architecture and traditions which may have changed in the past decades due to modernisation and globalisation. All observations are to be captured in photography series and a written summary.
In a group of 5, we've went to site visit at Kesahawan Square, Medan, Indonesia.

Objectives

1. To develop critical perspectives on architecture and urbanism in situations where tradition, modernity and globalization intersect through an exploration of the history of South, Southeast and East Asian architecture
2. To promote and develop students’ knowledge and understanding of selected aspects of Asian architectural and urban design through first-hand experience gained through a study visit to an appropriate local or overseas location relevant to the theme
3. To develop in each student increasing skills and independence in information gathering, visual and verbal analysis, and critical synthesis
4. To develop in each student increasing skills in clear, effective, written communication, employing recognized scholarly and professional conventions
5. To enhance further students’ interpersonal and intra personal skills

[Board and photobook]

link: http://issuu.com/dexterng24/docs/kesawan_square.docx?e=14477959%2F10555178

Learning Outcomes

1. Describe the historical development of the main strands of Asian architecture
2. Identify a broad range of issues related to the historical and chronological transitions of Asian architectural history
3. Interpret architectural language in relation to the development of Asian architecture and urbanism based on theme of tradition, modernity and globalization

After this project, I've learnt how to collect data according then document it into a report as a team. I was able to communicate and have a good teamwork with my fellow group mates no matter doing board or the photobook. As our site is overseas in Medan, Indonesia, we have to take care of each other so that we are able to finish this project with everyone healthy back to Malaysia. Besides, I've also learnt about the historical background of Kesahawan Square in Medan and how the building turn out to be variety design.