Theories of Architecture and Urbanism Project 1 Synopsis: Interpreting Architecture

Learning Outcomes

1. Describe the theoretical issues related to design through study of architecture and urbanism and its related studies
2. Relate architectural theories to contemporary architecture and urban forms 

In a group of 5, we are required to read a text within an hour and write a synopsis to explain and discuss the content and theories of the text. We present our thoughts and interpretation of the text to other groups and tutor. We are able to gather ideas and opinion from every group members within a short time and present it base on our discussion. Examples of buildings or cities further explain the theories that we learnt in the texts.

Theories of Architecture and Urbanism Project 2 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 

After interviewing Ar. Chan Mun Inn, we studied about his childhood, education and working experiences, which may influence the theories and style of his designs. The diagram is stated the evidence and influences of the theory on architecture of Ar. Chan Mun Inn.

There are mainly 3 external factors that influence his building design, which are climate, users and his theory - urbanism. I had selected the 38 Mews House as a reference to study and discuss about his theory on architecture. From the drawings and diagrams, his design theories are proved.

Shape Grammar Project 2 Shape Grammar of Taylor’s Kayak Club

Learning Outcomes

1. Produce new designs using shape grammar method from the student’s own set of rules. 

Take Taylor's Lakeside as the site, a building for Kayak Club is designed with a reception area, store room, changing room, office and cafe. Using 5 shape rules, 6 designs are creates according to different shape rules. One of the designs is further developed with spaces and facade.

Shape Grammar Project 1 Shape Grammar Inspired by Nature and Surrounding

Learning Outcomes
1. To Identify and describe the process to analyse existing designs using shape grammar methods 

In a group of 3, we decided to use the snowflake and tyre rim texture as the inspiration of our shape rules. Using the same shape rules with our inspiration, 3 shapes of each inspiration is designed. This project helps us to develop the form of the buildings with nature inspiration.

Building Technology 1 Project 2 Industrialised Building System

Learning Outcomes

1. Identify and collect relevant research data.
2. Evaluate existing construction system and detailing of the selected project.
3. Critique issues pertaining to energy efficiency, embodied energy as well as ecological impact. 

4. Critique issues pertaining to construction principles, materials, techniques, process of assembly and detailing.

We analysed the wall, floor and roof system of the Industrialised Building System of Taylor's University Lakeside Campus. We studied the components and connection methods of each system to apply it to the apartment we chosen. 

After studied the theories of the IBS, we are required to build a model of the apartment to further develop our knowledge of the systems. Some important components and connection methods are blowed up with a larger scale and real materials, such as concrete and reinforcement bars, to clarify the details of the apartment.

Building Technology 1 Project 1 Design Modification & Documentation

Learning Outcomes

1. Identify and collect relevant research data.

2. Explain a set of architectural and structural documentation.

3. Relate basic structural elements and structural principles in construction.

4. Analyse and document construction methods and materials 

This project modified the design of my Design Studio 4's building (community centre). Working drawings are required with the right scale and specifications. Detail drawings are important to show the study of building construction of floor, wall and roof system. The connection methods are the main thing to learn to connect the structures of the building together. 

Building Science 2 Project 2 Integration with Design Studio 5

Learning Outcomes
1. Produce site analysis which document, interpret and analyze the site context in relation to lighting and acoustics.
2. Identify and analyze functional needs through case studies to inform of lighting and acoustics. 

To have a better spacial experience, lighting and acoustic quality are very important to create comfortable environment. The light contours help to analyse the light quality of the space to balance the lighting condition throughout the space. Renderings of interior spaces helps to visualise the spatial quality of the food market. 

After analyse the sound source around and within the food market, some specific building materials are apply to absorb the noices throughout the spaces. The sound contour analysed the sound condition of the space to control the noice absorption and reverberation time.

Building Science 2 Project 1 Lighting& Acoustic Performance Evaluation and Design

Learning Outcomes

1. Able to produce a complete documentation on analysis of space in relation to lighting requirement eg. natural and artificial lighting. (Pictures, sketches and drawing) and analysis of factors which effects the lighting design of a space.

2. Explore and apply understanding of building physic eg. Lighting towards building / construction technology and building materials on existing building projects.

3. Able to evaluate and explore the improvisation by using current material and technology in relevance to present construction industry

4. Basic understanding and analysis of lighting layout and arrangements by using certain methods or calculations eg. Lumen method and PSALI.

5. Basic understanding and analysis of acoustic design layout and arrangements by using certain methods or calculations eg. Reverberation time and sound transmission coefficient. 

We have visited Milk and Butter Restaurant, Bangsar, to study the lighting and acoustic condition of the restaurant. In a group of 6, we produced a report of lighting and acoustic analysis. In the lighting analysis, we measured the lighting condition using the lux meter at the height of 1m and 1.5m. Measurements will be taken at each points of the grid to make sure that data of all parts of the restaurant is being taken. The sound level of Milk and Butter Restaurant is measured using Sound Level Meter at two different heights as well, which are 1.0m and 1.5m. 

 

A lab experiment is also conducted to study types of light bulbs and the sound absorption of different materials.

Design Studio 5 Project 2 Final Project

Learning Outcomes
1. Produce a design outcome for an urban contemporary market-place is site-specific through its formal, cultural, legislative, structural and environmental design responses.
2. Apply basic knowledge of urban architectural typologies, infill design strategies and market-place programming.
3. Demonstrate fundamental knowledge and awareness of design codes and regulations.
4. Design within the constraints of feasibility and in response to basic design codes and statutory requirements.
5. Utilise study models, diagramming, mapping, orthographic plan-section and elevational studies to explore and resolve relevant spatial, structural, functional and environmental issues in the design development phase.
6. Produce drawings (both 2D and 3D), models and presentations to verbally and visually communicate architectural ideas and scheme. 

After visited and analysed the site, Jalan Tun HS Lee, a market is designed for workers and students around the site. In site B, which is beside RHB bank and old shophouses, traffic and pedestrian are more congregated and crowded. The food market is designed to also activate the back lane with the concept of diversity and street food market. There are variety of food market, such as fruit and vegetable market, artisan market, food court, bar and restaurant.

To have a better 3D vision of the site and model, various study models are made to study the form and massing strategy of the food market.