Architectural Studio 2
Project 1 :
Famous People, Familiar Faces, Diagrammatic Abstraction
“The design process can be thought of as a series of transformations going from uncertainty towards information. The successive stages of the process are usually registered by some kind of graphic model. In the final stage of the design process, designers use highly formalized graphic languages as a tool to register the information that would facilitate the communication process.” Juan Pablo Bonta
Objectives & Learning Outcomes
The objectives of this assignment are as follows:
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To investigate and to explore how spaces are created from the making of architectural elements: architectonics.- solid, planes, lines and frames. Upon completion of the project student should be able to achieve a level of understanding on the works assigned and will be able to apply the idea and concept to their project later.
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The idea of using pure and diagrammatic models to express the architectural idea would also be in cooperated into this assignment.
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Ability to identify master architects and their works
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Understanding basic architectural compositions of solids, planes, lines and frames.
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Ability to ‘diagram’ and analyse architectural work of selected architect
Project 2a:
Introduction to Site Analysis + Observation Deck
1. Introduction to Site Analysis In group of 2, conduct site analysis of the physical context within the overall site.. Collect data and record on the following using physical maps/diagrams:
Site plan (Site section, Site Boundaries, North Point, ContoursExisting Structure (Significant Architectural Language/Feature , Adjacent building/structure building to remain/demolish)
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Landscape (Natural features, Soil Condition, Surface Drainage, Existing vegetation)
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Climatic Studies (Sun path, wind direction, rain)
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Circulation pattern (pedestrian, vehicular)
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Views and Vistas (Panoramic /spot in, out, approaching)
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Activities (category -dry/wet, zoning, noise)
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Case Studies (Grand Canyon Skywalk, Arizona + Pinohuacho observation deck, Chile)
2. Observation Deck @ Cape Rachado In group of 2, you are to design an Observation Deck (with a maximum volume of 30m3 ) for the purpose of observing the views. It shall include other activity(s) such as meditation, relaxation, etc. in which furniture and equipment must fit and be incorporated into the design. This structure should correspond to the site that you have chosen. Adequate access, circulation and fenestration are mandatory
Objectives & Learning Outcomes
The aim of this project is to generate structure, form and space through architectural conceptualisation (which you are required to choose 2 ‘keywords’ from project 1), with the emphasis on the user requirement, ergonomics and site responding to develop an architectural proposition. Students will be shown the importance of using the art of crafting and making: drawing(s) and model(s) as a critical design tool as part of the design process.
Project 2b : Retreat House
On your own, you are to further develop your project 2a into a retreat house at Cape Rachado, Port Dickson. A retreat house denotes ‘A place affording peace, quiet, privacy and security’ ….. where its occupant(s) would reside for a short period of time. This retreat house must function as habitable architectural spaces to enable the activity associated with living, dining, showering, cooking, storage and such within the built up space of 150 m2 . The relationship between your design and the context is also important in making the retreat unique to its landscape and activity.
Objectives & Learning Outcomes
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To introduce the notions of concepts, program and process in architectural design
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To introduce students’ to the understanding of user specific design requirements
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To introduce the notions of space, form and function in architectural design
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To introduce awareness of site specific design and the process of site analysis
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Interpret and analyse simple site context
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Interpret and analyse client’s character and needs in relation to the design of a small building
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Design a simple building type that meets user requirements and respect site context that balances both internal (architectural spaces/layout/circulation) and external (aesthetics and forms) design values
Communication skill
Interpersonal skills
Lifelong learning
Thinking and problem solving skills