Tang Kar Jun
Architect in the Process
Design Studio 3
This studio emphasizes on the poetics of place and the experiential qualities of space in architecture. In the subject, we are introduced to, firstly, an exploration of spatial typologies and poetics in architecture; and secondly, the concept of neighborhood and community. In their preliminary design work, we engage with studies and design of different spatial typologies (i.e. linear, spiral, spine, centric, etc) for a simple memorial space which explores the idea of architectural tectonics and experiences. Subsequently, the major project involves the design of a small scale community building (typically a Visitor Interpretive Centre) in the open landscape/suburban condition which engages with the spirit of place inherent within the site, the site topography, history and socio-cultural events. The design work explores the plan-section integration to achieve architectural form that is tectonically expressive, functional and responsive to its site.
The module objectives are:
1. To develop awareness of a wider place, a genius loci (town, countryside, coast), and the design response towards the place
2. To emphasize the importance of site and program in architectural design.
3. To introduce different spatial typologies in architectural design (spatial organization and relationships).
4. To emphasize the importance of section in the design of architectural space.
PROJECT 1a: PRECEDENT STUDIES: Analysing spatial poetics & spatial typologies in architecture
Project 1a requires us to identify and analyze spatial order and spatial poetics through precedent studies. The main aim is to analyse 2 selected architectural precedents. The analysis of the design approach will inform preceding designs for our remaining semester. The precedent chosen must be PRE-MODERN MOVEMENT, and one precedent must be CONTEMPORARY. Also, one precedent must be LINEAR, and the other CONCENTRIC. The analysis will be recorded on A3 sheets of butter paper.
The precedent study should provide the following analysis:
SPATIAL TYPOLOGIES
1. State and describe the spatial typologies applied in the design
2. Explain how the spaces are organised and ordered
3. Explain how the typologies ordered the use of the design
SPATIAL POETICS
1. What is the design considerations employed to explore spatial poetry/poetics/experiences?
2. How are the spaces articulated in terms of the poetics, sensuality and tactility of architectural spaces? Flow of experience (identify key circulation/journey). Using at least 5 images/perspective that illustrate poetics of space, analyse how the experiential space is created: Engagement with senses; Manipulation of light and its effects on space (natural & artificial); Texture and materiality; Scale and proportion of spaces etc
3. Plan-Section relationship. Co-relate the plan to one of the most interesting section of our selected building. Study the section and analyse how it is designed. Comment on the relationship between inside/outside, volumes and scale of space, variation and hierarchy of spaces.
PROJECT 1b: "Journey of the 5 senses" Memorial
Project 1b is a continuation of the previous project and requires the design strategies of Project 1a. By using the design from the first project, create 2 memorials to follow the theme "Journey of the 5 senses".
1. Read the given poetry and visualise it from an architectural viewpoint.
2. Translate the poetry into a walk by using 2 contrasting spatial typologies.
3. Via white card or digital modelling, produce study models for each spatial typology.
4. Based on the sketch design, develop plans and sections (at an appropriate scale depending on your design scheme) with considerations of human scale, light/shadow, materials/texture. Section is to be drawn using pencil on butter paper.
Althoughh we didnt score high on this project, however we learnt much from it. By understanding the core elements of the design strategy, we have learnt to apply them into the memorial. By learning from our mistakes, we will improve on our next project .
 Site model |  Perspective view |  Top view |
|---|---|---|
 Underground view |  Aboveground view |
 Perspective view |  Front view |  Back view |
|---|
PROJECT 2: GENIUS LOCI: Site analysis & Concept development
Project 2 had us take a trip to Bujang Valley for our site visit. It was a lot of fun experiencing artifacts and visiting VICs. That said, the true motive of the site visit is for us to learn site analysis and the derivation of it. The project is divided into 2 parts:
Group work: Site Analysis
Individual work: Personal Interpretation & Concept Development
Historical research: Historical tracings of the MACRO site Mapping a site over a series of significant stages in the course of its history provides a description of the life and memory of a place. They can provide inspiration for a contemporary idea that connects directly with past archaeology/memory/history of the site.
Conduct a historical research on the place. Data could be in the form of literature (published/unpublished), old photographs, maps/plans etc.
Individually, produce our personal interpretation of the MACRO site in the form of sketches. The personal interpretations of the overall character of the site will inform subsequent design decisions, and it is important to record these honestly and immediately.
 board 1.jpg |  board 2.jpg |  board 3.jpg |
|---|---|---|
 model |  model |
PROJECT 3: Visitor Interpretive Centre [VIC]
Project 1 introduced and explored the formal and poetic articulation of architecture in a site-less condition. Project 2 established a Design Concept as a driver for architectural development. In Project 3, the design brief calls for an architectural response to design AN INTERPRETIVE CENTRE emphasising a strong engagement and relationship to the site, spatial experiences and programmatic requirements.
The interpretive centre will serve two purposes:
-
To provide a physical point of reference with visual significance that keeps alive the culture/history/memory/essence of the site
-
To provide accommodation to house and display relevant material and interpretive material for public access and information.
Solutions relying heavily on landscape are encouraged. Visitors should be inspired and informed in ways that somehow express the spirit of the place (genius loci).
The Design Brief:
Total floor area: 450sqm (covered internal and external spaces), 2 storeys
ROOM REQUIREMENTS for the space are as follows:
Reception
Foyer / Public gathering space
Display / Exhibition / Gallery space
Book / Souvenir shop
M&E / Utilities space(s)
Office
Toilets
Pantry / cafeteria
Storage
1 MISC Space to be defined by designer
(10 rooms / spaces in total)
 board cover.jpg |  board site 3d pics.jpg |  board elevations.jpg |
|---|---|---|
 board floorplans-sections.jpg |