Architectural Design III

Architectural Design 3 focused on exploring the poetic spatial journey and connecting spaces with context and site through the strategic use of modifying elements and narrative. Emphasizing a departure from purely functional considerations, the module encouraged a deeper exploration of the emotional and experiential dimensions of architectural spaces. Students engaged in crafting spaces as narratives, utilizing modifying elements to create dynamic and adaptive environments. The integration of context and site was paramount, with an emphasis on harmonizing design with the cultural, historical, and social aspects of the location. The culminating design project provided a hands-on opportunity to synthesize these principles, reinforcing the notion that architecture is not just about physical spaces but about crafting meaningful stories and experiences for the inhabitants. As I progress in my architectural journey, these insights will undoubtedly shape my approach, fostering a holistic and narrative-driven perspective in creating spaces that resonate on multiple levels.

Project 1: ‘The Poetic Journey (Spatial Translations)

The focus of Project 1 is proposing a spatial journey,
with key consideration of spatial poetics in architecture relating to the given subject matter. With an analysis of non-physical precedent studies per student to analyze on spatial poetics in architecture, students are required to identify and explain different ‘modifying elements’ in architecture and the different types of poetic spaces (to create a catalogue of spaces), and how they inform spatial use and experience. Subsequently, students to create a spatial expressions journey of different spatial qualities which impact on the uses and experiential conditions of space.

Project 2A: The Discovery Center (Genius Loci)

The concluding project in this module tasks students with individually investigating the architectural response within the specified context, considering both the site dynamics and programmatic requirements for a compact public building designated as the visitor discovery center for a particular location. The primary objective of this structure is to serve as a platform for exhibiting interpretive materials related to the given context or place, providing visitors with an immersive learning experience. The design approach places significant emphasis on integrating site features, programmatic necessities, and spatial poetics to create a cohesive and meaningful architectural solution. The project unfolds in key phases, beginning with Site Analysis, Site Response, and Design Concept, where students demonstrate their ability to discern and interpret site characteristics and responses, ultimately translating them into a cohesive and generative design concept.

Project 2B: The Discovery Center (Final Presentation)

For the final task of this course, students will design a discovery center for Kampung Morten, Malacca. After Project 2A, students head into the design process which emphasizes the integration of site features, programmatic necessities, and spatial poetics to create a coherent and meaningful architectural solution. The project unfolds through key milestones, starting with Site Analysis, Site Response, and Design Concept, showcasing the students' ability to interpret site characteristics. It further progresses to Interims & Final Presentation, where students synthesize site, program, and poetics, effectively communicating their design concepts through drawings.

Reflection:

Embarking on the series of design projects throughout this module has been a transformative and enriching experience that has significantly shaped my understanding and approach to architecture. The exploration of the poetic spatial journey in Architectural Design 3, with a focus on modifying elements and narrative, provided a unique lens through which to view the built environment. This thematic emphasis seamlessly transitioned into the final project, where the challenge was to individually conceive a small public building as the visitor discovery center of a specific site. Navigating through milestones such as Site Analysis, Site Response, Design Concept, and Interims & Final Presentation, each phase contributed to a comprehensive understanding of the intricate interplay between site features, programmatic needs, and spatial poetics. These projects collectively reinforced the importance of not only creating aesthetically pleasing spaces but also imbuing them with narrative depth, adaptability, and a purposeful connection to their surroundings. As I reflect on this module, I am equipped with a holistic design thinking approach that considers functionality, aesthetics, and the emotional resonance of spaces, laying a robust foundation for my future endeavors in the field of architecture.