
ARCHITECTURE DESIGN STUDIO 3
(ARC 2118)
Module Synopsis
This studio emphasizes on the poetics of place and the experiential qualities of space in architecture. In the subject, students 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, students 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.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
1. Identify and explain different spatial types in architecture, and how they inform spatial use and experience
2. Create tectonic expressions of different spatial typologies which impact on the uses and experiential conditions of space
3. Generate design through conscious consideration of section-plan relationship with considerations of human scale, natural light, materiality and textures
4. Produce site analysis which document, interpret and analyze the physical conditions of the site and ‘genius loci’ of place and generate design based on the unique character and conditions of the site context
5. Design and present a small scale community building which responds to the site (site topography, history and socio-cultural events), a functional programme and users’ experiences
Project 1
Memorials themed ‘Journey of the 5 senses’
Introduction
Project 1 is an introductory project by which you are required to explore issues of spatial typologies and poetics through simple design exercises. Working in groups of 4-5 students, you are to propose 2 schemes for a Memorial themed ‘journey for the 5 senses’. You are required to design the Memorials in the form of semi-open architecture by using two contrasting spatial types of your choice. There is no specific site for this design work. The story of your Memorial should translate the narrative of events given by your tutor, and it should be informed by precedents studies.
Learning Outcome
1. Identify and explain different spatial types in architecture, and how they inform spatial use and experience
2. Identify and analyze case studies to inform the design project
3. Create tectonic expressions of different spatial typologies which impact on the uses and experiential conditions of space
4. Generate design through conscious consideration of section-plan relationship with considerations of human scale, natural light, materiality and textures
5. Produce drawings (both 2D and 3D), modelling and verbal presentation to communicate and visualize architectural design and ideas.




Reflection
Through this project, I have learn to understand th case study that i have done and the ability to generate idea and design through various conscious consideration.
Project 2
GENIUS LOCI: Site Analysis & Concept Development
Introduction
The first assignment for Project 2 requires an analysis of the site context as a starting point. It is a fundamental need for any design project as it will suggest a series of parameters to suggest architectural solution, one that will be appropriate to the place and its meaning, and contributes to its context. The site needs to be understood, in both intuitive and personal ways, as well as quantitative and measured means. Techniques to record and understand the site are varied, from physical surveys to qualitative aspects of experience and personal interpretation of the place.
Learning Outcome
- Produce site analysis which document, interpret and analyze the site context and the ‘genius loci’ of place.
- Produce a concept design for a Visitor Interpretive Centre based on the site analysis conclusions.




Reflection
Learned to produce a site analysis including macro and micro. Has the ability to produce a concept design for a VIC based on the site analysis that me and my groupmate had done.
Project 3
GENIUS LOCI: VISITOR INTERPRETIVE CENTRE (VIC)
Introduction
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.
Learning Outcome
1. Generate design based on the unique character and conditions of the site context
2. Generate design through conscious consideration of section-plan relationship with considerations of human scale, natural light, materials/texture
3. Design a small scale community building which response to the site (site topography, history and socio-cultural events), functional program and users’ experiences
4. Produce drawings (both 2D and 3D), modelling and verbal presentation to communicate and visualize architectural design and ideas.
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Reflection
My first time doing organic sturcture for my design studio. understand the important of designing a VIC according to the site and fullfill the requirement when designing the building.