Alfred's ArchiVita
User and Context
EXPLORE . ENGAGE . EXPERIENCE
SITE VISIT - PENANG - BOTANICAL GARDEN - NATIONAL PARK - HISTORICAL STREETS
PROJECT 1
FAMOUS PEOPLE, FAMILIAR FACES: DIGRAMMATIC ABSTRACTION
In the beginning of semester 2, we were introduced to explore architecture elements through studying famous architect's works. In a group of 5, we selected Carlo Scarpa, an Italian architect as our research topic. In our research process, we understood how Scarpa using architecture element such as planes and frames to create an amazing spacial quality for the users as well as the form of the building. For example, Brion Cemetery in Treviso, Italy.
DOCUMENTARY VIDEO MAKING
The video on the left was the first task given to show our understandings and research outcomes.
ARCHITECTURE DESIGN STUDIO 2
TECHNICAL DRAWINGS EXERCISE
In task 2, we were needed to produce a set of technical drawings of the particular project from the selected architect. In this session, we choosed The Tubac Residence that located in Arizona, United States of America. The architect who design this retreat house in the desert is an American architect called Rick Joy. Throughout the process of producing the drawings, we discussed and tried to understand every single symbol and line that have a significant meaning. At the same time, the task also provided us an opportunity to enchance our drawing techniques and be prepared for the coming projects.
Exploring Sketches
PHYSICAL MODELS MAKING
In the final stage of project 1, we were required to produce 5 physical models for our final presentation. These models should be abstractive, translating from our understanding of the architecture element used by the architect in the project. A series of study model was made in the early stage of task 3, we did explore the possibility of making a good and meaningful model and tried to find the right one from the wrong one. Throughout the process, we learned how to think out of the box and break the limit. It was a memorable experience.
VERBAL PRESENTATION
In the end of the project, we presented our studies along with drawings and models to our studio tutor. i enjoyed the learning process in the assessment given and I also cherish the valueable knowledge I gained.
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You may inspired by the amazing mother nature, don't you? For the preparation of the following projects, we have had an amazing journey to the most historical town in Malaysia Penang. During the trip, we did creature scanning in Botanical Garden, Penang, which is a energetic and greeny garden with various flora and fauna. Inspiration never stop and come to an end, we explored and engaged ourselve to the nature environment by hiking, experiencing the space and place we went. The most interestin part of the trip was site analysis, we did do the site survey and collect the data to enchance our design, which is the aim of this studio - user and context.
PROJECT 2
BAY WATCH
Certain user and context were given as the design consideration in this project. We were required to design a bay watch tower for a lifeguard on a beach to monitor and observe the condition and situation along the seashore. Throughout the design process, we clearly understand the importance of site analysis as an aid for us to design a better structure to respond the natural surrounding. The design concept of our group is biomimicry. In terms of the form, materials used and space organization, we put the efforts on researching the structure of the plants and flower and translating it into the interesting architecture element in the building. At the same time, we also understood that the user requirements and generate form and space through architecture conceptualisation. All of these were the precious experience I gained in the project. Last but not least, I would like to thank Nicole Lim as a good partner in the project.
TRANSLATION OF INSPIRATIONS
PHOTOS | DRAWINGS | PHYSICAL 3D MODELS
Alfred's
Nicole's
FINAL PROJECT RETREAT HOUSE
DESIGN PROCESS
In the final project, we were required to design a retreat house for the same user in project 2 individually. The design process was quite interesting and it gave us a chance to explore more as well as pushed us further and beyond ourselve. With the careful consideration of every single detail in the retreat, for example, spacial qualities in each space, space organization, form and funtion of building as well as user characteristics, I understand how to use the beauty of architecture to solve the difficulties we faced and strike a balance between aesthetic and practicality. Meanwhile, I also understand that the funtions and essential role of study models in a design process, it helps us to visualize the imaginations and enhance our design. The process was amazing and I really enjoyed myself.
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The design of the retreat is base on the basic requirements and the characteristics of the coast guards of keracut beach. Their low profile personality and humble attitude are reflected through the concept of blend in to nature. The location selected for the retreat is surrounded by beach forest and is far from seashore to avoid attention and harrassments of the beach users. Shading created by the trees amazingly provided interesting shadow to the retreat and changes differently in different time.
The space organization of the retreat is simple and unique. Space bonds people together is the main idea. A large living area without any enclosed wall is a design to blur the baondary between nature and tructure itself. Sharing space is applied in every spaces such as sharing bedroom. The form of the retreat follows the function of the space,The house-like look is to create constrast between eye catching bay watch tower and the retreat. The form also delivers a home stay feeling and not overpowering than the surrounding context. To enchance the concept of extend the woods, timber is chosen as the main material for construction.
DESIGN INTENTION
Presentation Boards
Design Journal
Alfred Lee Xue Chyi's Architecture Study e-Portfolio | Taylor's University
