Project 1
Introduction
The assessments for this module consist of two components. Based on the given topics, the Case Study component requires students to watch pre-recorded lectures to facilitate their group discussion in class. Students are required to present their findings in the form of video presentation. For some topics, students are required to write an essay.
Objectives of Project
1. To introduce students to activities which culminate in the production of the study; collection, indexing and evaluation of information; analysis of information; compilation and organization of study; writing of study; assembly of illustration and text; design of layout; binding and presentation.
Learning Outcomes of this Project
1. Understand the key concepts of topics assigned in the weekly lecture.
2. Produce, a video presentation and in writing, a critical interpretation of the assigned topics.
Essay
Introduction
Every streets in a city has its own unique characteristics, showing the sociocultural and economical functions of the local community. Historic streets are usually signified by its settings to reflect the physical evidence of the past. These streets serve as containers of social memory which help to recall historical events or stories of the local community. Inhabitants of the historic streets formed the contexts of the street, reflecting their distinctive cultural heritage, trades and way of life. However the characteristics of such streets may change due to aggressive urban development or redevelopment. The significant values of historical streets are undermined if such developments are executed without preserving the heritage of the streets, which in turn will greatly affect the livelihood of the local community.
This project involves the study of historic streets in an Asian city to understand the historical and social aspects of a city by examining the development of tradition, modernization and globalization of historic streets. Students will produce an essay to reflect their understanding of the above. This shall help students to evaluate the impacts brought by modernity and globalization on the local heritage.
Working in a group of 6-7, students are required to identify ONE historic street in an Asian city. Students are encouraged to organise a site visit to study the contexts of the street (with specific defined boundary) and conduct literature review to gather information of the selected street to understand its history, sociocultural conditions, traditional trades, significant architecture and important events in the past. You may compare your observations with the street’s original conditions to highlight how new development or redevelopment has changed the contexts of the street. You could also highlight any relevant issues of heritage conservation if applicable.
Findings are presented in an essay with NOT MORE than 2000 words with proper academic writing format.
Project 2
Introduction
The Contextual Architecture Study project requires students to analyse how the selected architectural design respond to its contexts. Findings from the study is presented in the form of A2 presentation visual.
Objectives of Project
To integrate architectural design and research through a specific case study, supporting students’ design through extensive research within the framework of Contextual Architecture in Asia.
Learning Outcomes of this Project
Identify significant elements of Contextual Architecture through investigation on the selected building.
Tasks - Methodology
You are to identify a building in Asia in a sub-urban context which you intent to investigate through observation and readings on contemporary Contextual Architecture practices and issues in Asia.
Based on the selected building, conduct analysis on its Contextual Architecture elements which may include but not limited to (refer Appendix A for description):
Space organization and access hierarchy
Sky line, compression and height
Features related to the form of the building
Building material and systems
Image making elements
Dimensions of history and social memories
You need to show findings and analysis in the form of a printed A2 presentation visual, with appropriate visual communication design and clarity of information.
