Design Studio I

Project 1 : Representing myself

We were to make an abstract art piece that represents ourself. By selecting one of the Pokemon characters, we had to choose which one of them represents us the most.

I choose Oshawott for its cute demeanor but highly strong skills and power in battle. The Oshawott is an otter-samurai hybrid Pokemon, with the scallop on its tummy.

In martial arts, a perfect kick is when the kick is 180 degrees above. A straight kick to the top. As a martial art enthusiast, I felt that the fan-like form with less than a 180 degree stance describes the imperfection of myself.

The cage-like structure on top shows the defensive side of myself as well. During this time, it was a very hard time for me. Adapting to a whole new realm of subjectivity and architecture was tough for me to understand, so I was mostly defensive during this period, avoiding social contact whenever I could.

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Project 2 : Small Shelter

In a team of 3, we were to make a shelter that can fit 3 people. The shelter had to be easily dismantled and assembled again and made out of recyclable materials.

Our tent can fit approximately three people

The opening of the tent can fit a crouching or sitting human. Perfect for conversations outside the tent with fellow campers.

Presentation Day!

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Project 3: Space for self

We were instructed to design a dream space between two walls of a building with the interior volume inside.

Initially I planned to use two cylindrical shapes to show my concept of bringing positive and negative energy to a harmonious phase. The left space will be fully closed to give it a dark feeling whereas the right space will be fully open and receives maximum light as the sun rises.

Then I have explored my designs and finalized with the design below :

Setting : Normal everyday life in Malaysia

Purpose : As a place to me to do my favourite things that are not related to work (for example, living the architect life)

This is a space for me to do my trainings using equipment and space practically adequate for one person. The swimming pool and roof top is my positive space where I enjoy doing my activities like yoga/pilates/taichi and swimming. The negative space is where I train and release my negative energy through vigorous exercises.

Interior of 'negative' space

Arrangement of boards and model for final presentation.

REFLECTION:

Semester 1 was the hardest time for me.. The art of subjectivity and justifications was very new to me compared to my A-level times. It was also demotivating to hear negative remarks from the crits but soon after I realised that in architecture, this would be a norm. So I told myself "It's best to make mistakes earlier in your degree instead of your final year."

So here's to more challenges and mistakes to shape a better version of myself !