E-Portfolio by Teoh Jin Wen
Project 2a: The Discovery Centre - Site Analysis
(Group and Individual) We visited the site of Kampung Sungai Haji Dorani to conduct both a macro and micro site analysis. Then, we compiled our findings, created visceral boards, and sketched up initial design approaches. Individually, we also produced 6 A5 drawingsof our personal interpretations and impressions of the site, 3 of them abstract, the other 3 depicting a plan, section, and perspective view of the site. It was a very refreshing experience. Go to Final Product.
Our tutorial group composed of:
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Teoh Jin Wen (myself)
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Chern Xuan Tong
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Khobigka Subbarao
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Pang Xiao Xuan
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Ooi Zi En
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Chan XIn Yie
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Shareeha Binti Shareeq Gunenthiran
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Voon Yit Nan
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Tee Jia Zhe
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Daryl Goh
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Nafisa Nahar Nova
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Chong Hui Wen
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Chew Yun Fay
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Lim Xuan Yun
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Chan Xuan
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Muriithi Mugambi Mwongo
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Yim Zi Xuan
Task 1 - HISTORICAL RESEARCH / TRACINGS OF MACRO SITE
& Task 2 - SITE CONDITIONS & DATA COLLECTION OF MACRO & MICRO SITES
Shortly after arrival at the village, we set off to site A to gather data. People in charge of Task 1 - Lim Xuan Yun, Chew Yun Fay, and Chong Hui Wen) were to record any oral history and gain a first-hand experience of the local culture and history as material to be introduced in video format. The others were to gather the following data:
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Orientation (sun path)
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Vegetation
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Climate (rainfall & temperature)
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Views from & to & through the site
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Site contours + levels
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Noise
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Adjacent street and vehicular traffic patterns
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Human-Cultural
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Pedestrian circulation
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Activities
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Neighboring contexts
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Site measurements and placements
I was primarily tasked with observing and recording the various activities around the site, such as seasonal, positive and negative activities. My groupmates in Task 1 were able to fill in on activities I missed from observation alone.
Task 3 - SITE ANALYSIS OF MACRO & MICRO SITES
After discussing the findings of the site analysis, we prepared site condition and response diagrams. The drafts and sketches were improved upon by Chan Xuan, following the examples shown in Edward T. White's Site Analysis book. Their compilation was then used in Task 5's design approaches.
Task 4a - Workshop - EXTRACTING THE INTANGIBLE & TANGIBLE FACTORS
During our on-site workshop, we split into two teams to create two visceral boards, aimed to translate the tangible and intangible elements we had felt at the site. The draft boards were then developed into final visceral boards for presentation later on.
Task 4b - PERSONAL INTERPRETATION
On the left, are the sketches of the site in plan, section, and perspective view. On the right, are sketches of the abstract elements I felt at site.
Task 5 - SITE RESPONSE & CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
This task relied on the data previously compiled and we were to highlight the site's significant issues, genius loci, and establish a conclusion that would act as a base for our design statement. With Xuan Tong, Zi En, Khobigka and Shareeha, we came up with several design approaches that would best respond to the site. The whole group also came together to build a 1:500 site model, shown below.
Video
This video prepared by the people of Task 1 served as an introduction to the site, including many of its people's customs, cultural activities, and local typology.
Presentation Boards
All previous task outcomes except the individual component were polished, then compiled and presented by Daryl Goh and Muriithi Mwongo.
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Reflection and Learning Outcome
MLO 1
TGC 1.0-
DISCIPLINE SPECIFIC KNOWLEDGE
TGC 1.1. Able to put theories into practice.
We improved upon the last assignment and were more effective in practicing what we learnt previously in site analysis and diagram production to effectively communicate information.
MLO 2
MLO 2 - Document, interpret and analyze the physical conditions of the site and
‘genius loci’ of place and generate design based on the character and
conditions of the site context..
We were able to extract its genius loci from its tangible and intangible aspects, however struggled to translate its wording into visual communication.
TGC 2.0-
LIFELONG LEARNING
TGC 2.2. Locate, extract, synthesize and utilize information effectively.
Also an improvement, where we were more focused in our information extraction, leading to a more directed production in which all members were aware of the flow.
TGC 3.0-
THINKING AND PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS
TGC 3.1. Think critically and creatively.
TGC 3.2. Define and analyze problems to arrive at effective solutions.
This project highlighted my shortcomings in this area. I learned to communicate with peers for solutions far better than my own, and have taken notes.
