Theories of Asian Architecture (ARC60704)
Tutor: Mr. Koh Jing Hao
Project 1 | Reading the Contexts of Traditional Streets
In this assignment, we were required to research and analyze the relationship between the architecture of a specific traditional street in Malaysia and its social, cultural and intellectual context besides identifying the important "lexicons" of the street through its physical and non-physical elements. In this context, I've chosen Medan Pasar, which located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur as my site for the research.
Reflection
Upon completion of this assignment, I was able to appreciate the distinctive historical features of Medan Pasar by distinguishing both its tangible and intangible contexts through a virtual site visit. Subsequently, I was able to interpret its place identity as well as its established meaning which has brought my attention to the importance of preserving our traditional streets which hold a unique identity to our country. In my context, it is a pity to see the glory of Medan Pasar slowly fading away through the passage of time due to the lack of efforts in the preservation of the heritage but I am thankful and glad to have the opportunity to learn about it. As I've never been to Medan Pasar before, it is a pity to not be able to visit it due to the pandemic but I hope to have a physical tour there sometime in the future.
Assignment : Infographic Poster
In this assignment, we are required to create an infographic poster to demonstrate our understanding in vernacular and traditional architecture based on the lectures we have attended. In this context, I've chosen Traditional Chinese Architecture as my topic of study. We were to collect, study and evaluate the information provided for us in the lectures and subsequently present our study through the assembly of text and illustration in a well-designed manner.
Reflection
From this assignment, I've learnt to compile, organize and present my study of the historical development of vernacular Chinese architecture to its native context in an infographic manner. Upon completion, I have found clarity on the topic at hand. Besides, I also had fun designing the overall layout. It is not easy to plan and organize everything while exhibiting the information effectively. Though mine is not perfect, it serves a good experience for me to learn more in designing layouts.
Final Outcome
Project 2 | Research in Asian Architecture
In this assignment, we are required to to form a group of seven, identify significant issues from our observations acquired from Project 1 and subsequently extend our research before defining a specific scope of study. During our research and discussions among our group members, we were to generate a clear understanding on tradition, modernity and globalization in the Asian architectural context to which we have chosen Petaling Street. Findings of our research will then be compiled in a research poster and demonstrated in the video presentation.
Research Poster
Presentation video
Presentation slides
Reflection
Upon completion of this assignment, I've learnt the methods of writing a topic proposal as well as designing a research poster with specific requirements, for instance to include abstract writing, methodology, research findings and so on. As this is a group assignment, I find that participation of every group members is crucial and of paramount importance in determining the success of project completion. I am grateful to have very competent group mates who have tried their best and helped each other out whenever we needed. Through the delegation of tasks and the cooperation of group mates, we had a smooth progress and completed everything on time. I am also thankful for our tutor, Mr. Koh who have guided us along the way, especially during the writing part as it's our first time constructing a proper research framework. Overall, I've learnt a lot whether that be in terms of researching as well as communicating research findings through expressive and effective verbal communication.