Tunnel of Life

PAASWE 2018 saw 23 institutions taking part in the competition

First-year Architecture students displayed the life stages of a human in three dimensions through an unconventional tunnel construction called “Decon(life)” at the 13th Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) Annual Architecture Student Works Exhibition 2018 (PAASWE 2018) from 17 October 2018 until 21 October 2018 at 1Utama Shopping Centre, Petaling Jaya.

According to the guidelines prescribed by PAM, each participating institution was to design a tunnel that showcases the participating students’ architectural works with the given specification. The students were also required to use materials such as Bamboo, Z purlin, PVC gutter and metal decks which were sponsored by the Global Innovation & Entrepreneurship Foundation (GIEF) and Thung Hing Group.

The tunnel had 42 students working together during their trimester break to make it a reality. The whole structure was dismantled before transporting it to 1 Utama Shopping Centre. At the location, the team spent almost eight hours to install the tunnel. At the end of the project, the team learnt the process of building a concept and getting the proposal approved by the advisors. They also learnt to work in a team and handle a large group. 

The Decon(life) outer look; the tunnel represents life starting from an infant to adulthood

The first part of the tunnel has a firm base which represents the childhood stage; very dependent and need to be supported by parents and people around

First-year student project on display; instead of using bamboo as what it is, the team maximised it by using smaller pieces to weave them, allowing a more organic structure with curves

Dilemma and conflicts during the second stage of life, adolescence, are reflected along the tunnel with a shaky and squeaky floor 

Second-year student project on display

The tunnel grew taller and wider with a firm base to represent adulthood that offers a wide range of opportunity, perspectives and responsibilities

 Some green foliage decorations compliment the organic concept and the theme of life

Due to constraints and circumstances, the design and concept had to be amended, diverging from the original plan

Year-three student project displayed at the end of the tunnel

Chang Jing Mei (left) and Chor Zhao Gen displaying the information brochure for visitors 

The team behind the award-winning project

With the exquisite and unique design, the team managed to garner two awards, namely Gold for Best Booth Award and Favourite Booth by Sponsor (GIEF) for the tunnel design. For more information about the awards click here.