Architecture models exhibition by DASD Architectural Studio Design III students

From left: Sheng Onn, Jacky Soo, Jasmine, Goh, Ivan Soh, Kee, Hang, Chan, Poh, How, Wan Jing and Zhi Heng with their projects

Forty Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science (LKC FES) Department of Architecture and Sustainable Design (DASD) students from Architectural Studio Design III Session 202301, showcased their architecture models on the 6th floor of KB Block, UTAR Sungai Long Campus, from 19 to 27 June 2023. The exhibition displayed intricate models and visually stunning creations that provided the visitors an opportunity to learn and gain insights into the world of architecture.

Moreover, the projects showcased by the students aimed to address the challenges posed by a modern, consumer-driven society, where excessive production and consumption have resulted in a surplus of consumer items in developed countries. The projects also aimed to promote a sustainable lifestyle that encourages individuals to consume based on their needs, rather than their desires, thus aligning with the values of the new generation in the 21^st century.

The 40 students consisted of Aw Ee Fang, Beatrice Yong Meng Hui, Chan Zheng Han, Chong Jasmine, Chong Ming Fen, Chong Sheng Onn, Chong Wen Zhe, Foo Chong Chian, Goh Shien Hung, Hang Wei Ming, How Zheng Wu, Hu Jia Wei, Ivan Soh Ter Yik, Jacky Soo Li Heng, John Siow Sheng Hui, Kee Jia Ke, Kok Boon Chen, Liew Yin Ping, Lim Wan Jing, Lim Zhi Heng, Long Chee Seng, Low Li Xuan, Mohammed Abdul Aleem, Ng Lok Yin, Ng Zi Wei, Ngoi Xue Kei, Ong Joey, Poh Yen Zi, Seah Ewe Yi, Sophia Lee Si Jie, Syahmerlyn binti Hassan, Tai Suk Ee, Tan Yi Siew, Tang Ying Hui, B. Thurka, Tiviyaa Ganesan, Wong Jun Xiang, Yap Angel, Yau Lye Shiuen, and Yee Kae Venn.

Mentoring the students were LKC FES academics Ar Liaw Kok Chuan, Ts Yeow Kah Niam and Ar Tan Yung Ren.

The students were required to conduct a comprehensive site analysis of the given location in Tanjung Sepat, whereby they thoroughly examined the site context, including its surroundings, habitats, and orientation; delved beneath the surface of the site to draw inspiration from its inherent characteristics and spirits for the design; and document the research findings and outcomes before starting to build their projects.

The design requirements included, knowledge hub to accommodate approximately 30 individuals; mini exhibition space with a capacity of 30 people to showcase local agro farm products; series of private meeting rooms and a multipurpose hall capable of seating 100 people; administration centre with a capacity for around 10 people; loading and unloading bay with adequate storage spaces; green spaces and natural lighting to enhance sustainability; and parking capacity for 30 cars and two full-size coaches or buses.

The students also conducted in-depth research on ergonomic and anthropometric to ensure that the designed spaces can cater to users' physical and mental requirements; and included auxiliary spaces such as an outdoor garden, water feature, and vegetation landscapes to enhance the design; and a sizeable café, souvenir shop, as well as bathroom facilities.

Chan Zheng Han explicated, “Model making is not just creating sculpture or piece of art, but is to present the proportion and scale of the building and space. From the architecture model, we could easily understand the proportion and scale of the building with human figure, and the space experience. Although software could create better 3D modelling and VR spectacular could enable viewer to experience the virtual interior spaces; however, physical model will create better user experience and visual to the viewers.”

Goh Shien Hung concurred, “This semester offered a whole different experience compared to previous semesters. Lectures, focusing on 'articulations’ and ‘Bauhaus tick', have provided an environment where we had to rethink our approach to architecture. Though it is challenging, but it is definitely exciting to learn. Creating models with painstaking details while constantly rethinking about my design was an interesting and noteworthy process.”

Denise Yau Lye Shuen shared, “I learnt to design spaces in terms to provide better experiences, and I have been able to analyse buildings more differently in terms of architecture.”

B. Thurka said, “Despite the challenges, seeing the outcome made me feel accomplished. It gives me the willpower to keep going. Specifically, in this Studio 3, we had so much fun throughout our learning process because there were so many site visitations, which gave us lots of new experiences and knowledge. This fun learning method works well for me as I love exploring new places. By doing Project 1, Project 2, and Project 3, I have acquired many new model-making skills. Thanks to the lecturers for guiding me throughout this semester.”

Kee Jia Ke noted, “At first, I really struggled in project 1 as I still could not understand the ‘venustas’, which is the beauty and attractive appearance of the building form. However, after the lectures from Ar Liaw and the tutors, I was able to get back on track and complete my projects 2 & 3 effortlessly. Site visits allows us to experience the beauty of architecture on site, which make the learning process interesting.”

Lim Wan Jing said “I thoroughly enjoyed the Design Studio 3 course, which provided me with valuable experience in physical model making, enhanced my manual sketching skills, and deepened my knowledge of designing architectural elements such as roofs, walls, and floors. The site visits were particularly insightful, offering real world context for our design decisions. I appreciate the collaborative environment and the lecturer's guidance throughout the course.”