PROJECT 1 : PRELIMINARY STUDIES

Site Documentation & Analysis

Site Documentation is conducted as class effort to produce a single common file for the digital site model, physical site models and CAD drawings respectively. 

Site Analysis

The purpose of the Site Analysis is to observe and record the site’s current condition, and to collect additional information to be used in the initial design conceptualization and strategy phase. Key concepts and themes to be discussed in relation to the analysis include: Way-finding (5 Lynchian Principles), Typology and Morphology, Figure/Ground Mapping, Patterns of Movement and Use, Human Behaviour, Street Culture.

Precedent Studies

Each group is required to study and analyse one example of an urban infill & one example of a market-place. In analysing this example, students should develop an understanding and awareness of:-

(1) What is an Urban Infill?

This investigation is to help you understand what an urban infill is, and what are the architectural strategies (massing, spatial planning, façade design, etc.) adopted that are necessary in response to its physical context and functional programme. Investigate what were the regulatory laws that the architects were required to comply to as well.

(2) What is a Market-Place?

In this module, we shall define the market-place as a “centre for retail and commercial trade that also acts as social meeting grounds for an urban/suburban community”. This part of the Precedent Study entails an investigation into a relevant example of a market-place and inquiry into establishing its role within its specific context and community.

Key themes and criteria that require consideration in this study include the following: Programmatic Response, Formal Response, Public/Private Realms, Society & Culture.

1) Precedent Studies

2) Site Analysis