DESIGN COMMUNICATION
The module presents the essential knowledge needed to communicate architectural design in an appropriate manner. It uses architectural drawings to illustrate and express space and spatial concepts in a variety of ways, equipping students with the knowledge and abilities needed for design projects. A series of constructed and freehand drawings conducted both outside and in the studio are used to teach these skills. The module will employ a lecture and tutorial-based teaching and learning approach, wherein students will participate in a blended learning environment throughout these sessions.
01
Starchitect
Studying architecture naturally look up to famous architects, or starchitects, because of the prominence and visibility of the buildings they have designed. Students of architecture around the globe are constantly motivated to create designs that resemble the styles and works of their idols. The reason the starchitects' designs were so beloved was because of their compelling forms, their order and principles, their deft use of light and shadow, or just how modest the design was given the overall context. This assignment, then, is an homage to the starchitects and their masterpieces.
02
Farnsworth House
Ludwig Mies van der Rohe created and built the Farnsworth House between 1945 and 1951.
By employing expressed structural columns, he was able to create buildings with minimal frameworks and abundant open space. Unlike many other modernists, he did not think that architecture could be used to manipulate human behavior through social engineering; however, his designs do embody goals and ideals. His sophisticated design work is a tangible representation of his perception of the contemporary era.
03
Presentation Board & Model Making Process
Presentation boards for architecture are a useful tool for showcasing your work. They serve as a means of enticing the audience to engage with the design methodology and process while offering a broad overview and project vision. In essence, it's a medium for expressing design and exhibiting creative abilities and design sensibility.
A common tool for communicating a masterplan or building design is the architectural model. Throughout the entire design process, the model serves as a representation of architectural concepts. An architectural model illustrates the design's physical footprint and scale. The model is a three-dimensional representation of the design, typically created at a fraction of the original size.
Self-Reflection
My journey of self-discovery and exploration into the complexities of architectural design began in the Design Communication course. In the first project, I had to investigate an architect, examine some of their best works, analyze their design principles, and create a poster summarizing their philosophy. I learned the skill of effective design communication and visual storytelling through my careful handdrawing.
Our ability to remain resilient and manage our time effectively was tested as the Bamboo project progressed concurrently with a significant assignment for the Farnsworth House Project. My friends and I banded together in the face of impending deadlines, submitting the project in the midst of the confusion. Even though it's not a group project, it allowed me to go through a struggle with my friends and complete this project, which is something that other courses don't always allow you to experience it. Besides, this project proved to be difficult, especially when it came to learning how to draw in axonometric and one- and two-point perspective using a floor plan. The challenging learning curve sharpened my technical skills and encouraged perseverance. The eventual mastery of these techniques represented a significant personal triumph, despite early difficulties.
The last project, which combined with AD1 project3, marked the culmination. Creating and designing three to four A1-sized posters was an exciting and difficult task. I was so intimidated by the size at first that I started to doubt my suitability for the course. Feelings of having "fallen apart" and restless nights were now a part of the creative process. But after finishing, I understood the transformational potential of tenacity. The work put in, the obstacles surmounted, and the restless evenings were all worthwhile. In addition to increasing my technical proficiency, the project helped me discover a strength and resilience within that I wasn't previously aware of. When I think back on this experience, I have gained new design skills as well as a greater understanding of my own ability to take on obstacles head-on and come out stronger on the other side.
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