[DStudio1] Project 3: Dreamspace for the User 'Space for the Self'

For the final project, we were asked to design a 'Hideout' for ourselves. This is an individual project. Using the knowledge we've learnt from the previous projects and applying on the final project. We are required to design a space for the self by attaching it to the walls/surfaces of an imagined 'city' in an empty abandoned lot between two buildings. The space is to fit a specific use (as a dream space: for viewing, space for contemplating, space for self-exploration, space for exercising, space for dreaming, space showcasing and so to speak a dream space for the user).

The understanding is to be architecturally translated into a series of connected spaces (2-3 spaces) that successfully establishes the quality and articulation of the interior and of exterior design. Concept shall evidently show the experiential and spatial quality. We are also required to consider on both the physical and non-physical requirements of the self.

There would be 3 stages for this project:
Task 1: Narrative writing on discovering your personality, or even based in the persona, life scenario story and journey of the user from where the theme of the hideout can be extracted.
Task 2: Organizing the 2-3 spaces which encompasses the design principle in spatial relationships and organization. The spaces can be explored through hierarchal arrangement by its meaning, significance, importance and also capturing more on the essence of the narrative. It should be explored in the sense of the spaces as well.
Task 3: Exploration of materiality. By generating and exploring the ideas and concept from the narrative and spatial exploration, notions and experiential effects of materials and the sense in the final design should also be considered.


Objectives of Project
The objectives of this assignment are as follows:

1. To further the students ability to create and develop a conceptual narrative.
2. To introduce and create awareness in understanding the dimensional requirements of the human body (anthropometrics and ergonomics).
3. To explore and apply basic design principles and terminologies.
4. To be able to consider objective and subjective parameters in the design process to create a space this is practical yet poetic. 
5. To explore how the selection and application of materials in relation to the sensory experience of space. 
6. To be able to select and make different study models (sketch, concept, diagram, section and development models).

Learning Outcomes of this Project

1. Generate design concepts through the process of exploring carious sources and abstracting ideas. 
2. Identify key architectural design elements and principles with the ability to discern how they inform space and form. 
3. Relate the idea of the individual 'self' and the body' to space and its experiential qualities. 
4. Articulate and apply architectural design elements, principles and materials to create an architectural composition that demonstrates place-making. 
5. Utilize a process-oriented approach involving sketching and model-making as tools for generating and developing design ideas. 
6. Produce legible orthogonal drawings and architectural models to visualize and communicate final design. 

Attached below are my final presentation boards and model: 

Me at my presentation station.

Presentation Board 1

Presentation Board 2

Presentation Board 3

Front Elevation

Balcony space and stairs to the top balcony.

Standing view from the top balcony.

Side Elevation

Interior view of the 'Understand' space (Space 2)

The 'In-depth thinking' space (Space 1)

Without the building walls. 

Top View showing the interior from plan view.

Rear Elevation

Showing the sitting area and built-in shelves on the building's wall.

Reflection

This is counted as a big final project as an individual one. External accessors were also there to grade our works and I find it amusing where we get to have this kind of first time exposure as well. This project allows me to enhance my design thru a narrative or story which we would like to portray. It also taught me that in every design there could be a deep meaning behind it. Although design doesn't come quick and some sleep has to be sacrificed but overall, I love my design and look forward for more. Perhaps I could also improve some of my workmanship as well.