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Theories of Architecture and Urbanism

PROJECT: "LIFE BETWEEN BUILDINGS: USING PUBLIC SPACE"

Students are required to present an in-depth and analytical research study on the designated topic. Students are to explore the idea of "Life Between Buildings Using Public Space" (1986) by Jan Gehl. The project consisted of 2 parts; the first is case study and the second part is to produce a comparative analysis essay.

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For the first part, students are to read Jan Gehl's Life Between Buildings (Chapter 1). Subsequently, the students are to examine patterns of social activities in a city (foreign city to be provided by lecturer) and identify 'contact points'. They are to classify the varying degrees of contact intensity.

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Fore the second part, students are required to write a comparative essay based on findings from case study (part 1) and local site reseach (studio). Students are to examine similarities and dissimilarities based on the patterns of social activities, types of 'contact points'. And the varying degrees of contact intensity between the two cities.

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OBJECTIVE OF ASSIGNMENT

  • To provide critical perspectives on key issues within the contemporary discourse of architecture, through integration of case-studies and theoretical studies.

  • To enhance the understanding of the complexity of architecture and the ability to undertake independent research.

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LEARNING OUTCOMES

  • Analyse architecture and urban forms in relation to relevant architectural theories.

  • Analyse and critique the relationship between architecture and its social, cultural and intellectual context.

  • Produce, orally and in writing, a critical interpretation of architecture and urbanism in relation to relevant theories within the contemporary discourse of architecture.

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Attached below is the boards and report:

Part 1 Board

Part 2 Comparative Essay

Throughout this project, I have learnt to analyse and think critically about the relationship of urbanism and architecture. Not only that, but also architecture and its social, cultural and intellectual context, how it affects each other in an urban planning. 

PROJECT: SYNOPSIS REACTION PAPER

Subsequent to each thematic lecture, students are required to submit a synopsis in the form of reaction paper. Its aim is for the students to read a selected reading in relation to the theme that has been discussed in class for the week and submit a reaction paper of the text. There will be a total of 4 synopses.

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OBJECTIVE OF ASSIGNMENT

  • To engage students with relevant theories which have shaped cities and experience.

  • To provide critical perspectives on key issues within the contemporary discourse of architecture, through integration of case-studies and theoretical studies.

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LEARNING OUTCOMES:

  • Describe the theoretical issues related to design through study of architecture and urbanism and its related studies.

  • Relate architectural theories to contemporary architecture and urban forms.

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Attached below is the synopsis:

Throughout this project, I have learnt to analyse and think critically. I have gained knowledge about theories regarding to different cities and also learnt to identify and give opinions about the things I do not agree or agree with and also write about the problems I thought. 

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