THEORIES OF ARCHITECTURE AND URBANISM

This subject offers a thematic inquiry into architectural theory in broader context of philosophical schools of thought and cultural and social conditions, which include modernism, postmodernism, phenomenology, semiotics, post-structuralism, and deconstruction. These themes will guide the organization of weekly lecture and discussions, which will proceed from the establishment of a basic theoretical apparatus to the examination of specific cases. These will supply us with tools for the analysis of specific architectural situations. Students will develop a written synopsis of a designated reading, and an in-depth and analytical research paper on the designated topic.

PROJECT 1: THEORIZING ARCHITECTURE

This project attempts to convey an understanding of architect’s architectural theory through a direct observation and analysis of his/her buildings. Using architecture as primary text, this project claims that the world of form is not arbitrary but displays an internal logic that has the capacity to convey meaning. Analytical illustrations are used extensively to reveal the conceptual and experiential order of the architecture.It will support students’ learning since doing architecture can be developed by studying the work of others.

Part I: Analysing "Through the eyes" of an architect/urban designer/theoretician

This project require us to select a defined area of our hometown and see it “through the eyes” of one architect, urban designer or theoretician that was discussed in the lecture series. We are asked to apply or translate design theories and historic urban design approaches onto the selected area. Imagine how the architect or urban designer may have analysed and interpreted in this chosen area. In this case, I have chosen Puchong as an area to look more into detail.

Below is the link for part I stage I
Part I stage I

Below is the link for part I stage II
Part I stage II

Part II: Analysing and Theorizing Architect

Part 2 of the project emphasises architecture is like language with vocabulary, grammatical structure; both physical and intellectual. Through certain arrangement, it carries messages and communicates meanings. Nevertheless, in order to understand architecture, one must be aware of the conditions within which they are employed. 

Below is the link for my project:
Part II

Learning Outcomes of this Project:

1.Analyse architecture and urban forms in relation to relevant architectural theories
2.Analyse and critique the relationship between architecture and its social, cultural and intellectual context
3.Produce, orally and in writing, a critical interpretation of architecture and urbanism in relation to relevant theories within the contemporary discourse of architecture 

I have found that this module has let me have passion in knowing more about architects theories not only from Jane Jacob, but others theoretician. In this entire project, I have learn that an urban planning is not about the modernism of this era or about the architect itself, but is more about the people of the space in terms of safety and trust creates among the users, as well as a space for children to play. I believe that all these theories can be applied in my design even until I become a practicing architect.

In Class Exercise(Synopsis):

This exercise is to allow us student to understand more about a theory by reading a synopsis and transform them into a simple text and explain it to the class.

Exercise 1 : Urbanism
Exercise 2 : Modernism
Exercise 3 : Post-Modernism
Exercise 4 : Phenomelogy