Studio 3 | curriculumvitae

DESIGN STUDIO 3

visitor intrepretive centre

In our final Studio project, it was mainly aimed to explore the architectural response within the context of the site and programmatic requirements of interpretive centre. With knowledge gained from Project 1 and 2, organizing and articulating spaces and the sensuality and poetics of space to inform user's experiences are particularly focused. Emphasis is given to design resolution integrating site, program and spatial poetics.

Requirements of project 3 are fairly straight forward, we are expected to produce a total of 4 A1 size presentation boards with the necessary info likeorthographic drawings and renderings. Along side that, we are also expected to have a sectional model which ranges from 1:50 - 1:150 scale.

design concept

My design was inspired by numerous occasions. I started experimenting with lots of ideas and concepts I drew from the site visit back in Singapore. I study the history of Singapore closely, and Labrador Nature Reserve Park in particular. And I noticed something, people tend to always draw inspirations from merely objects, plants or existing structures for example. I knew all along that wasn't what I was looking for.

By understanding the true function of a Visitor Interpretive Centre (VIC), I drew out the fundementals of a basic VIC and emphasized on its true function, which is 'interacting' & 'connecting'. We don't want to build a building just to showcase the history of a venue, we want the visitors to feel, to interact with the place, or rather space. And this is how I started with my design.

By looking from the exterior, one would probably notice 3 prominent feature, the giant arc, the cantilever and a 3 level uniprojected layout. All these design brings a certain meaning to the building, thus giving it character.

For example, the gaint arc with tension cables acting as the main support enhances the buildings visuals and also gives the building a 'bridge-like' look as a bridge is a symbol of connection.

And as for the cantilever, it is a symbol of reaching out. Cantilevers are often being seen as just a semi-bridge without visible support, but in an architect's eyes, its more than just that, it resembles a human handing out something to somewhere. Bringing something or someone to another destination. Connection.

Last but not least, the triple storey layout of the VIC introduces hierarchy. Levels to bring the meaning of time, past, present and future. With a level system, a building can deliver the transition of space easily.