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Parallel Lines

Studio IV

The Studio IV projects established an understanding of site with its specific features and ability to produce a universal yet poetic design for abled as well as disabled people, encompassing the masterplanning and engagement with activities on the site.

Project 1

The aim of the first project: Site Analysis & Design Response establishes an understanding of the context for intervention. In assigned tutorial groups, students conducted site visit to identify the physical as well as the intangible qualities that shape the character of the site. Engagement with site users established the needs of the community at site. As the Design Response of the Site Analysis stage, students worked with the tutorial group to draw up a new plan for the demarcated site area through the design of a Kebun Komuniti Plan, which served as the base for Project 1B: Architectural Allotment and Project 2: P3KU Kebun Komuniti Center.

Project 2

Within the context of the tutorial group Kebun Komuniti Plan, students will broke up into smaller groups to design an Architectural Allotment, which is intended to showcase architectural form as a construct of materiality for a proposed set of activities related to the cultivation of plants. The exploration of themes centred around the cultivation of plants together with requirement for seating, shading and storage will relate to the programmatic requirements in Project 2.

Final project

The final project provides full design proposals incorporating findings from site analysis and precedent studies. Students generated narratives that respond to the environment and community within the given context and explored environmental poetics of building enclosure’s design solutions that reduce environmental impact utilizing various complex typologies of spatial organisations and a variety of passive strategies for sustainable design. The design contributed to and merged harmoniously with environment and site and provided the best of spatial experiences in fostering a sense of community

Energy and Architecture

The project comprises two interconnected assignments aimed at fostering an in-depth understanding of low energy building strategies through literature research and practical engagement. 

Assignment 1a focuses on the literature research and descriptive evaluation of a selected low energy building or net zero structure, either locally or internationally approved by the tutors. Working in groups of three, we will begin by analyzing the impacts that energy-efficient strategies have had on both the built environment and global energy demands. A thorough evaluation will be conducted on key components such as the building's façade, lighting systems, HVAC systems, renewable energy sources, and waste management practices. Among these, we will select one strategy for a detailed exploration, effectively illustrated through graphs, infographics, images, and descriptive text. To bolster this analysis, post-occupancy evaluation (POE) feedback will be integrated to provide insights into the building's energy performance from an end-user perspective. The culmination of this assignment will be presented in an engaging infographic video format, allowing us to effectively communicate our findings.

Assignment 1b requires a hands-on approach with a site visit to recognized energy-efficient green buildings, particularly focusing on solid waste management practices. During the visit, we will document our observations through a vlog format, where we will outline a clear structure and script to facilitate coherent storytelling. Each member of the group will take on distinct roles—director, videographer, and narrator—ensuring an equitable distribution of responsibilities while showcasing our collaborative efforts. 

Together, these assignments aim to deepen our understanding of sustainable architecture and energy efficiency, providing us with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in evaluating and communicating the principles of low energy construction. These insights will underscore the importance of sustainable design strategies in shaping a more energy-conscious built environment for the future.

The project entails conducting a comprehensive walk-through audit of my own home to evaluate its energy efficiency and propose strategies for energy savings. This individual assignment focuses on several key areas, including passive cooling, lighting, retrofitting lighting systems with LED light sources, effective waste management, and controlling heat and glare through façade devices.

Phase 1 involves analyzing the home's façade and climate profile. I will document the orientation, sun path, and wind direction, as well as measure external and internal temperatures, humidity levels, illuminance, and air speed. Additionally, I will calculate the U-values of both the walls and roof to understand heat transfer dynamics.

Phase 2 centers on creating detailed energy load profiles, which will be recorded on an hourly, daily, weekly, and monthly basis for electrical appliances. By analyzing my latest electricity and water bills, I will develop an inventory list that includes the wattage of each appliance, usage hours, and cost comparisons between weekdays and weekends. This analysis will also identify the habits and activities of occupants that contribute to differences in energy consumption.

Phase 3 includes evaluating energy consumption patterns through charts and graphs, leading to insights into energy systems and savings potential. I will propose innovative strategies for improvement based on the findings, such as implementing effective waste and water management practices, installing LED lights with dimmers, and exploring passive cooling techniques.

In the concluding sections, I will reflect on the knowledge gained from the module, highlighting the importance of energy conservation. I will suggest specific short-term and long-term actions to reduce monthly energy consumption, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable household and reduced carbon footprint. This audit not only serves as a practical application of theoretical concepts but also empowers me to advocate for a more energy-efficient lifestyle within my home and community. 

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