ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN IV
ARC60508
PROJECT 1B
PROJECT 1B
SMALL COMMUNITY STRUCTURE (10% GROUP)
PROJECT BRIEF
INTRODUCTION
Project 1B focuses on exploring materiality in relation to function and user experience. Materials are considered not only for their structural and constructional roles but also for how they support communal activities and convey meaning.
Students will design a small structure that highlights architectural form and the use of materials, tailored to specific activities. The design themes will revolve around learning and spatial experience, forming the foundation for the programmatic development in Project 1C.
OBJECTIVES
To foster an understanding of sustainable design principles within architecture
To strengthen students’ ability to address interconnected environmental and social needs while expressing creativity through material and spatial design
To build knowledge of human scale, proportion, ergonomics, and the role of materiality in shaping spatial experience
TASKS
Team Formation
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Each team designs one small structure based on insights from Project 1A.
Structure Requirements
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Approx. size: 3m x 3m x 6m or max 50 sqm.
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Must be placed on flat ground within designated site from Project 1A.
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Esquisse
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Quick idea sketches, diagrams, and material notes for initial concepts.
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Tectonics
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Research joinery and show construction logic using exploded axonometric drawings.
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Physical Model
Build an elemental model showing structure, material, and finish. -
Final Proposal
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Present design with 3D axonometric drawings highlighting materiality, joints, construction, and buildability by local labour.
OUTCOME (PRESENTATION BOARDS)
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Design architectural spaces that reflect environmental poetics by responding to natural elements and the surrounding built environment, enhancing the overall user experience through thoughtful integration of site qualities.
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Demonstrate a sound understanding of material selection and detailing to express and enhance the sensory and experiential aspects of the design.
OUTCOME
(MODEL)
7.0 Citizenship And Global Perspective
4.0 Communication Skills
This project improved my ability to communicate design ideas clearly through sketches, diagrams, models, and axonometric drawings. Collaborating with my team also enhanced my verbal and visual presentation skills, ensuring our concept and intentions were effectively conveyed.
This project encouraged me to consider the needs of diverse user groups, including the elderly, children, and special needs communities, fostering inclusivity in public space design. It also helped me understand the broader role of architecture in promoting social connection, community well-being, and environmental responsibility.
REFLECTION
Designing The Gateway was a meaningful exercise in translating environmental and social insights into a small yet impactful architectural intervention. Inspired by the triangular form of the woodball logo, our team developed a prism-shaped structure that serves as both a visual marker and a functional pause space at the threshold of the fairway.
Through this project, I deepened my understanding of materiality and its role in shaping experience—especially how polycarbonate panels filter light and how climbing vines can blend built form with the surrounding greenery. The project also sharpened my awareness of human scale and ergonomics, as we carefully considered seating comfort, shade, and accessibility for woodball players and passersby.
Ultimately, The Gateway taught me how a small structure can create a powerful spatial narrative—acting not just as shelter, but as a poetic transition between leisure and sport, nature and structure.