Project 1
Contextual Sketch Journal of a Traditional Street
( 30% individual )
This project explores the construction of place identity influenced by socio-cultural, economic, and political factors, focusing on traditional streets in rapidly globalizing cities like Kuala Lumpur. It examines how urban development shifts the meanings embedded in these streets.
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Objective:
Conduct a physical site visit to a traditional street in designated areas (e.g., Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown, Kampong Bharu, Chow Kit, Malacca, George Town). Define the street boundary, document its physical (architecture, facades, shophouses, markets) and non-physical contexts (religious buildings, traditional trades, local cuisines, historical events, social institutions), and record observations in a manual sketch journal supplemented by references.
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Outcomes:
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Gain comprehensive understanding of place contexts and their impact on place identity and socio-cultural meanings.
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Discuss the relationship between architecture and its socio-cultural context in Asia.
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Present findings in a detailed sketch journal with a written summary.
OUTCOME
REFLECTION
Through this project, I gained a deep understanding of how socio-cultural, economic, and political factors shape the identity of traditional streets. Physical site visits allowed me to observe and analyze both the tangible architectural features and intangible socio-cultural attributes that define these streets' unique character. I learned the importance of context in architectural study, particularly how urban development impacts areas like Jalan Tun H.S. Lee. This experience enhanced my research skills and appreciation for the intricate details of architecture and social institutions. However, better preliminary research and improved sketching skills would have provided a more informed perspective and accurate visual documentation. Overall, this project has enriched my understanding of architecture within its broader socio-cultural and economic contexts.