FINAL ASSIGNMENT
In this final assignment, we were asked to build a discovery / visitor centre for Kampung Morten. Me being ignorant as usual, I wanted to challenge myself and do something different with my peers. I asked myself the question of why Kampung Morten. Why does this kampung deserved to have its own discovery centre? My final outcome was that although it said it was to be a Malay Kampung, it was not built originally as if a normal Malay Kampung would be. For instance, this Kampung is built by an Englishman named as Morten, which indicates the origin of the kampung name. Besides, this kampung is controlled and surveilled by the government for making it a tourist destination. However, the villagers who we have interviewed told us that they wished they had the freedom to modify their houses, add in some new technologies or just do what normally people can do to their houses. This is a point which I have found it interesting and probably the reason why it may deserve a discovery centre.
Nestled by Kampung Morten’s riverbanks, I find myself standing in the discovery centre of my imagination. It is a place that embodies the living heritage of the modernized yet stifled Malay Kampung.
Once shaped by the British, it now grapples with governmental constraints, stultifying change to preserve it as a prized tourist destination in Malacca. The main intention of my design is to encapsulate this paradox.
Bold, full height fins encase the main body of the building, a visual representation of Kampung Morten's monitored boundaries—a clash between governmental surveillance and the community's longing for autonomy and freedom. Within what seems like a straightforward rectilinear layout, a sinuous, flowing form emerges, symbolizing the Kampung's adaptive resilience within these constraints.
This aesthetic confronts the government's suppression - for an assumed good cause - of progress and a desire for modernity. It also urges contemplation on the vanishing Malay culture as urban aspirations erode the roots of a traditional village.
The question is, how long will it be before the sinuous breaks free from the rectilinear?
Narrative
Presentation Boards
Final Model
Mock-up Models
Throughout the duration of my final assignment in AD3, I've delved into a significant learning curve, discovering the intricacies of transforming initial architectural concepts. Guided by the expertise of my tutor, Ar. Dr. Ian Ng, I've grasped the pivotal skill of evolving building designs from mere floor plans to intricate object-oriented structures. This transformational approach has been instrumental in honing my abilities and pushing me towards substantial improvement.
One of the noteworthy milestones achieved during this period is the mastery of Autodesk Revit. While many peers were still navigating the basics, I found myself confidently applying massing techniques to conceptualize my discovery center. This proficiency not only set me apart but also allowed me to explore design dimensions beyond conventional straight-line elements.
Admittedly, the semester posed its share of challenges. However, despite the hurdles, the satisfaction derived from meeting and even surpassing the targets and goals set at the semester's onset is immensely gratifying. This sense of personal achievement stands as a testament to the dedication and hard work invested throughout this demanding period of study.