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Methods of Documentation and Measured Drawings - ARC60305

Project 1: Sketchbook and Journal

The first project for this module was an on-site exercise that called for us to individually document the physical and intangible qualities of our building as well as its immediate site context in the form of a series of annotated sketches.

 

The sketches were to comprise at least 2 of the following categories:

  1. The Genius Loci

  2. Poetic Quality

  3. Cultural Attributes

  4. Technical/Construction Details

 

In addition to this, it was also compulsory to include sketches of plans, sections and elevations of the building in order for us to show our understanding of the building.

Reflecting back…

Through the process of on-site sketching I was reminded to be sensitive and observant to my surroundings and to capture the true essence of the building in terms of both its physical and intangible attributes. Furthermore, I was also able to interpret some of my own thoughts and feelings about the building through my sketches.  

Project 2: Building Report and Video

The first part for this project was the compilation of a report that included information on the significance of the building through architectural, historical and cultural aspects. This information needed to be analytical of the relationship between the architecture, significance and inhabitation of the building. In addition to the report, a photo book containing photos of various parts of the palace along with clear annotations was also required. The second part included the creation of a video that had to be a duration of about 3-5 minutes.

 

Information for both the report and video was gathered from various sources including local libraries and national archives as well as various news articles regarding the history behind Istana Negara. Our main focus for both the report and video was to provide people with an idea of how the architecture of Istana Negara evolved after having been influenced due to the varying periods of time and how all those influences finally led to the birth of a style of architecture that is native to Malaysia-one that to this very day instils a great amount of pride within the locals.

Final Report Compilation
Photo Book Compilation
Video

Reflecting back…

A lot of time and effort went into writing and compiling the report. There were numerous changes made throughout the entire process as we wanted to give the reader insight into our own understanding and personal thoughts on the architectural and cultural significance behind Istana Negara as opposed to only providing information gathered from existing material.

 

We decided to highlight the poetics behind the pictures captured for our photo book in order to bring out the spirit and culture of Istana Negara.

The video team did an exceptional job in capturing some beautiful footage of both the lavish interior and scenic exterior of the palace. They were also able to get incredible aerial views with the use of a drone which turned out to be quite an exciting experience for the whole team. All in all, we were able to understand the architectural and cultural heritage of Istana Negara through our research and compilation of both the report, photo book and video.      

Project 3: Measured Drawings and Model

After having measured and documented the assigned historical building, in our case - Istana Negara, we had to translate all that data into a set of A1 sized drawings complete with an appropriate scale, dimensions, annotations and title block. Software such as Auto Cad, Rhino and 3ds Max were used to compile the drawings and build a 3d model. In addition to this, a physical model showing the structure and construction of the building along with all its intricate details and ornamentations was required. After many discussions and team meetings, we decided to build an exploded version of the model and add in lights to highlight the throne room.

Measured Drawings
Time lapse video of the model being assembled.

Reflecting back…

A great deal of time went into completing the drawings but the work load was distributed evenly as all members of the team made it a point to CAD out the areas they measured at the site. Once this was done, the group in charge of compiling the drawings began sorting out everything, making adjustments, adding annotations and appropriate line weight.

The process of building the model was most exciting but also the most tiring for us. The model team spent the final two weeks of the semester working long hours to get all the intricate details of the model ready in order to be put up. Once all the parts were complete, it was a matter of putting the model together which required all team members to be present to help out. Fitting in the glass case was the final step of the process and upon its completion the excitement and awe were very hard to contain as we realized we had accomplished something incredible due to great teamwork and dedication.

Semester 3.5 was quite enjoyable for me as I made new friends and bonded well with my team mates; I also learnt a great deal from them and from my tutors making it all an unforgettable experience.

 

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