Intercultural Design

Shubashini | Intercultural Design | GCD61304

Project 1: Proposal (30%)
(Week 1 - Week 7) 

TASK 1: PROPOSAL (week 1 - 3)
  • FINAL TASK 1 PROPOSAL SLIDES PDF 
  • TASK 1 Reflection

TASK 2: FIELD STUDY (week 4 - 5)
  • Photos/videos documenting our research outside
  • FINAL TASK 2  SLIDES
  • TASK 2 Reflection

TASK 3: FINAL PROJECT
  • FINAL TASK 3 PROPOSAL SLIDES PDF
  • FINAL TASK 3
  • TASK 3 Reflection

Task 1

We had to form a group of 6 members to begin with :

Team Members : Ummehani Kaderbhai ( Leader )
                            Minal Khalid
                            Khadeeja Nuha
                            An Hongzheng
                            Chuah Shu En
                            Shubashini a/p Subramaniam

Then we had to come up with a proposal and 3 sketches of 'Everyday Design' based on a chosen country/culture. 

Our group decided on middle eastern architecture decorative design elements that are seamlessly integrated into daily life rather than being reserved for special occasions. These designs are not just for aesthetics but also reflect cultural identity, traditions, and even functionality.

For example, in Middle Eastern culture, you can see geometric patterns and calligraphy in:
Doors and windows (mashrabiya screens that provide shade and privacy)
Tiles in homes and mosques (intricate patterns that tell historical and religious stories)
Textiles and carpets (handwoven designs that reflect regional identities)

Presentation Slides :


Reflection : To conclude task 1, I originally found this task very difficult as I wasn't really clear on the how's and what's on the assignment. However after attending a few classes and having Q&A sessions with our lecturers I got my questions answered. Our group communicated about this assignment through online meeting and frequent texting. Our leader divided the task and gave us deadlines to ensure we had everything done before the deadline. Through this task , I was able to learn more on ," Everyday Designs in Middle Eastern Architecture "


Task 2

In task 2, we had to do further research on our topic.
Our group decided to visit Masjid Wilayah Perseketuan to do on field research. The mosque's stunning blend of Ottoman and Malay architecture, intricate calligraphy, and grand domes showcased cultural harmony. Engaging with the serene atmosphere and learning about Islamic design principles deepened our understanding of aesthetics and spirituality.

Research Method : On-Field Research 

Presentation Slides :


Reflection : We visited Masjid Wilayah Persekutuan in Kuala Lumpur as Part of our on-field research for Task 2. This was a great experience where we explored and observed the architecture closely. We learned about Islamic design concepts as well as the people who helped us understand the significance of the mosque’s elements culturally, spiritually, and otherwise.Getting to see the designs, little decorative details, and overall structure of something in real life really helps to understand the project/topic better. The experience enhanced our knowledge and helped inspire our research.



Task 3

For task 3 we had to created a Tiktok Account around our theme and our on-field research. Summarising the progression of our understanding from task 1 to task 3. We also made :
- A presentation 
      - Including our 200 word rationale
      - Summary of data collection
      - Progress of our final project - 
        (it could be sketches, digital progression, or anything as long as it shows the progress of your final output - if it's video then your behind-the-scene for example).
      -The Final Report
      - Link to E-Portfolion ( individual links )
      - Link to Tiktok Account

- Then, we recoded us presenting our presentation through video

Presentation Slides :




Tiktok Videos :


Reflection : For Task 3, we made the decision to create a TikTok account in order to share our research on a topic entitled "Everyday Design in Middle Eastern Architecture." Visiting Masjid Wilayah Persekutuan and conducting field research gave us a better appreciation of the rich detail in the building, from the geometric patterns on the dome to the natural light. Constructing a TikTok account and converting our research into an engaging video was both difficult and gratifying. We discovered how to have an engaging balance between content and visual images, enhance our script writing, and widen our understanding of editing short videos, with the use of transitions, captions, and voiceovers, while also being mindful of the engagement factor. The project pushed us to present academic material in ways that could be digestible and engaging. Looking into the future, I am keen to develop my skills in video production and develop novel ways to present academic research.


Overall Reflection :

It was an exploration into the role that daily architecture could play by fusing tradition with the modernity in the architecture of the Middle East, giving free rein to traditional design to remain vibrant within the contemporary environment. During our research, we found more about courtyards, geometrics, and  not only of aesthetic worth, but of practical benefit in daily living. 

One aspect we learned through our research was the visit to the mosque in Wilayah Persekutuan. This was indeed the opportunity to directly witness the influences of Middle Eastern architecture and applications in a Malaysian context. In particular, these included some of the most elaborate of the arabesque designs and the domes and natural light they used. Further on that knowledge, we could appreciate the fact that this design, with all its intricacies, was more than just a spiritual aspect; it had a lot of practical importance. The addition of the water features and the open space really captivated us, because of the enhanced airflow, which, as an element, constitutes one of the tenets of sustainable design for warmer climates. The development of this main idea of balancing tradition with modernity was then made possible. 

In contrast, although modern materials and technologies can easily be integrated into the architecture of the Masjid Wilayah, the traditional Islamic architectural elements remain, giving it more usability. In doing so, we opened our minds to how old meets the new as the evolution of design concepts retains cultural meanings. Furthermore, this research enabled me to develop a deeper insight into how the Middle Eastern architecture influences user-friendly building environments. Moreover, it emphasized field research in its significance toward theoretical understanding. Real examples provided evidence of the ways in which design ideas have been applied practically in architecture as the persistence of such design principles in the contemporary practice of urbanism.




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