Intercultural Design
Shubashini | Intercultural Design | GCD61304
Project 1: Proposal (30%)
(Week 1 - Week 7)
TASK 1: PROPOSAL (week 1 - 3)
Task 1
- 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
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 "
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.
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 Account Link : https://www.tiktok.com/@middleeastartisans?_t=ZS-8ulSNad7sFU&_r=1
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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