INTRODUCTION.
The evolution of architecture reflects shifts across diverse traditions, regions, and dominant stylistic trends over time. This rich historical tapestry paints a vivid picture of architectural evolution. Yet, numerous historical edifices are at risk of demolition to accommodate newer structures. Therefore, through meticulous recording, documentation, and analysis of these buildings, we play a crucial role in safeguarding the invaluable evidence of our architectural heritage.
LEARNING OUTCOMES.
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Employ appropriate visual and verbal architectural vocabulary when referring to building types, series and periods.
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Show the appropriate sequence of historical periods and how they are represented architecturally.
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Discover the way in which many varied factors contribute to the development of form.
TASKS.
METHODOLOGY.
Initially, each student was given the task to choose one building from the given list, ranging from the National Museum to the Parliament Building. I went for the obvious option, that is, the National Monument of Malaysia, commonly referred to as the Tugu Negara, given its profound historical importance. Our group, comprising eight members, was required to produce an A4 Digital Booklet and an A1 Augmented Reality Poster, centered on our in-depth research and architectural analysis of the selected building. We split the tasks accordingly amongst ourselves and worked on compiling relevant information. Additionally, we conducted a site visit to grasp further contextual information relating to the architectural layout and elements of the structure.
DIGITAL BOOKLET
INTRODUCTION
Tugu Negara, or the National Monument, stands as a poignant tribute to the brave soldiers who gave their lives during Malaysia's struggle for freedom, particularly during World War II and the Malayan Emergency.
Located in Kuala Lumpur, this monumental sculpture was unveiled in 1966.
Designed by the renowned architect Felix de Weldon, the Tugu Negara stands as a symbol of national unity, sacrifice, and remembrance.
ARCHITECTURAL LAYOUT.
The Tugu Negara boasts a distinctive architectural layout that is both grand and symbolic. At its heart stands a towering bronze sculpture depicting Malaysian soldiers in various poses, signifying unity, vigilance, and sacrifice. Surrounding this central monument is a serene reflecting pool, offering a sense of tranquillity amidst the bustling city. Flanking the monument are beautifully landscaped gardens, providing visitors with spaces for reflection and remembrance.
BUILDING CONSTRUCTION.
The monument is constructed primarily from bronze and stands at a height of 15 meters.
The construction primarily features a group of seven bronze soldiers, each symbolizing different facets of Malaysia's armed forces, alongside an intricate cenotaph.
The monument's construction incorporates intricate detailing, reflecting both the solemnity of remembrance and the nation's enduring spirit.
ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS.
Tugu Negara's architectural design showcases a harmonious blend of modernist and traditional elements, emphasizing geometric forms and clean lines.
The monument's verticality, coupled with its symmetrical layout and use of robust materials, conveys strength, unity, and reverence for the nation's fallen heroes.
CONCLUSION.
Tugu Negara stands as a testament to Malaysia's architectural and historical narrative, seamlessly merging modernist design principles with profound national symbolism.
Its towering presence and meticulous detailing evoke a sense of reverence and remembrance for the sacrifices of the nation's heroes.
AR AUGMENTED REALITY POSTER
Creating a digital poster using Canva and Adobe Photoshop was a fascinating journey for me, presenting both challenges and insights into the intricacies of architectural representation in the digital realm. The design process underscored the importance of balance and hierarchy to achieve a seamless visual flow. I made sure to provide a comprehensive overview of the building without overwhelming the viewer. Additionally, I incorporated the building's historical context, architectural significance, and unique features to enrich the poster's depth. The experience of making this digital poster not only refined my technical skills but also deepened my appreciation for the nuanced relationship between architecture and digital representation.
REFLECTION.
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Like any group, we encountered challenges from the get-go. There was little to no effort being taken, which was frustrating for me as I prioritize academic performance and consistently strive for perfection. Therefore, I had no choice but to assume the role of the group leader. I began by dividing the tasks among ourselves, assigning specific responsibilities based on individual strengths. Although I would say that working within a group did bring forth an interplay of ideas, perspectives, and skills, it also underscored the importance of leadership as well as effective communication from both ends. Despite progress check-in every few days, we still struggled to move forward as a group. Conflicting schedules and the heavy load of other assignments further made it ever more challenging, with the approaching deadlines looming over our heads. Nonetheless, we managed to complete it with little time to spare. The journey itself, with all its challenges, served as a learning curve for me as it allowed me to gain insights and deepen my understanding of architecture.